English Core Board Sample Paper 2025-2026 Commerce (English Medium) Class 12 Question Paper Solution

Read the following passage.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

I. Which textual evidence tells us that Pip was trembling?     (1)

II. Complete the following with a suitable reason.     (1)

The writer refers to the sea as a ‘savage lair’ in order to tell the reader that ______

III. The writer emphasises Pip’s vulnerability in all of the following ways EXCEPT -     (1)

1. through the description of the harsh landscape
2. via the behaviour of the frightening man
3. through Pip’s helplessness and fear
4. via Pip’s knowledge of the surrounding area

IV. What type of statement is made in the phrase “Keep still, or I’ll make you pay!”?     (1)

1. caution
2. threat
3. prediction
4. announcement

V. Based on his initial appearance, how can we say that the ‘fearful man’ was in a state of discomfort?     (1)

VI. Which one of the following statements best explains the phrase “Give it mouth!”?     (1)

1. Speak loudly
2. Open your mouth wide
3. Answer the question

VII. The man ate the bread ‘ravenously’. What does this suggest about his condition?     (1)

VIII. What does the man’s question, “Where’s your mother?” and his reaction when Pip points to her suggest about his intentions? (Answer in about 40 words)     (2)

IX. How does the man’s action of forcing Pip to look up at him contribute to the tension in the scene? (Answer in about 40 words)     (2)

X. Complete the following with the most suitable option.     (1)
The main idea of the text is ______.

1. 1. Pip’s encounter with a frightening man who demands information
   2. the harshness of Pip’s environment and the fear it creates
   3. Pip’s struggle to understand the man’s intentions and stay calm
   4. the importance of family relationships in Pip’s life

Read the following carefully.

1.	A recent survey was conducted among 2,000 college students and young professionals to analyse preferences for different types of jobs, including corporate roles, personal start-ups or family businesses, and service professions (example - defense, nursing, police). The study aimed to identify trends in career aspirations, the factors influencing these preferences, and their implications for workforce planning and education systems. Participants were asked to rank their preferences on a five-point scale.
2.	The study covered respondents across urban and semi-urban areas, representing diverse educational, economic, and cultural backgrounds. Researchers ensured diversity in gender, socioeconomic status, and career stages to make the findings representative of a broad spectrum of opinions. Data collection involved online questionnaires and in-person interviews, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of job preferences. The data was displayed as a bar graph given below.
3.	Corporate jobs were commonly associated with financial stability, growth opportunities, and access to structured career paths. Start-ups and family businesses, on the other hand, appealed to those valuing autonomy, creativity, and the chance to work in more flexible environments. Service professions were perceived as fulfilling and prestigious, especially among individuals motivated by a sense of duty.
4.	The survey also highlighted several challenges. Geographic variations were significant, with urban respondents gravitating more toward corporate roles, while semi-urban participants showed a stronger inclination for service professions and family businesses. Respondents indicated limited mentorship opportunities and a lack of clarity about the long-term prospects of non-corporate careers as barriers influencing their decisions.
5.	The findings provide a foundation for further research into how cultural, regional, and generational influences shape career choices. Future studies could explore factors such as gender-based preferences, emerging industries, mentorship availability, and the role of technological advancements in shaping job markets. Additionally, longitudinal research could track how these preferences evolve as respondents advance in their careers. This could help educational institutions and employers develop tailored strategies to better align with the aspirations and values of young job seekers. Moreover, policies encouraging skill development and mentorship programmes may bridge the gaps identified in this survey, ensuring more informed career decisions among youth.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

I. What was the main purpose of the survey conducted among 2,000 college students and young professionals?     (1)

1. To determine the popularity of specific jobs in rural areas versus urban areas.
2. To explore patterns in career aspirations and the factors influencing them.
3. To analyse the success rate of startups and family businesses.
4. To assess the salary expectations of young professionals opting for jobs.

II. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in brackets.     (1)
The study ensured diversity in gender, socioeconomic status, and career stages to make the findings ______ (accurate/representative/specific).

III. Fill in the blank with reference to the given bar graph chart.     (1)
The profession preference for which policymakers primarily need to provide encouraging incentives is ______.

Attempt the following in about 50 words.

You are Daljeet Kaur, a member of the Teen Well-Being Association, Chandigarh. The Association is planning to organise free pottery classes every Sunday morning at the community hall to encourage creativity among young residents. Write a notice in about 50 words, informing the residents of the event and inviting registrations. Include all the necessary details. Put your notice in a box.

Attempt the following in about 50 words.

You are Keerthi, the Secretary of the Environmental Club of ABC School, Madurai. Your school is organising an ‘Eco-Fiesta’ to raise awareness about environmental issues. Draft a notice in about 50 words, inviting students to participate in various activities and setting up of food stalls. Include all the necessary details. Put your notice in a box.

Attempt the following in about 50 words.

As the Cultural Secretary, Vignesh Kumar, of JKL School, Jamshedpur, draft an invitation for the Annual Music Festival, inviting Gajendra Hansda, an acclaimed local musician, to perform and judge the event. Provide the essential details in about 50 words.

Attempt the following in about 50 words.

You are Bina Bedekar, currently residing at 45, Ashok Vihar, Nagpur. You have been invited to inaugurate a science exhibition at your alma mater, National Public School, Mumbai. Write a formal reply in about 50 words, accepting the invitation and expressing your gratitude.

Attempt the following in 120-150 words.

You are Pranab Chauhan, residing at 13-A, Gol Bazaar, Jaisalmer. Write a letter to the editor of The Nation Today, highlighting the need to assess sports talent at a young age by sports teachers and coaches to ensure that talent does not go unrecognised. Emphasise the importance of grooming young sportspersons to create a larger pool of talented athletes for the future. Draft the letter using your own ideas as well as the cues given.

• Spotting natural abilities during formative years.
• Building foundational skills early for long-term success.
• Instilling discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship from a young age.
• Creating a larger pool of skilled athletes for the future.
• Building a strong sports culture and national pride.

Attempt the following in 120-150 words.

You are Lakshmi Kapur from 51/A, second floor, Shalimar Vihar, Delhi. You have come across the following advertisement in The Urban Echo for the post of a Junior Marketing Executive at a leading marketing firm. Write a letter expressing your interest in the position. Include your bio-data along with the application.

Attempt the following in 120-150 words.

Digital communication tools have revolutionised the educational landscape. The introduction of online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and interactive tools has made education more accessible and engaging. You are Nooran Sheikh. Write an article for the monthly magazine edition of The Progressive Educator and discuss the role of digital communication in education. Write the article using your own ideas as well as the cues given.

• Student engagement
• Accessibility of education
• Teachers and students’ roles
• Learning outcomes

Attempt the following in 120-150 words.

The cultural festival in LMN School, Kochi, was held recently to celebrate the school’s achievements. As the senior editorial board member, Devaki Fernandes, write this report for the school magazine detailing various aspects of the festival. Write the report using your own ideas as well as the cues given.

• Organisation and significance
• Performances and exhibition
• Participant engagement
• Overall success

Read the following extracts and solve the following.

I. What does the imagery of the ‘ashen face’ of the mother suggest about her physical condition?     (1)

II. Complete the following with the correct option.     (1)

The speaker’s use of the word ‘realised’ suggests that her awareness was ______ (delayed/expected/sudden).     

III. How does the phrase ‘merry children spilling out of their homes’ contribute to the tone of the passage?     (1)

IV. Complete the sentence by filling in the blank with a suitable phrase.     (1)

The primary theme highlighted in the extract is the ______, as the narrator reflects on her mother’s frailty and aging.

V. What can be inferred about the emotional state of the speaker in the extract?     (1)

1. Distracted by the liveliness of the surroundings
2. Concerned about her mother’s discomfort
3. Overwhelmed by a sense of anguish
4. Preoccupied with thoughts about life experiences

VI. All of the following are true for the extract EXCEPT -     (1)

1. The comparison to a ‘corpse’ highlights the speaker’s fear of losing her mother.
2. The poet makes exclusive use of melancholic imagery in the given lines.
3. The speaker’s internal conflict creates a relatable portrayal of human relationships.
4. The universality of themes makes the lines relevant to the readers.

Read the following extracts and solve the following.

I. What does the phrase ‘terrified hands’ suggest about Aunt’s life?     (1)

II. Complete the following suitably.     (1)

The tigers’ proud and playful movements reflect ______.

III. Examine briefly how the tigers in the panel contrast with Aunt’s life experiences.     (1)

IV. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in the brackets.     (1)
The phrase ‘still ringed’ refers to both the literal ______ (shape of the embroidery panel/wedding band on her finger) and the figurative ‘ring’ of constraints and ordeals imposed by her marriage.

V. If a student were to interpret the word ‘prancing’ in a real-world context, which of the following would it best represent?     (1)

1. An employee working under the pressure of deadlines.
2. A soldier standing firm and ready for battle at the frontier.
3. A child playing freely in a park, unburdened by responsibilities.
4. A bird trapped in a cage, longing to be free and fly high.

VI. What does the poet imply about the art in the line ‘The tigers in the panel that she made will go on prancing’?     (1)

1. Art is a timeless expression that outlives its creator, continuing to embody their spirit and desires.
2. The tigers symbolise Aunt Jennifer’s fleeting empowerment, which will fade over time.
3. The panel is a temporary escape for Aunt Jennifer, offering solace only during her lifetime.
4. The permanence of the tigers in the panel contrasts with the transient nature of Aunt Jennifer’s struggles.

Read the following extract and solve the following.

I. What does Charley’s indifference to the cost of old-style bills and his focus on the price of eggs in 1894 suggest about his view of the past?     (1)

II. Complete the sentence suitably.     (1)

Charley has been unsuccessful in finding the corridor to the third level despite ______.

III. Where is the irony in Louisa’s reaction to Charley’s search for the third level in this extract?     (1)

IV. Complete the following with a correct option based on the context in the extract.     (1)

The phrase ‘I went back to my stamps’ suggests ______.

1. finding comfort in a hobby that is familiar
2. choosing a new hobby to forget earlier pursuits
3. attempting to engage together in a new hobby
4. approaching a familiar hobby with enthusiasm

Read the following extract and solve the following.

I. What does Mr. Lamb mean when he says, “No. Not the whole of you. Not of you”?     (1)

II. What might Derry be thinking during the pause after he insists, “Yes!”?     (1)
Choose the most appropriate option:

1. “Why doesn’t he understand me?”
2. “He’s pretending to care like everyone else.”
3. “Maybe he really sees more than just my face.”
4. “I should leave. He doesn’t get it.”

III. Fill in the blank with a suitable word:     (1)

Mr. Lamb’s response suggests that he sees Derry’s face as only one ______ of who he is.

IV. What does this exchange reveal about the emotional distance Derry feels and Mr. Lamb’s attempt to bridge it?     (1)

Read the following extract and solve the given below.

I. Which of the following best reflect the ‘friendly manner’ Edla exhibits toward the rattrap peddler as referred to in the extract?     (1)

1. Pay a compliment
2. Show kindness
3. Provide financial support
4. Be respectful
5. Speak in an excited tone
Select the most suitable option.

1. 1 and 5
2. 2 and 4
3. 1, 2 and 3
4. 3, 4 and 5

II. Fill in the blank with a correct option from those given in the brackets, based on the information in the extract.     (1)

The peddler threw the fur coat over his rags and followed Edla out to the carriage, ______ (enthusiastically/silently/reluctantly).

III. How did the peddler feel toward Edla after accepting the fur coat and making his statement?     (1)

1. He decided to humour her gesture.
2. He felt obligated to trust her kindness.
3. He remained unsure about her true intentions.
4. He recognised and appreciated her compassion.

IV. What might have been the most likely reason the blacksmiths were astonished when the peddler accepted the coat and left with Edla?     (1)

V. Justify that guilt was the primary cause of the peddler’s sense of evil foreboding, based on the information in the extract?     (1)

VI. Complete the following suitably.     (1)

When the peddler says, “... I will never get out,” his statement stems from his guilt over stealing ‘that fellow’s’ money and his fear that ______.

Read the following extract and solve the given below.

I. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option from those given in the brackets.     (1)

The literal meaning conveyed via the phrase ‘the evening had already blacked in the windows’ is the ______ (arrival of night / shadow over ambitions).

II. What was mother most likely thinking when she sighed?     (1)

1. “Life would have been different if money did grow on trees!”
2. “I wish he would stop troubling my dear Sophie.”
3. “We can only wish; we’ve never had enough anyway.”
4. “I’m too tired to respond to such comments anymore.”
5. “Our struggles will never end; no matter what Sophie dreams of.”
Select the most suitable option.

1. 1, 3 and 5
2. 2, 4 and 5
3. 1 and 4
4. 2 and 3

III. The delicate bow on Sophie’s mother’s apron and her crooked back highlights the theme of ______.     (1)

1. appearance vs. reality
2. resilience through hardship
3. the fragility of youth
4. the complexity of familial love

IV. The line from the extract that correctly captures Sophie’s emotional response to the contrast between her dreams and the limitations of her current circumstances is ‘______.’     (1)

V. What does the writer emphasise by associating the term ‘cluttered’ with ‘heavy breathing’?     (1)

VI. How does the setting of the room contribute to the mood of the extract?     (1)

Answer the following question in 40-50 words:

What role does the French language played in ‘The Last Lesson’, in the context of the narrator’s feelings towards it?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words:

What lesson can individuals learn from Douglas’s experience in overcoming his fear of water?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words:

Based on what Keats’ suggests in ‘A Thing of Beauty,’ how can recognising the lasting value of beauty help someone in the real world cope with challenges or difficulties?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words:

What does the reference to fishermen not harming whales and the man gathering salt looking at his hurt hands signify in the poem?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words:

How does Rudyard Kipling’s refusal to be interviewed point towards the intrusive and unwelcome nature of interviews?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words:

What is the significance of a narrator in ‘Lost Spring’ as opposed to a plain narrative?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words.

How can participating in educational programmes like ‘Students on Ice’, which take students to places like Antarctica, help raise awareness about the impact of geological changes and environmental issues?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words.

What does Zitkala-Sa’s description of being ‘tossed about in the air like a wooden puppet’ reveal about her feelings of powerlessness and cultural displacement?

Answer the following question in 40-50 words.

What does Derry’s remark, “Think, you might have been blinded, or born deaf, or have to live in a wheelchair...,” reveal about his perspective on how people console others?

Answer the following question in about 120-150 words.

How do ‘Indigo’ by Louis Fischer and ‘The Roadside Stand’ by Robert Frost, highlight the theme of exploitation, and what similarities do they reveal about the plight of marginalised communities?

Answer the following question in about 120-150 words.

How can the character of the office boy in ‘Poets and Pancakes,’ who harbours dreams, be compared to Sophie from ‘Going Places,’ who is quite aspirational? Consider their ambitions and the obstacles they face in their respective environments.

Answer the following question in about 120-150 words.

Justify how Sadao's character arc is more central to the moral dilemma in the ‘The Enemy’ as opposed to Hana’s.

Answer the following question in about 120-150 words.

Analyse how the narrative technique used in ‘The Tiger King’, enhances the impact of the story on the reader.