CBSE Class 12 Question Paper 2026 English Core

FOR CBSE CLASS 12 EXAM PREPARATION

CBSE Class 12
2026
Question Paper ·
English
EXAM YEAR TYPE SUBJECT

CBSE Class 12 2026 Question Paper English
DETAILS

Core

Notes · Sample Papers · Previous Year Papers · Mock Tests

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SET-1
Series Q3SPR
Q.P. Code 1/3/1

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Candidates must write the Q.P. Code on
Roll No.
. c the title page of the answer-book.
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NOTE
(I) Please check that this question paper contains 19 printed pages.
(II) 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.
(III) Please check that this question paper contains 13 questions.
(IV) Please write down the Serial Number of the question in the answer-

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book at the given place before attempting it.
(V)
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15 minute time has been allotted to read this question paper. The question
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paper will be distributed at 10.15 a.m. From 10.15 a.m. to 10.30 a.m., the
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candidates will read the question paper only and will not write any answer on
the answer-book during this period.
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*121M19* ENGLISH (Core)
Time allowed : 3 hours Maximum Marks : 80

General Instructions :
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them :
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(i)
mThis question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.
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(ii) This question paper contains three sections — Section A : Reading Skills,
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se (iii) Attempt all questions based on specific instructions aforglaeach part. Write the
Section B : Creative Writing Skills and Section C : Literature.

correct question number and part thereof in your answer sheet.
(iv) Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.
(v) Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.
(vi) All the names, addresses, etc. used in the questions are fictitious. Resemblance, if
any, is purely coincidental.

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SECTION A

Reading Skills (22 marks)

1. Read the following passage carefully : 12

(1) Science fiction, often abbreviated as sci-fi, is a genre of literature and
film that explores imaginative and futuristic concepts such as advanced
technology, space exploration, time travel, and extra-terrestrial life.
While sci-fi has long captivated audiences in western countries, its
growth in India has been comparatively slower. However, the genre is
gradually gaining popularity among Indian readers and writers.

(2) One of the major advantages of science fiction is its ability to stimulate
imagination and curiosity. It encourages readers to think beyond the
present and explore possibilities that lie in the future. For students and
young readers, sci-fi can act as a bridge between literature and science,
making learning more engaging. Books like Isaac Asimov’s Foundation
or Indian writer Samit Basu’s Turbulence have introduced scientific
ideas in exciting narratives.

(3) Science fiction also reflects social and ethical concerns. In a rapidly
changing world, sci-fi allows authors to speculate on how technology
might shape society, for better or worse. In India, where issues like
climate change, overpopulation, and digital surveillance are becoming
more relevant, science fiction provides a creative lens through which
these problems can be examined.

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(4) Despite its potential, science fiction remains a niche genre in India.
One of the key disadvantages is the lack of access to quality sci-fi
literature in Indian languages. Most of the well-known works are
written in English, which limits their reach. Moreover, there is a lack
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of mainstream platforms that promote Indian sci-fi writers. Many
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(5) To enhance the science fiction reading experience in India, several
steps can be taken. Schools and colleges can include sci-fi stories in
their curriculum to expose students to the genre early on. Indian
authors should be encouraged to write in regional languages to broaden
the audience base. Libraries and online platforms can host reading
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clubs and discussions to make science fiction more interactive and
engaging.
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(6) In conclusion, science fictionla
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With the right support and exposure, it can become a powerful tool to
inspire imagination, promote scientific thinking, and spark
conversations about the future.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

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(ii) Complete the following suitably.
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In paragraph 1, the author uses the word ‘comparatively’ to
highlight ___________ .

(iii) Identify one advantage of science fiction with reference to
paragraph 2. 1
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(iv) Why does the writer refer to science fiction as a ‘bridge’ ?
(Paragraph 2) 1
Because :
(A) it connects youth to adults.
(B) it makes learning more interactive.
(C) it supports introduction to reading among early readers.
(D) it helps build better engineers and doctors.

(v) ‘...science fiction provides a creative lens through which these
problems can be examined.’ (Paragraph 3) 2

In the given line, what does the phrase ‘creative lens’ refer to ?

(vi) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 4. 1
possibility : potential :: unique : ________
(A) mainstream
(B) access
(C) homegrown
(D) niche

(vii) Why is science fiction still not very popular in India ? (Paragraph 4) 1

(viii) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph 4 to prove
that there is a lack of mainstream platforms. 1

(ix) In what context does the author use the phrase ‘broaden the
audience base’ in paragraph 5 ? 1

(x) Assess the feasibility of steps suggested to promote science fiction in
India. (Paragraph 5) 2

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2. Read the following passage carefully : 10

(1) Introduction : Nutrition plays a critical role in human development,
especially during periods of growth, aging, and recovery. This case

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study explores the changing nutritional requirements across age
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groups —. from children to the elderly ⎯ highlighting how dietary
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habits
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(2)a Methodology : A team of dietitians conducted a three-month
observational study across five schools, two universities, three
workplaces, and two retirement communities. Nutritional intake was
recorded using food diaries, and health parameters were monitored
through BMI, energy levels, and blood reports.

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(3) Survey Examination : Participants were grouped into four age

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categories : children (6 – 12 years), adolescents (13 – 19 years), adults

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(20 – 59 years), and elderly (60+ years). Surveys assessed daily intake

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of macronutrients (carbohydrates,
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(vitamins and minerals),
frequency.

(4) Results : Children had higher energy and protein needs per kilogram
of body weight, essential for growth and cognitive development.
Adolescents showed increased calorie and calcium requirements due

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to rapid bone growth and hormonal changes. Adults required
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balanced intake to maintain weight and prevent chronic diseases,

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while the elderly needed more fibre, calcium and vitamin D to
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support bone health and digestion. Interestingly,
consumed the most processed foods, while elderly participants had
the most balanced diets due to regular meal routines. Adults often
skipped meals due to work stress. Dehydration was common in both
children and the elderly.

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(5) Implications and Interventions : The findings highlight the need
for age-specific dietary education. In schools, awareness programmes
on healthy snacks and hydration were introduced. For working
adults, meal planning workshops and healthy vending machines were
recommended. Retirement homes integrated vitamin D supplements
and fibre-rich meals into weekly menus. Across all groups, hydration
reminders were implemented using digital tools and scheduled water
breaks.

(6) Conclusion : Nutritional needs vary significantly with age,
influenced by physical, cognitive, and lifestyle factors. Regular
assessments and tailored interventions are essential for promoting
long-term health across populations.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Complete the following suitably.

In the introduction, the researcher links changing dietary
requirements to highlight __________. 1

(ii) What would the following be classified as ? 1

Nutritional intake was recorded using food diaries.

Select the appropriate response :
(A) Primary purpose
(B) Secondary objective
(C) Method of analysis
(D) Research outcome

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(iii) Give two points to support how the case study explored various age
groups. (Paragraphs 2, 3) 2

(iv)
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Paragraph 4 includes the words ‘development’ and ‘prevent’. Classify

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the following sentences as ‘development’ and ‘prevent’.
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Sentence

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a Sentence B : Adolescents need increased calcium so that their bone
kilogram

growth is not impacted.

(v) Although all age groups require balanced intake, why do the elderly
need more fibre ? (Paragraph 4) 1

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(vi)
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Complete the sentence suitably.s
lgive hydration reminders to ____________.
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Digital tools were used to 1
(A) ensure people did not get dehydrated
(B) avoid starvation
(C) ensure gradual weight loss
(D) balance consumption of processed food
(Paragraph 5)

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evidence to
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(viii) What is the key takeaway of the study ? 1

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SECTION B
Creative Writing Skills (18 marks)

3. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 14=4
(a) Your school is planning to conduct an inter-house handball
tournament. Write a notice for the school notice board informing the
students about the details of the tournament. Also include
participation criteria, registration process, and contact information.
You are Shivani/Shivam, President, Sports Club of
ABC International School, Newtown. Put your notice in a box.

OR

(b) You are Mr. Sunil Joshi, General Secretary of Resident Welfare
Association, Laxman Society, Rivernagar. Write a notice calling for a
meeting of the residents to discuss the proposal of installing solar
panels in your locality to meet the electricity demands of the society.
Include other necessary details. Put your notice in a box.

4. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 14=4

(a) You are the President of Student Council of XYZ Public School,
Hawapur. Your school is organising an Arts and Crafts Exhibition
as part of its Annual Day celebrations. On behalf of the Principal,
draft a formal invitation card to be sent to parents and guests.
Mention a compelling highlight of the programme along with other
necessary details.
OR
(b) You are Meena/Manoj Tiwari, an experienced student counsellor.
You have been invited by the Principal of MN Public School,
Jawanshahr to take a workshop on the importance of emotional
well-being of teenagers. Draft a reply in not more than 50 words,
accepting the invitation.

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5. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in 120 – 150 words. 15=5

(a) Waste management in your colony is becoming an issue of grave
concern. Write a letter to the editor of a local daily, discussing the
reasons for poor waste management. Also suggest ways to resolve
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the problem. You may use some of the given cues along with your

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own ideas to draft the letter. You are Shireen/Sahil of Prestige
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Colony, Rahagarh.

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• lack of awareness about waste segregation
• inefficient waste collection systems – leading to overflowing
bins and environmental pollution
• poor infrastructure
• Government should support civic authorities to upgrade
•
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spread awareness about civic responsibility
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(b)
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You are Arati/Ashok from New Colony, Bamapur. You read the
a wish to apply for the post advertised. Write
given advertisement and
a job application with your bio-data.

Join Our Creative Team
Raleigh Planners
Needs
Event Manager
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Qualifications : A degree in hospitality business, or public
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relations.

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Skills :
• Strong communication skills g
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• Organisational and project management

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• Proficient in use of event software
• Ability to adapt and willingness to travel
Experience : 3 – 5 years

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6. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in 120 – 150 words. 15=5

(a) You are Rajni/Raghav and are very upset about the increase in cyber
bullying among school students today. Write an article exploring the
reasons and suggest solutions to help students live in a safe space in
the world of digital technology. You may use some of the cues given
along with your own ideas.

Reasons : • peer pressure, lack of self-esteem

• lack of empathy

• access to digital freedom

Solutions : • educate students on safe online behaviour

• collaborate with parents

• establish clear policies and reporting channels

•
OR
•
(b) Write a comprehensive report of the Inter-House Cuisine
Competition on the theme ‘Healthy Eating’ held in your school.
Include details of the event, participation details, students’ feedback
and its overall impact on the student community. You are
Sunidhi/Sudhakar, Student Editor.

You may use the following cues along with your own ideas to draft
the report.

Who – What – When – Where – Why – How

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SECTION C
Literature (40 marks)

7. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the
given two, (a) or (b) : 61=6
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(a) Now we will count to twelve
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and we will all keep still.
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For a
a let’s not speak in any language,
let’s stop for one second,
and not move our arms so much.
(Keeping Quiet)

(i) The expression ‘we will all keep still’ reflects : 1

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the poet’s willingness to keep quiet.
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(A)

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(B) the significance of stillness.
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(C) the poet’s appeal
g a for collective engagement.
(D) the purposeaof counting up to twelve.

(ii) What does the poet want us to stop ? 1

(iii) Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the
given extract. 1
Assertion : The poet advocates the importance of keeping
quiet.
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Reason : He believes that silence can bring out profound
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changes in our perspective and lifestyle.
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Choose the correct option :
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are true, but the
reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(B) Both the assertion and the reason are true and the
reason is 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.
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(iv) Complete the following statement correctly : 1
The poet urges the people to count to twelve so that _________.

(v) ‘Counting to twelve’ is suggested as a _____________
(synchronized/disorganized) effort for everybody to keep quiet. 1

(vi) How can the message in the excerpt, about silence and
stillness be applied to promote peace in today’s world ? 1
OR
(b) The little old house was out with a little new shed
In front at the edge of the road where the traffic sped,
A roadside stand that too pathetically pled,
It would not be fair to say for a dole of bread,
But for some money, the cash, whose flow supports
The flower of cities from sinking and withering faint.
(A Roadside Stand)

(i) The first two lines of the extract refer to the : 1
(A) description of the flourishing city.
(B) flowing of traffic.
(C) description of the roadside stand.
(D) expectation of the rural people.

(ii) Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason : 1
The cash flow is important for urban life because _________.

(iii) Complete the following sentence suitably : 1
Rural people put up their roadside stands in the hope of
_____________.

(iv) Choose the correct option : 1
The expression ‘flower of cities’ reflects the __________
(prosperity/poverty) of city life.
(v) Why is the roadside stand described as pathetic ? 1

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(vi) Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the
given extract : 1
Assertion : Rural people put up their stand at the edge of the
road.
Reason : The flow of traffic will help them promote their
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business.
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Choose the correct option :
e(A) Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the gla s
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(B) Both the assertion and the reason are true and the
reason is 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.

8. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the

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given two, (a) or (b) : 41=4

(a) ‘‘You are to come to the palace,’’ the c o
. man said. ‘‘The old General is in
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pain again.’’
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‘‘Oh,’’ Hana breathed, ‘‘is g
a that all ?’’

‘‘All ?’’ the messenger exclaimed.

‘‘Is it not enough ?’’
“Indeed it is,” she replied. ‘‘I am very sorry.’’
When Sadao came to say goodbye, she was in the kitchen, but doing
nothing. The children were asleep and she sat merely resting for a
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ag (The Enemy)
(i) ‘‘Oh,’’ Hana breathed. ‘‘Is that all ?’’ 1
What is the reason for Hana’s tone of relief in the above
expression ?

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(ii) Complete the following analogy by choosing one word from the
extract : 1
pain : pleasure :: courage : __________

(iii) According to the above extract, Hana was drained and
weakened due to __________. 1
(A) sadness (B) frustration
(C) anger (D) fear

(iv) Complete the following sentence suitably. 1
Dr. Sadao was asked to come to the palace to __________.

OR

(b) And he added, ‘‘Because we are born into this community, we are
never given any honour or dignity or respect; we are stripped of all
that. But if we study and make progress, we can throw away these
indignities. So study with care, learn all you can. ...’’

(Memories of Childhood)

(i) The expression ‘these indignities’ in the above extract refers to
____________. 1

(ii) List one personality trait that is exhibited by the speaker in
the above extract. 1

(iii) What, according to the speaker, is the way out of the situation ? 1
(A) education
(B) aggression
(C) compliance
(D) legislation

(iv) The message conveyed in the given extract is _________. 1

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9. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the
given two, (a) or (b) : 61=6

(a) And in dark hutments, next to lines of flames of flickering oil lamps,
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sit boys and girls with their fathers and mothers, welding pieces of

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coloured glass into circles of bangles. Their eyes are more adjusted
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to
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a losing their eyesight before they become adults.
the

(Lost Spring)

(i) What do ‘flickering oil lamps’ suggest ? 1

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(ii) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in
the blank.
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The description of the hutments highlights the ___________

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situation of the workers. (pathetic/comfortable)

(iii) Bring out the irony in the statement, ‘‘Their eyes are more
adjusted to the dark than to the light outside.’’ 1

(iv) Complete the following suitably.
The boys and girls sitting with their fathers and mothers in the
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(v)
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What does the following line from the extract showcase
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That is why, they often end up losing theiraeyesight before they
become adults.
(A) expectation (B) conclusion
(C) confusion (D) concession

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(vi) Select the textual option that is closest to acceptance of their
plight. 1

(A) next to lines of flames of flickering oil lamps

(B) they often end up losing their eyesight

(C) welding pieces of coloured glass

(D) sit boys and girls with their fathers and mothers

OR

(b) But Champaran did not begin as an act of defiance. It grew out of an
attempt to alleviate the distress of large numbers of poor peasants.
This was the typical Gandhi pattern — his politics were intertwined
with the practical, day-to-day problems of the millions. His was not a
loyalty to abstractions; it was a loyalty to living, human beings.
In everything Gandhi did, moreover, he tried to mould a new free
Indian who could stand on his own feet and thus make India free.
(Indigo)

(i) Choose the option that stands as an example of ‘act of
defiance’ : 1
(A) She immediately yielded to the request of her brother.
(B) Sunil was frightened by the noise of the explosion.
(C) Despite his father’s strict warning, Arun ventured out in
the night.
(D) The manager humiliated the peon in front of the entire
staff.

(ii) What was the primary purpose of the Champaran episode as
suggested in the extract ? 1

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(iii) The expression ‘to mould’ in the above extract suggests : 1
(A) to release
(B) to shape
(C) to advise
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(D) to help

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(iv) eThe
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pattern’ ? 1

(vi) Complete the following analogy by choosing one word from the
above extract : 1

disagree : oppose :: mitigate : _________
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10. Answer any five of the following six questions in 40 – 50 words each :
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52=10

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(i) ‘‘I won’t scold you, little Franz; you must feel bad enough.’’

What was it that Franz must be feeling bad about ?

(The Last Lesson)

What does Umberto Eco refer to as ‘interstices’ in ‘The Interview’ ? m
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(ii)
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(My Mother

(iv) What does Keats refer to in the expression ‘dark spirits’ ?

(A Thing of Beauty)

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(v) In what manner was the make-up department ahead of AIR and
Doordarshan, according to Asokamitran ? (Poets and Pancakes)

(vi) The servants of Rajendra Prasad thought Gandhi was another
peasant. How did they treat Gandhi ? (Indigo)

11. Answer any two of the following three questions in 40 – 50 words each : 22=4

(i) Why was Charley in ‘The Third Level’ keen to buy old currency ?

(ii) The Maharaja, on the third birthday of the crown prince, gave him a
special gift. What was special about the gift ? (The Tiger King)

(iii) What efforts did Zitkala-Sa make to save her hair from being cut ?

(Memories of Childhood)

12. Answer any one of the following two questions in 120 – 150 words : 15=5

(a) The peddler’s temptation for money and Sophie’s unrealistic dreams
were the root cause for the sufferings of both the characters. Analyse
the lessons ‘The Rattrap’ and ‘Going Places’ in the light of the above
statement.

OR

(b) Analyse the portrayal of fear and freedom in ‘Deep Water’ and
‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’.

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13. Answer any one of the following two questions in 120 – 150 words : 15=5

(a) People with physical impairments deserve acceptance, not sympathy.
How does the play ‘On The Face Of It’ advocate the above philosophy

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through the characters of Mr. Lamb and Derry.

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OR
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(b) ‘Journey
a act with responsibility to save the environment. Substantiate the
above statement with textual evidence.

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