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Get the CBSE Class 12 English Board Paper 2026 answer key with detailed analysis, solutions, and difficulty level review. Check your performance now.
Section A – Reading Skills
Question 1
(i) According to paragraph 1, what role does the suprachiasmatic nucleus play in our daily lives?
The suprachiasmatic nucleus governs the body’s circadian rhythm, aligning sleep, metabolism, hormone release, and mood with the 24-hour day–night cycle.
(ii) How does the author use the metaphor “the body remembers the sun even when the mind forgets”?
The metaphor suggests that the body’s internal clock naturally responds to sunlight and natural rhythms even when modern habits or artificial light make people ignore them.
(iii) The phrase biological desynchronization refers to the state in which the:
Correct answer: (A) body’s natural rhythms no longer align with external time cues.
(iv) Designating specific hours/days for screen-free activity can help ______.
Designating screen-free hours can help reset or maintain the body’s natural circadian rhythm and improve sleep patterns.
(v) Why does the writer refer to the circadian clock’s loyalty to nature as inflexible?
Correct answer: (B) resists manipulation through artificial means.
(vi) Provide ONE textual evidence.
One textual evidence is: “Artificial attempts to override it such as caffeine-induced wakefulness or screen-induced sleeplessness may work temporarily but often has a hidden cost.”
(vii) What does the contrast reveal about modern life?
The contrast shows that modern social schedules often conflict with our biological rhythms, forcing people to live against their natural body clocks.
(viii) Scientists use the term ‘social jet lag’ to:
Correct answer: (A) compare how schedules disrupt our internal clock, similar to time zone travel confusion.
(ix) Explain why adolescents may be at risk of internal time disruption. (40–50 words)
Adolescents are vulnerable because their biological clocks naturally shift later during puberty. However, early school schedules force them to wake up earlier than their bodies prefer. This mismatch creates ‘social jet lag’, resulting in chronic sleep deprivation and disruption of their internal rhythms.
(x) Identify possible obstacles to applying chronobiological principles in everyday life. (40–50 words)
Applying chronobiological principles may be difficult due to fixed school and work schedules, societal expectations, and modern lifestyles that depend on artificial lighting and technology. These factors often prevent people from aligning their daily routines with their natural biological rhythms.
Question 2
(i)
In the introduction (Para 1), the writer emphasizes the transformative potential of a quiet revolution by presenting urban farming as a practical solution to food shortages, pollution, and mental health challenges.
(ii)
“In Chennai and Pune, tax rebates and community grants are now offered to promote green rooftops.”
Answer: (B) incentives
(iii)
People grow spinach and tomatoes at home to avoid pesticide exposure and consume safer, healthier food.
(iv)
Hyderabad is most likely to emerge as a national model by 2026 because the table shows the highest projected participation (18%) and the use of an app-based micro farm programme, indicating strong technological integration.
(v)
Pune encourages urban farming through tax rebates for terrace gardens, while Hyderabad promotes it using technology through an app-based micro farm programme.
(vi)
Two major challenges that led to the rise of urban farming are:
1. Food insecurity / city-based food shortages
2. Pollution and environmental degradation
(vii)
Two incentives provided by NGOs or start-ups are:
• Seed kits
• App-based guidance and balcony farming workshops
Benefit to urban workforce:
It provides stress relief, a sense of control, and an opportunity to contribute to climate action.
(viii)
Correct Answer: (B) excessive food production
Because the passage mentions limited space, high equipment costs, and unreliable yields as challenges, not excessive production.
Section B – Creative Writing Skills
Q3 (A) Notice – Trekking Club (≈50 words)
NOTICE
School Trek to Mussoorie
The School Trekking Club is organizing a weekend trek from Dehradun to Mussoorie and Kempty Falls on 25–26 May 2026. Students of Classes IX–XI interested in participating should register by 20 May. Limited seats available.
For details contact the undersigned.
Pragya
President, Trekking Club
Q3 (B) Notice – Fund Raiser (≈50 words)
NOTICE
Fund Raising Event
The Rotary Club is sponsoring a fund raiser to support ‘Pratha’, a skill education centre for underprivileged girls. Students are invited to participate in the charity event on 15 June 2026 at 11 a.m. in the school auditorium.
Interested students may register with the undersigned.
Shakshi
Secretary
Community Service Club
Q4 (A) Informal Invitation (≈50 words)
Dear Riya,
Hope you are doing well! Our RWA and the Green Steps Club are organizing an Eco-Run for Environmental Awareness on Sunday at 6 a.m. in Indirapuram Park. It will be fun and meaningful.
Do join us and bring your friends too.
Hope to see you there!
Aanya
Q4 (B) Formal Reply – Declining Invitation (≈50 words)
Dear Sir,
Thank you for inviting me to deliver a guest lecture on ‘Owning the Stage’ at Green Valley International School, Dehradun. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity.
However, due to a prior professional commitment on the scheduled date, I regret that I will not be able to attend.
Wishing the event great success.
Yours sincerely
Arvind Narayan
Q5 (A) Letter to Editor (120-150 words)
21 May 2026
Bengaluru
The Editor
My City
Bengaluru
Subject: Concern over increasing use of artificial turf
Sir,
Through your esteemed magazine, I would like to highlight the growing trend of using artificial turf and synthetic plants in urban homes and apartment complexes. While these alternatives require less maintenance, they fail to provide the ecological benefits of natural greenery.
Real plants support biodiversity by providing habitat for birds and insects. They also reduce air pollution and help regulate urban temperatures. Artificial materials, on the other hand, increase heat and contribute to environmental degradation.
To address this issue, city planners and residents should encourage terrace gardens, community parks, and native plant landscaping. Schools can also promote environmental awareness by organizing plantation drives.
Reviving natural greenery is essential for ecological balance and for improving the physical and mental well-being of urban residents.
Yours sincerely
Nikhil Arora
Landscape Ecologist
(Word count ≈ 135)
Q5 (B) Job Application with Bio-Data
21 May 2026
Karnataka
Mr. Srinivasan
27 Prakhar Avenue
Kanpur
Subject: Application for the post of Medical Representative
Sir,
In response to your advertisement for the post of Medical Representative in Mercury Pharmaceuticals, I wish to apply for the same. I hold a degree in Pharmacy and possess excellent communication skills along with sound knowledge of pharmaceutical products.
I also have one year of experience in medical sales and am familiar with digital sales tools. I assure you of my dedication and professionalism if given the opportunity.
My bio-data is enclosed for your consideration.
Yours faithfully
Sumit
BIO-DATA
Name: Sumit
Address: 24 MG Road, Karnataka
Contact: 98XXXXXXXX
Email: sumit@email.com
Educational Qualification
B.Pharmacy – Bangalore University
Experience
1 year experience as Medical Sales Associate
Skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical products
• Familiar with digital sales tools
Languages Known: English, Hindi, Kannada
Hobbies: Reading and travelling
Q6 (A) Article – Digital Detox (120-150 words)
Digital Detox: A Need for Teenagers
By Neel Roy, Class XII B
In today’s digital age, teenagers spend a large part of their day on smartphones, laptops and social media platforms. Excessive screen time often leads to stress, anxiety, lack of concentration and disturbed sleep patterns. It also reduces face-to-face interaction and physical activity.
A digital detox helps students reconnect with the real world. Spending time away from screens improves mental clarity, boosts creativity and strengthens relationships with family and friends.
Students can adopt simple steps such as limiting screen time, keeping gadgets away during study hours and engaging in outdoor activities. Parents and schools can also encourage hobbies, sports and reading habits.
By practicing mindful use of technology, teenagers can maintain a healthy balance between the digital world and real life.
(Word count ≈ 140)
Q6 (B) Report Writing (120-150 words)
Pop-Up Literature Café Promotes Reading Culture
By Tarun Bedi
Class XII E
Our school recently organized a Pop-Up Literature Café in the library to encourage reading and creative expression among students. The event was conducted on 10 May 2026under the guidance of the library council.
Students from different classes enthusiastically participated by presenting poetry, flash fiction and storytelling sessions. The library was transformed into a lively space with themed discussion tables where students shared their favourite books and ideas.
The event aimed to cultivate a love for literature and promote creative thinking. It received an overwhelming response from students and teachers alike.
Such initiatives play an important role in building a vibrant reading culture in schools and motivating students to explore the world of books.
(Word count ≈ 135)
SECTION C – LITERATURE
Q7 (A) – A Roadside Stand
(i)
The phrase ‘the flower of cities’ symbolically represents the prosperity, wealth, and comforts of urban life enjoyed by city dwellers.
(ii)
Correct option: (A)
Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) correctly explains (A).
(iii)
The roadside stand is positioned at the edge of the road to attract the attention of city dwellers in their cars.
(iv)
The phrase ‘polished traffic’ symbolizes wealthy and sophisticated city people passing by in expensive cars.
(v)
Correct option: (A)
The villagers are seeking alms from the affluent to survive.
(This idea is not supported because they want fair economic participation, not charity.)
(vi)
The poet conveys that rural people are ignored and deprived of economic benefits, and they deserve inclusion and fair opportunities in the nation’s prosperity.
Q7 (B) – Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers
(i)
The irony is that Aunt Jennifer is weak, fearful and oppressed in real life, whereas the tigers she embroiders are bold, fearless and free.
(ii)
Phrase: “the ordeals she was mastered by.”
(iii)
Correct option: (A) Terror
The tigers symbolize freedom, fearlessness and majesty, not terror.
(iv)
Correct option: (C) Empathetic
The poet shows sympathy and understanding towards Aunt Jennifer’s suffering.
(v)
It highlights her loss of identity and individuality under patriarchal domination.
(vi)
My advice to Aunt Jennifer and women like her is to stand up against oppression and assert their independence and self-respect.
Q8 (A) – Memories of Childhood (We Too Are Human Beings)
(i)
Bama’s observation portrays a caste-ridden and discriminatory society.
(ii)
Correct option: (C) laughter to awareness
She initially laughs but later realizes the injustice of caste discrimination.
(iii)
Emotion: Anger (or indignation).
(iv)
According to Annan, the elder carried the packet by its string because upper-caste people believed touching Dalits would pollute them.
Q8 (B) – The Third Level
(i)
It strongly evokes nostalgia for a peaceful and simpler past.
(ii)
The irony is that Sam, who is a psychiatrist meant to treat people’s escapism, himself escapes into the past.
(iii)
Charley wants Sam to come to the third level so that he too can escape the stress of modern life and experience the peaceful world of the past.
(iv)
Correct option: (B) cheerful and inviting
Q9 (A) – Indigo
(i)
Answer: (A) the power of non-violent resistance and moral authority.
(ii)
The reaction of the officials when Gandhi regulated the crowd was of bafflement.
(iii)
The government’s decision to postpone the trial implies that they were confused and wanted guidance from higher authorities.
(iv)
The phrase “voice of conscience” reflects Gandhi’s belief in following his moral principles and inner sense of justice rather than blindly obeying unjust laws.
(v)
Answer: (A) conflict
(vi)
Gandhi asked for the penalty due because he wanted to accept responsibility for breaking the law while remaining true to his moral duty.
Q9 (B) – Going Places
(i)
She walked by the canal along a sheltered path near the wharf after dark.
(ii)
Answer: (B) suggests a peaceful contrast to her inner excitement.
(iii)
Answer: (A) creates a nostalgic and emotionally reflective tone through memories.
(iv)
She chose the particular location because it was quiet, secluded and perfect for a private meeting where she would not be observed.
(v)
She felt he would approve because the place was hidden and peaceful, making it suitable for a secret meeting.
(vi)
She sat on the wooden bench beneath the solitary elm because it was a quiet and familiar spot where she could wait comfortably for him.
Q10 (Answer ANY FIVE – 40–50 words each)
(i) The Interview – Umberto Eco
Umberto Eco says he is always doing the same thing because everything he does revolves around writing and ideas. Whether he writes novels, essays or academic works, he constantly researches, reads and collects information. Thus, all his activities are connected to his intellectual and creative work.
(ii) The Rattrap
The crofter lived alone and was happy to talk to someone after a long time. He felt proud of his cow and trusted the stranger easily. Loneliness made him hospitable, so he offered the peddler food, shelter and shared his earnings with him.
(iii) Deep Water
Douglas overcame his fear through determination and continuous effort. With the help of an instructor, he practised swimming step by step for months. Gradually he built confidence and finally swam across lakes and pools, proving that courage and perseverance can conquer fear.
(iv) Lost Spring
Saheb’s family migrated from Dhaka to Seemapuri because storms destroyed their fields and homes. They came to Delhi in search of better opportunities and livelihood. However, they ended up living in poverty and surviving by rag-picking.
(v) My Mother at Sixty-six
Kamala Das smiles and says “See you soon, Amma” to hide her pain and fear of losing her ageing mother. The smile is an attempt to remain strong and hopeful despite the sadness she feels about her mother’s old age.
(vi) Poets and Pancakes
The Madras drama community admired MRA because their plays carried strong moral and social messages. For example, the play “Jotham Valley” highlighted themes of peace and brotherhood. Their powerful performances impressed audiences and influenced the theatre community.
Q11 (Attempt ANY TWO – 40–50 words)
(i) Student on Ice Programme
The Student on Ice programme educates young students about Antarctica and climate change. It allows them to experience the fragile ecosystem directly. By learning about environmental protection and global responsibility, students become future leaders committed to protecting the planet.
(ii) Dr. Sadao’s Father – The Enemy
Dr. Sadao’s father taught him discipline, patriotism and respect for human life. He believed Sadao should become a great surgeon. These values later influenced Sadao’s decision to save the wounded American soldier despite the risks during wartime.
(iii) Mr Lamb and Derry – On the Face of It
Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to look beyond his scarred face and focus on the beauty of life. He teaches him that self-pity and isolation only increase suffering. By accepting himself and engaging with the world, Derry can live a fuller and happier life.
Q12 (120–150 words)
Nature in “Keeping Quiet” and “A Thing of Beauty”
In both poems, nature plays an important role in healing and comforting human beings. In “Keeping Quiet,” Pablo Neruda suggests that moments of silence and stillness can help people reflect and reconnect with nature. Such quietness allows humanity to pause from destructive activities and restore harmony with the earth.
Similarly, in “A Thing of Beauty,” John Keats describes nature as a constant source of joy and inspiration. Natural objects like the sun, moon, trees and streams provide peace and remove sadness from our lives. They create a sense of hope and beauty that uplifts the human spirit.
Thus, both poets show that nature has the power to heal, rejuvenate and bring happiness to people even during difficult times. It reminds us to appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
(≈132 words)
Q13 (120–150 words)
Irony in “The Tiger King”
Kalki uses irony brilliantly at the end of The Tiger King to deliver poetic justice. The astrologer had predicted that the Maharaja would die because of a tiger. To escape this fate, the king kills ninety-nine tigers and becomes obsessed with hunting the hundredth one.
Eventually, he believes he has killed the final tiger and thinks the prophecy is defeated. However, fate takes an ironic turn. The king later buys a wooden toy tiger for his son. A small splinter from the toy pierces his hand, causing infection and leading to his death.
Thus, although the king killed many real tigers, he ultimately dies because of a toy tiger. This unexpected twist highlights the irony and reinforces the idea that destiny cannot be easily escaped.
(≈131 words)
