"Maharashtra HSC English Board Exam 2025: Full Question Paper with Answers [February 11]"

On February 11, 2025, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) conducted the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) English examination. For those who couldn't attend or are curious about the content, here's a breakdown of the key sections, along with sample questions and their answers.

Section I: Prose

Question 1:

A1. Read the following extract and complete the activities given below:

"I spent 32 years in Information Technology, out of which as a Chief Executive..."

Activity: Arrange the following statements in the correct sequence:

1. I have passed from IIT.

2. I spent 32 years in Information Technology.

3. I worked as a Chief Executive.

4. I made a few mistakes.

Answer: The correct sequence is: 2, 3, 1, 4.

A5. Choose the correct alternative:

(i) I have passed from IIT.

(ii) Though I made a few mistakes, I learnt a lot about motivation.

Answer:

(i) I have graduated from IIT.

(ii) (b) Though I made a few mistakes, I learnt a lot about motivation.

A6. Identify the figure of speech in the following sentence:

"I have passed from IIT."

Answer: Repetition.

Section II: Poetry

Question 2:

B1. Read the following extract and complete the activities given below:

"The woods are lovely, dark and deep..."

Activity: Explain the significance of the line "But I have promises to keep."

Answer: This line reflects the speaker's acknowledgment of responsibilities and commitments that prevent them from indulging in the allure of the woods. It signifies the duties and obligations that one must fulfill before seeking personal pleasures or rest.

B2. Identify the rhyme scheme of the given extract.

Answer: The rhyme scheme is AABA.

Section III: Writing Skills

Question 3:

C1. Draft a speech on the importance of environmental conservation to be delivered during your school's annual function.

Answer:

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and my dear friends,

Today, I stand before you to discuss a matter of utmost importance—environmental conservation. Our planet, with its diverse ecosystems and abundant resources, sustains all forms of life. However, human activities have led to pollution, deforestation, and climate change, threatening our very existence.

It's imperative that we adopt sustainable practices: reduce waste, recycle, conserve water, and protect wildlife habitats. By making conscious choices, we can ensure a healthier planet for future generations. Let's pledge to be responsible stewards of our environment and work collectively towards a sustainable future.

Thank you.

C2. Write a formal letter to the editor of a local newspaper expressing concern over the increasing traffic congestion in your city.

Answer:

[Your Address]

[City, Pincode]

[Date]

The Editor

[Newspaper Name]

[Address]

Subject: Rising Traffic Congestion in [City Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I wish to draw attention to the escalating traffic congestion in our city. The daily commute has become a challenge due to the increasing number of vehicles, inadequate public transportation, and poor traffic management.

I urge the concerned authorities to develop comprehensive traffic management plans, promote public transportation, and implement strict traffic regulations to alleviate this issue.

Thank you for considering my views.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Section IV: Novel (As a Genre)

Question 4:

D1. Discuss the role of the protagonist in shaping the narrative of any novel you have studied.

Answer: In [Novel Name], the protagonist, [Protagonist's Name], serves as the central figure around whom the narrative revolves. Their actions, decisions, and growth drive the plot forward. Through their experiences, the themes of [Theme 1] and [Theme 2] are explored, providing readers with insights into [specific insights]. The protagonist's journey from [initial state] to [final state] exemplifies the author's commentary on [societal issue or human nature].

By engaging with these sections and questions, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the exam's structure and the depth of responses expected. This analysis aims to assist future candidates in their preparation and provide a clear insight into the examination's demands.