CBSE(NCERT) GRADE 12 ENGLISH 2026 SET4

Looking at his pile of unpaid bills always makes Ramesh feel uneasy. More often than not, Ramesh leaves his paperwork undone and sweeps the floor or watches TV instead, waiting until the last moment to write the monthly cheques. Sometimes he incurs late fees because of his habit of putting things off, but in many ways the emotional toll is worse. ‘‘The longer the bills go unpaid,’’ says Ramesh, 58, ‘‘the more my anxiety soars.’’ Everyone procrastinates. ‘‘It’s part of the human condition,’’ says Suresh Kumar, a psychology professor at Universal University. ‘‘One of the ways we cope is avoidance, and that’s what procrastination comes down to. We want to feel good at that moment. The way to do that is avoid the task.’’ You can procrastinate on nearly anything, even enjoyable tasks such as planning a vacation. ‘‘Some people procrastinate cleaning. Some people procrastinate by cleaning,’’ says Dr. B.V. Rao, a management professor. Research has shown that the top tasks people delay are cleaning, advancing their careers, taking care of their health, and planning their finances. One big factor for them is fear of failure, of not living up to expectations. Arti Singh, a 57-year-old functional health coach, procrastinated about looking for a new job for years. That inability to take action only confirmed her belief that she would never do any better. Some people embrace procrastination, believing that they thrive under pressure. But researchers have debunked that notion. ‘‘I did an experiment several years ago, putting procrastinators under restriction of time,’’ says John Brown, a psychology professor. ‘‘They did worse than non-procrastinators, but they thought they did better. They made more errors. They took longer.’’ ‘‘Procrastinators experience higher levels of stress, both from leaving things to the last minute and from their own negative and self-critical feelings about their procrastination,’’ says Farah Ahmed, a psychology lecturer. ‘‘Some of the research has shown that this stress increases their vulnerability for catching colds and experiencing digestion issues, insomnia, migraines, and muscle tension.’’ Bedtime procrastination can lead to sleep deprivation, which in turn can bring about obesity, heart disease and many other health issues. There’s one bit of good news: People tend to procrastinate less as they age. For those of us in need of motivation, the best advice might be to think small. Next, try sending yourself signals to prompt action. For instance, you might put your lights on a timed dimmer switch to encourage a consistent bedtime. Finally, reward yourself for each step you take towards your goal. After you’ve gone to the gym, take a relaxing bath. After you’ve paid the bills, watch your favourite TV show.

(1) Introduction : Biodiversity refers to the wide variety of living organisms — plants, animals, and microorganisms — that exist on Earth. India is one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world, with ecosystems ranging from the Himalayas to the coastal regions. Biodiversity ensures food, medicine, oxygen, soil fertility, and balance in the environment. However, it is under serious threat due to deforestation, overpopulation, industrial pollution, and climate change. (2) Methodology : This case study is based on data collected from government reports, field surveys, and interviews with farmers, students, and forest workers. Researchers focused on biodiversity in forests, rivers, and agricultural land to understand its importance and the challenges of conservation. (3) Survey Examination : A survey was carried out in three states — Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam. Local people were asked how biodiversity affected their lives. Farmers reported that many crops were failing due to climate change. Students recognized that forests are essential for clean air and water. Forest workers shared that several species like elephants and tigers are decreasing in number. The survey revealed both awareness and concern among people about the urgent need for conservation. (4) Results : The findings showed that : • forest cover has declined in several regions. • endangered species are at risk of extinction. • communities are directly affected by reduced rainfall, poor soil quality, and crop loss. • people believe that conservation programmes and stricter laws are urgently required. (5) Implications for Interventions : To protect biodiversity, the government should increase afforestation programmes and create strict rules against illegal hunting and logging. Schools should promote biodiversity education to raise awareness among children. Farmers should be encouraged to use organic farming, water conservation, and mixed cropping. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local communities must work together to restore forests, rivers, and wetlands. (6) Conclusion : Biodiversity is the foundation of human survival. It gives us food, medicine, water, and clean air. If biodiversity is destroyed, humans will also suffer. This case study highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in India. Only by working together — governments, communities, and individuals — can we pr

med, a psychology lecturer. ‘‘Some of the research has shown that this stress increases their vulnerability for catching colds and experiencing digestion issues, insomnia, migraines, and muscle tension.’’ (6) Bedtime procrastination can lead to sleep deprivation, which in turn can bring about obesity, heart disease and many other health issues. There’s one bit of good news: People tend to procrastinate less as they age. (7) For those of us in need of motivation, the best advice might be to think small. Next, try sending yourself signals to prompt action. For instance, you might put your lights on a timed dimmer switch to encourage a consistent bedtime. Finally, reward yourself for each step you take towards your goal. After you’ve gone to the gym, take a relaxing bath. After you’ve paid the bills, watch your favourite TV show.

ncern among people about the urgent need for conservation. (4) Results : The findings showed that : • forest cover has declined in several regions. • endangered species are at risk of extinction. • communities are directly affected by reduced rainfall, poor soil quality, and crop loss. • people believe that conservation programmes and stricter laws are urgently required. (5) Implications for Interventions : To protect biodiversity, the government should increase afforestation programmes and create strict rules against illegal hunting and logging. Schools should promote biodiversity education to raise awareness among children. Farmers should be encouraged to use organic farming, water conservation, and mixed cropping. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local communities must work together to restore forests, rivers, and wetlands. (6) Conclusion : Biodiversity is the foundation of human survival. It gives us food, medicine, water, and clean air. If biodiversity is destroyed, humans will also suffer. This case study highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in India. Only by working together — governments, communities, and individuals — can we protect biodiversity and ensure a healthy future for generations to come. 666 1/4/1* 7 * P a g e P.T.O. Answer the following questions, based on the given passage. (i) Complete the following suitably : India is one of the _________ countries in the world. (Paragraph 1) 1 (ii) Which would the following be classified as ? Researchers focused on biodiversity in forests, rivers, and agricultural land to understand its importance and the challenges of conservation. 1 (A) Primary purpose (B) Secondary objective (C) Method of analysis (D) Research outcome (Paragraph 2) (iii) Give two points to support how biodiversity affects forest workers and farmers. (Paragraph 3) 2 (iv) Based on the case study, analyse areas that have revealed urgent need for awareness and conservation. (Paragraph 3) 1 (v) Paragraph 5 uses words like ‘afforestation’ and ‘awareness’. Classify the following sentences as ‘afforestation’ and ‘awareness’. 1 Statement 1 : Local communities must work together to restore forests, rivers, and wetlands. Statement 2 : Schools must promote biodiversity education. (vi) Identify the stakeholders who should come together to create a healthy future for generations to come. (Paragraph 6) 1 (vii) In what way is biodiversity the foundation of human survival ? 1 (Paragraph 6) (viii) Mention two eco-friendly farming methods in India from the passage. 2 666 1/4/1* 8 * P a g e SECTION B Creative Writing Skills (18 marks) 3. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 14=4 (a) You are Sheela/Sushil, Secretary, Music Club of Rainbow Public School, Hawapur. The Music Club is planning to organise a workshop on ‘Healing Powers of Music’ for students of Classes IX – XII. As Secretary of the club, draft a notice informing students about the workshop. Include all necessary details. Put your notice in a box. OR (b) You are Deepika/Deepak Sharma. You are the President of Resident Welfare Association of Ganga Residential Society, Vayushahr. You are planning to felicitate the senior residents of the colony by recognizing their contribution in community engagement. Draft a notice informing residents about the event and inviting them to attend it. Include necessary details. Put your notice in a box. 4. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 14=4 (a) You are Sonam/Sushil of 26, R.J. Nagar, Laketown. You have got a job as a software engineer in a company in London. Before leaving for London, you would like to throw a party for your friends. Write an informal invitation, inviting your friends to the party. OR (b) You are Abhilash/Abhishek Tiwari, Education Officer, Directorate of Education, Hyderabad. You have been invited by the Principal, PSB Public School, Meenpur to inaugurate their new laboratory wing. Write a formal letter of reply accepting the invitation. 666 1/4/1* 9 * P a g e P.T.O. 5. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in 120 – 150 words. 15=5 (a) You are Kavita/Karan Tripathi, an educationist, residing at 46, Rajnandi Lane, Panipur. You strongly feel that students of today should be made aware of media literacy and it should be imparted through the school curriculum. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily, stressing on the significance of introducing media literacy in schools and its benefits. You may use the following cues along with your own ideas to draft the letter. OR (b) You are Rupali/Rupinder of 51, J.M. Avenue, Prithvinagar. You have recently come across the following advertisement and wish to apply for the post. Write a job application along with your bio-data. • What is media literacy ? • What are the ways that it can be integrated in the school curriculum ? • benefits of media literacy • helps build

ncern among people about the urgent need for conservation. (4) Results : The findings showed that : • forest cover has declined in several regions. • endangered species are at risk of extinction. • communities are directly affected by reduced rainfall, poor soil quality, and crop loss. • people believe that conservation programmes and stricter laws are urgently required. (5) Implications for Interventions : To protect biodiversity, the government should increase afforestation programmes and create strict rules against illegal hunting and logging. Schools should promote biodiversity education to raise awareness among children. Farmers should be encouraged to use organic farming, water conservation, and mixed cropping. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local communities must work together to restore forests, rivers, and wetlands. (6) Conclusion : Biodiversity is the foundation of human survival. It gives us food, medicine, water, and clean air. If biodiversity is destroyed, humans will also suffer. This case study highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in India. Only by working together — governments, communities, and individuals — can we protect biodiversity and ensure a healthy future for generations to come. 666 1/4/1* 7 * P a g e P.T.O. Answer the following questions, based on the given passage. (i) Complete the following suitably : India is one of the _________ countries in the world. (Paragraph 1) 1 (ii) Which would the following be classified as ? Researchers focused on biodiversity in forests, rivers, and agricultural land to understand its importance and the challenges of conservation. 1 (A) Primary purpose (B) Secondary objective (C) Method of analysis (D) Research outcome (Paragraph 2) (iii) Give two points to support how biodiversity affects forest workers and farmers. (Paragraph 3) 2 (iv) Based on the case study, analyse areas that have revealed urgent need for awareness and conservation. (Paragraph 3) 1 (v) Paragraph 5 uses words like ‘afforestation’ and ‘awareness’. Classify the following sentences as ‘afforestation’ and ‘awareness’. 1 Statement 1 : Local communities must work together to restore forests, rivers, and wetlands. Statement 2 : Schools must promote biodiversity education. (vi) Identify the stakeholders who should come together to create a healthy future for generations to come. (Paragraph 6) 1 (vii) In what way is biodiversity the foundation of human survival ? 1 (Paragraph 6) (viii) Mention two eco-friendly farming methods in India from the passage. 2 666 1/4/1* 8 * P a g e SECTION B Creative Writing Skills (18 marks) 3. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 14=4 (a) You are Sheela/Sushil, Secretary, Music Club of Rainbow Public School, Hawapur. The Music Club is planning to organise a workshop on ‘Healing Powers of Music’ for students of Classes IX – XII. As Secretary of the club, draft a notice informing students about the workshop. Include all necessary details. Put your notice in a box. OR (b) You are Deepika/Deepak Sharma. You are the President of Resident Welfare Association of Ganga Residential Society, Vayushahr. You are planning to felicitate the senior residents of the colony by recognizing their contribution in community engagement. Draft a notice informing residents about the event and inviting them to attend it. Include necessary details. Put your notice in a box. 4. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 14=4 (a) You are Sonam/Sushil of 26, R.J. Nagar, Laketown. You have got a job as a software engineer in a company in London. Before leaving for London, you would like to throw a party for your friends. Write an informal invitation, inviting your friends to the party. OR (b) You are Abhilash/Abhishek Tiwari, Education Officer, Directorate of Education, Hyderabad. You have been invited by the Principal, PSB Public School, Meenpur to inaugurate their new laboratory wing. Write a formal letter of reply accepting the invitation. 666 1/4/1* 9 * P a g e P.T.O. 5. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in 120 – 150 words. 15=5 (a) You are Kavita/Karan Tripathi, an educationist, residing at 46, Rajnandi Lane, Panipur. You strongly feel that students of today should be made aware of media literacy and it should be imparted through the school curriculum. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily, stressing on the significance of introducing media literacy in schools and its benefits. You may use the following cues along with your own ideas to draft the letter. OR (b) You are Rupali/Rupinder of 51, J.M. Avenue, Prithvinagar. You have recently come across the following advertisement and wish to apply for the post. Write a job application along with your bio-data. • What is media literacy ? • What are the ways that it can be integrated in the school curriculum ? • benefits of media literacy • helps build

Some fifty rings arrived. The Maharaja sent the whole lot to the British officer’s good lady. The king and the minister expected the duraisani to choose one or two rings and send the rest back. Within no time at all the duraisani sent her reply: ‘Thank you very much for your gifts.’ In two days a bill for three lakh of rupees came from the British jewellers. The Maharaja was happy that though he had lost three lakh of rupees, he had managed to retain his kingdom.

At the stamp and coin store I go to, I found out that Sam bought eight hundred dollars’ worth of old-style currency. That ought to set him up in a nice little hay, feed and grain business; he always said that’s what he really wished he could do, and he certainly can’t go back to his old business. Not in Galesburg, Illinois, in 1894. His old business? Why, Sam was my psychiatrist.

“I am thinking of this stranger here,” said the young girl. “He walks and walks the whole year long, and there is probably not a single place in the whole country where he is welcome and can feel at home. Wherever he turns he is chased away. Always he is afraid of being arrested and cross-examined. I should like to have him enjoy a day of peace with us here — just one in the whole year.” The ironmaster mumbled something in his beard. He could not bring himself to oppose her.

“I am thinking of this stranger here,” said the young girl. “He walks and walks the whole year long, and there is probably not a single place in the whole country where he is welcome and can feel at home. Wherever he turns he is chased away. Always he is afraid of being arrested and cross-examined. I should like to have him enjoy a day of peace with us here — just one in the whole year.” The ironmaster mumbled something in his beard. He could not bring himself to oppose her. (The Rattrap)

She wished she could be admitted more deeply into her brother’s affections and that someday he might take her with him. Though their father forbade it and Geoff had never expressed an opinion, she knew he thought her too young. And she was impatient. She was conscious of a vast world out there waiting for her and she knew instinctively that she would feel as at home there as in the city which had always been her home. It expectantly awaited her arrival. She saw herself riding there behind Geoff. (Going Places)