Mock Test 50M 12th English

CBSE CLASS XII ENGLISH CORE – MOCK TEST

Complete Revision Test – 50 Marks

Syllabus:

Section A: Reading Skills – 10 Marks

Section B: Writing Skills – 18 Marks

Section C: Literature – 22 Marks

Time: 2 Hours

Maximum Marks: 50

SECTION A – READING SKILLS

Q1. Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. 10 Marks

The Value of Reading

Reading is one of the most valuable habits a person can develop. In an age dominated by short videos, social media and instant entertainment, reading requires patience and concentration. Yet, those who develop the habit of reading often discover that it improves not only their knowledge but also their ability to think clearly.

Books expose readers to different people, cultures, experiences and ideas. A good book can take us to places we have never visited and introduce us to situations we may never experience personally. Reading therefore develops imagination and empathy. It enables us to understand people whose lives may be very different from our own.

Reading also improves language skills. Regular readers naturally encounter new words, sentence structures and styles of expression. This helps students in writing and speaking. Moreover, reading for pleasure reduces stress and provides a healthy break from the pressures of daily life.

However, merely possessing books is not enough. The habit must be cultivated through regular practice. Even fifteen or twenty minutes of focused reading every day can gradually make a significant difference. Parents and teachers can encourage children by providing interesting books and allowing them to choose subjects according to their interests.

In conclusion, reading is not simply an academic activity. It is a lifelong habit that strengthens the mind, enriches imagination and helps people understand the world better.

Questions:

(a) What makes reading difficult in the present age? 1

(b) How does reading develop empathy? 1

(c) Mention two benefits of reading for language development. 2

(d) Why is merely possessing books not sufficient? 1

(e) How much focused reading does the passage recommend initially? 1

(f) Select the correct option:

Reading can help people to: 1

(i) avoid all responsibilities

(ii) understand different perspectives

(iii) spend more time on social media

(iv) stop communicating with others

(g) Find a word from the passage that means “understanding and sharing another person's feelings.” 1

(h) State whether the following statement is True or False:

Reading is useful only for academic success. 1

SECTION B – WRITING SKILLS

18 Marks

Q2. Notice Writing – 4 Marks

You are Riya/Rohan, the Head Girl/Head Boy of ABC Senior Secondary School, Ludhiana. Your school is organising an Inter-House Debate Competition on the topic “Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane?”. Draft a notice informing students about the event. Include all necessary details.

OR

Your school is organising a Cleanliness Awareness Drive. Draft a notice inviting students to participate.

Q3. Invitation – 4 Marks

You are Mr. and Mrs. Sharma. Draft a formal invitation inviting relatives and friends to the 25th Wedding Anniversary Celebration of your parents at Hotel Grand Palace, Ludhiana.

OR

You are the Cultural Secretary of ABC Senior Secondary School. Draft a formal invitation for the Annual Function of your school.

Q4. Letter Writing – 5 Marks

Attempt either A or B.

A. Letter to the Editor

Write a letter to the Editor of The Tribune expressing concern about the increasing use of mobile phones among school students and suggesting measures to promote balanced use of technology.

OR

B. Job Application

You are Arjun/Ananya. You have seen an advertisement for the post of English Teacher in a reputed senior secondary school. Write an application for the post along with a suitable bio-data/resume.

Q5. Article/Report Writing – 5 Marks

Attempt either A or B.

A. Article Writing

Write an article in about 120–150 words on:

“The Importance of Mental and Physical Well-being among Students”

OR

B. Report Writing

You are the school correspondent. Write a report in about 120–150 words on a Tree Plantation Drive organised by your school.

SECTION C – LITERATURE

22 Marks

Q6. Read the following extracts and answer the questions that follow. 12 Marks

Extract A – The Rattrap – Selma Lagerlöf 4 Marks

The peddler thought of the world as a huge rattrap. It offered riches, food, shelter and pleasures as bait, but once a person was tempted by these things, the world closed around him.

(a) What does the rattrap symbolise? 1

(b) What are the “baits” offered by the world? 1

(c) Why did the peddler develop this philosophy? 1

(d) What major change takes place in the peddler later? 1

Extract B – Indigo – Louis Fischer 4 Marks

Gandhi's presence in Champaran gave courage to the peasants. He listened to their problems and refused to leave the place when ordered to do so. His peaceful resistance ultimately made the authorities reconsider their position.

(a) Why had Gandhi gone to Champaran? 1

(b) What gave courage to the peasants? 1

(c) What quality of Gandhi is highlighted here? 1

(d) What was the significance of Gandhi's action in Champaran? 1

Extract C – Keeping Quiet – Pablo Neruda 4 Marks

The poet asks everyone to count to twelve and remain still for a moment. He wants humanity to pause its endless activity and reflect upon its actions.

(a) What does “count to twelve” suggest? 1

(b) Why does the poet want people to remain still? 1

(c) Does the poet advocate complete inactivity forever? 1

(d) What central idea of the poem is reflected in the extract? 1

Q7. Answer ANY TWO of the following questions in 40–50 words each.

2 × 2 = 4 Marks

(a) Why did the peddler decline the invitation of the ironmaster initially in The Rattrap?

(b) How did the Champaran episode change the peasants' attitude towards themselves in Indigo?

(c) Why did the Maharaja decide to kill one hundred tigers in The Tiger King?

(d) Why does the poet in A Thing of Beauty call a beautiful thing “a joy forever”?

(e) What is the significance of Antarctica in Journey to the End of the Earth?

(f) What does Pablo Neruda mean by “victory with no survivors” in Keeping Quiet?

Q8. Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 120–150 words.

6 Marks

(a) The Rattrap

The peddler's transformation proves that kindness and compassion can reform a person. Discuss with reference to Edla's behaviour.

OR

(b) Indigo

Gandhi's Champaran movement was not merely a struggle against injustice but also a lesson in self-reliance, courage and leadership. Discuss.

OR

(c) The Tiger King

How does Kalki use humour and irony to expose the weaknesses of kings and the dangers of excessive pride?

OR

(d) Journey to the End of the Earth

Why does the author consider Antarctica an important place for understanding the Earth's past and future?

OR

(e) Poetry

Compare the central ideas of “A Thing of Beauty” and “Keeping Quiet”. How do both poems offer hope and positivity to humanity?

COMPLETE ANSWER KEY

SECTION A – ANSWERS

(a) Reading is difficult today because people are surrounded by short videos, social media and instant entertainment.

(b) Reading develops empathy by exposing us to different people, cultures and experiences and helping us understand lives different from our own.

(c) Reading improves vocabulary and introduces readers to different sentence structures and styles of expression.

(d) Merely possessing books is not enough because the habit of reading must be developed through regular practice.

(e) The passage recommends beginning with about fifteen or twenty minutes of focused reading every day.

(f) (ii) understand different perspectives

(g) Empathy

(h) False

SECTION B – COMPLETE ANSWERS

Q2. NOTICE WRITING

Answer

Writing

ABC SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL, LUDHIANA

NOTICE

INTER-HOUSE DEBATE COMPETITION

30 August 2026

All the students are hereby informed that an Inter-House Debate Competition on “Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane?” will be organised on 10 September 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the school auditorium. Students interested in participating should give their names to their respective House Captains by 5 September 2026.

All students are encouraged to participate actively.

Rohan

Head Boy

Q3. FORMAL INVITATION

Answer

Writing

SILVER JUBILEE WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Mr. and Mrs. Sharma

cordially invite you to celebrate the

25th Wedding Anniversary of

Mr. & Mrs. Sharma

on Sunday, 13 September 2026

from 7:00 p.m. onwards

at

Hotel Grand Palace, Ludhiana

Your gracious presence will make the occasion memorable.

RSVP:

The Sharma Family

Q4. LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Answer

Writing

24, Model Town

Ludhiana

30 August 2026

The Editor

The Tribune

Chandigarh

Subject: Increasing use of mobile phones among school students

Sir/Madam,

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw attention to the increasing and often excessive use of mobile phones among school students. Although smartphones are useful educational tools, their uncontrolled use can affect concentration, sleep, studies and social interaction.

Parents and schools should guide students towards responsible digital habits. Schools can organise awareness programmes on digital well-being, while parents should establish reasonable screen-time limits. Students should also be encouraged to participate in sports, reading and other creative activities.

Technology should be used as a means of learning rather than becoming a source of distraction. I hope your newspaper will highlight this important issue and encourage parents, teachers and students to take appropriate steps.

Yours faithfully,

Arjun

Q4(B). JOB APPLICATION

Writing

24, Green Park

Ludhiana

30 August 2026

The Principal

ABC Senior Secondary School

Ludhiana

Subject: Application for the post of English Teacher

Sir/Madam,

With reference to your advertisement in The Tribune, I wish to apply for the post of English Teacher in your esteemed institution. I possess the required academic qualifications and have a strong interest in teaching English. I am confident that my communication skills, subject knowledge and enthusiasm for teaching will enable me to contribute effectively to your school.

I am enclosing my bio-data for your consideration. I shall be grateful if I am given an opportunity to appear for an interview.

Yours faithfully,

Ananya

BIO-DATA

Name: Ananya Sharma

Address: 24, Green Park, Ludhiana

Educational Qualification: M.A. English, B.Ed.

Experience: 2 years

Languages Known: English, Hindi, Punjabi

Computer Skills: MS Office and Google Workspace

References: Available on request

Q5(A). ARTICLE WRITING

Writing

THE IMPORTANCE OF WELL-BEING AMONG STUDENTS

By Arjun

Students today face academic pressure, competition and numerous digital distractions. Therefore, maintaining mental and physical well-being is extremely important.

Physical health can be improved through regular exercise, adequate sleep, nutritious food and participation in outdoor activities. A healthy body helps students remain energetic and focused. Mental well-being is equally important. Students should learn to manage stress, maintain healthy relationships and discuss their concerns with trusted adults.

Schools can contribute by providing sports facilities, counselling support and opportunities for creative activities. Parents should also create a supportive environment instead of placing excessive pressure on children.

Success is not measured only by examination marks. A truly successful student is one who develops knowledge, confidence, healthy habits and emotional balance. Thus, students must give equal importance to their studies and overall well-being.

Q5(B). REPORT WRITING

Writing

TREE PLANTATION DRIVE ORGANISED

By the School Correspondent

Ludhiana, 30 August 2026:

A Tree Plantation Drive was organised by ABC Senior Secondary School on the school campus on 29 August 2026. The programme was inaugurated by the Principal, who highlighted the importance of trees in maintaining ecological balance.

Students, teachers and members of the Eco Club actively participated in the drive. More than one hundred saplings of different varieties were planted around the school grounds. Students also prepared posters carrying messages about environmental protection.

The Principal encouraged students to take responsibility for the plants and ensure their proper care. The programme concluded with a pledge to protect trees and promote a greener environment.

The drive successfully created environmental awareness among students and encouraged them to become responsible citizens.

SECTION C – LITERATURE ANSWERS

Q6. Extract A – The Rattrap

(a) The rattrap symbolises the world and its temptations that can trap human beings.

(b) The baits include riches, food, shelter, pleasures and other worldly comforts.

(c) The peddler had developed this philosophy because he was poor, lonely and had experienced rejection and hardship.

(d) The peddler changes into an honest and responsible person because of Edla's kindness and trust.

Extract B – Indigo

(a) Gandhi went to Champaran to help the sharecroppers who were being exploited by British indigo planters.

(b) Gandhi's presence and his determination gave courage to the peasants.

(c) The extract highlights Gandhi's courage, determination, leadership and commitment to justice.

(d) Gandhi's action showed the peasants that they could resist injustice peacefully and successfully.

Extract C – Keeping Quiet

(a) “Count to twelve” suggests that humanity should pause its hurried activities and spend a moment in introspection.

(b) The poet wants people to remain still so that they can reflect on their actions and understand the value of peace.

(c) No. The poet does not advocate permanent inactivity. He wants a temporary pause for reflection and self-understanding.

(d) The extract expresses the central ideas of silence, introspection, peace and harmony.

Q7. SHORT ANSWERS

(a) Why did the peddler decline the ironmaster's invitation?

The peddler initially declined the ironmaster's invitation because he feared that the ironmaster might recognise him as a former acquaintance or expose him as a thief. He was also suspicious of the ironmaster's intentions.

(b) How did Champaran change the peasants?

The Champaran movement gave the peasants confidence and courage. They realised that they could stand against injustice and that they did not have to remain helpless before the British landlords. Gandhi taught them self-reliance and fearlessness.

(c) Why did the Maharaja decide to kill one hundred tigers?

The astrologers had predicted that the Maharaja would die because of a tiger. Determined to defeat this prediction, the Maharaja decided to kill one hundred tigers. His obsession gradually became his main purpose.

(d) Why is a beautiful thing “a joy forever”?

Keats believes that genuine beauty never loses its value. A beautiful object provides lasting happiness and comfort. Its memory continues to refresh the human mind even during difficult and disappointing times.

(e) Why is Antarctica important in Journey to the End of the Earth?

Antarctica contains evidence about the Earth's geological past. Studying it helps scientists understand climate change and the planet's evolution. It also makes people aware of the consequences of human activities on the environment.

(f) What does “victory with no survivors” mean?

The phrase refers to wars in which there may be a winner and a loser, but destruction affects everyone. The poet suggests that humanity should reject violence because war ultimately brings suffering rather than genuine victory.

Q8. LONG ANSWERS

(a) The Rattrap – Model Answer

The peddler's transformation demonstrates the power of kindness and compassion. Initially, he is cynical and believes that the whole world is a rattrap designed to trap people through material temptations. After stealing the crofter's money, he becomes trapped in his own metaphorical rattrap. However, Edla treats him with respect and kindness even after discovering his true identity. She invites him to stay for Christmas and makes him feel like a respectable human being. Her trust awakens his conscience. As a result, he returns the stolen money and leaves a letter of gratitude. Thus, Edla's compassion gives him an opportunity to change. The story shows that understanding and kindness can bring out the goodness hidden within a person.

(b) Indigo – Model Answer

The Champaran episode was much more than a struggle against the exploitation of peasants. It demonstrated Gandhi's leadership and his belief in self-reliance. The sharecroppers were frightened and had accepted injustice as their fate. Gandhi listened to their problems and stood firmly against the authorities. His refusal to obey the order to leave Champaran became an example of peaceful civil disobedience. The peasants gained confidence when they saw Gandhi standing beside them. Gandhi also focused on education, cleanliness and improving their living conditions. The movement ultimately resulted in justice for the peasants and, more importantly, removed their fear. Thus, Gandhi's Champaran campaign taught people courage, self-confidence, cooperation and peaceful resistance.

(c) The Tiger King – Model Answer

Kalki uses humour, satire and irony to expose the weaknesses of royal authority. The Maharaja becomes obsessed with killing one hundred tigers because an astrologer predicts that a tiger will cause his death. His determination becomes so extreme that he ignores practical considerations and uses his power to arrange tiger hunts. Ironically, despite killing numerous tigers, he eventually dies because of a seemingly harmless wooden tiger. The situation is humorous because the Maharaja believes that he has defeated fate, while the readers understand that fate cannot be controlled so easily. Kalki also satirises the arrogance and foolishness of rulers who misuse their power. The story therefore combines comedy with a serious criticism of pride, superstition and irresponsible leadership.

(d) Journey to the End of the Earth – Model Answer

Antarctica is extremely important because it provides valuable information about the Earth's geological and climatic history. The continent was once connected with other landmasses and has preserved evidence of the ancient environment. The author considers Antarctica a place where one can observe the effects of climate change and understand the delicate balance of nature. The melting of ice and changes in the environment can have consequences for the entire planet. The visit also makes students aware of the importance of protecting the environment. Antarctica therefore serves as a warning about the consequences of human interference with nature. The journey is not simply geographical; it becomes an educational experience that encourages environmental responsibility.

(e) A Thing of Beauty and Keeping Quiet – Model Answer

Both poems offer positive messages about human life, although they approach the subject differently. In A Thing of Beauty, Keats celebrates the lasting power of beauty. Beautiful objects provide joy, hope and comfort and help people overcome sadness and disappointment. In Keeping Quiet, Neruda asks humanity to pause, remain silent and reflect upon its actions. He imagines a world free from violence, exploitation and unnecessary conflict. Both poets believe that human beings need something that can lead them away from suffering and negativity. Keats finds this power in beauty, while Neruda finds it in silence, reflection and peace. Thus, both poems ultimately encourage humanity to discover hope, harmony and a better way of living.