The CBSE Class 12th English Board exam was conducted on March 11, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The English theory paper is worth 80 marks and an extra 20 marks are for internal assessment. The test consists of reading comprehension, creative and analytical writing, and literature sections to measure students' proficiency in language, interpretation, and critical thinking ability.

The question paper consists of multiple-choice questions (1 mark each), short-answer questions (2 & 3 marks each), and long-answer questions (4 & 6 marks each), adding up to 80 marks. The exam tests the understanding, writing skills, and literary analysis of students.

CBSE Class 12 English 1-6-2 Question Paper and Detailed Solutions PDF is available for download here.

CBSE Class 12 2025 English 1-6-2 Question Paper with Solutions

CBSE Board Class 12 English Question Paper with Answer Key Download PDF Check Solution

 CBSE Board Class 12 English Question Paper with Answer Key

Question 1:

1. Read the following passage carefully :
(1) In recent years, the rise of digital education has revolutionized the way students in India
learn. With the advent of high speed internet and widespread smartphone use, online
learning platforms have become increasingly popular. These platforms offer a wide range of
courses, from academic subjects to vocational skills, enabling students to learn at their own
pace and convenience. The flexibility of digital education is beneficial where traditional
classroom learning cannot take place. Many students and educators have now embraced this
new mode of learning, recognizing its potential.

Read More (2) However, this shift to digital learning is not without its challenges. One major issue is the
digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to the internet and
those who do not. In rural areas and among economically disadvantaged communities, many
students lack the necessary devices or reliable internet connections to participate in online
classes. This has led to concerns about unequal access to education and the potential for
widening educational disparities. For instance, a study by the National Sample Survey Office
revealed that only 24% of Indian households have internet access, highlighting the extent of
the digital divide.
(3) Another significant challenge is the effectiveness of digital learning. While some students
thrive in an online environment, others struggle with the lack of face-to-face interaction and
the self-discipline required to stay on track. Teachers also face difficulties in both engaging
students as well as providing personalized feedback in a virtual setting. The absence of a
structured classroom environment can lead to distractions and reduced motivation among
students. Furthermore, the lack of direct social interaction impacts social skills and
emotional development.
(4) To address these issues, various initiatives have been launched. Government programmes
aim to provide digital devices and improve internet connectivity in far-off areas. Educational
platforms are developing more interactive and engaging content to enhance the online
learning experience. Blended learning models, which combine online and offline methods,
are being explored to offer a more balanced approach. The government’s Digital India
campaign has also made strides in promoting digital literacy and bridging the technological
gap.
(5) The potential of digital education extends beyond formal schooling.Online platforms
provide opportunities for lifelong learning, allowing individuals to acquire new skills and
knowledge throughout their lives. This is particularly relevant in a rapidly changing job
market, where continuous upskilling and reskilling are essential. Digital education empowers
individuals to take control of this learning journey, breaking down traditional barriers to
education. Moreover, it offers flexibility for working professionals and homemakers, who
can access educational resources without disrupting their daily schedules.
(6) As we navigate this digital revolution in education, it is crucial to ensure that no one is
left behind. Bridging the digital divide, supporting teachers and students, and fostering an
inclusive and effective online learning environment are essential to realizing the full potential
of digital education in India. Policy-makers, educators, and the private sector must
collaborate to create sustainable solutions that address the diverse needs of the population.
Only then can we harness the power of digital education.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:

According to paragraph (1), what advantages do online learning platforms offer to students?

Correct Answer:View Solution

Question 2:

How does the author describe the 'digital divide' in the context of education?

Correct Answer:
View Solution



The author describes the 'digital divide' as the gap between people who have access to the internet and digital devices, and those who do not. In rural and economically disadvantaged communities, many students lack the necessary resources to participate in online education, leading to unequal access to education.
Quick Tip: The digital divide not only affects access to the internet but also limits access to opportunities for education, exacerbating educational inequalities.


Question 3:

Read the following sentence:

In rural areas and among economically disadvantaged communities, many students lack the necessary devices or reliable internet connections.
The concern the above statement points towards is .........

Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.
A. an increasing gap between those living in cities and those living in villages
B. a growing divide in the educational opportunities for children

Correct Answer:
B. a growing divide in the educational opportunities for childrenView Solution

Question 4:

How does the lack of social interaction in digital learning affect students' overall development?

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Question 5:

Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph (3), to prove the following:
The absence of a structured classroom environment can lead to distractions among students.

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Question 6:

Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph (4):

flexibility : adaptability : : integrated : ............
(A) paced
(B) blended
(C) balanced
(D) created

 

Correct Answer:
(C) balanced
View Solution

Question 7:

Give one benefit of continuous upskilling and reskilling.

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Question 8:

Assess the potential challenges or benefits of lifelong learning through digital platforms, as outlined in paragraph (5).

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Question 9:

To realize the full potential of digital India, it is important to .............. an environment that provides education for all.
(A) refrain
(B) replicate
(C) nurture
(D) commemorate

 

Correct Answer:
(C) nurtureView Solution

Question 10:

We can harness the power of digital education if:

(A) educators and policy-makers help create sustainable solutions.
(B) we shift back to traditional classrooms.
(C) we further extend the digital divide.
(D) we control the internet connections.

Correct Answer:
(A) educators and policy-makers help create sustainable solutions.
View Solution

Question 11:

Read the following passage carefully :
(1) Introduction : In the face of rapid urbanization, effective waste management has become
a critical issue in Indian cities. This case study aims to analyze the recycling practices among
different demographics in urban India and their implications for sustainable urban
development.

Read More (2) Methodology : A survey was conducted among residents of various urban areas, ranging
from teenagers to elderly citizens, to determine their waste management and recycling
habits. Participants were asked to indicate their preferred methods of waste disposal and
recycling and provide reasons for their choices. The data was then analyzed to identify
trends and patterns among different age groups.
(3) Survey Examination : The survey comprehensively examined waste disposal habits.
Participants were encouraged to share the reasons for their selections, providing invaluable
insight into waste management behaviour.
(4) Results : The survey results revealed interesting insights into waste management and
recycling practices among different age groups.
Q2
(5) Implications for Interventions : By discerning the diverse preferences among different
age groups, policy-makers and environmental activists can not only make interventions to
address specific demographic needs, but also delve into the underlying motivations and
influences guiding these choices. For instance, targeting educational campaigns towards
teenagers and young adults could empower them to adopt sustainable waste management
practices. Concurrently, efforts to enhance the infrastructure for segregation at source and
provide incentives for recycling could improve overall waste management.
(6) Conclusion : The survey outcomes serve as a roadmap for designing targeted
interventions that not only cater to diverse demographic needs but also foster a culture of
sustainability. By harnessing the insights gleaned from this study, stakeholders can
collaboratively work towards building cleaner and more sustainable urban environments for
future generations.

Complete the following suitably:
In the introduction, the researcher links rapid urbanization with waste management by highlighting that \textit{effective waste management has become a critical issue due to the increased population density, consumption, and waste generation in urban areas.

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Question 12:

What would the following be classified as?
To examine waste management practices across various age groups in detail.
Select the appropriate response.

(A) Primary purpose
(B) Secondary objective
(C) Method of analysis
(D) Research outcome

 

Correct Answer:
(A) Primary purposeView Solution

Question 13:

Give two points to support why it is likely that recycling was given as an option to the survey participants to choose from, in the study on waste management practices.

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Question 14:

Paragraph (5) includes words like 'motivations' and 'interventions'. Classify the following sentences as motivation or intervention.

(A) Targeting educational campaigns towards teenagers and young adults could empower them to adopt sustainable waste management practices.
(B) Efforts to enhance the infrastructure for segregation at source.

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Question 15:

Select the option that identifies the correct demographic they belong to:

(A) Radhika - middle-aged; Ragini - young adult; Mrs. Gupta - elderly
(B) Radhika - teenager; Ragini - young adult; Mrs. Gupta - elderly
(C) Radhika - young adult; Ragini - elderly; Mrs. Gupta - middle-aged
(D) Radhika - elderly; Ragini - middle-aged; Mrs. Gupta - teenag

Correct Answer:
(B) Radhika - teenager; Ragini - young adult; Mrs. Gupta - elderly
View Solution

Question 16:

Why is the percentage to adopt recycling methods higher among young adults?

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Question 17:

Analyze how targeted interventions based on the diverse waste management preferences of different age groups can lead to improved environmental outcomes. (paragraph 5)

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Question 18:

What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insights from the study?

(A) Increase profitability through enhanced recycling infrastructure
(B) Build cleaner urban environments
(C) Reduce the cost of waste management
(D) Expand the range of recycling programmes available

Correct Answer:
(B) Build cleaner urban environments
View Solution

Question 19:

You are the school activities in-charge. Write a notice informing the students about the upcoming Parent-Teacher Meeting'. Include all other necessary details. Put your notice in a box.

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Question 20:

Your school is organising an interschool webinar on "Environmental Initiatives". Write a notice to inform members of the Environment Club from Classes IX - XII about the webinar. Include all other necessary details. Put your notice in a box.

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Question 21:

Draft a formal invitation card from Rajni/Rajan Gupta, Head of the Art Department, inviting parents to an exhibition titled 'Children - Our Young Warriors'. Students of Classes VI - X will put up their art and craft exhibits representing elements of social responsibility. Mention other necessary details.

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Question 22:

 An invitation had been issued by Mr. Rama Krishnan, the HR Manager of your company, inviting you to a team-building seminar. As Meena/Mukesh, Team Leader Marketing, draft a reply in not more than 50 words, consenting to attend.

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Question 23:

Write a letter to the editor of a local daily highlighting the need for better public transportation in your city. You may use the given cues along with your own ideas to draft the letter. You are Sakshi / Sant, a resident of 46, C Colony, Crown Nagar.

Challenges – Overcrowding in buses, poor maintenance, insufficient coverage, inadequate infrastructure
Congestion due to private small time transport modes, unpredictable delays.
Solutions – Increase frequency, regular maintenance, upgrading infrastructure, affordable fare.

 

Correct Answer:View Solution

Question 24:

You are Rajat/Rani from J-II/3, H Phase Saranagar. You come across the following advertisement for the job of a Junior Sales Manager at Star Enterprises, a pharmaceutical firm and wish to apply for the post advertised. Write your application along with your bio-data.

Job Responsibilities – Develop innovative sales strategies
Compile and analyze sales figures
Qualification – B. Pharm with 3 – 5 years experience
Skills – Communication and negotiation skills
Computer competency
Contact – Director HR, Star Enterprises, 76 D Colony, Saranagar.

 

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Question 25:

You are Rajat/Rohini Sharma of Class XI and a member of the school magazine editorial board. Write a comprehensive report detailing the activities undertaken by students as part of the World Environment Day celebrations, including description of the events, participation details and the overall impact of these activities on the school community. You may organize your report by using the following cues:

Who – What – When – Where – Why – How


 

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Question 26:

In an era of globalization, it is important that children are exposed to knowledge about world affairs and global social concerns. Schools today continue to sensitize and make students aware through various intra and inter-school activities. Write an article exploring the role of educational institutions in creating an informed youth. Provide examples to illustrate your points wherever necessary. You are Akshit/Akshat Bali of Class XII-B.

Importance of being an informed youth
Activities in school – MUN, debates, declamations, celebration of international days
Newspaper readings and discussions
Creates well aware, responsible and sensitive youth

 

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Question 27:

Explain with reference to the given extract, "What I want should not be confused with total inactivity."

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Question 28:

What does the term single-mindedness not imply in the given extract?

(A)persistence
(B)determination
(C)narrow-mindedness
(D) tenacity

 

Correct Answer: (C) narrow-mindedness
View Solution

Question 29:

In the line 'Life is what it is about', the phrase 'it' refers to ............

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Question 30:

(iv) The poet has used the phrase 'total inactivity' to illustrate ........... in the perception that peace means doing nothing.
 


Question 31:

Assertion: The poet values an active and meaningful life.

Reason: Inactivity is equated with leisure, which the poet rejects.

(A) Both the assertion and the reason are true.
(B) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(C) Both the assertion and the reason are false.
(D) Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the

 

Correct Answer: (B) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.

View Solution

Question 32:

State in one sentence, what advice you would give to those engaged in ceaseless mechanized activity.

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Question 33:

Select the phrase that suggests the following:
In difficult times, beauty comes to our aid, in some form or the other, to make us overcome these difficulties.

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Question 34:

What does the imagery of 'flowery band' not represent in the given extract?
(A) connections to life
(B) a thing of beauty
(C) imprisonment
(D) earthly ties

Correct Answer: (C) imprisonment

View Solution

Question 35:

Complete the following suitably.
In the line, 'moves away the pall from our dark spirits', the phrase 'the pall' refers to .........

Correct Answer:
View Solution

Question 36:

The poet's use of the phrase 'inhuman dearth' illustrates the .......... (scarcity/plentitude) of noble human qualities.

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Question 37:

Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the given extract:

Assertion: The poet values beauty as it overcomes despondence and gloom.

Reason: Beauty, despite the world's hardships, provides comfort and lifts our spirit.

(A) Both the assertion and the reason are true and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(B) Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(C) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(D) The assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Correct Answer: (A) Both the assertion and the reason are true and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
View Solution

Question 38:

(vi) State in one sentence, what advice would you give to those facing dark times.

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Question 39:

What was the climate like in Antarctica before humans arrived on the global scene?

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Question 40:

Gondwana existed nearly ..............

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Question 41:

Select the suitable option to complete the following:

Gondwana, separating into countries, contributes to the reader's understanding of the .............

  • (A) complexity of geological processes
  • (B) simplicity of continental formation
  • (C) speed of geological changes
  • (D) stability of ancient landmasses
     
Correct Answer: (A) complexity of geological processes
View Solution

Question 42:

What difference does the author draw between then and now?

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Question 43:

Complete the following suitably:
The passage indicates that the British officer visited Pratibandapuram because

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Question 44:

What danger was faced by the Maharaja on the tiger hunt?

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Question 45:

From the given extract, it is evident that the Maharaja was a.......... man.

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Question 46:

Select the suitable option to complete the following:

The phrase 'fonder of being photographed with the tigers' contributes to the reader's understanding of the officer's ............

  • (A) indifference towards hunting
  • (B) desire for recognition/fame
  • (C) love for tigers
  • (D) love for photography
Correct Answer: (B) desire for recognition/fame
View Solution

Question 47:

The phrase 'fiery misery' in the given text refers to the ......... of the actors.

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Question 48:

Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank:

The description of the make-up room is a/an .......... of the make-up department in Gemini Studios.

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Question 49:

Complete the following suitably:

The historical significance of the make-up room was ...............

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Question 50:

With reference to the given extract, what does the reference to 'half a dozen large mirrors' suggest?

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Question 51:

Select the textual option that is closest to indicating a sense of discomfort.

  • (A) The make-up room had the look of a hair-cutting salon.
  • (B) The make-up department was first headed by a gang of nationally integrated make-up men.
  • (C) They were all incandescent lights, so you can imagine the fiery misery.
  • (D) The make-up department head was at first a Bengali, who soon quit.
Correct Answer: (C) They were all incandescent lights, so you can imagine the fiery misery.
View Solution

Question 52:

What was the fate of the head of the make-up department?

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Question 53:

What does Umberto's statement on his philosophical interest reveal about him?

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Question 54:

Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank:

His academic work and children's books both reveal ........... interests.

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Question 55:

What example of an interstice does Umberto Eco give?

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Question 56:

The phrase 'as big as my fist' most nearly means ............. with reference to the given text.

  • (A) strong
  • (B) stingy
  • (C) very small
  • (D) abundant
Correct Answer: (C) very small
View Solution

Question 57:

What secret is Umberto referring to?

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Question 58:

Umberto Eco says, he works in interstices. By this, he means that he works ............

  • (A) in empty spaces
  • (B) when he is in the university
  • (C) on his philosophical interest
  • (D) when he is with children
Correct Answer: (A) in empty spaces
View Solution

Question 59:

How does the poet highlight the mean and selfish nature of the city dwellers?

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Question 60:

How did Sophie's family react when she announced that if she ever had money she would buy a boutique?

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Question 61:

What caused the lack of communication between the Englishman and the people at Gemini Studios?

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Question 62:

Give a brief account of the reception that Gandhi got in Motihari.

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Question 63:

Why was Douglas determined to get over his fear of water?

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Question 64:

According to the poet, beauty is everlasting. Explain.

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Question 65:

Why did Geoff Green get tired of carting celebrities and the retired?

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Question 66:

What did Charley learn about Sam from the stamp and coin store?

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Question 67:

Why did Mr. Lamb grow weeds?

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Question 68:

M. Hamel in "The Last Lesson" and Edla in "The Rattrap" are the guiding lights of self-realization to Franz and the peddler respectively. Comment.

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Question 69:

The poems 'My Mother at Sixty-six' by Kamala Das and 'Aunt Jennifer's Tigers' by Adrienne Rich explore the themes of pain and conflict. Explain.

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Question 70:

Dr. Sadao emerges as both a true patriot and a compassionate human being. Elaborate.

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Question 71:

'Memories of Childhood' deals with autobiographical episodes of Zitkala-Sa and Bama. They both come from marginalized communities, and look back on their childhood to reflect on their relationships with mainstream culture. Elaborate.

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