Class 12 English – Important Questions (Board Exam Format)
All answers are written strictly according to the 40 words and 80 words marking scheme. Perfect for quick revision and high scoring preparation.
1. Answer in about 40 words each
During his stay at Madras, Robert Clive worked as a clerk in the East India Company. Later, he joined the British army and fought bravely in several battles, helping to strengthen British power in India.
Or What were the states of affairs in France in ‘The Last Lesson’?France was under Prussian control and German replaced French in schools. People regretted neglecting their language. The atmosphere was serious and emotional because it was the last lesson in French.
(ii) From where did the peddler get the idea of world being a rattrap?The peddler got the idea from his trade of selling rattraps. He believed the world tempted people with riches and pleasures like bait and then trapped them in misery.
Or Name the studio in ‘Poets and Pancakes’ and a famous star who used it.The studio described is Gemini Studios. A famous star who used its make-up room was M. G. Ramachandran.
2. Answer any one in about 80 words
The peddler left a rattrap as a Christmas gift for Edla along with a letter and the stolen money. He signed himself as Captain von Stahle to honour the dignity and respect shown by Edla. Her kindness transformed him into a better person. He wanted to show that he had reformed and regained self-respect.
(ii) How did Gandhi change the plight of the peasants of Champaran?Gandhi organized a peaceful movement against the exploitation of indigo peasants in Champaran. He conducted inquiries and exposed British injustice. Through non-violent protest and legal action, he secured refunds and ended unfair practices. His leadership restored confidence and dignity among the peasants.
3. Write the central idea of any one poem
The poem expresses the poet’s fear of losing her aging mother. It highlights the pain of separation and the inevitability of old age and death. The poet hides her sorrow behind a smile.
(ii) A Roadside StandThe poem highlights the exploitation of rural people by the urban rich. It shows their hopes for financial improvement and the harsh reality of neglect and disappointment.
(iii) Aunt Jennifer's TigersThe poem contrasts the bold and fearless tigers with Aunt Jennifer’s oppressed life. It highlights male dominance and the struggle of women in a patriarchal society.
4. Answer in about 40 words each
The Tiger King is the Maharaja of Pratibandapuram. He gets the name because he is obsessed with killing tigers to prove a prophecy wrong and eventually kills ninety-nine tigers.
Or Who are the mutual enemies in “The Enemy”?The mutual enemies are the Americans and the Japanese during World War II. Dr. Sadao, a Japanese doctor, saves an American soldier despite the war.
(ii) Why and how was the American soldier hurt in ‘The Enemy’?The American soldier was hurt during a naval battle. He was shot and wounded while escaping from his ship and was washed ashore near Dr. Sadao’s house.
Or What did Mr Hamel say when Franz entered the classroom?Mr Hamel gently told Franz to take his seat and said that he had started the lesson without him. He was calm and unusually kind that day.
5. Answer any one in about 80 words
The story satirizes the arrogance and foolishness of rulers. The Tiger King tries to control fate by killing tigers, believing he can defeat destiny. His obsession and misuse of power expose his vanity and ignorance. Ironically, he dies because of a toy tiger, showing that destiny cannot be controlled.
(ii) What discrimination does Zitkala-Sa experience? Compare with Bama.Zitkala-Sa experiences racial discrimination in a missionary school where her hair is cut against her will, symbolizing loss of identity. Bama faces caste discrimination in her village and feels humiliation. Both resist oppression — Zitkala-Sa protests emotionally, while Bama resolves to study hard and fight injustice through education.
