ANSWER KEY TO: RUCHIKA HIGH SCHOOL 1ST TERMINAL EXAMINATION 2026-27 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

 

ANSWER KEY TO: RUCHIKA HIGH SCHOOL 1ST TERMINAL EXAMINATION 2026-27 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Q 1. a. A Mother's Sacrifice That Changed My Life

A mother's love is one of the greatest blessings in life. She works day and night without expecting anything in return. She cooks, cleans, cares for the family and is always ready to help us. I never truly understood the value of my mother's sacrifices until one incident changed the way I looked at her.

Last year, I fell seriously ill a week before my final examinations. I had a high fever and felt very weak. I could not sit up for long, and I was worried that I would not be able to prepare for my exams. I was frightened because I had worked hard throughout the year.

My mother stood by me like a strong pillar. She hardly slept at night. She checked my temperature every few hours, gave me my medicines on time and prepared light, healthy meals for me. She sat beside my bed throughout the night, making sure that I was comfortable. During the day, she managed all the household work and still found time to help me revise my lessons. Whenever I felt discouraged, she encouraged me with kind words and reminded me to stay positive.

I noticed that she looked tired, but she never complained. She smiled even when she was exhausted. She put my needs before her own comfort. Only later did I realise how much she had sacrificed for me. Her love and care gave me the strength to recover quickly.

With my mother's support, I was able to appear for all my examinations. When the results were declared, I scored excellent marks. I knew that my success belonged not only to me but also to my mother, whose love and sacrifices had made it possible.

That incident left a deep and lasting impression on me. It taught me that true love means putting others before oneself. I also learnt that parents silently make countless sacrifices for their children every day. Since then, I have tried to become more responsible. I help my mother with household chores whenever I can. I obey my parents, value their advice and never take their efforts for granted.

A mother's love cannot be measured in words or money. It is pure, selfless and unconditional. I feel proud and grateful to have such a caring mother. Her sacrifice has inspired me to become a kinder, more responsible and grateful person. I hope that one day I will be able to make her as proud of me as I am of her.

b. Pride Comes Before a Fall

Rohan was the brightest student in his school. He always stood first in class and won every quiz competition. His teachers praised him, and his parents were proud of his achievements. However, success slowly filled him with pride. He began to believe that no one was as intelligent as he was.

Whenever his classmates asked for help, Rohan refused. He laughed at students who scored fewer marks and often boasted about his own success. Even when his teachers advised him to remain humble, he ignored them. He felt that he knew everything and did not need anyone's guidance.

One day, the school announced a state-level science exhibition. Each school had to send one team of three students. Rohan was selected as the team leader. His teammates, Meera and Arjun, were hardworking and creative, but Rohan believed that he alone could complete the project.

Whenever Meera suggested a new idea, he rejected it without even listening. When Arjun offered to prepare the model, Rohan refused and said, "I can do everything better than both of you."

As the competition drew near, Rohan became overconfident. He delayed his work, thinking he could finish it in a single day. Unfortunately, while testing the model, an important part broke. There was no time left to repair it properly.

At the exhibition, the model failed to work. The judges asked several questions, but Rohan struggled to answer them because he had ignored the research done by his teammates. Another school won the first prize with a simple but well-planned project prepared through teamwork.

Rohan returned home disappointed. For the first time, he realised that his pride had blinded him. He had neither respected the ideas of others nor accepted their help. The defeat was painful, but it taught him a valuable lesson.

The next day, Rohan apologised to Meera and Arjun. He thanked them for their patience and promised never to behave arrogantly again. He also thanked his teachers for trying to guide him. Gradually, he became more humble and cooperative. He learnt to listen to others and to appreciate their talents.

In the following year, the same team participated in the science exhibition again. This time, they worked together, respected each other's ideas and shared every responsibility. Their project won first prize. Rohan understood that success becomes meaningful only when it is accompanied by humility.

From that day onwards, he remembered that pride may give a person temporary confidence, but in the end, it often leads to failure. Humility, respect and teamwork are the true qualities that bring lasting success.

Moral: Pride goes before a fall.

c. Technology is a Useful Servant but a Dangerous Master

Technology has become an important part of our daily lives. We use it for studying, working, travelling, shopping and communicating with others. It has made many tasks easier and faster. However, I strongly agree with the statement, "Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master." It is beneficial only when we control it. If we allow it to control our lives, it can create many problems.

Technology has made communication quick and simple. We can talk to people living in different parts of the world through video calls and messages. Students can attend online classes, search for information and learn new skills from educational websites. Doctors use advanced machines to diagnose diseases, while scientists use technology to make new discoveries. Farmers, engineers and business people also benefit greatly from modern technology. In this way, technology serves humanity in countless ways.

However, technology becomes dangerous when people become too dependent on it. Many students spend long hours on mobile phones, social media and online games instead of studying. This wastes valuable time and affects their health. Too much screen time can lead to poor eyesight, lack of physical exercise and disturbed sleep. It also reduces face-to-face interaction with family and friends.

Another danger is the spread of false information through the internet. Many people believe rumours without checking the facts. Cybercrime, online fraud and identity theft have also become common. Personal information can be misused if people are not careful while using digital platforms.

Technology has also reduced employment opportunities in some fields. Machines now perform tasks that were once done by people. Although technology creates new jobs, many workers need new skills to remain employed.

We should not blame technology for these problems. It is only a tool. The real responsibility lies with its users. We must use technology wisely and in moderation. Parents and teachers should guide children to use it for learning rather than wasting time. We should also spend time reading books, playing outdoor games and interacting with people in real life.

In conclusion, technology is one of the greatest achievements of humankind. It has improved our lives in many ways, but it should never become our master. We must remain in control of it and use it responsibly. When used wisely, technology becomes a faithful servant; when misused, it can harm individuals as well as society. Therefore, it is our duty to ensure that technology serves us instead of ruling our lives.

Q 2.

a.

24, Lake View Road
Bhubaneswar – 751001
10 July 2026

The Tourism Officer
Himachal Pradesh Tourism
Shimla – 171001
Himachal Pradesh

Subject: Enquiry regarding a seven-day stay in Manali during the autumn break

Sir/Madam,

I, along with my family, am planning to visit Manali during the forthcoming autumn break and intend to stay there for seven days. Before finalising our travel plans, I would like to obtain some information from your department.

Kindly let me know the easiest and most convenient route to reach Manali from Bhubaneswar. Please also inform me about the available accommodation, the tariff of hotels or tourist lodges suitable for a family, and whether advance booking is necessary.

I would be grateful if you could also provide details regarding local sightseeing, places of tourist interest, adventure activities, transport facilities, weather conditions during the season, and any special permits or precautions that visitors should keep in mind. Information about package tours, guides and nearby attractions would also be appreciated.

Kindly send me the relevant brochures or any other useful information at your earliest convenience so that we may plan our trip accordingly.

Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to your reply.

Yours faithfully,

Rohan Das

 

b.

24, Lake View Road
Bhubaneswar – 751001
10 July 2026

Dear Ankit,

I hope you and your family are doing well in your new city. I have been meaning to write to you for quite some time.

I recently realised that I still have the science book I had borrowed from you a few months ago. I am extremely sorry for not returning it before you moved away. It completely slipped my mind during the examinations, and by the time I remembered, you had already shifted.

Please accept my sincere apologies for my carelessness. I value both your friendship and your trust, and I feel bad about this mistake.

I have packed the book carefully and plan to send it to your new address by registered post/courier this week so that it reaches you safely. If you would prefer some other method, please let me know. I will do whatever is convenient for you.

Once again, I am really sorry for the delay. Do write back when you receive the book. I hope you are settling down well in your new school and making many new friends.

With love,

Yours lovingly,

Rohan

Q. 3 (a) Your school is preparing for the 'Eclectic Craft Exhibition'. Draft a notice for the school notice board asking the class monitors from Class V to X to submit the work received from the students of each class. [5]

 

ABC PUBLIC SCHOOL, BHUBANESWAR
NOTICE

10 July 2026

Eclectic Craft Exhibition

All the class monitors of Classes V to X are informed that they must submit the craft items collected from the students of their respective classes to the Art Room on or before 15 July 2026 between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Please ensure that every exhibit is properly labelled with the student's name, class and section. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Riya Sharma
Cultural Secretary

(b) Write an e-mail to a renowned Craft Artist requesting him/her to inaugurate the Craft Exhibition to be held in your school. [5]

Invitation to Inaugurate the Eclectic Craft Exhibition

 

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing on behalf of the students and staff of ABC Public School, Bhubaneswar. We are organising an Eclectic Craft Exhibition on 20 July 2026 to showcase the creative work of our students.

We would be honoured if you could kindly grace the occasion as the Chief Guest and inaugurate the exhibition. Your remarkable contribution to the field of craft has inspired many young artists. Your presence and words of encouragement would greatly motivate our students and make the event truly memorable.

The programme will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the school auditorium, followed by a visit to the exhibition gallery. We sincerely hope you will accept our invitation.

Kindly let us know your convenience at the earliest.

Thank you.

Yours faithfully,

Riya Sharma
Cultural Secretary
ABC Public School, Bhubaneswar

 

Q. 4

(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage): [2]

1. pittance
Ans. A very small amount of money.

2. vandalizing
Ans. Deliberately damaging or destroying property.

(ii) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word 'commercial'? [1]

Ans. not-for-profit

(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words:

(a) Why did Jenny and Brendon have a problem with their marriage? [2]
Ans. Jenny and Brendon frequently quarrelled because they were facing severe financial difficulties. They had very little money and even argued over small expenses like buying a can of beer.

(b) Why were they ecstatic? [2]
Ans. They were overjoyed because Jenny had won a lottery prize of £66,364. They believed the money would help them fulfil their dream of starting a not-for-profit educational project in The Gambia.

(c) What problems did the Gambians have? [2]
Ans. The Gambians had to fetch water from rivers and walk long distances to school. They also lacked basic facilities such as running water, electricity and proper public transport.

(d) What problems did the couple have when they started on their project? [2]
Ans. They faced a shortage of money and did not have a suitable building. Construction costs increased, they needed a vehicle for guests, and despite taking a large loan, they were still £20,000 short.

(e) How were the problems solved ultimately? [1]
Ans. The education centre became successful, and generous donations started pouring in as people appreciated their selfless work.

(iv) In not more than 50 words of your own, explain how the Ringsteds were totally selfless people who served others. [8]

Ans. Instead of spending their lottery winnings on themselves, the Ringsteds used the money to establish a not-for-profit education centre in The Gambia. They worked without seeking personal gain, encouraged voluntary service and improved the lives of local people through education and community development.

Q 5

(a) Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets. Do not copy the passage, but write in correct serial order the word or phrase appropriate to the blank space: [4]

At Hawaii, Cook and his men .........(1).......... (find) rest and fresh food after the hardships of their long and bitter voyage. The Hawaiians were very friendly and (2)........... (treat) Cook as a god, and the two ships ..(3).......... (remain) for some time, .......(4).......... (take) fresh supplies of food and water and ............(5)........... (repair) the weather-beaten ships. At last, in February 1779, they ..........(6)........... (leave); but soon after, a gale (7) (damage) the foremast of the ship and they......(8) (force) to return to Hawaii.

1.     found

2.     treated

3.     remained

4.     taking

5.     repairing

6.     left

7.     damaged

8.     were forced

(b) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words. [4]

1. The cliff hangs ………………. the sea.
Ans. over

2. The repairman climbed ………………. the ladder to reach the roof.
Ans. up

3. The boy ………………. red hair is the culprit.
Ans. with

4. Cloth is sold ………………. the yard.
Ans. by

5. You must abide ………………. the regulations of the school.
Ans. by

6. Smita was cautioned ………………. believing rumours.
Ans. against

7. I found it difficult to cope ………………. Mathematics at the advanced level.
Ans. with

8. Do not subscribe ………………. the idea that all men are born equal.
Ans. to

(c) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using 'and', 'but' or 'so'. [4]

1. He is not happy with his relatives. He is not happy with his friends.
Ans. 1: He is happy neither with his relatives nor with his friends.
Ans. 2: He is not happy either with his relatives or with his friends.

2. They were waiting for the bus. They saw two cars collide.
Ans. 1: While waiting for the bus, they saw two cars collide.
Ans. 2: As/While they were waiting for the bus, they saw two cars collide.
Ans. 3: They saw two cars collide while they were waiting for the bus.

3. I spoke to the Chief Clerk. He was a friendly, helpful man.
Ans. 1: I spoke to the Chief Clerk, who was a friendly and helpful man.

4. We were thirsty. We wanted some water to drink.
Ans. 1: As/ Since we were thirsty, we wanted some water to drink.
Ans. 2: We were thirsty, hence we wanted some water to drink.
Ans. 3: We wanted some water to drink because we were thirsty.

(d) Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions given after each sentence in brackets. Do not change the meaning of the sentences and ensure they are grammatically correct. [8]

1. The District Magistrate declared Friday as a holiday.
(End: ……...District Magistrate.)
Ans. Friday was declared a holiday by the District Magistrate.

2. He says, "God might give us strength to serve our country."
(End: ……………. country.)
Ans. He says that God might give them strength to serve their country.

3. I did not intend to offend you.
(Use: intentionally)
Ans. I did not intentionally offend you.

4. Sara is the cleverest pupil in the class.
(End: ……………. Sara)
Ans. No other pupil in the class is as clever as Sara.

5. As soon as the bell rings, the students run out of their classes.
(Begin: No ..........)
Ans. No sooner does the bell ring than the students run out of their classes.

6. If you want me to help you, you must listen to me carefully.
(Begin: Unless ...........)
Ans. Unless you listen to me carefully, I will not help you.

7. Nothing has changed in the last twenty years in this village.
(Begin: Everything..........)
Ans. Everything has remained unchanged in this village for the last twenty years.

8. Though he woke up early, he missed the train.
(Begin: Despite...........)
Ans. Despite waking up early, he missed the train.