SET~1

Series FH1EG/C

Roll No.

Q.P. Code 1/C/1

Candidates must write the Q.P. Code

on the title page of the answer-book.

• Please check that this question paper contains 19 printed pages.

Q.P. Code given on the right hand side of the question paper should be written on the title page of the answer-book by the candidate.

Please check that this question paper contains 13 questions.

Please write down the serial number of the question in the answer-book before attempting it.

15 minute time has been allotted to read this question paper. The question paper will be distributed at 10.15 a.m. From 10.15 a.m. to 10.30 a.m., the students will read the question paper only and will not write any answer on the answer-book during this period.

ENGLISH (Core)

Time allowed : 3 hours

Maximum Marks: 80

General Instructions:

Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:

1. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. This question paper contains three sections — Section A: Reading Skills, Section B: Creative Writing Skills and Section C: Literature.
3. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question number and part thereof in your answer sheet.
4. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.
5. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.

Λ 1/C/1

P.T.O.

SECTION A

<math>(20 \text{ marks})</math>

Reading Skills

1. Read the passage given below:

1 The art of conversation, like any art, is a skill of elegance, nuance and creative execution. I happen to believe that there is an art to everything we do, and why not? Without flair and panache most things become a drudgery. Why settle for drudgery when you can have art?

2 When it comes to the art of conversation, we've all met people who seem to have the knack for it. They can talk to anybody about anything and they seem to do it with complete ease. And while it's true that there are those who are born with the gift of the gab, luckily for the rest of us, conversation skills can be developed and mastered.

3 Conversation is a form of communication; however, it is usually more spontaneous and less formal. We enter into conversations for purposes of pleasant engagement in order to meet new people, to find out information and to enjoy social interactions. As far as types of conversation, they vary anywhere from intellectual conversations and information exchanges to friendly debates and witty banter.

4 While there is more to having good conversation skills than being a comedian, a dramatic actor, or a great story teller, it is not necessary to become more gregarious, animated, or outgoing.

5 Instead, you can develop the ability to listen attentively, ask fitting questions, and pay attention to the answers — all qualities essential to the art of conversation. With diligent practice and several good pointers, anyone can improve his or her conversation skills.

6 People who are genuinely interested in others are usually interesting themselves. Why? Because they are more open to learning about and understanding new things. Showing interest also encourages the other person to be relaxed and share information more freely. Display attentiveness by keeping good eye contact and listening actively.

1/C/1

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