English Regular (SEP) I - SEM BA 2024 -25 Solved Question Paper
I. Answer the following questions in a word, a phrase, or a sentence each. (10x1=10)
a) Where did the Postmaster Work?
In a village called Ulakanta (or a remote village in Bengal) / In a remote village called Ulapur.
b) Which is Broken English?
The English spoken by a non-native speaker with grammatical inaccuracies and a strong local accent. / Simplified or ungrammatical English used by non-native speakers.
c) Who is the author of the Amasa Story?
Devanuru Mahadeva
d) What did the Villagers sacrifice to Mari during the festival?
The villagers sacrifice a sheep (or goat) to the goddess Mari (Mariamma) as part of the traditional ritual offerings.
e) Who is the Ratan?
An orphan girl who worked as the Postmaster’s maid.
f) Who wrote the poem "Avva"?
“Avva” is a Kannada poem by P. Lankesh (Pallagatte Lankesh), translated into English by S.N. Sridhar,
g) Why does the poet compare his mother to fertile, black earth?
Because she is a source of life, strength, and nourishment-like fertile soil giving life.
h) How is the poets laugh reflected in the mirror?
It is reflected as a snake’s bare fangs. / It looks like a snake’s fangs.
i) Whom does the poet address in the poem "Once Upon a Time"?
The poet address in the poem “Once Upon a Time” His son.
j) What does the poem "Still I Rise" Symbolize?
It symbolizes self-respect, resilience, and the triumph over oppression.
II. Answer any two of the following: (1x10=10)
1) What are Shaw's views on "Spoken English and Broken English"?
George Bernard Shaw, in his essay “Spoken English and Broken English” (1927), explains that there is no such thing as perfect or correct English because every native speaker speaks differently depending on region, class, and situation. Even educated people from different parts of Britain-such as Ireland, Scotland, or Oxford-speak with distinct accents, yet all are understandable.
Shaw humorously points out that people speak differently in public and private life. For instance, when speaking to an audience, one must speak clearly and carefully, but at home, people speak quickly and informally. Therefore, perfection in pronunciation is not necessary for communication.
He encourages foreign learners of English not to imitate native speakers’ rapid and careless speech but to speak clearly and slowly so that they can be understood. Shaw argues that “broken English”-grammatically imperfect English spoken by foreigners-is perfectly sufficient for intelligible communication.
He also criticizes linguistic snobbery, saying that clarity, simplicity, and understanding are far more important than rigid correctness. Shaw concludes that English is a diverse, living language, and everyone-native or foreign-speaks it in their own way.
In short: Shaw believes English should be spoken naturally and clearly, not perfectly, because even natives “break” their language in daily life.
2) Bring out the theme of alienation as revealed in the story "The Postmaster".
Rabindranath Tagore’s short story “The Postmaster” powerfully expresses the theme of alienation and loneliness through its two main characters-the Postmaster and Ratan.
The Postmaster, a young man from Calcutta, is transferred to a remote village called Ulapur. He feels completely out of place in the quiet, rural setting, far from the comforts and culture of city life. His work is monotonous, and he cannot relate to the uneducated villagers. His isolation becomes emotional and intellectual.
In contrast, Ratan, an orphaned village girl, helps the Postmaster with his daily chores. She finds companionship and affection in his presence, seeing him as a father or brother figure. But this emotional bond is one-sided—while Ratan becomes deeply attached, the Postmaster remains emotionally distant and yearns to return to the city.
When he finally decides to leave Ulapur, Ratan pleads to go with him, but he dismisses her feelings. His departure leaves her heartbroken and alone, while he rationalizes the separation as “a natural part of life.”
This contrast reveals the theme of alienation—both characters are lonely but cannot truly connect due to social and emotional barriers. The Postmaster’s urban background isolates him from rural life, and Ratan’s love isolates her in grief.
Thus, Tagore portrays alienation as a universal human experience arising from class, distance, and the impermanence of relationships.
III. Answer any two of the following: (1x10=10)
1) Critically appreciate the poem "Still I Rise".
The poem “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou is a powerful expression of self-respect, resilience, and defiance in the face of oppression. Written in a confident and rhythmic tone, the poem celebrates the indomitable spirit of the Black woman who rises above discrimination, hatred, and prejudice.
Angelou addresses her oppressors directly, asking rhetorical questions that expose their attempts to degrade her through lies, hate, and injustice. Yet, with each stanza, she responds with unbreakable confidence: “Still I rise.” This refrain symbolizes victory over racial and gender-based oppression.
The poet uses strong imagery and metaphors, comparing herself to natural and valuable elements—“I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide” and “I walk like I’ve got oil wells pumping in my living room.” These images convey pride, wealth, and power.
The tone shifts from pain to triumph as the poem ends with hope and liberation, linking personal resilience to collective freedom.
In essence, “Still I Rise” is not only a personal assertion of dignity but also a universal anthem for all oppressed people, inspiring courage, confidence, and faith in one’s identity.
2) Examine the concern of Okara towards changing African Culture.
In the poem “Once Upon a Time”, Gabriel Okara, a Nigerian poet, expresses his deep concern over the loss of traditional African values due to the influence of Western culture. Through a nostalgic and emotional tone, he contrasts the warmth and sincerity of the past with the artificiality of the present.
The poet recalls a time when people were genuine—when they laughed with their hearts and smiled with their eyes. But now, people “laugh with their teeth” and shake hands “without hearts.” This imagery reveals Okara’s disappointment at the insincerity and hypocrisy that have replaced honesty and compassion.
He feels alienated in a world dominated by materialism and pretense. The poet addresses his son, longing to “unlearn” the false ways of modern life and return to the innocence and truthfulness of his childhood.
Okara’s concern reflects the broader cultural crisis in post-colonial Africa, where Western influence has eroded native customs and emotional authenticity.
Thus, the poem serves as a lament for lost cultural purity and a plea to reclaim the sincerity, simplicity, and humanity of African tradition.
IV. Write short notes on any two of the following taking one from the prose and one from the poetry. (2x5=10)
1) The Postmaster.
Rabindranath Tagore’s short story “The Postmaster” explores themes of loneliness, human connection, and emotional detachment. The story is set in a small rural village called Ulapur, where a young postmaster from Calcutta is assigned to work. Far from city life, he feels isolated and restless.
He hires Ratan, an orphaned village girl, to help with household chores. Gradually, a gentle bond grows between them—she learns to read and sees him as a family figure. However, when the postmaster decides to return to Calcutta, Ratan is heartbroken. Her emotional attachment is unreciprocated, and he leaves her behind.
The story ends poignantly with Ratan waiting in vain for his return. Tagore uses their relationship to highlight human alienation, social divide, and the transient nature of affection.
2) Character of Kuriyayya.
Kuriyayya, an elderly man known as the “Sheep Man,” is one of the main characters in Devanur Mahadeva’s story “Amasa.” He lives in the Mari temple, a refuge for the poor and outcast, along with the orphan boy Amasa.
Once a shepherd for the village headman, Kuriyayya is now old and weak, spending his days sitting on a tattered black blanket and counting imaginary sheep on his fingers—a habit that shows his attachment to his past life.
Despite his frailty, Kuriyayya shares a bond of companionship with Amasa. The boy brings him food from the monastery every evening, and their quiet routine reflects mutual care and emotional dependence.
Kuriyayya represents the ignored and marginalized elderly in society-those who live on the edges but retain dignity, memory, and affection. Through his character, Mahadeva portrays loneliness, survival, and human compassion within the marginalized community.
3) The determination of Maya Angelou.
Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise” powerfully reflects her determination, courage, and unbreakable spirit in the face of racism and oppression. Speaking as a Black woman, she asserts her dignity and confidence despite centuries of injustice.
Her repeated declaration-“Still I rise”-shows her refusal to be crushed by discrimination or hatred. She compares herself to natural forces like dust, air, and the ocean, suggesting that her rise is unstoppable and natural.
Angelou’s determination is not just personal-it represents the strength of all oppressed people who rise with hope and pride. Through her confident tone, rhythmic verses, and defiant imagery, she inspires readers to face challenges boldly and affirm their self-worth.
In essence, Maya Angelou embodies resilience and determination, symbolizing triumph over adversity.
4) 'Avva'
The poem “Avva” (meaning Mother) by Lankesh is a touching tribute to a mother’s love, sacrifice, and strength. The poet remembers his mother with deep affection and gratitude, portraying her as a symbol of fertility, endurance, and selfless care.
He compares his mother to fertile black soil, suggesting that she gives life, nourishment, and growth just as the earth does. Despite hardship and poverty, she remains strong and nurturing, silently enduring all struggles for her children’s sake.
The tone of the poem is emotional and nostalgic, filled with admiration and sorrow. It celebrates the universal motherhood that sustains humanity through compassion and resilience.
Through simple yet powerful imagery, Lankesh shows that a mother’s love is eternal and life-giving-an embodiment of the earth’s creative spirit.
V. Section
1) Rewrite as directed. (5x1=5)
a) Sing (Change into adjective)
Ans: Musical
b) Hope (Change into adverb)
Ans: Hopefully
c) Enjoy (Change into adjective)
Ans: Enjoyable
d) Dance (Change into verb)
Ans: To dance
e) Drive (Change into noun)
Ans: Driver
2) Fill in the blanks with suitable Articles and Prepositions. (5x1=5)
a) It was _____ excellent offer.
Ans: an
b) _____ Market will remain closed for two days.
Ans: The
c) Mohan is ______ tallest boy in the Colony.
Ans: the
d) He divided his property ______ his two sons.
Ans: between
e) One should take care _____ one’s health
Ans: of
3) Rewrite as directed. (5x1=5)
a) Famous (Write Synonym)
Ans: Renowned
b) Positive (Write Antonym)
Ans: Negative
c) Enjoy (Write Synonym)
Ans: Relish
d) Describe (Write Antonym)
Ans: Conceal
e) Brave (Add suitable affixes)
Ans: Bravery / Bravely
4) Choose the right verbs from brackets to complete each sentence. (5x1=5)
a) The moon (raised, rose, awake) early.
Ans: rose
b) They (hanged, hung, swung) the picture on the wall.
Ans: hung
c) Cocks (sing, caw, crow) in the morning.
Ans: crow
d) The thieves (robbed, stole, won) all the property from the house.
Ans: stole
e) The servant (lay, laid, put) the table for breakfast.
Ans: laid
VI. Section
1) Draft a copy of self-introduction in front of the panel members of an interview. (5x1=5)
Good morning/afternoon respected panel members. My name is Soundarya, and I have recently completed my BA from Rani Channamma University – (Belagavi) with a strong academic record. During my studies, I developed a deep interest in [Your Field/Area of Expertise], which motivated me to engage in various projects and practical assignments that strengthened my knowledge and skills.
I am particularly skilled in communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and I enjoy applying these skills to achieve meaningful results. Apart from my academic background, I have gained hands-on experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time roles, where I learned to handle real-world challenges and collaborate effectively with others.
I am highly motivated, adaptable, and eager to contribute positively to your organization, while also continuing to learn and grow professionally. I am confident that my dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to take on responsibilities will make me a valuable member of your team. Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to introduce myself.
2) Draft a speech of introducing the chief guest an inauguration function of your college. (5x1=5)
It gives me great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all of you on this special occasion of our college inauguration function. Today, we are honored to have with us a distinguished personality whose presence adds immense value to this event.
Our chief guest, [Chief Guest’s Name], is a highly accomplished [profession/position, e.g. educator, entrepreneur], known for [mention a notable achievement or contribution]. With years of dedication and outstanding contributions in [their field/area of expertise], [he/she/they] has inspired countless individuals through [his/her/their] work and commitment.
We are truly fortunate to have [Chief Guest’s Name] among us today, and we eagerly look forward to hearing [his/her/their] thoughts, insights, and guidance, which will surely motivate and encourage all of us to strive for excellence.
Please join me in welcoming our esteemed chief guest, [Chief Guest’s Name], with a warm round of applause.
3) Write an imaginary dialogue between you and the depot manager to issue the student bus pass. (5x1=5)
You: Good morning, sir. I have come to apply for my student bus pass.
Depot Manager: Good morning. Can I have your student ID and a passport-size photograph, please?
You: Sure, sir. Here are my student ID and photograph.
Depot Manager: Thank you. Which route will you be traveling daily?
You: I will be traveling from Ugar to Athani KLE SSMS College every day.
Depot Manager: Alright. Please fill out this application form, and the bus pass will be ready within two working days.
You: Thank you very much, sir. I appreciate your help.
4) Comment on the views of Harman Singh Sidhu on road safety based on your listening of ted talk. (5x1=5)
In his TEDx talk, Harman Singh Sidhu emphasizes the critical role of road safety in shaping individual character and building a strong nation. He challenges the common misconception that road crashes are mere “accidents” and highlights that they are preventable events caused by identifiable factors. Citing alarming statistics, he compares the daily loss of lives on Indian roads to multiple Boeing plane crashes every day, emphasizing the human and economic costs involved. Sidhu shares his personal experience of life-altering injury from a road crash to illustrate the profound psychological and physical impacts. He advocates for comprehensive road safety measures, focusing on five key factors: policy enforcement, safe infrastructure, vehicle safety, responsible user behavior, and effective post-crash care. He particularly stresses the importance of responsible driving behaviors, such as avoiding speeding, driving under the influence, not wearing helmets or seatbelts, using mobile phones while driving, and maintaining visibility. Sidhu also highlights systemic challenges, like the widespread availability of liquor shops along highways, which contribute to drunk driving and accidents. Despite legal victories to reduce such hazards, enforcement remains a challenge. Using the analogy of disciplined ants, Sidhu urges society to adopt responsible and coordinated behavior on roads as a reflection of character and national progress. Ultimately, he calls for collective action, asserting that safer roads will lead to better individuals and a stronger nation.