FY 3001 – English Answer Key
Exam: First Year Higher Secondary Second Terminal Examination, December 2025
Maximum Scores: 80 | Time: 2½ Hours
Questions 1–4: Read the passage and answer.
1. Who is the “I” referred to in this context? (1)
A young student (likely from the chapter “The Questioner”).
2. From which chapter is the excerpt taken? (1)
“The Questioner” (from the lesson based on APJ Abdul Kalam).
3. What was the speaker’s ambition? (1)
To become a marine engineer, travel in a ship, be a captain, and build ship engines.
4. Which word in the passage is synonymous with “stylish”? (1)
Elegant.
Questions 5–8: Read the lines and answer.
5. Identify the poet. (1)
Benjamin Franklin King (or the poet of “The Wreck of the Titanic”).
6. What is the pattern of the rhyme scheme in these lines? (1)
AABB.
7. Why did the passengers feel secure? (1)
Because no one saw death at the wheel; they believed the ship was unsinkable.
8. Who is the “she” referred to in this context? (1)
The Titanic.
Questions 9–12: Answer any three. Each carries 2 scores.
9. Fill in the blanks with suitable words from the brackets: (2)
a) is
b) attends
10. Report the conversation into reported speech: (2)
Maggie asked Gupta if he could bring himself to tell Mother once, after looking into the crystal, that Frank was all right and alive, and wondered if it would be too much of a lie or very wrong. Gupta asked where the ring was and said he would take a good look at it this time. He added that if he did not see anything, he would do as she suggested, and believed God would forgive him if it was wrong.
11. Complete the sentences suitably: (2)
a) If I had more time, I would travel more.
b) If you heat ice, it melts.
12. What disease did Stephen Hawking have, and how did he overcome its challenges? (2)
Stephen Hawking had Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He overcame its challenges through his strong will, use of assistive technology for communication, and continuing his scientific work with the help of caregivers and technology.
Questions 13–19: Answer any five. Each carries 4 scores.
13. Write four arguments in favour of “bravery is essential in life”. (4)
1. Bravery helps face fears and take risks.
2. It builds self-confidence and resilience.
3. It enables one to stand up for what is right.
4. It is necessary for achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.
14. Write an Email to Maggie offering her a manager post. (4)
[Sample Email]
Subject: Job Offer – Manager Position
Dear Maggie,
After learning about your dedication and strength in “The Price of Flowers,” we are pleased to offer you the position of Manager at our company. Your resilience and integrity align with our values. Please let us know your availability for an interview.
Regards,
[Chairman’s Name]
15. Prepare a profile of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. (4)
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, originally named Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin, was born on 11 November 1888 in Mecca. He studied at Al-Azhar University and was a scholar and political activist. He founded Jamia Millia Islamia and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. A member of the Indian National Congress, he served as India’s first Education Minister. He authored “India Wins Freedom” and “Ghubar-e-Khatir.” He passed away on 22 February 1958 in Delhi and was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1992.
16. Draft a live TV report of Le Horla’s take off. (4)
[Sample Report]
“Good evening, viewers! This is [Reporter Name] reporting live from the launch site. The magnificent airship Le Horla is about to take off into the skies. The crowd is cheering as it slowly ascends, a symbol of human innovation and adventure. A historic moment in aviation!”
17. Edit the passage. (4)
They became so engrossed in their fishing that they did not notice the stealthy approach of a great war canoe, filled with fishermen, from the nearby village of Nabukelevu. This village is situated in the shadow of Mount Washington, the highest mountain on Kadavu Island. Today, Mount Washington is well known to mariners because there is a splendid lighthouse there, warning them of the dangers of the rocky coastline.
18. Write a paragraph about a legend from your village. (4)
[Sample Answer]
In my village, there is a legend about the “Temple Bell of Mercy.” It is said that centuries ago, during a great famine, a bell rang by itself every night, leading villagers to hidden stores of grain. The bell is believed to be blessed by a saint, and even today, people tie threads around it for wishes.
19. Prepare a review of the poem “Sunrise on the Hills.” (4)
“Sunrise on the Hills” by H.W. Longfellow is a vivid depiction of nature’s beauty at dawn. The poet uses rich imagery to describe the sun rising over hills, forests, and streams. The poem celebrates renewal, hope, and the peace that nature brings. Its rhythmic flow and descriptive language make it a memorable ode to morning’s serenity.
Questions 20–25: Answer any five. Each carries 6 scores.
20. Prepare six interview questions for the marine engineer. (6)
1. What inspired you to become a marine engineer?
2. How did Dr. Kalam’s guidance influence your career?
3. What are the biggest challenges in ship engineering?
4. How can students prepare for a career in marine engineering?
5. What is your message to young dreamers?
6. How do you see the future of marine technology?
21. Draft a letter to the District Collector about drug abuse. (6)
[Formal Letter]
To,
The District Collector,
[District Name].
Subject: Complaint regarding drug sales in our village.
Respected Sir/Madam,
I wish to bring to your notice the alarming availability of drugs in our village. This is harming youth and families. I request immediate action and stricter surveillance to curb this menace.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
22. Compare Captain Smith and Captain Hamble. (6)
Captain Smith (Titanic) is portrayed as experienced but overconfident, trusting technology over caution. Captain Hamble (Serang of Ranaganji) is disciplined, compassionate, and leads with empathy. Smith represents tragic hubris; Hamble represents humane leadership.
23. Prepare an imaginary conversation with Hasan. (6)
[Sample Dialogue]
You: Hasan, how did you maintain hope during tough times?
Hasan: Faith in humanity and small acts of kindness kept me going.
You: What advice would you give to the youth?
Hasan: Be resilient and help others selflessly.
24. Prepare a detailed programme report. (6)
The inter-school seminar on “Disasters and Disaster Management in India” was held on 23rd December 2025 at YKR School, Ernakulam. It began with a prayer by the school choir, followed by a welcome speech by Principal Rajeev Kumar. Dr. Lal Krishna inaugurated the event. Paper presentations covered climate change, student role in disaster management, and global warming. The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks and the national anthem.
25. Write a précis of the given paragraph. (6)
Social media connects people globally and helps businesses, but overuse can harm mental health and spread misinformation. Despite risks, it is a powerful tool for social activism and positive change. Responsible use is essential to maximize its benefits.
Questions 26–28: Answer any two. Each carries 8 scores.
26. Write a travel essay. (8)
[Sample Outline]
Recently, I visited Munnar, a hill station in Kerala. Located in the Western Ghats, it is accessible by road. Historically a British summer resort, it is known for tea plantations. The people are warm, and the culture blends Tamil and Malayali traditions. Local food includes appam and stew. Legends of mountain spirits are popular. Village life is simple, and markets sell spices and handmade crafts.
27. Draft a speech on “Ahimsa.” (8)
[Speech Opening]
“Respected teachers and friends, Ahimsa, or non-violence, is not just absence of violence but a positive force for peace. Gandhi showed it can transform societies. Inner peace starts with self-control and compassion. Let us embrace Ahimsa to create a just, harmonious world.”
28. Write a critical appreciation of the poem “When death comes.” (8)
Mary Oliver’s “When death comes” is a reflective meditation on mortality. The poet uses vivid metaphors (hungry bear, iceberg) to depict death’s inevitability. She expresses a desire to meet death with curiosity, not fear. The poem celebrates life’s beauty, individuality, and interconnectedness. Its free verse and imagery inspire readers to live fully and meaningfully.
Note: Answers are indicative. Students may express ideas in their own words while retaining key points.