Discursive Passages

 

Passage 1

The choices we make on a daily basis—wearing a seat belt, lifting heavy objects correctly or purposely staying out of any dangerous situation—can either ensure our safety or bring about potentially harmful circumstances.

You and I need to make a decision that we are going to get our lives in order. Exercising self-control, self-discipline and establishing boundaries and borders in our lives are some of the most important things we can do. A life without discipline is one that’s filled with carelessness.

We can think it’s kind of exciting to live life on the edge. We like the image of “Yeah! That’s me! Living on the edge! Woo-hoo!” It’s become a popular way to look at life. But if you see, even highways have lines, which provide margins for our safety while we’re driving. If we go over one side, we’ll go into the ditch. If we cross over the line in the middle, we could get killed. And we like those lines because they help to keep us safe. Sometimes we don’t even realize how lines help to keep us safe.

I’m not proud of this, but for the first 20 years of my life at work, I ignored my limits. I felt horrible, physically, most of the time. I used to tell myself, “I know I have limits and that I’ve reached them, but I’m going to ignore them and see if or how long I can get by with it.” I ran to doctors, trying to make myself feel better through pills, vitamins, natural stuff and anything I could get my hands on. Some of the doctors would tell me, “It’s just stress.” That just made me mad. I thought stress meant you don’t like what you do or can’t handle life, and I love what I do. But I kept pushing myself, travelling, doing speaking engagements and so on— simply exhausting myself.

Finally, I understood I was living an unsustainable life and needed to make some changes in my outlook and lifestyle.

You and I don’t have to be like everyone else or keep up with anyone else. Each of us needs to be exactly the way we are, and we don’t have to apologize for it. We’re not all alike, and we need to find a comfort zone in which we can enjoy our lives instead of making ourselves sick with an overload of stress and pressure.

On the basis of understanding the passage, answer ANY TEN questions from the twelve that follow. (1×10=10)

Q1) Which of the characteristics are apt about the writer in the following context: “I know I have limits and that I’ve reached them, but I’m going to ignore them and see if or how long I can get by with it.” ?

1. negligent

2. indecisive

3. spontaneous

4. reckless

5. purposeless

6. patient

a) 2 and 5

b) 3 and 6

c) 1 and 4

d) 2 and 3

Q2) The reason why living on the edge has become popular is because of the

a) constant need for something different.

b) population being much younger.

c) exhausting effort to make changes.

d) strong tendency to stay within our limits.

Q3) The phrase “potentially harmful circumstances” refers to circumstances that can

(a) certainly be dangerous.

(b) be fairly dangerous.

(c) be possibly dangerous.

(d) seldom be dangerous.

Q4). Choose the option that correctly states the two meanings of ‘outlook’, as used in the passage.

1. A person’s evaluation of life

2. A person’s experiences in life

3. A person’s point of view towards life

4. A person’s regrets in life

5. A person’s general attitude to life

a) (1) and (4)

b) (2) and (3)

c) (3) and (5)

d) (4) and (5)

Q5) Choose the option that best captures the central idea of the passage from the given quotes.

1. It’s all about quality of life and finding a happy balance between work and friends.

2. To go beyond is as wrong as to fall short.

3. Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.

4. Balance is not something you find. It’s something you create.

a) Option (1)

b) Option (2)

c) Option (3)

d) Option (4)

Q6) The author explains the importance of discipline and boundaries in our lives using the example of

a) road accidents.

b) traffic rules.

c) lines on the highway.

d) safe driving.

Q7) The author attempts to __________________ the readers through this write-up.

a) rebuke

b) question

c) offer aid to

d) offer advice to

Q8) What is the message conveyed in the last paragraph of the passage?

a) Love what you do.

b) Love yourself to love others.

c) Be the best version of yourself.

d) Be yourself

Q9) Which of the following will be the most appropriate title for the passage?

a) Much too soon

b) Enough is enough

c) How much is too much?

d) Have enough to do?

Q10) The author uses colloquial words such as “yeah” and “Woo-hoo!”. Which of the following is NOT a colloquial word?

a) hooked

b) guy

c) stuff

d) stress

Q11) Select the option that makes the correct use of “unsustainable”, as used in the passage, to fill in the blank space.

a) In the long run, the ______ officials followed emergency procedures.

b) Emergency procedures were _______ by the officials.

c) Officials reported an ________ set of events during the emergency.

d) Officials admit that the emergency system is _______ in the longer run.

Q12) What does the author mean when he says, “to get our lives in order”?

a) To resume our lives.

b) To organize our lives.

c) To rebuild our lives.

d) To control our lives.

Answers:

Ans 1) (c) 1 and 4

Ans 2) (a) constant need for something different.

Ans 3) (c) be possibly dangerous

Ans 4) (c) (3) and (5)

Ans 5) (d) Option (4)

Ans 6) (c) lines on the highway.

Ans 7) (d) offer advice to

Ans 8) (c) Be yourself

Ans 9) (c) How much is too much?

Ans 10) (d) stress

Ans 11) (d) Officials admit that the emergency system is __________ in the longer run.

Ans 12) (b) To organize our lives.

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PASSAGE-2

1. The choices we make on a daily basis—wearing a seatbelt, lifting heavy objects correctly or purposely staying out of any dangerous situation–can either ensure our safety or bring about potentially harmful circumstances.
2. You and I need to make a decision that we are going to get our lives in order. Exercising self-control, self-discipline and establishing boundaries and borders in our lives are some of the most important things we can do. A life with out discipline is one that’s filled with carelessness.
3. We can think it’s kind of exciting to live life on the edge. We like the image of “Yeah! That’s me! Living on the edge! Woo-hoo !” It’s become a popular way to look at life. But if you see, even highways have lines, which provide margins for our safety while we’re driving. If we go over one side, we’ll go into the ditch. If we cross over the line in the middle, we could get killed. And we like those lines because they help to keep us safe. Sometimes we don’t even realise how lines help to keep us safe.
4. I’m not proud of this, but for the first 20 years of my life at work, I ignored my limits. I felt horrible, physically, most of the time. I used to tell myself “I know I have limits and that I’ve reached them, but I’m going to ignore them and see if or how long I can get by with it.” I ran to doctors, trying to make myself feel better through pills, vitamins, natural stuff and anything I could get my hands on. Some of the doctors would tell me, “It’s just stress.” That just made me mad. I thought stress meant you don’t like what you do or can’t handle life, and I love what I do. But I kept pushing myself, travelling, doing speaking engagements and so on— simply exhausting myself.
5. Finally,I understood I was living an unsustainable life and needed to make some changes in my outlook and lifestyle.
6. You and I don’t have to be like everyone else or keep up with anyone else. Each of us needs to be exactly the way we are, and we don’t have to apologise for it. We’re not all alike and we need to find a comfort zone in which we can enjoy our lives instead of making ourselves sick with an overload of stress and pressure.        Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions.

(i) The reason why living on the edge has become popular, is because of the:
(a) constant need for something different.
(b) population being much younger.
(c) exhausting effort to make changes.
(d) strong tendency to stay within our limits.

(ii) Choose the option that best captures the central ‘idea of the passage from the given quotes.

It’s all about quality of life and finding a happy balance between work and friends.                                           — Philip Green	To go beyond is as wrong as to fall short.                                               — Confucius
(1)	(2)
Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.                                       — Albert Einstein	Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create.                                      — Jana Kingsford
(3)	(4)

(a)Option (1)             (b) Option (2)
(c)Option (3)             (d) Option (4)

(iii) Which of the characteristics are apt about the writer in the following context: “I know I have limits and that I’ve reached them but I’m going to ignore them and see if or how long I can get by with it”?

1. Negligent                         2. Indecisive                                     3. Spontaneous      
4. Reckless                           5. Purposeless                                 6. Patient

(a) 2 and 5            (b) 3 and 6                   (c) 1 and 4            (d) 2 and 3

(iv) Which of the following will be the most appropriate title for the passage?
(a) Much too soon                                                             (b) Enough is enough
(c) How much is too much?                                             (d) Have enough to do?

(v) The phrase “potentially harmful circumstances” refers to circumstances that can:
(a) certainly be dangerous                                               (b) be fairly dangerous
(c) be possibly dangerous                                                (d) seldom be dangerous

(vi) Select the option that makes the correct use of “unsustainable”, as used in pars 5.
(a) In the long run, the unsustainable officials followed emergency procedures.
(b) Emergency procedures were unsustainable by the officials.
(c) Officials reported an unsustainable set of events during the emergency.
(d) Officials admit that the emergency system is unsustainable in the longer run.

(vii) Choose the option that correctly states the two meanings of ‘outlook’, as used in the passage.
1. A person’s evaluation of life                        2. A person’s experiences in life
3. A person’s point of view towards life          4. A person’s regrets in life
5. A person’s general attitude to life
(a) (1) and (4)          (b) (2) and (3)                      (c) (3) and (5)           (d) (4) and (5)

(viii) The author uses colloquial words such as “yeah, and “Woo-hoo!”. Which of the following is NOT a colloquial word?
(a) Hooked               (b) Guy                                  (c) Stuff                    (d) Stress

(ix) The author attempts to offer advice to …… ……. through this write-up.

(x) What does the author mean when he says, “to get our lives in order”?

Answers:

(i) (a) constant need for something different.
(ii)(d) Option (4)
(iii) (c) 1 and 4
(iv) (c) How much is too much?
(v) (c) be possibly dangerous
(vi) (d) Officials admit that the emergency system is unsustainable in the longer run.
(vii) (c) (3) and (5)
(viii) (d) Stress
(ix) the readers
(x) The author means to say ‘to organise our lives’.

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PASSAGE-3

1. The road to success is not straight; there is a curve called failure, a loop called confusion, speed bumps called friends, caution lights called family, and you will have flats called jobs. But, if you have a spare called determination, an engine called perseverance, insurance called faith, and a driver called God, you will make it to a place called success! In spite of all our planning and preparation, unexpected challenges are certain to arise. The bumps in the road are unavoidable, but you’ll never get to your destination if you aren’t willing to drive over them. The difference between a disaster and triumph lies in whether or not you’re prepared and willing to weather the storm. If you’re ready, those bumps will become stepping-stones.
2. The key thing to realize is that working harder is same as working smarter. How do you work smarter? You just need to have the right skills. People want improved circumstances and better life without an improved self. They want victory without paying the price or making efforts. It really cannot happen without the other. Any improvements that have not been generated by improving yourself are superficial and short-lived. If you want to have a better future, you have to change yourself. Stop worrying about the various challenges that will come your way. Just believe in yourself and use them as stepping-stones.
3. “Success” is getting whatever you want out of life without violating the rights of others. It is not an accident Success is the result of our attitude and our attitude is a choice. Hence success is a matter of choice and not chance. Today success represents a holistic and positive attitude to life. Attitude is everything. Success is not restricted within some kind of brick and mortar premises. It assumes the individuality of a complete act executed with perfection; material achievements do not define life. We don’t remember sports stars for the products they endorse but the spirit of achievement they represent. In the abundance of positive attitude underline the grandeur of a truly rewarding rich life.
4. Success can be measured from two standpoints—the external and the internal. Externally it is the measure of a job well done and recognition. Internally it is the feeling of achievement and wholeness derived from the completion of a task or fulfillment of desire.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions.

(i) The internal measure of our success is the feeling of achievement:
(a) from the completion of a task.
(b) from the fulfilment of desire.
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) Neither (a) nor (b)

(ii) In para I, `unexpected challenges’ refers to:
(a) financial problem
(b) health problem
(c) lack of time
(d) All of these

(iii) “If you are ready, those bumps will become stepping-stones.” Through this sentence the writer tells us to:
(a) ignore ups and downs while working to achieve our goal.
(b) work with a proper plan to achieve our goal.
(c) focus only on our goal and ignore all responsibilities.
(d) take all challenges with strong determination.

(iv) Which one of the following quotes captures the central idea of the passage?

It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.                                    —Herman Melville	Success is not final; failure is not total. It is the courage to continue that counts.                                 —Winston Churchill
(1)	(2)
The road to success and the road to failure are almost exactly the same.                                          — Colin R. Davis	Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.                           —Henry David Thoreau
(3)	(4)

(a) Option 1             (b) Option 2
(c) Option 3             (d) Option 4

(v) In order to work smarter, we must have:
(a) improved circumstances.
(b) right skills.
(c) better life.
(d) All of these

(vi) If we want to have a better future, we have to:
(a) change ourselves.
(b) stop worrying about the various challenges.
(c) believe in ourselves.
(d) All of these

(vii) Success can be measured from true standpoints — the external and the internal. The external measure is the measure of:
(a) a job well done
(b) recognition
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) Neither (a) nor (b)

(viii) Select the option that makes the correct use of ‘destination’ as used in para 1.
(a) We will reach our destination by 6 o’clock.
(b) She is working hard to reach her destination.
(c) Shimla is her favourite destination.
(d) The cinema hall is the largest entertainment destination in the city.

(ix) According to the passage, success can be achieved by working smarter not diligently. (True/False)
(x) The synonym of the word ‘viewpoint’ as given in para 3 is …………

Answers:

(i)(c) Both (a) and (b)
(ii) (d) All of these
(iii) (d) take all challenges with strong determination.
(iv) (b) Option 2
(v) (b) right skills.
(vi) (d) All of these
(vii) (c) Both (a) and (b)
(viii) (b) She is working hard to reach her destination.
(ix) False
(x) attitude

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PASSAGE-4

1. Overpowering prey is a challenge for creatures that do not have limbs. Some species like Russell’s viper inject poison. Some others opt for an alternative non-chemical method — rat snakes, for instance, catch and push their prey against the ground, while pythons use their muscle power to crush their prey to death. But snakes can’t be neatly divided into poisonous and non-poisonous categories.
2. Even species I listed as non-poisonous aren’t completely free of poison. The common Sand Boa, for instance, produces secretions particularly poisonous to birds. So the species doesn’t take any chance – it crushes its prey and injects poison as an extra step. Do vipers need poison powerful enough to kill hundreds of rats with just one drop? After all, they eat only one or two at a time. While hunting animals try their worst to kill most efficiently, their prey use any trick to avoid becoming a meal, such as developing immunity to poison. For instance, Californian ground squirrels are resistant to Northern Pacific rattlesnake poison.
3. Competition with prey is not the only thing driving snakes to evolve more and more deadly poison. Snakes also struggle to avoid becoming prey themselves. Some snake killers have partial immunity to poison. Famously, mongooses are highly resistant to cobra poison, and with their speed and agility, kill snakes fearlessly. It would be the death of cobras as a species if they didn’t evolve a more deadly poison to stop mongooses. Poison has another important role. It’s an extreme meat softener; specific enzymes break up the insides of the prey. Normally, a reptile depends on the sun’s warm rays to aid digestion.
4. But I wonder if we cannot use venom in our favour. In remote parts of India, local hospitality often involves leather-tough meat. I chew and chew until my jaws ache. If I spit it out or refuse, our hosts would be offended, I swallow like a python stuffing a deer down its throat and hope I don’t choke. If only I had poison.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions.

(i) “But snakes can’t be neatly divided into poisonous and non-poisonous categories.” Choose the term which best matches the statement.
(a) Over-confidence
(b) Certainty
(c) Dilemma
(d) Ignorance

(ii) Which of the characteristics is apt about the writer in the context: “If I spit it out or refuse, our hosts would be offended”?
(a) Reckless
(b) Compelled
(c) Patient
(d) Negligent

(iii) Hunting animals try their worst to kill their prey. What does their prey do to avoid becoming their meal?
(a) It develops strength to fight with them.
(b) It develops immunity to poison/venom.
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) Neither (a) nor (b)

(iv) Some snake killers have partial immunity to:
(a) dangerous bacteria
(b) dangerous virus
(c) poisonous air
(d) poison

(v) The narrator chews and chews the leather-tough meat until his jaws ache, for fear of:
(a) his hosts
(b) his guests
(c) pythons
(d) choking

(vi) Which one of these animals is NOT a reptile?

(a) Option (1)
(b) Option (2)
(c) Option (3)
(d) Option (4)

(vii) Select the option that makes the correct use of ‘driving’, as used in para 3.
(a) Don’t talk while driving your car.
(b) He is driving his sheep into a field.
(c) Hunger is driving him to speak lie.
(d) He is driving his team efficiently.

(viii) A mongoose cannot kill a cobra. (True/False)
(ix) Snakes strive to evolve a more deadly poison, so that their prey have no chance to ………..
(x) Choose the option that correctly states the meanings of ‘offended’, as used in pare 4.
1. disgusting
2. upset
3. wrong
4. displeased
5. unlawful
(a) 1 and 2           (b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 5           (d) 4 and 5

Answers:

(i) (c) Dilemma
(ii) (b) Compelled
(iii) (b) It develops immunity to poison/venom.
(iv) (d) poison
(v) (a) his hosts
(vi) (c) Option (3)
(vii) (c) Hunger is driving him to speak lie.
(viii) False
(ix) remain alive
(x) (b) 2 and 4

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PASSAGE- 5

1. “Why does humanity need Superman?”, wrote Lois Lane, the reporter from the Superman series. It’s a very relevant question in our context too. Why do we need superheroes? We are all enchanted by the action sequences in superhero movies, and also by how the superhero can always save the day – and with good reasons. If you’re trying to guess what it is, you can forget about powers like super-strength, laser vision, or — our personal favourite — the ability to consume any type of matter in the universe. The underlying reason we’re so enamoured of them is quite possibly the best superhero power – the way they can inspire and motivate us. From the smallest boy and girl wonders, to the oldest Captains – each superhero has had their own lesson to impart unto all of us.
2. Whether it’s Batman saving Gotham city, Superman saving humanity, or our very own Krissh saving his fellow countrymen – we need superheroes because they give us the hope and strength we need to fight the injustice we encounter today. It’s like Batman once said, “Sometimes the truth isn’t good enough. Sometimes people deserve more. Sometimes people deserve to have their faith rewarded.” Yes, it’s true that we need faith today, when we know a lot tends to go wrong, whether it is with regard to terrorism, or growing crime – people need the hope and strength they get from superheroes. That’s why we need superheroes, because of how they give us a sense of right, which helps us fight the injustice happening around us. It was best summarised by Superman when he said that “There is a superhero in all of us, we just need the courage to put on the cape,” and by Batman in the Dark Knight, when he said that “You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.”
3. So, every time we choose to see a superhero movie, it gives us a nudge to fight the unjust with our own ideas o r capabilities. Every child and adult that watches superhero movies will be motivated to rise above the injustice happening in the real world. It’s not just about the power, but also the principle. You and I can also be a superhero just by helping our neighbours, and by standing against what is wrong. Whether the situation is political or apolitical, injustice can be fought with thoughts of righteousness and courage.
4. From the day we are born, we are told that power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely, but superheroes fan our subconscious desire for greatness. They also teach us that the greatest power is the integrity that keeps us from going down the wrong path. None of us will ever leap a tall building in a single bound, change the course of a mighty river, or bend steel with our bare hands but we can always return that lost wallet with its contents intact, tell the truth when it matters, stand our ground when it’s easier to walk away and unto others as we would want them to do unto us.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions.

(i) Identify the sentence where the word “bestow” has been used incorrectly.
(a) He was ever-ready to take blame on himself and bestow praise on others.
(b) During the ceremony, the Prime Minister will bestow medals of honour to the brave soldiers who rescued their comrades.
(c) The king will bestow a title and land to the man who saved the princess.
(d) If you want to avoid a misunderstanding, I bestow you to consider your words before speaking.

(ii) According to the writer, how can a common man become a superhero?
1. Bend steel, change the course of rivers
2. Stand up against injustice, return that wallet intact
3. Help around the neighbourhood
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1 and 2

(iii) Select the option that makes the correct use of “righteousness”, as used in para 3.
(a) Both sides in the dispute adopted a tone of moral righteousness.
(b) The newspaper reports are a righteousness of gossip.
(c) She was confused about obligation and righteousness.
(d) Cultural contexts bring righteousness in international relations.

(iv) What are the two things we need to fight injustice today?
(a) Superpower and superhero
(b) Truth and faith
(c) Hope and strength
(d) Hope and confidence

(v) What are the two meanings of “encounter” as used in para 2 ?
1. To experience something unpleasant
2. To experience something unexpected
3. To affect something
4. To cover with a thin layer
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 2 and 3

(vi) Despite our age and status in life, few enigmatic qualities endear us to superheroes. Select the correct options from below:
1. Give our subconscious a desire for greatness
2. Have a lesson to bestow
3. Inspire and motivate us
4. Give us hope to fight the bad

(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

(vii) “There is a superhero in all of us, we just need the courage to put on the cape.” By this, Superman is implying that:
(a) the cape is heavy and not everyone can bear it
(b) we all have special powers
(c) the ability to fight the unjust with our own ideas or capabilities is present in all of us
(d) society needs superheroes

(viii) Write a suitable title for this passage.
(ix) The central idea of the passage is ‘Fight the injustice’. (True/False)
(x) The antonym of ‘fragility’ as given in para 4 is ………..

Answers:

(i)(d) If you want to avoid a misunderstanding, I bestow you to consider your words before speaking.
(ii) (b) 2 and 3
(iii) (a) Both sides in the dispute adopted a tone of moral righteousness .
(iv) (c) Hope and strength
(v) (a) 1 and 2
(vi) (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(vii) (c) the ability to fight the unjust with our own ideas or capabilities is present in all of us
(viii) Humanity Needs Superheroes
(ix) True
(x) integrity

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PASSAGE-6

1. Nature is our mother, our first teacher. The greatest lesson that she teaches us is to maintain an equilibrium in life. We learn to maintain composure through our joys, sorrows and fears. In fact, there are a thousand lessons that nature can teach us, provided we look for them.
2. With time, a sapling grows into a full-grown tree; something so tiny and delicate develops into a strong tree capable of supporting others. No matter how tall it grows, how much it may flourish, or how many animals and birds it may support, its roots are firmly buried from where it once rose. That’s a lesson -to keep ourselves grounded, respect and embrace our roots, and give something back to those humble beginnings that nurtured us into who we are.
3. Then there is the message of peaceful coexistence. ‘I am because we are.’ Nature provides every creature a chance to exist. However, the existence of one creature or being depends on the existence of the other. The tiger eats the antelope; without the antelope, the tiger wouldn’t survive. Likewise, without tigers, the over-abundance of antelopes would cause them to starve to death.
4. I wonder if you have noticed that when birds or squirrels see a predator, they give out an alarm call to their fellow creatures, of the lurking danger. They put themselves in danger to save the lives of others. Many animals, like the salmon, usually die after they spawn, but this doesn’t stop them. One life extinguished for the betterment of others is a small price to pay.
5. The snow melts in the warmth of spring to give birth to fresh green leaves. In autumn these leaves age into shades of gold only to be buried in the cold grave of winter. Change is inevitable; the sooner we embrace this, the better it is for us. We must also understand that even in pain there is growth. If you cut a hole in the tree, it will grow around it. No matter what may come in its way, a river will continue to flow. Similarly, no matter what grief may break your heart, nature teaches us that life goes on.
6. Keep in mind life isn’t about making lists and trying to be one step ahead of others. Life is to live. Take a break-stop being a workaholic, and smell the roses, do whatever makes you feel happy and most of all spend some time with nature to pick up invaluable lessons.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions.

(i) According to the author, what, from the following, is the greatest lesson being taught by nature?
(a) Balanced in our emotions.
(b) Partial to joys in life.
(c) Afraid of unhappiness.
(d) Indifferent to fears.

(ii) Select the option that suitably completes the dialogue with reference to paragraph II.
Jai: I’ve done well for myself in this school. I’m the best they have. I can get admission anywhere. This is my moment!
Sid: Congratulations! Just remember, we should ……….
(a) become strong despite our weakness.
(b) be kind and supportive towards everyone.
(c) respect the origins from where we have grown.
(d) nurture ourselves well from the beginning.

(iii) Choose the option that best conveys the message in —’I am because we are.’
(a) Tigers are dependent on antelope
(b) Antelope are dependent on tigers
(c) Humans are dependent on animals
(d)Everyone is dependent on each other

(iv) What qualities do the birds and squirrels display when they warn others of possible danger? Choose one option from the following:
(a) Observation skills and alertness.
(b) Tendency to get easily frightened.
(c) Selfless assistance to help others.
(d) Determination to protect themselves.

(v) Select the option with the underlined words that can suitably replace lurking (paragraph 4).
(a) The policeman pulled up the person who was wandering aimlessly through the city.
(b) The thief knew that remaining hidden was the best strategy to avoid being caught
(c) The policeman was caught on camera while pouncing with force, to grab the fleeing culprit.
(d) The thief was walking boldly into the house thinking it was devoid of residents.

(vi) A Portmanteau words like smog (smoke + fog), is a blend of words in which parts of multiple words are combined into a new word.
From the options given below, select a Portmanteau word that appears in the para 6.
(a) coexistence
(b) workaholic
(c) full-grown
(d) flourish

(vii) Select the qualities from paragraph III, that the author wants us to imbibe.
Being–
(1) acceptive
(2) passionate
(3) emotional
(4) resilient
 (5) perceptive

(a) (2), (4) and (5)
(b) (1), (3) and (4)
(c) (1), (4) and (6)
(d) (3), (4) and (5)

(viii) Choose the option that lists the quote best expressing the central idea of the passage.
(a) Nature: She pardons no mistakes. Her yea is yea, and her nay, nay. — Ralph Waldo Emerson
(b)Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. — A. Einstein
(c)Nature never deceives us; it is we who deceive ourselves. — Jean Jacques Rousseau
(d) All the ugliness of the world can best be forgotten in the beauty of nature! —Mehmet Murat

(ix) In para 6, the writer advises us to have ………. for ourselves.
(x) Find a word in para 4 which means ‘being present secretly’.

Answers:

(i)(a) Balanced in our emotions.
(ii) (c) respect the origins from where we have grown.
(iii) (d) Everyone is dependent on each other
(iv) (c) Selfless assistance to help others.
(v) (b) The thief knew that remaining hidden was the best strategy to avoid being caught.
(vi) (b) workaholic
(vii) (c) (1), (4) and (5)
(viii) (b) Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.   —A. Einstein
(ix) free time
(x) lurking

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Passage 7

1. Cardamom, known as the queen of all spices, boasts a history as ancient as the human race itself. It is the dried fruit of a herbaceous perennial plant. A warm, humid climate, loamy soil rich in organic matter, distributed rainfall, and specialized cultivation and processing methods all combine to render Indian cardamom truly unique in aroma, flavor, size, and its distinct parrot green color.
2. Two types of cardamom are produced in India. The first type, the larger variety, holds less significance as it is not traded in the futures market. It is cultivated in the north-eastern regions of the country. The second type, produced in the southern states, is actively traded in the futures market. This variety is primarily cultivated in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. As per the futures market rules, only the 7 mm quality was initially traded in exchanges. However, the norms were relaxed, and now the 6 mm quality is also traded.
3. Cardamom is an expensive spice, second only to saffron. Indian cardamom is known in two main varieties: Malabar and Mysore. The Mysore variety, containing high levels of cineol and limonene, is more aromatic. India has emerged as the world’s largest producer and exporter of cardamom.
4. The main harvest season for cardamom in India spans from August to February. Cardamom reaches the yielding stage two years after plantation. The primary physical markets for cardamom include Kumily, Vandiperiyar, Thekkady, Puliyarmala in Kerala, and Bodinayakanur and Cumbum in Tamil Nadu.

5. Kerala is the principal producer of cardamom, contributing up to 60% of the total production. Karnataka accounts for around 25% of the production. In Tamil Nadu, Ooty is the major producer, contributing approximately 10-15% of the total output. Besides India, Guatemala also produces around 1,000-2,000 tons of cardamom annually. However, due to its lower quality, Guatemalan cardamom is available at cheaper rates.

Question 1- Why does the passage describe cardamom as the “queen of all spices”?

A. Due to its ancient history.
B. Because of its versatile usage in cooking.
C. Owing to its unique aroma and flavor.
D. Because it is the most expensive spice.

Question 2- What does the passage imply about the role of climate and soil in the cultivation of Indian cardamom?

A. They are essential but not unique to India.
B. They uniquely contribute to the quality of Indian cardamom.
C. They have little impact on the cultivation process.
D. They are more important for cardamom than other spices.

Question 3- According to the passage, why might the larger variety of cardamom be less significant in the market?

A. It has a weaker aroma and flavor.
B. It is not traded in the futures market.
C. It is only cultivated in limited areas.
D. It is more expensive than the smaller variety.

Question 4- What does the passage suggest about the global production of cardamom?

A. India and Guatemala are the only producers of cardamom.
B. Guatemala rivals India in the quality of cardamom.
C. India leads in quality, while Guatemala competes in price.
D. Indian cardamom is less expensive than its global counterparts.

Question 5- Complete the following sentence based on the passage: “Indian cardamom is distinct because of its _______, which contributes to its high demand in the global market.”

Question 6- Based on the passage, how does the cultivation of cardamom in India reflect the country’s agricultural practices and climate?

Question 7- True or False: According to the passage, the main reason for the lower market significance of the larger variety of cardamom is its limited cultivation area.

Question 8- The passage contains words that have opposite meanings. From the following sets (a) to (e), identify two sets of antonyms:

(1) Ancient and Modern                    
(2) Unique and Common
(3) Expensive and Cheap                   
(4) Limited and Extensive
(5) Humid and Arid

(a) Option 1 and 3                         
(b) Option 2 and 4
(c) Option 3 and 5                         
(d) Option 1 and 5

(e) Option 2 and 5

Question 9- Which of the following titles would be the most appropriate for the passage?

A. “The Global Spice Trade: A Comprehensive Overview”
B. “Cardamom: The Queen of Spices and Its Journey”
C. “Agricultural Practices in India: A Case Study”
D. “The Economic Impact of Spices in the International Market”

Question 10- State whether the following lines from the passage display an example of a simple, complex, emotionally charged, or downright weird passage.

“Cardamom is an expensive spice, second only to saffron. Indian cardamom is known in two main varieties: Malabar and Mysore.”

Solution

Answer-1: C. Owing to its unique aroma and flavor.
Answer-2: B. They uniquely contribute to the quality of Indian cardamom.
Answer-3: B. It is not traded in the futures market.
Answer-4: C. India leads in quality, while Guatemala competes in price.
Answer-5:  special aroma and color or similar
Answer-6: Indian cardamom cultivation showcases specialized agricultural practices tailored to the warm, humid climate and rich, loamy soil, highlighting regional agricultural adaptability.
Answer-7: False. 
Answer-8: (c) Option 3 and 5 – “Expensive and Cheap” and “Humid and Arid”
Answer-9: B. “Cardamom: The Queen of Spices and Its Journey”
Answer-10: Simple.

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Passage 8

Subhash Chandra Bose passed through quarters inhabited by Englishmen and also met a large number of them in the tram cars. The British using these cars were purposely rude and offensive to Indians in various ways. The sensitive mind of Subhash revolted against such insulting and rude behavior of the British. On many occasions, there was an exchange of hot words between him and misbehaving British. Majority of the students of the Presidency College, where he studied, were free thinkers. The college continued to be a storm centre and was looked upon by the British Government “as a hotbed of sedition, rendezvous of revolutionaries” and was frequently searched by the police. The first two years of his life were greatly influenced by the group, which styled itself as the neo-Vivekananda group and Subhash developed intellectually during this period. The group generally followed the teachings of Rama Krishna and Vivekananda with special emphasis on social service as means of spiritual development and was non-aligned to a revolutionary group. The shock of the Great World War roused his political consciousness. He graduated at the age of 22 and enrolled himself for the postgraduate with experimental psychology as a special subject.

His father, however, wanted him to go to England to appear for the Indian Civil Services. In spite of his mental reservations, Subhash took it as a challenge. In England, he was greatly impressed with the freedom allowed to students at Cambridge. Every student behaved in a dignified manner. Notwithstanding his preoccupation with his studies, he displayed his public spirit and fearlessness throughout his stay in England. He and K. L. Gouba were selected by the Indian Majlis, to represent the British Government the difficulties the Indian students encountered for admission to the University Officers’ Training Corps. Though he took a harsh view of the British high handedness and racial arrogance, he did admire their qualities which exacted him. He himself behaved there in a dignified way and was of the view that Indians who go abroad, must consider themselves to be unofficial ambassadors of the country, who should uphold their country’s prestige. He was quite serious in purpose and disliked anybody wasting time on trivialities.

On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below:

(i) Who were selected by the Indian Majlis?

a) Subhash Chandra Bose and KL Gouba

b) Jawahar Lal Nehru

c) Mahatma Gandhi

d) none of the above

(ii) Majority of the students of the Presidency college were _______________.

a) radical

b) arrogant

c) unhappy

d) free thinkers

(iii) Whose teachings did the group generally followed?

a) Mahatma Gandhi

b) Rabindranath Tagore

c) Rama Krishna

d) Lala Lajpat Rai

(iv) Subhash Chandra’s father wanted him to go to England and appear for what?

a) Barrister’s exam

b) Indian Civil Services

c) Start the freedom movement

d) Judiciary exam

(v) At what age Subhash enrolled for his postgraduation?

a) 20 years

b) 25 years

c) 22 years

d) 21 years

(vi) Where is Cambridge University?

a) England

b) Germany

c) United States of America

d) France

(vii) What does 'inhabited by' mean in the passage?

a) Occupied by

b) living with

c) destroyed by

d) owned by

(viii) Identify synonym of trivial

a)Insignificant

b) simple

c) significant

d) rare

Answers:

i) (a)Subhash Chandra Bose and KL Gouba

ii) (d)free thinkers

iii) (c)Rama Krishna

iv) (b) Indian Civil Services

v) (c) 22 years

vi) (a) England

vii) (a) Occupied by

viii) (a) Insignificant

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Passage 9

One day Nandu rode his horse to the village fair. On his way back he met Somendra, the merchant. The merchant was a crafty man, ready to do anything to earn some money. The villagers knew this. In fact no one knew what trick he would be up to next. Now, Nandu was poor and had no one in the world to call his own except a beautiful, white horse. He loved it more than anything else in the world. The merchant had his eye on the horse for a long time and tried to think of a way to get it for himself. Seeing Nandu, the merchant thought, Nandu is a simpleton. Let me see if I can trick him out of his horse. So he said to Nandu, You live all alone. How do you manage? What does a young boy like you need with a horse? Sell it to me and I shall make you rich in return. Nandu replied, "No I don’t want to sell my horse."

But the merchant refused to give up so easily. He offered Nandu more money. Finally, when the offer reached five hundred gold coins, Nandu paused and said. Five hundred gold coins seems like a good price. But I have a condition. If you agree to it, I shall give you my horse. "What is it?", the merchant asked impatiently. "Give me the money right now and I shall give you my horse when I have given you ten lashes." After all he would resell the horse for over a thousandgold coins in the market. He would take twenty lashes for such a gain. He agreed instantly. He ran home and got the money for Nandu and brought along his whip as well. Nandu counted the money carefully. He then took the whip and the lashes fell on the merchant’s back in quick succession. By the eighth lash the merchant was almost in tears but he told himself that there were only two lashes to go and the horse would be his. The merchant held his breath waiting for the final lashes. But Nandu had mounted his horse and was riding off. "Wait!", shouted the merchant in anger. "What about the last lashes? Where are you going with the horse? We had a deal.

Nandu stopped and said, "I agree to give you the horse only after I had given you ten lashes. But it is upsetting my horse. I’ll give you the last lashes later. Till then goodbye!" "Come back you cheat!", the merchant shouted. But the crowd that had gathered around agreed with Nandu. A deal was a deal. Till the last lash was given, the horse could not belong to the merchant. Nandu rode away richer by five hundred gold coins and Somendra waited in vain for several days for the final lash which never came.

On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below:

i)Why did the merchant offer to buy Nandu’s horse?

a) He was very fond of the horse and wanted it for himself

b) It was his way of helping Nandu who was poor.

c) The horse would be useful for carrying goods to the market.

d) He hated Nandu and wanted to deprive him of something he loved.

ii)Which of the following is TRUE in the context of the passage?

1. Nandu was an orphan.

2. The merchant was very persevering.

3. The merchant was fond of Nandu's horse.

a) None

b) Only 1

c) Both 1 & 2

d) All 1, 2 and 3

iii)Why did Nandu set the condition of giving the merchant ten lashes?

a) To discourage the merchant from buying his horse.

b) To demonstrate how painful a whipping was so that the merchant would never hit the horse.

c) To bargain with the merchant to offer more money.

d) To outwit the merchant who was trying to cheat him.

iv)Why did the bystanders take Nandu’s side in the argument?

1. They hoped that Nandu would give them a reward from the five hundred gold coins he had earned.

2. They were sure that the merchant would ill treat the horse and wanted to prevent that from happening.

3. They knew that the merchant was a cheat and Nandu would be miserable without his horse of whom he was very fond.

a) Only 1

b) Both 1 & 3

c) Only 3

d) None of these

v)What reason did Nandu cite for not giving the merchant the final lashes?

a) His horse was distressed by the whipping.

b) He realised that the merchant was in great pain and took pity on him.

c) He was following the advice of the people around.

d) He had changed his mind about selling his horse.

vi)Which of the following can be said about Nandu?

1. He was very cunning.

2. He needed money.

3. He was cruel to people but loved animals.

a) None of these

b) Both 1 & 2

c) Both 2 & 3

d) All 1, 2 and 3

vii)Choose the word that is synonym of “crafty”

a) skilled

b) naive

c) cunning

d) honest

viii) Choose the word that is synonym of “PAUSED”

a) Halted

b) Relaxed

c) Ended

d) Stuck

Answers:

i) (a)He was very fond of the horse and wanted it for himself

ii) (d) All 1, 2 and 3

iii) (d)To outwit the merchant who was trying to cheat him

iv) (c) Only 3

v) (a) His horse was distressed by the whipping.

vi) (a)None of these

vii) (c)cunning

viii) (a) Halted

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Passage 10

Cardamom, the Queen of all spices, has a history as old as the human race. It is the dried fruit of a herbaceous perennial plant. Warm humid climate, loamy soil rich in organic matter, distributed rainfall and special cultivation and processing methods all combine to make Indian cardamom truly unique in aroma, flavour, size and it has a parrot green colour. Two types of cardamom are produced in India. The first type is the large one, which has not much significance as it is not traded in the future market. It is cultivated in North-eastern area of the country. The second type is produced in the Southern states and these are traded in the future market. These are mainly cultivated in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. As per the future market rules, only 7 mm quality was previously traded in exchanges. But later, it relaxed its norms, and now 6 mmquality is also traded in the exchanges. The small variety, known for its exotic quality throughout the world, is now traded in India’s commodity future exchanges. Traditional auction markets also exist for trading in small cardamom in the country. Cardamom is an expensive spice, second only to saffron. It is often adulterated and there are many inferior substitutes from cardamom-related plants such as Siam cardamom, Nepal cardamom, Winged Java cardamom, etc. However, it is only Elettaria cardamom which is the true cardamom. Indian cardamom is known in two main varieties: Malabar cardamom and Mysore cardamom.

The Mysore variety contains levels of cineol and limonene and hence is more aromatic. India was the world’s largest producer and exporter of cardamom till the 1980s. By 1990s Guatemala emerged as the leading producer and exporter of cardamom. The main harvest season of cardamom in India is between August-February. Cardamom reaches yielding stage two years after planting. The primary physical markets of cardamom are Kumily, Vandenmedu, Thekkady, Puliyarmala in Kerala and Bodynaikkannur and Cumbam in Tamil Nadu. Cardamom auctions also take place in Sakalespur and Sirsi in Karnataka. North India is the main market for cardamom produced in the country. Normally, domestic demand goes up during the major festivals such as Diwali, Dussehra and Eid. Colour, size and aroma are the major variables that shape cardamom prices in the Indian market.

Cardamom price formation in India is also influenced by the output in Guatemala as that country controls the global markets. Kerala is the main producer of cardamom and contributes up to 60% in total production. Karnataka produces around 25% cardamom of the total production. Ooty is the main producer of cardamom in Tamil Nadu and contributes around 10-15% of the total production. Besides India, Guatemala also produces around 2,200-ton cardamom. On the other hand, India produces nearly 1,000-2,000-ton cardamom per year. Due to low quality of cardamom from Guatemala, it remains available at cheaper rates. Moreover, cardamom of Indian origin fetches $ 3-4 per kilogram higher rates than the ones from Guatemala.

On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions:

(i) Indian cardamom is unique because of its?

a) aroma, flavour and size

b) parrot green colour

c) processing methods

d) all of these

(ii) Which of the following is not the features of second type of the cardamom?

a) It is produced in the Southern states

b) it is not traded in the future market

c) It is produced in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

d) It is produced in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh

(iii) What is special about the Mysore quality of cardamom?

a) It is more expensive than saffron.

b) It contains cineol and limonene

c) It is the least aromatic

d) It is the true cardamom

iv) Which of the following is true about the role of Guatemala cardamom in the global market?

a) Guatemala is the second largest producers and exporter of cardamom in the world.

b) It has no control on global market.

c) Guatemala produces around 2200-ton cardamom per year.

d) None of these

v) The main market for cardamom in our country is:

a) Assam and Meghalaya

b) Maharashtra and Gujrat

c) Kerala and Karnataka

d) North India

vi) Which of the following is the adulterated cardamom?

a) Elettaria cardamom

b) Winged Java cardamom

c) Malabar cardamom

d) Mysore cardamom

vii) Find words from the options given below which mean the same as “permanent”:

a) unique

b) perennial

c) exotic

d) old

(viii) Make poor in quality by adding another substance:

a) adulterated

b) emerged

c) contribute

d) remain

Answers:

i) (d)all of these

ii) (d)It is produced in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh

iii) (b) It contains cineol and limonene

iv) (c) Guatemala produces around 2200-ton cardamom per year.

v) (c)Kerala and Karnataka

vi) (b)Winged Java cardamom

vii) (b)perennial

viii) (c)aroma

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Passage 11

Mind management is a way to control one’s mind. To do this, we need to be cautious about our thinking process and also need a high level of understanding and meditation as well. Understanding is wisdom – 80 percent of people are knowledgeable, while 20 per cent are wise. Knowledgeable men take sides without reason. They feel sad seeing deprived people but jealous when they see happy people. They work in the guidance of others’ inspiration, take unnecessary responsibility to keep themselves disturbed.

A wise person does not stand for or against any idea without concrete reason. He works according to the situation and capacity. He looks at everything intellectually. To him, failure is a stepping stone for future success. So, depression and conflict are not seen. Like the phrase ‘Stop, Look, go’, first one should see, and this needs patience. Meditation is necessary to control and manage mind which then becomes an easy task.

Unless we control or manage our mind, it is difficult to achieve success and peace. Psychologists say every interest is first born in the mind as a seed. Then it continues to grow. Later it takes its real form which everybody can see. The interest that first appears in the mind remains weak for the first three minutes and it becomes strong within the next five minutes. All the negative aspects should be deleted within the first three minutes. If not taken out, they would become stronger later and you can never throw them out. After taking control over the mind, we can control passion, interest and unrest. Mind management is essential for a peaceful, successful and healthy life.

The age of computers has thrown us on the escalator of aspirations but has robbed us of simple charms like falling asleep. The compulsions of hectic schedules burden the mind and cause stress. However, the joys that elude us can be regained by practising power meditation. It creates tranquillity, simplifies life and cleanses the mind. It helps control indolence, ego and anger and builds confidence and patience. With power meditation, negative thoughts get dissipated and a sense of happiness is achieved.

On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below:

i) Mind management is essential ..............................

a) for a peaceful, successful, and a healthy life

b) to remain fit

c) for a wealthy life

d) to dominate others

ii) Traits exhibited by knowledgeable people are ..............................

a) they take sides without reason

b) they are sympathetic to the deprived people

c) they are jealous of happy people

d) all of the above

iii) we can control -------

a) passion

b) unrest

c) interest

d) all of these

iv) ----- percent of people are knowledgeable and ------- percent are wise.

a) 60; 40

b) 90; 10

c) 80; 20

d) 50; 50

v) choose the trait of a wise man.

a) feels jealous seeing happy people

b) takes sides without reason

c) works according to the situation

d) takes unnecessary responsibility

vi) The age of computers has robbed us of simple charms of life. True/ False

vii) Meditation causes -----

a) simplifies life

b) creates tranquillity

c) cleanses the mind

d) all of these

viii) Find the word from the passage which means the same as “based on facts, not on ideas”. (Para 2)

a) soft

b) concrete

c) different

d) difficult

Answers

i). a) peaceful, successful and healthy life

ii) d) all of these

iii) d) all of these

iv) c) 80;20

v) c) works according to a situation

vi) true

vii) iv)all of these

viii) ii) concrete

                                                                       *****