Sir Issac Newton School

Papakovil Nagapattinam

HOLIDAY HOMEWORK
Class 12 - English Core
Time Allowed: 3 hours Maximum Marks: 94

General Instructions:

ANSWER ALL THE QUESTIONS:

READING
1. Read the passage given below: [12]
1. Ghost nets aren’t supernatural, but they are legitimately scary. A ghost net is a fishing net that’s been lost or
abandoned in the ocean. They are one particularly appalling part of the global ghost fishing problem, which
includes fishing gear abandoned in the water. Any net or line left in the ocean can pose a threat to marine
life. Just because a net is no longer used by fishers doesn’t mean it stops working. These nets continue to
trap everything in their path, presenting a major problem for the health of our oceans and marine life.
2. Ghost nets entangle sea turtles, dolphins and porpoises, birds, sharks, seals and more, apart from catching
fish. The nets keep animals from moving freely, cause injuries and keep mammals and birds from rising to
the surface for air. Since hundreds of animals can be caught in a single net, this threat is monumental. The
ghost nets harm coral reefs too—breaking corals, exposing them to disease and even blocking the reefs
from needed sunlight.
3. Ghost nets are also a major contributor to the ocean plastics crisis. Most modern nets are made of nylon or
other plastic compounds that can last for centuries. According to a 2018 study in Scientific Reports, ghost
nets make up at least 46 percent of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Those abandoned fishing lines and nets
that do break down never go away; they just become smaller pieces of plastic. Marine animals mistake this
microplastic for food and eat it, which can harm internal organs, keep them from eating and expose them to
toxic chemicals.
4. Exorcising ghost nets from our oceans will require commitment, cooperation and innovation. Many groups
are working to remove ghost nets from the sea and are collaborating with local fishers and governments
around the world to identify target areas and remove as many nets as possible. In 2015, a single World
Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF)-led mission in the Baltic Sea hauled up 268 tons of nets, ropes and other
material.
5. To stop these nets from becoming ghosts in the first place, conservation organisations advocate for fishing
gear that can be traced to its owner so anyone dumping nets can be fined and refundable deposits on nets to
encourage returning or recycling rather than littering. Tools like sonar reflectors that can make ghost nets
easier to find and working with small-scale fisheries to develop more sustainable fishing gear and practices
are other suggestions. It is only by attacking this problem from all sides, together with conservation
partners, fishers and supporters, can we banish ghost nets and protect our oceans.
(437 words)
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

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 i. Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option. (1)
Ghost nets have been named so because they ________.
A. cause much harm to marine life
B. are functional though not in use by fishers
C. are not owned by anyone
D. act as a snare for all animals in oceans
ii. Comment on the writer’s reference to the ghost nets in paragraph one, as a health problem for the oceans.
(1)
iii. List the two ways being entangled in a ghost net is likely to impact a walrus. (2)
(Clue: Think about the type of animal a walrus is)
iv. Select the option that conveys the opposite of ‘negligible’, from words used in paragraph two. (1)
A. unimpressive
B. monumental
C. exposing
D. threat
v. The writer would agree with the given statements based on paragraph three, EXCEPT: (1)
A. Most ghost nets take a few years to completely disintegrate.
B. Ghost nets contribute to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
C. Most ghost nets provide nutrition to marine animals, upon disintegration.
D. Ghost nets can curtail the freedom of marine animals.
vi. Some records share that fishing nets used to be made of common rope using natural fibres, prior to the
1960s. Based on your understanding of paragraph three, list one major advantage that these had over the
fishing nets being used in present times. (2)
vii. Why is it fair to say that commitment and innovation have to go hand-in-hand to rid the oceans of ghost
nets? (1)
viii. Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference, with respect to the following: (1)
The writer quotes the example of the WWF-led mission in the Baltic Sea (Paragraph 4), in order to........
ix. How can the solutions, suggested in paragraph five, best be described? (1)
A. practical
B. presentable
C. popular
D. prejudiced
x. What is a ghost net, and why is it harmful to marine life? (1)
2. Read the passage given below: [12]
There are two problems that cause great worry to our educationists - the problem of religious and moral
instruction in a land of many faiths and the problem arising out of a large variety of languages. Taking up the
education of children, we see that they should be trained to love one another, to be tender to the lower animals,
and to observe and think right. The task of teaching them how to read and write and to count and calculate is
important, but it should not make us lose sight of the primary aim of moulding personality in the right way.
For this, it is necessary to call into aid, culture, tradition, and religion. But in our country we have, in the same
school, to look after boys and girls born in different faiths and belonging to families that live diverse ways of

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 life and follow different forms of worship associated with different denominations of religion. It will not do to
tread the easy path of evading the difficulty by attending solely to physical culture and intellectual education.
We have to evolve a suitable technique and method for serving the spiritual needs of school children professing
different faiths. We would thereby promote an atmosphere of mutual respect, a fuller understanding, and
helpful cooperation among the different communities in our society. Again we must remain one people and
we’ve therefore to give basic training in our schools to speak and understand more languages than one and to
appreciate and respect the different religions prevailing in India. It is not right for us in India to be dissuaded
from this by considerations as to overtaking the young mind. What is necessary must be done. And it is not in
fact too great a burden.
Any attempt to do away with or steamroll the differences through governmental coercion and indirect pressure
would be as futile as it would be unwise. Any imposition of a single way of life and form of worship on all
children or neglect of a section of the pupils in this respect or barren secularization will lead to a conflict
between school and home life which is harmful. On the other hand, if we give due recognition to the different
prevailing faiths in educational institutions by organizing suitable facilities for religious teaching for boys and
girls of all communities, this may itself serve as a broadening influence of great national values.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
i. Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option. (1)
Besides teaching students how to read and write and to count and calculate, our primary aim should be of
________.
i. giving them vocational training
ii. moulding their personality in the right way
iii. providing them free meal
iv. giving extra focus on their career
ii. Comment on the problems which cause great worry to our educationists as mentioned in paragraph one. (1)
iii. List two ways in dealing with the education of children to solve the aforementioned problems. (2)
(Clue: what should be taught to them)
iv. Select the option that conveys the opposite of ‘unsympathetic’, from words used in paragraph one. (1)
i. personality
ii. instruction
iii. sight
iv. tender
v. How can a student’s personality be moulded in the right way? (1)
i. By teaching them to think and do right
ii. By teaching them about culture, tradition, and religion
iii. By teaching them to count and calculate
iv. By teaching them to read and write
vi. Based on your understanding of paragraph two, list one major problem that we face in schools today that
these had over the fishing nets being used in present times. (2)
vii. How can the spiritual needs of children be met? (1)
viii. Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference, with respect to the following: (1)
Changes that need to be brought in schools are ________.
ix. What would lead to a conflict between school and home? (1)

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 i. Government Coercion
ii. Indirect Pressure on young minds
iii. Giving a choice of a single way of life/worship
iv. Barren Secularization
x. What are the two main concerns for educationists mentioned in the text? (1)
3. Read the following passage carefully : [10]
The rapid transition to online learning, as a consequence of COVID-19, has highlighted the risks of student
disengagement, and the subsequent impact on lower student achievement across multiple courses.
1. The recent pandemic has changed how millions around the globe are educated. New solutions and
innovations in the education system are the need of the hour. Looking at the new digital split, the approach may
increase the equality gaps. More than 500 million students across the globe had to pause their on-going studies
at various levels. These changes have and will create a degree of inconvenience, but at the same time would
promote innovations and future transformations within the education system.
2. The ‘pile-on effect’ of the coronavirus is that, during the global COVID-19 pandemic, interruptions to
education can have long term implications — especially for the most vulnerable. There is a real risk of
regression for children whose basic, foundational learning (reading, math, languages, etc.) was not strong, to
begin with. And millions of children who have already been deprived of their right to education, particularly
girls, are being more exposed to health and well-being risks (both psychosocial and physical) during COVID-
19.
3. Girls: Young and adolescent girls are twice as likely to be out of school in crisis situations and face greater
barriers to education and vulnerabilities such as domestic/gender-based violence when not in school.
4. Refugees, displaced and migrant children: These populations often fall between the cracks as national
policies might not necessarily include these vulnerable groups and they must be included and catered for in any
global responses to this crisis if this has not already occurred.
5. Children and youth with disabilities: Along with other marginalized populations, including children from
minority groups, are neglected in the best of times and have lower educational outcomes than their peers.
6. Young people affected by trauma or mental health issues: Schools and learning centers are places for
communities to address health related issues, including mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS),
which the most vulnerable students rely on for their wellbeing and development in order to learn.

The graphic above, made by the consulting firm CB&A, shows how the adaption curve typically impacts in the
online learning method users:

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 Before the COVID-19, only a few educational institutions were implementing online or blended
learning methods. Little by little, more schools, universities and ministries of education started enforcing
them, but at a very slow rate. Only early adopters, the enthusiasts and visionaries, were willing to give it a
try.
When the pandemic hit, everyone had to switch from offline to online classes; in fact, according to
UNESCO, 191 countries in the world (98% of the global student population) switched to online lessons.
Some popular sites used were Google Classrooms, Zoom and Microsoft Teams. This time, even the
pragmatists and conservatives decided to switch to online learning methods, as they were unable to offer
on-site lessons.
When the pandemic vanishes, the majority of people will go back to on-site lessons, but there will still be a
percentage that will remain to assist to class from their homes. It will also be eye-opening for many people,
and even skeptics will be open to implement them in their learning.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

i. Does the following statement agree with the information given in paragraph 1? (1)
With the recent shift to online education, the world saw a decreasing trend in student accomplishments.
Select from the following:
True - if the statement agrees with the information
False - if the statement contradicts the information
Not Given - if there is no information on this
ii. Do you think the ‘Pile-on effect’ has affected the children with weak basic foundations the most? Support
your answer with reference to the text. (2)
iii. The new digital split will ________. (1)
a. Dampen spirits
b. Decrease innovations
c. Divulge inconvenience
d. Diminish equal opportunities
iv. Complete the sentence based on the following statement. (1)
A sizable portion of students around the world switched to online lessons. We can say this
because________________.
v. Which of the following is a synonym of ‘aggravation’- (para 2) (1)

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 a. Innovation
b. Achievement
c. Inconvenience
d. Pandemic
vi. When the pandemic hit, everyone had to switch from offline to online classes. Give reasons why
pragmatists and conservatives decided to switch to online learning methods. (2)
vii. Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option. (1)
Online classes were advantageous for some learners due to
i. Self-paced courses
ii. Family interactions
iii. Cost efficiency
iv. Reduced commuting
a. i, ii, iii
b. ii, iii, iv
c. i, ii, iv
d. i, iii, iv
viii. Complete the sentence appropriately with one/two words. (1)
According to the adaption curve, the people fastest to adjust were the ______________.
4. Read the following passage carefully : [10]
The Ganges is one of the largest rivers in Asia. It rises in the Himalayan Mountains and flows over 2500 km
through India and Bangladesh into the Bay of Bengal.
However, the Ganges, India’s holy river, is also one of the most polluted in the world. The Ganges River basin
has a size of over 1 million square km. It lies in one of the most populous regions on earth. About 500 million
people, half of India’s overall population, live in the Ganges river plains. There are many causes of Ganges
river pollution. About 2 million Hindus bathe in the river every day. During religious ceremonies, up to a
hundred million people clean their sins away in the Ganges River.
They believe that bathing in the river will make them pure. In addition, thousands of bodies are cremated near
the river, especially around the holy city, Varanasi. The ashes are often released into the Ganges. The Ganges
also provides water for farming land, which is increasing at a tremendous rate. Irrigation projects cause water
levels to go down along the river. More and more dams are being erected along India's holy river, mainly to
produce energy for Delhi and other large cities in the area.

Ganges River Pollution: A case Study of Causes of Ganges River Pollution. Because of India’s lax
environmental regulations, industries along the river release chemicals and other poisonous materials into the
Ganges. In some places, they are a thousand times over the allowed limit. Especially India’s traditional leather

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industry needs great amounts of water. In addition, fertilizers from the fields find their way into the ground
water, and ultimately flow into the river. Altogether, the amount of Industrial pollution has doubled in the past
20 years.
This widespread pollution of the Ganges River has also led to major health problems. Many diseases are
common, including cholera, hepatitis and diarrhoea. While India’s population keeps growing, more and more
people are leaving the countryside and moving to big cities along the Ganges. As a result, the river will not be
able to cope with even more people. Life in the river is also at risk. Recent reports have shown that there is high
a level of mercury in some fish. The construction of dams is destroying forests and vegetation, killing off many
animals and plants.
India authorities are fighting an upward battle towards cleaning up Ganges River. International organizations
have offered help. The World Bank has agreed to give India a loan of up to a million dollars to clean up the
Ganges River.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
i. Does the following statement agree with the information given in the passage? (1)
While India's population continues to grow, an increasing number of people are leaving the countryside and
relocating to major cities along the Ganges.
Select from the following:
True - if the statement agrees with the information
False - if the statement contradicts the information
Not Given - if there is no information on this
ii. Do you think that the widespread pollution of the Ganga River is a contributing factor to the high
prevalence of influenza? (2)
iii. The bar graph shows that the River Ganges has got polluted badly. The sewage treatment plants
had been established. Which of the following is true? (1)
A. The treatment capacity is equal to the sewage generation
B. The sewage generation is less than the treatment plant.
C. The sewage generation is more than the treatment capacity installed.
D. The treatment plant is sufficient.
iv. Complete the sentence based on the following statement. (1)
The Ganges River is polluted by industries along the river. This is because of _______________________.
v. Which International organisation has agreed to give India a loan of a billion dollar to clean up the Ganges
River? (1)
A. WB
B. IMF
C. ADB
D. IDA
vi. Ganges river pollution has a wide range of causes. Give reasons for the pollution in the River Ganga. (2)
vii. Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option. (1)
During religious ceremonies, up to a hundred million people wash their sins away in the Ganges River,
believing that bathing in the river will __________ them.
A. wash
B. purify

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 C. cure
D. corrupt
viii. Complete the sentence appropriately with one word. (1)
A high level of ___________ has been found in some fish, according to recent reports.
CREATIVE WRITING
5. You are Arushi/Anand, Secretary of the Fashion Design Club in your school. Create a formal letter of invitation, [5]
inviting renowned designer Piyush Bahl as chief guest to the fashion show, conceptualized and choreographed
by the students themselves. Invent necessary details.
6. Vikrant Public School, Patiala is celebrating its Annual Prize Distribution Function on 14th August. Dr. Akhil [5]

Raj, renowned author is the Chief Guest for the occasion. Draft an invitation card in not more than 50 words to
be sent to the parents and guests mentioning date, time & venue.
7. Recently you have come across an advertisement for the post of a Librarian in Lions Public School, Maya [5]
Nagar. Write a letter to the Principal of the school, along with your bio-data, expressing your interest in the
advertised post. You are Amasha/Amesh.

LIONS PUBLIC SCHOOL

MAYA NAGAR
invites applications for the post of
School Librarian

Last date of application : 31st March, 2024

Qualifications : M.A. Lib.Sc./B.A. Lib.Sc.
Experience : Minimum 5 years in a reputed school
Job Profile :
Managing digital database for cataloging
Awareness of latest books
Documentation
Skills :
Research skills
Communication skills
Basic computer and digital skills

8. You are Chetan Sharma, a commerce graduate from Delhi University. You are seeking for a suitable job. You [5]
came across an advertisement in 'The Times of India', inviting young and dynamic fresh graduates as sales
assistants in a reputed company. Apply for the said job to Box No. 8365, C/o The Times of India, New Delhi.
9. Friendship and happiness are closely connected. We all need friends to share our joys and sorrows. A true friend [5]
stands by us in difficult times. He inspires and motivates us and loves us selflessly. Write an article in 125-150
words on ‘The value of friends’. You are Prityush/ Prityusha.
10. You have been reading in the newspaper about the senior citizen care homes that are mushrooming in the city. [5]
The elderly not only face a security threat but are also victims of depression and loneliness. Write an article in
120-150 words highlighting the need to volunteer and extend warmth and compassion to our elderly. You are
Raghav/Ragini. You may use the cues given below.

ADOPT A SENIOR
MAKE THEM A PART OF YOUR FAMILY

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 - LONELINESS
- COMPANIONSHIP
- HELP THEM STAY HEALTHY AND ACTIVE
- HAVE A MEAL TOGETHER
- TAKE THEM FOR AN OUTING
- BUY THEM A GIFT

11. History Society of Kendriya Vidyalaya, Krishna Nagar sent a group of students to visit a place of historical [5]
interest. You, Anant / Anita, were its leader. Write a report in 150-200 words for the school newsletter on the
tour, describing the place, its history, how you reached there and all that you have learnt.
12. The student counselling department in your school put up the following poster regarding an event in the [5]
community centre.

Be - Do - Live
WELL.
6th, 7th, 8th February
10 am 6:30 pm
A Wellness Workshop
- sharing common concerns
- reducing stress
- motivation strategies
- joy of living
Theatre in Action

As Rita/Rahul, student editor, write a report on the above workshop for the school magazine.
13. Draft a notice in about 50 words, urging students of classes IX and XI to be volunteer teachers for a three-week [5]

literacy camp to be held in your school from Monday 15th May to Friday 2nd June as part of the community
service internship. Children from the neighbourhood slums would be taught basic reading, writing, listening,
speaking, and numerical skills. Mention the timings and the venue of the camp. You are Rita/Kailash Teacher-in-
Charge of community service.
14. Many residents of Ajay Complex, Bhopal have undertaken the responsibility of feeding the street dogs in the [5]
Complex. As Raina/Rahul, President of R.W.A., draft a notice in 50 words to fix feeding spots and timings to
avoid inconvenience to other residents.

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