UP Board Class 12 English Question Paper 2024 PDF (Code 316 DW) is available for download here. The English exam was conducted on March 2, 2024 in the Evening Shift from 2 PM to 5:15 PM. The total marks for the theory paper are 100. Students reported the paper to be easy to moderate.

UP Board Class 12 English Question Paper 2024 (Code 316 DW) with Solutions

UP Board Class 12 English Question Paper with Answer Key download iconDownload Check Solution

UP Board Class 12 English Questions with Solutions

Question 1:

A man who possesses a strong will and firm determination, finds all difficulties solved. To
him, there are a number of ways open to steer clear of all dangers and difficulties.
Such a man goes on working hard, and even if he fails he is never downcast. Failures make him all
the more determined and he persists in his task till he attains the desired success.
Therefore, the man who works hard with a strong resolution and an unshaken will, achieves
success and makes his fortune. It is a folly to suppose that wealth, fame or power are
achieved by luck, or destiny. A man can be the builder of his own fortune by sheer dint of
perseverance, industry and strong will. The man who is lazy, sluggish and refrains from
doing his duties, invites trouble and suffering in his life.

(a) What is necessary to get success in life?

View Solution

To achieve success in life, strong will, firm determination, hard work, and
perseverance are essential. These qualities enable an individual to overcome difficulties and
achieve their goals.


Question 1:

(b) How do failures help achieve the desired success?

View Solution

Failures teach valuable lessons and strengthen determination. They motivate
individuals to work harder and persist until they achieve their goals, making them more
resilient.


Question 1:

(c) Who is the builder of his own fortune?

View Solution

A person with perseverance, industry, strong will, and determination is the builder
of his own fortune. Hard work and resolution pave the way for success.


Question 1:

(d) What kind of people invite miseries in their life?

View Solution

Lazy and sluggish individuals who refrain from performing their duties invite
miseries in their lives. Their lack of effort leads to troubles and suffering.


Question 2:

(a) Demerits of Dowry System

View Solution

The dowry system is a social evil that persists in many societies. It places undue financial
burden on the bride’s family and often leads to exploitation and harassment. Women are
treated as commodities, and the dowry demands create significant stress. This practice
undermines gender equality and perpetuates the idea that women are inferior to men. To
eradicate this system, education, awareness, and strict legal enforcement are necessary.
Society must work towards empowering women and promoting values of equality and
respect.


Question 2:

(b) Science in the Service of Mankind

View Solution

Science has revolutionized the way we live, providing solutions to problems and improving
quality of life. From medical advancements to technology, science has made incredible
contributions. Vaccines and medicines save lives, while communication technology connects
the world. However, science must be used responsibly to address global challenges like
climate change and ensure sustainability. With the right approach, science can continue to
serve mankind and build a better future.


Question 2:

(c) Unemployment in India and its Solution

View Solution

Unemployment is a pressing issue in India, with millions of educated youths struggling to
find jobs. The lack of skill-based education and limited job opportunities are key reasons. To
address this, skill development programs, promotion of entrepreneurship, and investment in

industries are essential. Encouraging startups and providing financial support to small
businesses can generate employment. The government and private sector must collaborate to
create sustainable job opportunities for a better future.


Question 3:

Write a letter to the editor of a national daily expressing your utter dissatisfaction and grief against unfair practices in competitive examinations.

View Solution

To,
The Editor,
[Name of Newspaper],
[City Name],
[Date]
Subject: Concern about unfair practices in competitive examinations
Respected Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw attention to the rampant
unfair practices in competitive examinations. Cheating, impersonation, and question paper
leaks are becoming common, undermining the integrity of the education system. These
malpractices shatter the dreams of hardworking students and promote corruption.
It is essential to implement stringent measures and use technology to monitor exams
effectively. Creating awareness among students and enforcing strict penalties will help curb
these issues. I request you to highlight this concern in your paper to encourage immediate
action.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Address]


(OR) Question 3:

Write a letter to your friend inviting him to attend your sister’s marriage.

View Solution

Dear [Friend’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am delighted to inform you that my sister’s
marriage has been fixed, and I would love for you to attend the ceremony. It will take place
on [Date] at [Venue]. Your presence will make the occasion even more special.
Do let me know if you can come. I look forward to catching up and celebrating this joyous
event together.
Yours lovingly,
[Your Name]


Question 4:

(a) Government by one person is called:

  • (i) Democracy
  • (ii) Anarchy
    (iii) Autocracy
    (iv) Plutocracy
Correct Answer: (iii) Autocracy
View Solution

Government by one person is known as Autocracy, where a single ruler holds power and authority.
Quick Tip: In an autocratic system, the ruler's power is absolute, unlike democracy where power is shared among elected representatives.


Question 4:

(b) The phrase 'set off' means:

  • (i) to leave a place
    (ii) to hate a place
    (iii) to start to go
    (iv) to be forced to go
Correct Answer: (iii) to start to go
View Solution

The phrase 'set off' means 'to start to go', indicating the beginning of a journey or action.
Quick Tip: When you encounter phrasal verbs like "set off", try to associate the meaning based on the context rather than the literal meaning of the words.


Question 4:

(c) The synonym for 'bane' is:

  • (i) boon
  • (ii) curse
    (iii) blessing
    (iv) reward
Correct Answer: (ii) curse
View Solution

The word 'bane' refers to something harmful or destructive, which is synonymous with 'curse'.
Quick Tip: Synonyms like 'bane' (meaning a source of harm) and 'curse' (a harmful spell or event) are commonly used in literature to indicate negative forces.


Question 4:

(d) He has been living in Varanasi since three years. Which word is an 'error' in the sentence?

  • (i) years
  • (ii) has
    (iii) since

    (iv) three

Correct Answer: (i) years
View Solution

The error in the sentence is with 'years'. The correct sentence should be: "He has been living in Varanasi for three years." The word 'for' is used to indicate the duration of time.
Quick Tip: Use 'since' with a specific point in time (e.g., since 2015) and 'for' with a duration (e.g., for three years).


Question 4:

(e) The antonym of 'ability' is:

  • (i) inability
  • (ii) inability
    (iii) disability
    (iv) incapability
Correct Answer: (iii) disability
View Solution

The antonym of 'ability' is 'disability', which refers to the lack or absence of ability. 'Inability' is also close but less specific.
Quick Tip: 'Inability' and 'disability' are often used interchangeably, but 'disability' is a more comprehensive term, referring to a physical or mental condition that limits ability.


Question 5(a):

(i) The teacher said, “All men are mortal.”

View Solution

The teacher said that all men are mortal.


Question 5:

(ii) Rita says, “I shall do it.”

View Solution

Rita says that she shall do it.
Quick Tip: In indirect speech, remember to change the pronouns and adjust the verb tenses where necessary.


Question 5(b):

(i) You must work hard or you will not succeed. (Simple sentence)

View Solution

You must work hard to succeed.


Question 5(b):

(ii) He is certain of being able to help his friend. (Complex sentence)

View Solution

He is certain that he will be able to help his friend.
Quick Tip: To combine sentences, identify the core idea and use appropriate conjunctions.


Question 5(c):

(i) She is writing a letter to her father. (Passive voice)

View Solution

A letter is being written to her father by her.


Question (c):

(ii) Shyam is taller than any other boy in the class. (Superlative degree)

View Solution

Shyam is the tallest boy in the class.
Quick Tip: In passive voice, the subject becomes the object, and vice versa. For superlative degree, use "the" before the adjective.


Question 5(d):

(i) My friend Ramu is junior than me.

View Solution

My friend Ramu is junior to me.


Question 5(d):

(ii) Deers are grazing in the forest.

View Solution

Deer are grazing in the forest.
Quick Tip: Remember, "junior to" is the correct phrase, and "deer" is both singular and plural.


Question 5(e):

(i) Birth – Berth

View Solution

Birth: The birth of a child is a joyous occasion.


Question 5(e):

(ii) Complement – Compliment

View Solution

- Complement: Her scarf complements her dress beautifully.

- Compliment: She received a compliment on her excellent performance.
Quick Tip: "Birth" refers to the arrival of a new life, while "berth" refers to a sleeping place on a vehicle. "Complement" enhances something, while "compliment" is a praise or admiration.


Question 6:

Translate the following passage into English:

View Solution

Who does not know Mungeri Prasad? The elite class reads his stories and novels. His stories
and novels reflect the simple life of villages and the lives of middle-class families. He has
written beautifully about villages, customs, social discipline, casteism, and many other
issues. He has proved that literature is the mirror of society.


Question 7:

(a) What did Raj Kumar Shukla do to bring Gandhiji to Champaran?

View Solution

Raj Kumar Shukla, a determined farmer, persistently followed Gandhiji wherever
he went, requesting him to visit Champaran. His persistence convinced Gandhiji to travel to
Champaran and address the plight of the oppressed farmers.


Question 7:

(b) What do the inhabitants of Seemapuri do for their survival?

View Solution

The inhabitants of Seemapuri survive by rag-picking. They collect and sort
through garbage to find items of value, such as recyclable materials, which they sell for a
living. This work provides them with their daily sustenance.


Question 7:

(c) What did Gandhiji do to improve the miserable condition of the farmers at Champaran?

View Solution

Gandhiji organized protests, provided legal support, and negotiated with the
British authorities to reduce the oppressive taxes imposed on the farmers. He also worked to
improve education, hygiene, and healthcare in Champaran to uplift the community.


(OR)

Question 7:

What was the utility of garbage for the poor children in Seemapuri?

View Solution

For the poor children in Seemapuri, garbage was like treasure. They searched
through it to find coins, toys, and other items of value that could bring them joy or contribute

to their family’s income.


Question 8:

(a) Describe the hazards of working in the glass bangle industry.

View Solution

The glass bangle industry poses numerous hazards for workers. Workers, including children,
are exposed to intense heat from furnaces, leading to burns and other injuries. The fine glass
dust can cause lung diseases and impair vision. Additionally, the cramped and unhygienic
working conditions further worsen their health. This industry highlights the plight of child
laborers and the need for reforms to ensure safe working environments.


Question 8:

(b) What did Douglas do to overcome his fear of water?

View Solution

Douglas overcame his fear of water through determination and systematic training. He hired
an instructor who taught him swimming techniques step by step. The instructor used a belt
attached to a pulley to help Douglas regain confidence in water. Over time, Douglas
practiced extensively and gradually overcame his fear, proving that persistence and proper
guidance can conquer even the deepest fears.


Question 9:

That for themselves a cooling covert make
’Gainst the hot season; the mid forest brake,
Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms;
And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read:
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink.

(a) Why is grandeur associated with ‘the mighty dead’?

View Solution

Grandeur is associated with the mighty dead because they are remembered for their noble
deeds and contributions to humanity. Their legacy, as depicted in lovely tales and stories,
inspires future generations, leaving an eternal impact on mankind.


Question 9:

(b) What is ‘the endless fountain of immortal drink’ that the poet refers to in the poem?

View Solution

The ‘endless fountain of immortal drink’ symbolizes the beauty and joy derived from nature
and art. It represents the perpetual source of happiness and inspiration that enriches the
human spirit and uplifts the soul.


Question 9:

(c) What is poured unto us from the heaven’s brink?

View Solution

The poet suggests that beauty, in the form of joy and inspiration, is poured unto us from
heaven’s brink. This beauty is eternal and serves as a source of comfort and motivation,
reminding us of the divine in everyday life.


Question 10:

(a) My Mother at Sixty-six

View Solution

The poem “My Mother at Sixty-six” by Kamala Das explores the themes of aging, mortality,
and familial love. The poet reflects on her mother’s frailty and the inevitable reality of
separation due to death. The emotional struggle of coming to terms with her mother’s
mortality is poignantly expressed in the poem.


Question 10:

(b) Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers

View Solution

In “Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers” by Adrienne Rich, the poet highlights the oppression faced by
women in patriarchal societies. Aunt Jennifer’s tigers, depicted as fearless and free, contrast
with her own constrained life. The poem emphasizes the longing for freedom and
empowerment.


Question 10:

(c) Keeping Quiet

View Solution

“Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda advocates introspection and the need for stillness to foster
understanding and harmony. The poet emphasizes the importance of pausing from our hectic
lives to reflect on ourselves and our relationship with the world.


Question 11:

(a) What prediction was made by the astrologer about the Tiger King?

View Solution

The astrologer predicted that the Tiger King would meet his death at the hands of a tiger.
This prophecy drove the king to kill tigers, but ironically, he was eventually killed by a
wooden toy tiger, fulfilling the prophecy in an unexpected way.


Question 11:

(b) What circumstances forced Dr. Sadao’s father to send him to America?

View Solution

Dr. Sadao’s father sent him to America to study medicine because he believed in the
importance of acquiring the best education. His father prioritized Sadao’s future over
traditional beliefs, ensuring he had the skills to excel as a doctor.


Question 11:

(c) Who is Mr. Lamb? How does Derry get into his garden?

View Solution

Mr. Lamb is an elderly man with a positive outlook on life despite his disability. Derry, a boy
with a scarred face, enters his garden by climbing over the wall. Their interaction helps
Derry gain self-confidence and a new perspective on life.


Question 11:

(d) Who was Hana? How did Hana meet Sadao?

View Solution

Hana was Sadao’s wife, whom he met during his stay in America while pursuing medical
studies. They fell in love and later got married, sharing a deep bond based on mutual respect
and understanding.


Question 12:

(a) What impression do you form of Dr. Sadao, both as a doctor and a human being, on the basis of the story “The Enemy”?

View Solution

Dr. Sadao is portrayed as a compassionate and skilled doctor who adheres to his professional
ethics. Despite being aware of the risks, he saves the life of an enemy soldier, reflecting his
humanity and moral courage. His actions highlight his commitment to both his duty as a
doctor and his principles as a human being.


Question 12:

(b) How did the Maharaja fulfil his vow? What dangers did he face while fulfilling it?

View Solution

The Maharaja vowed to kill 100 tigers to prevent the prophecy of his death by a tiger. He
hunted relentlessly and faced many dangers, including attacks by tigers, to achieve his goal.
Ironically, despite his efforts, he died due to an infection caused by a wooden toy tiger.