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Marking Scheme
Strictly Confidential
(For Internal and Restricted use only)
Secondary School Examination, 2025
SUBJECT NAME COMMUNICATIVE ENGLISH (SET- 4, Q.P. CODE 1)
General Instructions: -
1 You are aware that evaluation is the most important process in the actual and correct
assessment of the candidates. A small mistake in evaluation may lead to serious
problems which may affect the future of the candidates, education system and
teaching profession. To avoid mistakes, it is requested that before starting evaluation,
you must read and understand the spot evaluation guidelines carefully.
2 “Evaluation policy is a confidential policy as it is related to the confidentiality of
the examinations conducted, Evaluation done and several other aspects. Its’
leakage to public in any manner could lead to derailment of the examination
system and affect the life and future of millions of candidates. Sharing this
policy/document to anyone, publishing in any magazine and printing in News
Paper/Website etc. may invite action under various rules of the Board and IPC.”
3 Evaluation is to be done as per instructions provided in the Marking Scheme. It should
not be done according to one’s own interpretation or any other consideration. Marking
Scheme should be strictly adhered to and religiously followed. If any change in the
marking scheme is to be considered, this has to be first raised with the
Controller of Examinations and only after his approval and after all evaluation
centres are informed, can this be taken forward.
4 The Marking Scheme carries all value points for the answers. Students may/can
express these value points in their own words and if the expression is correct, due
marks should be awarded accordingly.
5 The Head-Examiner must go through the first five answer books evaluated by each
evaluator on the first day, to ensure that evaluation has been carried out as per the
instructions given in the Marking Scheme. If there is any variation, the same should be
zero after deliberation and discussion. The remaining answer books meant for
evaluation shall be given only after ensuring that there is no significant variation in the
marking of individual evaluators.
6 Evaluators will mark ( √ ) wherever answer is correct. For wrong answer CROSS ‘X”
be marked. No answer should be left unmarked by evaluators. This is the most
common mistake which evaluators are committing.
7 If a question has parts, please award marks on the right-hand side for each part.
Marks awarded for different parts of the question should then be totalled up and
written in the left-hand margin and encircled. This must be followed strictly.
8 If a question does not have any parts, marks must be awarded in the left-hand margin
and encircled. This must also be followed strictly.
9 If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more
marks should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra
Question/Over- Attempted”.
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If a student has not attempted any question, NA should be mentioned in the Caging /
marks entry column.
10 No marks to be deducted for the cumulative effect of an error. It should be penalized
only once.
11 A full scale of marks __________(example 0 to 80/70/60/50/40/30 marks as given in
Question Paper) has to be used. Please do not hesitate to award full marks if the
answer deserves it.
12 Every examiner has to necessarily do evaluation work for full working hours i.e., 8
hours every day and evaluate 20 answer books per day in main subjects and 25
answer books per day in other subjects (Details are given in Spot Guidelines).
13 Ensure that you do not make the following common types of errors committed by the
Examiner in the past:-
● Leaving answer or part thereof unassessed in an answer booklet.
● Giving more marks for an answer than assigned to it.
● Wrong totalling of marks awarded on an answer.
● Wrong transfer of marks from the inside pages of the answer booklet to the title
page.
● Wrong question wise totalling on the title page.
● Wrong totalling of marks of the two columns on the title page.
● Wrong grand total.
● Marks in words and figures not tallying/not same.
● Wrong transfer of marks from the answer book to online award list.
● Answers marked as correct, but marks not awarded. (Ensure that the right tick mark
is correctly and clearly indicated. It should merely be a line. Same is with the X for
incorrect answer.)
● Half or a part of answer marked correct and the rest as wrong, but no marks
awarded.
14 While evaluating the answer books if the answer is found to be totally incorrect, it
should be marked as cross (X) and awarded zero (0)Marks.
15 Any unassessed portion, non-carrying over of marks to the title page, or totalling error
detected by the candidate shall damage the prestige of all the personnel engaged in
the evaluation work as also of the Board. Hence, in order to uphold the prestige of all
concerned, it is again reiterated that the instructions be followed meticulously and
judiciously.
16 The Examiners should acquaint themselves with the guidelines given in the
“Guidelines for Spot Evaluation” before starting the actual evaluation.
17 Every Examiner shall also ensure that all the answers are evaluated, marks carried
over to the title page, correctly totalled and written in figures and words.
18 The candidates are entitled to obtain photocopy of the Answer Book on request on
payment of the prescribed processing fee. All Examiners/Additional Head
Examiners/Head Examiners are once again reminded that they must ensure that
evaluation is carried out strictly as per value points for each answer as given in the
Marking Scheme.
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Set-4
QP CODE-1
$
MARKING SCHEME
COMMUNICATIVE ENGLISH
SECTION A (READING SKILLS) (22 Marks)
1. Answers : 12
(i) (D) Diversity 1
(ii) (C) It reflects India’s cultural richness 1
(iii) (any one) 1
of unity in diversity
of a unique blend of various cultures, languages, religions and traditions
of rich historical heritage
(iv) The linguistic diversity is reflective of the people’s tolerance/ acceptance/ 1
adaptability of varied means of expression. (any one)
(v) Carnatic music/ Hindustani (any one) 1
(vi) (any one) 1
Fundamental rights and freedoms
ensuring equality and justice.
(vii)
From the fiery dishes of the south to the rich curries of the north/ from the
sweets of Gujarat to the street food of Mumbai (1+1=2)
(any one)
This culinary variety highlights India’s diverse geography/ brings people
together through a shared love for food.
(any one)
(viii)
Traditional dance forms like Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu/ Kathak from
North India/ Odissi from Odisha (½+½+1=2)
(any one)
classical music like Carnatic/Hindustani
(any one)
rich tapestry of regional art forms together represent India’s cultural unity.
(ix)
In spite of regional conflicts and cultural misunderstandings mutual
(1+1=2)
coexistence persists.
India’s ability to embrace diversity as a strength rather than a hindrance.
2. Answers 10
(i) (any one) 1
spend quality time together
to create memorable experiences
To relax and destress
To rest and enjoy
(ii) is motivated by/depends on/fuelled by/ inspired by (any one) 1
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(iii) C – to take a break from the stress of daily life 1
(iv) D- Only III 1
(v) for its excellent health facilities / medical treatment not available in their 1
own countries /medical treatment too expensive in their own countries.
(any one)
(vi) 1+1=2
Leisure tourism
friends/families travel together/visit different places/away from stresses of
life/create memorable memories/have fun/spend quality time together
(any one)
(vii) 1+1=2
It takes place all through the year
Budget hotel chains, rely heavily on income from business travellers.
(viii) Spiritual 1
SECTION B (22 Marks)
(Writing Skills)
3. e-mail writing 3
Content -1
Organisation - 1 ( formal tone and orderly sequence)
Accuracy -1 (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
Note:
Students may write any date, not necessarily the date given in the
template.
Students must write minimum 2 reasons for the request.
Suggestive Value points (Any two)
21st Century tool
Interactive teaching learning process
Visual intelligence
Any other relevant point
4. Factual Description 4
Content - 2
Organisation - 1 (appropriate / consistent)
Accuracy - 1 (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
Note: Title is not mandatory.
Value points (Any two)
Features/attributes of the working model with reference to topic “Save your
Earth”
a. Water harvesting These are suggestive any other
b. Paper recycling relevant point to be accepted.
c. Garbage recycling
Processes of the working model
Utility of the working model
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5 (a) Letter to Editor 7
Format - 1 ( no marks for format will be given if there is no content)
Content -3
Organisation - 2 (formal tone and 3 paragraphs: intro, main body,
Conclusion/resolution)
Accuracy -1 (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
Value Points: (Any three)
INTRODUCTION
purpose of writing the letter
MAIN BODY (Any Two)
rising climate change and pollution
threats to our lives
youth to take charge to improve the situation
inspire their peers to join in promoting sustainable practices
bring forth a culture of environmental stewardship.
National Environment Crusader Award would honour their
achievements
CONCLUSION/ RESOLUTION (Any One)
create awareness and foster a sense of ownership towards the
environment.
promote environment sustainability
Any other relevant point
5 OR
(b) Letter to Tourism Department
Format - 1 ( no marks for format will be given if there is no content)
Content -3
Organisation - 2 ( formal tone and 3 paragraphs: intro, main body,
conclusion/resolution)
Accuracy -1 (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
Value points: (Any three)
INTRODUCTION
Purpose of writing the letter
MAIN BODY (Any Two)
Tourism industry - focus on training workforce- proper mannerism, customer
service, ethical deportment.
Ensure safety and security of visitors
Provide them appropriate healthcare, good quality accommodation and
transport, good food, local support, etc.
Make their visits comfortable and benefiting.
Treat tourists with respect.
CONCLUSION / Resolution (Any One)
Enhancing the Hospitality and Safety Standards in Tourism will
Increase the inflow of tourists
Foster a positive reputation at the national and global level.
Generate revenue/ income
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Exchange of art, culture etc.
Any other relevant point.
6 (a) Article writing 8
Format - 1 (Title and by-line. no marks for format will be given if there is no
content)
Content -4
Organisation - 2 ( Coherence and cohesion; 3 paragraphs: intro, main body,
Conclusion/resolution))
Accuracy -1 (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
Value points: (Any four)
INTRODUCTION
Laughter Yoga – a feel good therapy
MAIN BODY
Benefit of laughter yoga ----effect on cardiovascular health.
Prevents many physical and mental ailments
Improves blood circulation and health of the heart.
Boost our immune system by increasing antibodies and activating
immune cells
Triggers release of pain relief chemicals--- alleviating pain naturally.
Boosts mental health-- lowers levels of stress hormones, enhances
mood of a person – increases production of feel-good chemicals/
dopamine
Process -- very simple to learn, requires no special equipment, no
medicines, no side effects --accessible to all.
RESOLUTION
Helps us lead a healthier and happier life/ Powerful medium to overall
well-being.
Accept any other relevant point.
6 OR
(b) Article
Format - 1 (Title and by-line. no marks for format will be given if there is no
content)
Content -4
Organisation - 2 ( Coherence and cohesion; 3 paragraphs: intro, main body,
conclusion/resolution) )
Accuracy -1 (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
Value points: (Any four)
INTRODUCTION
Unemployment -- great problem in our country.
Startups - silver lining in the dark clouds.
MAIN BODY
Startups allow flexible working conditions/work– family life balance.
Transforms job seekers into job creators.
Generates employment even for others
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Encourages innovation
Aids in community development
Promotes self-reliance
Entrepreneurs are masters of their own planning.
Enjoy decision-making freedom, liberty to their creativity and modes
of execution.
CONCLUSION
Fosters resilience and adaptability
India’s progress towards a self-reliant economy
Young minds are empowered to create their futures.
Contribute to country’s economic growth
Note:
Accept any other relevant point.
7 SECTION C (10 Marks)
(Grammar)
(a) Fill in the blanks. (3x1=3)
(i) had
(ii) got
(iii) became
(b) Omission (4x1=4)
Note:
½ for word before/ after
½ for word missing
No credit , if either word before or after is missing OR these words are
completely missing
Before Missing Word After
(i) depends on/ upon the
(ii) under which the
(iii)results in a
(iv)lustre and density
(c) Reordering and Transformation
(i) The NEP is a more dynamic approach which will pave the way for a holistic and
wholesome education experience.
Or 1
The NEP is a more dynamic and wholesome approach which will pave the way for a
holistic education experience.
(c) (ii) ---- would provide for an (1+1=2)
---- that has/ that would have/along with
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SECTION D (26 Marks)
(Literature Textbook)
8 (4+4=8)
8 Reference to Context 4
(a) The poem ‘Mirror’ is out of syllabus. Students should have attempted the
remaining two questions. No grace mark to be awarded.
8 (b) The Letter (4x1=4)
(i) Daughter got married and no news of her whereabouts /understood
the pain of separation from the dear ones / has now become
preoccupied with the hope of receiving a letter from his daughter.
(ii) Has started appreciating tranquility of nature through the green
cornfield; admiration/ love for nature
(iii) The whole universe was built up through love and that the grief of
separation was inescapable.
(iv) Sorrow/sadness/ emotional pain caused due to separation from loved
ones or prolonged emotional distance
8 (c) Julius Caesar (4x1=4)
(i)
Senate intends to crown him that day
if he doesn’t go, the Senate might change their decision
(ii) requested/pleaded Caesar not to go to the Senate.
(iii) ambitious nature/ vulnerability to flattery /pride/ arrogance/ vanity
/stubbornness/greed for power
(iv) given in to his wife’s fears /swayed by Calpurnia’s request or fear/ let
fear influence his decisions
9 Short Questions (five out of six) 10
Content -1 (Any two out of the suggested value points given)
Expression -1
9 (i) 2
Became orphan at a tender age ----orphans/ Nicola, Jacopo and Lucia
– lost their parents
Lucia --- spine tuberculosis patient
Nicola and Jacopo --- only earning members --- worked hard/did odd
jobs to pay for their sister Lucia’s medical treatment.
It shows their love and responsibility towards their sister.
9 (ii) 2
Human achievements are short lived/Everything is temporary /
Nothing is immortal
The broken/decayed statue --- of Ozymandias mighty king ----
illustrates that neither physical strength, nor earthly glory can
withstand the passage of time
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9 (iii) (any two) 2
Connection between the physical and metaphysical world
Curiosity and fascination --- of the unknown
Desire/medium to communicate with spirits
Probable consequences of meddling with forces beyond human
understanding---- leads to trouble/confusion/ disruption/ chaos in
John’s life.
9 (iv) 2
While playing computer games --- Sebastian met with an accident ---
memory got stored in the game ----- went into coma
Accidently, Michael played the same game (War zone) and retrieved
Sebastian’s memory.
9 (v) 2
Pen immortalises beauty and virtue in verse / powerful rhymes outlive
all worldly glories and grandeurs/ immortalises the person till
posterity/ poetry is more powerful than war
Monuments/ statues decay over time/ mighty kings lose their glories
with the passage of time
9. (vi) 2
Passion for the stage/ renowned stage actor/ acting brought him joy
and recognition
Received offer to act at the age of 52 --- provided a chance to relive
his passion for acting/ got a sense of purpose and excitement
10 Long Question (one out of two) 8
Content -4
Organisation -3 ( coherence and cohesion; effective style)
Accuracy -1 (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
10 (a) Answer can be woven along the following points.
Value Points:
The Rime of Ancient Mariner ----- albatross ----- first considered as a
good omen
Mariner kills the albatross without any evident/obvious reason
Reflects human tendency to exploit/ destroy nature without
understanding its deeper significance
Albatross might view humans as impulsive, disrespectful/ ungrateful towards
nature
In the poem Snake --- poet struggles with societal pressure to kill the
snake although he admires the beauty of snake/ considers the snake
as his guest
But human education overpowers him --- picks up a log and tries to
hit the snake
Snake might view humans as prejudiced, fearful, quick to judge without
deeper understanding
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Both the poems highlight -----
Complexities of human attitude towards nature --- sometimes
revering—sometimes fearing --- often misunderstanding the true
role and significance of other living beings.
Humans misunderstand and harm creatures/ do not appreciate their
beauty or respect their role in nature
Need for empathy and respect for nature and its’ creatures
All creatures on this planet have equal right to live and use natural
resources freely.
OR
10 (b) Answer can be woven along the following points.
The Frog and the Nightingale and Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger – explore themes of
exploitation/ deception/ manipulation to fulfill personal ambitions- leading to
ironic consequences
Cunning frog ---- exploits naïve and talented nightingale to make
money/ for remaining the unrivalled king of Bingle Bog/ pretends to
be her mentor
Nightingale falls under the trap of frog ---- gets overburdened with
excessive training and criticism ----- confidence and physical well-
being deteriorate
Callous, cold and indifferent attitude of the frog ultimately leads to
tragic end of innocent/gullible/ submissive nightingale….. …..bursts
her vein and dies
Mrs. Packeltide ----- vainglorious/ competitive/ envious lady ----- driven by
jealousy to outshine Loona Bimberton ------ her arch rival ------ decides to
hunt/kill a tiger.
Pays Rs. 1000 to villagers to arrange the Tiger shoot.
Hires Miss Mebbin as paid companion
On the day of tiger shoot, bullet hits the goat ( a bait) instead of the
tiger.
Ironically, tiger succumbs to death / dies due to heart attack as he was
old and ill.
Villagers ignore it but Miss Mebbin ----- an opportunist ---- notices/
exploits this blunder by blackmailing Mrs. Packeltide to reveal/
disclose the secret to Loon Bimberton
Miss Mebbin forces her/ demands a hefty amount to buy a weekend –
cottage.
Consequences in both the literary works are ironic
Frog’s action leads to nightingale’s death ------- allows him to retain
power/ monopoly in Bingle Bog
Mrs. Packeltide’s attempt to outshine Loona Bimberton results in
personal embarrassment and financial loss/ incidental expenses were
so heavy that Mrs. Packeltide abstains from indulging in any more
game shoot.