NAVODAYA VIDYALAYA SAMITI, HYDERABAD REGION

TERM – 1 EXAMINATION

SUBJECT: ENGLISH CORE (SET 1) CLASS: XII

TIME: 3 HOURS
MARKS: 80
MARKING SCHEME
1
i Option C – Informative and Alarming 1 No partial credit
ii Option C – The fact that microplastics are found in routine 1 No partial credit
food materials

iii 35. Governments, industries, and individuals must collectively 2 -2 for correct
work towards reducing plastic production, improving identification -1 for
waste management systems, and promoting the use of correct identification of
sustainable alternatives. Only through a concerted effort either
can we hope to address the grave dangers posed by plastic
to our environment.

iv This exponential growth in plastic production 1 No partial credit

v Option A - A very high amount 1 No partial credit
vi There is no information on what the effects will be on 2 -2 for correct
health. It will take a longer time to understand the effects identification -1 for
correct identification of
either
vii Uncontrolled spread (or any other acceptable answer) 1 No partial credit
viii Any acceptable answer with relevance to the question. 2 -2 for correct
identification -1 for
correct identification of
either
ix A is true 1 No partial credit
2
i Any acceptable answer with relevance to the question. 2 -2 for correct
identification -1 for
correct identification of
either
ii Option C - Watching violent programmes on TV is likely 1 No partial credit
to increase violent behaviour in children.

iii Because no one so far has been able to prove why and how 1 No partial credit
TV effects some people and not the others.
iv Any acceptable answer with relevance to the question. 1 No partial credit
v For developing violent behaviour in children 1 No partial credit
vi Any acceptable answer with relevance to the question. 2 -2 for correct
identification -1 for
correct identification of
either
vii Option A - There is more than one reason that may affect 1 No partial credit
a child’s behaviour.

viii FALSE – It is not just about television 1 No partial credit

3
A Suggested answer: → Correct format ( as
1. Donations: Drop any amount in donation boxes around listed) → Drawing
school. attention—students of
2. Participate: Join bake sales, games, and auctions on the XI-XII → Mentioning
event day. the event → Giving
3. Volunteer: Sign up for event tasks. details -D,T,V →
4. Spread the Word: Share with friends and family. Inviting applications →
5. Creativity Welcome: Share fundraising ideas. Line with reference to
6. Unity: Unite for the local orphanage. the undersigned
7. Inspire: Make a difference; be part of something bigger.

B  Esteemed guest speakers include accomplished alumni and → Correct format ( as

industry experts. listed) → Drawing
 Gain insights into diverse career paths and opportunities. attention—students of
 Make informed decisions about your future. XI-XII → Mentioning
 Attendance is crucial for your career planning. the event → Giving
 Don't miss this invaluable opportunity to shape your future. details -D,T,V →
Inviting applications →
Line with reference to
the undersigned
4
A  Student Performances: Enjoy captivating performances Card type-formal invite
by our talented students, showcasing their skills in dance, → a single sentence
music, drama, and more. presentation in third
 Art Exhibitions: Explore the artistic endeavours of our person / end line
students through captivating exhibitions and displays. punctuations skipped
 Food Stalls: Savour delicious cuisines at our food stalls. → Use the simple
 Prizes and Awards: Witness the recognition of present tense →
outstanding achievements by our students. answers the questions
 Special Instructions: Please arrive on time and be seated. who, whom, when,
Kindly carry your invitation card for entry. where, what time and
for what → includes
name and address of
the organiser /host and
name/s of special
invitees (if any) → No
signatures Layout
usually pertains to the
following-- → Name
of host /hosts →
Formal standard
expression-cordial →
Purpose of invitation
→ Date /time of event
 → Venue (address) →
Name of special guest
(if any) → RSVP →
Contact detail/ number
B  Gratitude for the invitation to [Conference Name]. Card type-formal invite
 Unfortunate prior commitment on the same dates. → a single sentence
 Regret for inability to attend the event. presentation in third
 Appreciation for the networking and learning person / end line
opportunities. punctuations skipped
 Look forward to future collaboration and invitations. → Use the simple
present tense →
answers the questions
who, whom, when,
where, what time and
for what → includes
name and address of
the organiser /host and
name/s of special
invitees (if any) → No
signatures Layout
usually pertains to the
following-- → Name
of host /hosts →
Formal standard
expression-cordial →
Purpose of invitation
→ Date /time of event
→ Venue (address) →
Name of special guest
(if any) → RSVP →
Contact detail/ number
5
A  Address the HR Manager respectfully. Content → Covering
 Express interest in the Accountant position. Letter → Reference to
 Mention recent graduation in accounting. the advertisement →
 Highlight academic achievements and relevant Conveying suitability
coursework. for the position →
 Emphasize internship experience at [Company Submission of
Name]. application Bio data as
 Describe proficiency in financial analysis and separate enclosure →
software (e.g., Excel). Profile of self →
 Strong attention to detail, organization, and Educational
problem-solving skills. Qualifications (include
 Enclose a detailed resume for further reference. advertised
 Express enthusiasm for the opportunity to requirements) → Work
contribute. experience/s (if
 Provide contact details for follow-up. relevant)- only
internship / part-time
relevant here →
 References Any other
relevant information
B  Commend Indian space program's achievements. Format – 1 Content -2
 Highlight milestones like Chandrayaan and Organisation -1
Mangalyaan missions. Accuracy of spelling
 Mention technological advancements like GSLV and grammar -1
launch vehicle. Format Sender’s
 Acknowledge ISRO's cost-effectiveness and address, Date,
efficiency. Receiver’s address,
 Emphasize India's role in global space Subject and Salutation/
exploration. Salutation and Subject,
 Stress the need for continued investment. Letter, Complimentary
 Potential benefits for scientific and tech close (largely accepted
advancement. –Yours truly for letter
 Promote India as a space research leader. to editor & in business
 Contribute to national pride and progress. circuits -Yours
sincerely)
6
A  Communal harmony crucial in diverse society. Format – 1 Content -2
 Communal tensions lead to conflicts, violence. Organisation -1
 Examples of communal conflicts' consequences. Accuracy of spelling
 Disruption of peace, development, and social and grammar -1
cohesion.
 Strained relationships among communities.
 Economic setbacks in conflict-prone areas.
 Practical solutions: education and awareness.
 Encourage interfaith dialogue and understanding.
 Promote cultural exchange programs.
 Highlight role of schools in fostering tolerance.
 Inclusive curriculum and extracurricular activities.
 Stats: Benefits of communal harmony - peace,
prosperity.
 Narrate success stories of communities living
harmoniously.
 Advocate for unity and diversity.
 Urgent need for communal harmony in today's
world.
 Together, we can build a harmonious society.

B  Attended a mental health program. Format – 1 Content -2

 Objectives: Raise awareness, reduce stigma. Organisation -1
 Key activities: Workshops, counselling sessions. Accuracy of spelling
 Outcomes: Improved mental health knowledge, and grammar -1
reduced stigma. Format • Headline &
 Impact on participants' well-being: Enhanced By line • Reporting
resilience, better coping. place and date •
 Importance of addressing mental health: High Paragraphing
prevalence, hidden suffering. organisation
 Observations: Participants became more open (Introductory
about mental health. paragraph + one or two
  Personal experiences: Learned coping strategies, Body paragraphs
connected with peers. including event details
 Significance of such programs: Crucial in today's + Concluding
society. paragraph inclusive of
 Promote holistic well-being. witness accounts)
 Address rising mental health concerns.
 Reduce social and economic burdens.
 Encourage early intervention.
 Advocate for ongoing mental health support.
 Nurture a healthier and happier society.

7A
1 Option A -The narrator's concern for her mother's health. No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
2 Option D - He is very particular about what he likes. No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
3 Tries to divert her mind (or any relevant answer) No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
4 Attempt to forget the reality and divert her minds from No partial credit of ½ ,
the health of her mother unless indicated.
5 Of a very old and ill lady No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
6 How to look after parents in the old age with a current life No partial credit of ½ ,
where one needs to work at a place away from home. unless indicated.
7
7B
i Necessity of introspection, keeping quiet and abandoning No partial credit of ½ ,
violent acts and thoughts unless indicated.
ii The grim and ruthless nature of modern warfare. No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
iii A quick run No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
iv Change of attitude and fraternal feelings towards others No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
v The nature of modern war which is likely to affect the No partial credit of ½ ,
victor as well unless indicated.
vi War against environment, conventional weapons and No partial credit of ½ ,
chemical warfare unless indicated.
8A
i Is inclined to treat the soldier though he belongs to an No partial credit of ½ ,
enemy country unless indicated.
ii Whether to help the wounded soldier despite his No partial credit of ½ ,
nationality or turn him over to the police unless indicated.
iii The servants are highly patriotic and may inform the No partial credit of ½ ,
authorities about the American Soldier. unless indicated.
iv Compassion and empathy for the wounded No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
B
i C. Strategic thinking and problem solving No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
ii Fear of losing their jobs. No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
iii Was old and weak No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
iv Any acceptable answer No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
9A
i The sense of urgency and seriousness of the situationNo partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
ii M. Hamel's readiness to begin a lesson No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
iii Shame and embarrassment No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
iv Any appropriate title No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
v To block outside sounds to concentrate better No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
vi That there would be noise and commotion and he could No partial credit of ½ ,
enter without attracting attention. unless indicated.
B
i A.The final or eventual outcome of the discussion No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
ii Anger and indignance No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
iii Gandhi was an outsider but he was more committed to the No partial credit of ½ ,
sharecroppers cause than them. unless indicated.
iv Abandoning Gandhi in his time of need. No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
v They felt obligated to stay and help the sharecroppers No partial credit of ½ ,
unless indicated.
vi Why here indicates that Rajendra Prasad thought that it No partial credit of ½ ,
was understood that they would leave if there was no one unless indicated.
to advise and the question was not necessary.
10
i  Gratefully accept Edla's kindness but remain
cautious due to a life of hardship, keeping my true
identity hidden.
 Engage in polite conversation, avoiding any
suspicious behavior or details about my past.
 Avoid overstepping boundaries and maintain a
respectful distance, not wanting to take advantage
of her kindness.
 Secretly appreciate her warmth, but stay focused on
my goal of survival and staying out of trouble.
  Ultimately, continue my journey as a wandering
peddler, wary of forming lasting connections that
could jeopardize my freedom.

ii  Mukesh likely has a better chance of succeeding in Content -1 → Full

life due to his access to education and a stable credit for appropriate
family background. inclusion of all content
 Education provides Mukesh with skills and asked for → Partial
opportunities for personal growth and career credit ½ for relevant
advancement. but incomplete content
 Saheb, living in poverty and lacking educational Expression – 1 → Full
opportunities, faces greater challenges in breaking credit for effective
the cycle of hardship. organisation → Partial
 Mukesh's support system and resources increase credit ½ for some
his chances of achieving success. semblance of
 However, individual determination and organisation of ideas
circumstances can also play a significant role in Deduct ½ mark from
determining one's success. the overall score if the
error density is high
(more than a total of 2
spellings and/or
grammatical errors).
iii  Initially, I would feel conflicted but recognize the Content -1 → Full
importance of respecting authority during a credit for appropriate
difficult time. inclusion of all content
 I would discreetly document and preserve elements asked for → Partial
of my language and culture, such as notes or credit ½ for relevant
poems. but incomplete content
 Engage in clandestine conversations with fellow Expression – 1 → Full
students to share and celebrate our heritage. credit for effective
 Seek out hidden books or resources to continue organisation → Partial
language studies quietly. credit ½ for some
 Remain hopeful for the day when I can openly semblance of
reclaim and celebrate my language and culture. organisation of ideas
Deduct ½ mark from
the overall score if the
error density is high
(more than a total of 2
spellings and/or
grammatical errors).
iv  During a tough period in my life, I found solace in Content -1 → Full
a serene natural setting. credit for appropriate
 Visiting a tranquil forest, I marveled at the beauty inclusion of all content
of sunlight filtering through the leaves and the asked for → Partial
soothing sound of a babbling brook. credit ½ for relevant
 This experience offered a sense of peace and but incomplete content
inspiration, reminding me of the enduring beauty in Expression – 1 → Full
the world. credit for effective
organisation → Partial
  It provided a much-needed escape from my credit ½ for some
troubles. semblance of
 Keats' words rang true as I realized that beauty can organisation of ideas
indeed offer solace during challenging times. Deduct ½ mark from
the overall score if the
error density is high
(more than a total of 2
spellings and/or
grammatical errors).
v  In the story, "not giving in to fear" signifies Content -1 → Full
resilience in the face of adversity. credit for appropriate
 Douglas encourages us to confront our fears rather inclusion of all content
than succumb to them. asked for → Partial
 It implies that overcoming fear leads to personal credit ½ for relevant
growth and empowerment. but incomplete content
 The message is exemplified by Douglas's Expression – 1 → Full
determination to learn to swim. credit for effective
 Ultimately, it suggests that facing fears can yield organisation → Partial
valuable life lessons and experiences. credit ½ for some
semblance of
organisation of ideas
Deduct ½ mark from
the overall score if the
error density is high
(more than a total of 2
spellings and/or
grammatical errors).
vi  Commitment to simplicity: Gandhi's refusal to Content -1 → Full
allow Charles Freer Andrews to stay with him credit for appropriate
reflected his dedication to a simple and austere inclusion of all content
lifestyle. asked for → Partial
 Independence of thought: Gandhi made decisions credit ½ for relevant
based on his own convictions rather than external but incomplete content
pressures, demonstrating his strong sense of moral Expression – 1 → Full
integrity. credit for effective
 Emphasis on self-reliance: Gandhi advocated self- organisation → Partial
sufficiency and likely did not want to rely on others credit ½ for some
for his basic needs. semblance of
 Focus on equality: Gandhi valued humility and organisation of ideas
equality, and hosting Andrews may have created a Deduct ½ mark from
sense of inequality or privilege. the overall score if the
 Dedication to his mission: Gandhi's decision was error density is high
likely influenced by his unwavering commitment (more than a total of 2
to nonviolence and social reform, which he did not spellings and/or
want disrupted by conflicting ideologies. grammatical errors).
11
i  Pristine environment: Antarctica's isolation Content -1 → Full
preserves ancient ice cores and sediment layers, credit for appropriate
offering a direct look into Earth's history. inclusion of all content
 Climate change insights: Monitoring Antarctic ice asked for → Partial
helps predict global climate trends. credit ½ for relevant
 Biodiversity research: Unique ecosystems reveal but incomplete content
Earth's past and potential adaptations to climate Expression – 1 → Full
change. credit for effective
 Global impact: Antarctica's ice influences sea organisation → Partial
levels, making it pivotal for understanding future credit ½ for some
changes. semblance of
organisation of ideas
Deduct ½ mark from
the overall score if the
error density is high
(more than a total of 2
spellings and/or
grammatical errors).
ii  The third level symbolizes a portal to a simpler, Content -1 → Full
idealized past, providing solace from the turmoil of credit for appropriate
the 1940s. inclusion of all content
 It represents a yearning for a better, less asked for → Partial
complicated era. credit ½ for relevant
 The protagonist uses it to escape the anxieties of his but incomplete content
time, like WWII and societal pressures. Expression – 1 → Full
 The third level serves as a metaphor for the human credit for effective
desire to evade harsh realities. organisation → Partial
 It underscores the timeless theme of escapism in credit ½ for some
literature. semblance of
organisation of ideas
Deduct ½ mark from
the overall score if the
error density is high
(more than a total of 2
spellings and/or
grammatical errors).
iii  Sadao's character reflects the internal struggle Content -1 → Full
between cultural identity and personal growth. credit for appropriate
 He bridges Eastern and Western values, inclusion of all content
symbolizing cultural fusion. asked for → Partial
 His choices highlight the need for adaptability in a credit ½ for relevant
globalizing world. but incomplete content
 Sadao's moral dilemma underscores the complexity Expression – 1 → Full
of personal growth in a multicultural context. credit for effective
 His character illustrates the potential for unity and organisation → Partial
growth through embracing diversity. credit ½ for some
semblance of
organisation of ideas
Deduct ½ mark from
 the overall score if the
error density is high
(more than a total of 2
spellings and/or
grammatical errors).
12A  Empathize: Acknowledge the client's grief, using Content -2 Page 12 of
the poem's portrayal of the poet's own emotional 14 → Full credit for
journey as a point of connection. sustained, clear, well-
 Explore aging: Discuss how the poem illustrates developed personal
the challenges of aging, helping the client response to the task
understand their mother's perspective. that appropriately
 Window metaphor: Use the poem's window as a justifies any arguments
symbol to explore the client's feelings about → Partial credit of 1 ½,
mortality and separation. 1 and ½ as per the
 Regret and closure: Encourage the client to reflect response clarity and
on their relationship, addressing any unresolved relevance Expression –
issues or emotions, similar to the poet's regret. 2 → Full credit for
 Celebrate memories: Help the client find closure by effective organisation -
celebrating their mother's life, drawing from the structure, relevant
poem's message of enduring love and connection vocabulary and
despite loss. effective relay of ideas
→ Partial credit of 1 ½,
1 and ½ as per the level
of coherence and
cohesion Accuracy-1
→ Full credit for none
to minimal errors →
Partial credit of ½ for
spellings and/or
grammatical, largely
accurate → No credit
for error density
causing impediment in
understanding
B  Paradox of Stillness: The poem encourages Content -2 Page 12 of
contemplation on the power of silence amidst a 14 → Full credit for
chaotic world. sustained, clear, well-
 Pause for reflection: Neruda suggests that taking a developed personal
moment of silence can help individuals introspect, response to the task
connect, and understand each other. that appropriately
 Unity and peace: The poem teaches that stillness justifies any arguments
can foster unity and reduce conflict. → Partial credit of 1 ½,
 Environmental message: It underscores the need 1 and ½ as per the
for humans to pause and protect the environment. response clarity and
 Call to action: Ultimately, Neruda urges readers to relevance Expression –
embrace silence and then act with renewed purpose 2 → Full credit for
and mindfulness. effective organisation -
structure, relevant
vocabulary and
effective relay of ideas
 → Partial credit of 1 ½,
1 and ½ as per the level
of coherence and
cohesion Accuracy-1
→ Full credit for none
to minimal errors →
Partial credit of ½ for
spellings and/or
grammatical, largely
accurate → No credit
for error density
causing impediment in
understanding
13A  Diary Entry: Stepping onto the third level today, I Content -2 Page 12 of
felt a rush of excitement and intrigue. 14 → Full credit for
 Thoughts: The contrast with my own time is sustained, clear, well-
striking, a step back into the past. developed personal
 Sense of Adventure: It's like entering a hidden response to the task
world, filled with secrets waiting to be uncovered. that appropriately
 Anticipation: I'm eager to discover what this justifies any arguments
mysterious place holds - perhaps untold stories or → Partial credit of 1 ½,
forgotten treasures. 1 and ½ as per the
 A New Beginning: The adventure of a lifetime response clarity and
begins, as I navigate the past within the present. relevance Expression –
2 → Full credit for
effective organisation -
structure, relevant
vocabulary and
effective relay of ideas
→ Partial credit of 1 ½,
1 and ½ as per the level
of coherence and
cohesion Accuracy-1
→ Full credit for none
to minimal errors →
Partial credit of ½ for
spellings and/or
grammatical, largely
accurate → No credit
for error density
causing impediment in
understanding
B  Moral dilemma: Dr. Sadao's choice to aid the Content -2 Page 12 of
enemy soldier challenges wartime prejudices and 14 → Full credit for
highlights his compassion. sustained, clear, well-
 Ethical implications: His decision goes against developed personal
societal norms but aligns with his commitment to response to the task
save lives as a physician. that appropriately
justifies any arguments
→ Partial credit of 1 ½,
 Humanity in war: The story underscores the value 1 and ½ as per the
of compassion and shared humanity even in times response clarity and
of conflict. relevance Expression –
 Breaking barriers: Dr. Sadao's actions transcend 2 → Full credit for
national boundaries, emphasizing universal effective organisation -
principles of care. structure, relevant
 Broader message: It conveys the idea that vocabulary and
compassion should override enmity, offering hope effective relay of ideas
for peace and understanding amidst war's chaos. → Partial credit of 1 ½,
1 and ½ as per the level
of coherence and
cohesion Accuracy-1
→ Full credit for none
to minimal errors →
Partial credit of ½ for
spellings and/or
grammatical, largely
accurate → No credit
for error density
causing impediment in
understanding