COMPULSORY ENGLISH
Reading and Writing (Written Test)
Candidates are required to answer the questions in their own words as far as practicable. Figures in the margin indicate full marks.
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Attempt all the questions.
1. Read the poem and choose the correct options
Leave this Chanting and Singing – Rabindranath Tagore
Leave this chanting and singing and telling of beads!
Whom dost thou worship in this lonely dark corner of a temple with doors all shut?
Open thine eyes and see thy God is not before thee!
He is there where the tiller is tilling the hard ground
and where the pathmaker is breaking stones.
He is with them in sun and in shower,
and his garment is covered with dust.
Put off thy holy mantle and even like him come down on the dusty soil!
Deliverance? Where is this deliverance to be found?
Our master himself has joyfully taken upon him the bonds of creation;
he is bound with us all forever.
Come out of thy meditations and leave aside thy flowers and incense!
What harm is there if thy clothes become tattered and stained?
Meet him and stand by him in toil and in sweat of thy brow.
— Rabindranath Tagore
Questions (5×1=5)
I. Whom does the speaker ask to leave chanting and singing?
A. those who wear tattered clothes
B. those who work on the road
C. those who work in the fields
D. those who worship God in temples ✓
II. Who does the word 'he' in the second stanza refer to?
A. the priest
B. the God ✓
C. the pathmaker
D. the tiller
III. Which other word does the speaker use to refer to God?
A. tiller
B. pathmaker
C. master ✓
D. deliverance
IV. According to the speaker, what is the best way of worshipping God?
A. offering flowers and incense
B. being rich and proud
C. doing hard work ✓
D. doing meditation
V. Where does God reside according to the poem?
A. inside the temple
B. among the workers ✓
C. among the people with beads
D. in the universe
2. Read the following text and do the tasks that follow
Strange Food from Around the World
Shiokara, Japan
Most Japanese food is simple: it sounds delicious, and it is delicious. But how about raw squid mixed with salty, fermented squid belly? This is shiokara, a Japanese staple, and one I used to hate. However, I'm slowly coming around. Once you get used to it and you have it with good conversation, this food takes on a whole new beauty.
Green ants, Australia
You can keep your witchetty foods, as far as I'm concerned: too soft, too many guts. If I'm going for bush food, it's definitely green ants, little insects that are pulled from trees, lightly crushed between your hands, and then eaten. They're lemony, peppery, and delicious. Local producers are even putting them on top of goat's cheeses now, with lemon myrtle, for extra energy. Seriously good.
Snails, France
Snails aren't unusual - you'll find them on the menu at most French restaurants, even in Australia. However, some people are still nervous about eating garden snails, even though they needn't be. Fried up with plenty of garlic and butter, the snail is yummy. Snails, in fact, are eaten in many countries, particularly Vietnam, where fried snails are a very tasty staple dish.
Bun rieu, Vietnam
Everything about bun rieu, a traditional Vietnamese soup, sounds good; well, almost everything. It's a crab-based soup mixed with noodles. So far, so delicious. It's then topped with roasted tomatoes, crab meat, stewed pork, lime juice, chilli, fresh herbs, banana flowers, and bean sprouts. Also, extremely good. Then, however, you drop in a large piece of congealed pig's blood, which is a serious challenge for the unsuspecting diner. My advice: give it a try. You won't regret it.
2.1 Put the following sentences in the correct order (5×1=5)
Correct order:
II. Bun rieu is a traditional Vietnamese food. (1)
V. Green ants and little insects are collected from trees. (2)
I. They are lemony, peppery, and delicious. (3)
III. Snails are usually found in Australian restaurants. (4)
IV. It is very tasty staple dish. (5)
2.2 Answer the following questions (5×1=5)
A. What is raw squid mixed with salty, fermented squid belly called?
It is called shiokara.
B. How are green ants prepared?
They are pulled from trees, lightly crushed between hands, and then eaten.
C. Name the food which people get from the bush.
Green ants are bush food.
D. Where do people eat snails?
People eat snails in France, Vietnam, and many other countries.
E. What do Vietnamese add to the soup?
They add congealed pig's blood, roasted tomatoes, crab meat, stewed pork, lime juice, chilli, fresh herbs, banana flowers, and bean sprouts.
3. Read the following text and do the tasks that follow
Computer Parts
Computers have become a part of modern life. Today's schoolchildren carry around calculating power, which would have filled a large room 40 years ago. Computer scientists are now working on the next generation of computers, ones which will have true intelligence. What are the parts of a computer? The word 'hardware' refers to the physical parts of a computer. The main parts are the monitor, the keyboard, the mouse and the CPU or Central Processing Unit, which contains the hard disk. The monitor is also known as the screen or VDU (Visual Display Unit). It looks like a television screen and displays what we do on the computer. It comes in different sizes. The actual, i.e., the part that performs tasks we ask it to do is in a unit holding the CPU, memory and hard and floppy disks. It comes in a rectangular box. CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. This could be called the brain of a computer. It performs calculations and manipulates data. The keyboard functions like a typewriter. The computer is given commands by typing them on the keyboard. Information is then displayed on the monitor. The mouse is a hand-held pointing device. By moving the mouse around on a flat surface, a pointer or arrow on the monitor will make corresponding movements. By clicking, holding and dragging with the mouse various things can be done on the monitor. The hard disk is a fixed device for permanent storage, which stays within the computer. A hard disk is capable of holding tremendous amounts of information, yet it is only a few inches in width and length. A computer also has a floppy disk drive. It is a slot for the insertion of portable disks also known as floppy disks.
3.1 Write "TRUE" for true statements and "FALSE" for false ones (5×1=5)
I. The CPU looks like a television. FALSE (The monitor looks like a television.)
II. The keyboard is used to give commands to the computer. TRUE
III. The hard disk is portable. FALSE (The hard disk is fixed; floppy disks are portable.)
IV. The hard disk is contained in a keyboard. FALSE (The hard disk is contained in the CPU.)
V. The word 'hardware' refers to the brain of a computer. FALSE (Hardware refers to physical parts; CPU is the brain.)
3.2 Answer the following questions (5×1=5)
I. What does the monitor look like?
It looks like a television screen.
II. What do you mean by 'hardware'?
Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer.
III. How does the keyboard function?
The keyboard functions like a typewriter; commands are given by typing on it.
IV. What do CPU and VDU stand for?
CPU stands for Central Processing Unit and VDU stands for Visual Display Unit.
V. What's the brain of a computer?
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of a computer.
4. Read the following text and do the tasks that follow
Bhairahawa Airport Protest
BHAIRAHAWA, DEC 18
Bhairahawa locals whose land was acquired by the Gautam Buddha International Airport project have halted construction work to protest delays in payment of compensation. On Monday, agitating landowners padlocked the main entrance to the airport construction site demanding that authorities make early payment of the compensation amount as agreed earlier. The entrance is used to take construction materials to the site. The farmers who lost their land complained that they were facing hassles to get their rightful compensation. The project-affected farmers charged the project management of not working to facilitate payment of the compensation amount. They also accused employees at government offices such as the survey department of delaying issuing the paperwork required to obtain their money. Landowners complained that government officials have been demanding money in exchange for faster service. Recently, middlemen have also started surfacing offering to get the paperwork done promptly for a 2-3 percent commission, they said. "We had asked authorities to ease the compensation process, but they didn't listen to us. The farmers made the rounds of various government offices for months to collect their rightful compensation, but still nothing happened," said Suraj Prasad Barai, one of the farmers based in Siddharthanagar Municipality-10 whose land was taken over by the airport project. The farmers said that after their land was acquired, they could not grow anything on it or get compensation. This has put an economic burden on our lives, they said. The farmers had staged a protest with the same demand about one and a half months ago. Project chief Om Sharma said that lack of adequate manpower at the land survey office was causing delays in marking land plots for providing compensation. Because of this, farmers are forced to wait for days to get their money, he said. Sharma added that they had written to the Department of Land Survey to assign five surveyors to work solely on the airport construction site so that farmers could receive their compensation on time. The airport in Bhairahawa, the gateway to the pilgrimage destination of Lumbini in south central Nepal, is being upgraded to a fully equipped international airport. The airport now covers an area of 787 bighas after an additional 500 bighas was acquired some two years ago. More than 2000 people were displaced due to land acquisition for the airport upgradation project. The project has set aside Rs. 23 billion to be distributed as compensation to farmers. Of this, only Rs. 3.5 billion for 70 bighas has been distributed so far. The project is expected to be complete by early 2023.
4.1 Match the meanings in column 'A' with the correct words in column 'B' (5×1=5)
Column A → Column B
I. the act of building → C. construction ✓
II. money given as payment for a loss → D. compensation ✓
III. caused to stop → A. halted ✓
IV. heavy load → E. burden ✓
V. something that provides access to get in or get out → B. entrance ✓
(Word not matched: F. pilgrimage)
4.2 Fill in the blanks with correct information from the text (5×1=5)
I. The locals are protesting because of the delay in payment.
II. The government offices like the land revenue office had been blamed.
III. The land acquisition created economic load on the lives of farmers.
IV. Bhairahawa airport is being transformed into international airport.
V. The number of affected people is more than 2000.
4.3 Answer the following questions (5×1=5)
I. What are the farmers demanding from the authorities?
They are demanding early payment of the compensation amount as agreed earlier.
II. What are the government employees accused of?
They are accused of delaying the paperwork and demanding money for faster service.
III. What are the middlemen offering the farmers?
Middlemen are offering to get the paperwork done promptly for a 2-3 percent commission.
IV. Had the farmers protested for the same before? When?
Yes, they had staged a protest with the same demand about one and a half months ago.
V. What is the religious value of Bhairahawa Airport?
It is the gateway to the pilgrimage destination of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
5. Write rules and regulations to follow in the exam hall (5)
Write in about 100 words using the clues: times (8 am), admit card, cheating, essential materials, leaving the hall
Exam Hall Rules and Regulations
All students must follow these rules strictly in the examination hall. First, students should arrive by 8:00 am sharp; latecomers will not be permitted. The admit card must be carried and displayed on the desk during the entire examination. Only essential materials like pens, pencils, and calculators (if allowed) are permitted; all bags and electronic devices must be kept outside. Cheating in any form—including copying, using unauthorized notes, or talking with other students—is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate disqualification. Students are not allowed to leave the hall before the designated time. Any student needing to leave for an emergency must be accompanied by an invigilator. Maintain complete silence and follow all instructions given by the exam supervisors.
6. Write a news story based on the given clues (5)
Clues: Saurya Airlines (CRJ7) - flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara - routine maintenance check - carrying 17 company employees - two crew members - flipped - hitting the ground - fire immediately - crashed at 11:11 local time (05:30 GMT) - rescue - the pilot is undergoing treatment - out of danger - investigating the case
Saurya Airlines Aircraft Crashes in Kathmandu
KATHMANDU, [Date]: A Saurya Airlines CRJ7 aircraft met with a tragic accident today while preparing for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The aircraft, which was undergoing a routine maintenance check, was carrying 17 company employees and two crew members at the time of the incident. The plane flipped upon hitting the ground and caught fire immediately after crashing at 11:11 local time (05:30 GMT). Rescue teams rushed to the spot and extinguished the fire. The pilot, who is undergoing treatment at a local hospital, is reported to be out of danger. Authorities have launched an investigation into the case to determine the cause of the crash.
7. Write a paragraph describing a place of tourist importance in your locality (6)
Write in about 150 words
Panchpokhari: The Sacred Five Lakes
Panchpokhari, after which our rural municipality is named, is one of the most significant tourist destinations in the region. Situated at an altitude of approximately 4,100 meters, this cluster of five sacred lakes holds immense religious and natural importance. The name 'Panchpokhari' literally means 'five ponds,' and these pristine water bodies are surrounded by lush green hills and snow-capped mountains. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and trekkers visit this place, especially during the Janai Purnima festival when a grand fair is organized. The trek to Panchpokhari offers breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks like Dorje Lakpa and Jugal. The area is rich in biodiversity, with rhododendron forests, rare medicinal herbs, and various bird species. Local communities have preserved the cultural heritage through traditional practices. The government has been developing infrastructure to promote tourism while maintaining ecological balance. For nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike, Panchpokhari provides an unforgettable experience of serenity and natural beauty.
8. Write a letter to the editor about poor road conditions (8)
Write in about 200 words mentioning two problems and suggesting two improvements
[Your Address]
Panchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality
Sindhupalchok, Nepal
[Date]
The Editor
The National Daily
Kathmandu, Nepal
Subject: Poor Condition of Roads in Our Locality
Dear Sir/Madam,
Through the esteemed columns of your newspaper, I wish to draw attention to the deplorable condition of roads in Panchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality, which has become a matter of grave concern for all residents.
The roads in our area are in a severely damaged state. First, large potholes and cracks have made vehicular movement extremely dangerous, especially during the monsoon season when roads become virtually impassable. Second, the lack of proper drainage systems has led to waterlogging and accelerated road deterioration, causing frequent accidents and vehicle damage. Students cannot reach schools on time, patients face difficulties in emergency transportation, and farmers struggle to transport their agricultural products to markets, resulting in economic losses.
To address these pressing issues, I respectfully suggest two improvements. First, the concerned authorities should immediately repair the existing roads with quality materials and ensure proper compaction and surfacing. Second, a comprehensive drainage system must be constructed alongside roads to prevent water accumulation and future damage. Regular maintenance should be scheduled, and community participation should be encouraged for sustainability.
I hope you will publish my letter to alert the concerned authorities to take immediate action for the welfare of the local population.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact]
9. Reproduce the following sentences as indicated in the brackets (6×1=6)
Grammar Transformation
I. Somebody is present……? (Supply the correct question tag.)
aren't they? ✓
II. Pabitra scored 3.84 GPA in SEE. (Change into 'Who' question.)
Who scored 3.84 GPA in SEE? ✓
III. Please don't make so much noise. I………... (work). (Use the correct form of the verb 'work')
am working ✓
IV. They have already done it. (Change into negative.)
They have not done it yet. ✓
V. The teacher said to the students, "Read silently." (Change into indirect speech)
The teacher told the students to read silently. ✓
VI. He is helping Reshma. (Change into passive voice.)
Reshma is being helped by him. ✓
10. Choose and copy the correct answer from the brackets (10×0.5=5)
Complete the text by choosing the correct options
Once a chief decided to give (a) a (the/ an/ a/ no article) feast for his people. All of them (b) were asked (have been asked/ were asked/ asked/ had asked) to come with a bottle of palm wine and pour it into a pot (c) at (of/ at/ on/ in) the door. On the feast day, people put on their best clothes and (d) walked (were walked/walk/ had walked/ walked) to the chief's house. They poured their bottles into a very big pot. A man also wanted to go to the feast, (e) but (because/ and/ but/ although) he had no palm wine at home. His wife told him that he (f) had to buy (will buy/had to buy/ must buy/has to buy) a bottle. He thought and said, "A bottle of water cannot be that bad for so much wine, (g) can it (cannot it/ can it/ can't it/ could it)?" So, he went with a bottle of water and poured it into the pot and sat at the table to eat. The chief said, "(h) Let's drink (Let me drink/ Let's drink/ Let drink/ Let it drink) wine, dear guests!" All the guests had their glasses (i) filled (filling/ fill/ to fill/ filled) with liquor. But what they drank was not palm wine, but water! Everyone had brought water in their bottles; if not, it (j) wouldn't have (may not have/ wouldn't have/ won't have/ can't have) tasted water.
Answers: a. a, b. were asked, c. at, d. walked, e. but, f. had to buy, g. can it, h. Let's drink, i. filled, j. wouldn't have
Best of Luck for Your Examination