Category: 2019

1. Dhaka Board−2019 (First Paper)
2. Rajshahi Board−2019 (First Paper)
3. Jashore Board−2019 (First Paper)
4. Combined Board Exam−2018 (CODE−185: DB; JB; SB & DJB) (First Paper)
5. Dhaka Board – 2019 (Second Paper)
6. Dinajpur Board 2019 (Second Paper)
7. Chattagram Board 2019 (Second Paper)
8. Rajshahi Board – 2019 (Second Paper)
9. Jashore Board 2019 (Second Paper)
10. Cumilla Board-2019 (Second Paper)
11. Sylhet Board 2019 (Second Paper)
12. Barishal Board 2019 (Second Paper)

1. Dhaka Board−2019

English (Compulsory)− First Paper 

[According to the syllabus of 2019]

Full marks: 100 Time: 3 hours

[Answer all the questions. Figures in the margin indicate full marks.]

Part−I: Reading Test [60 Marks]

1. Read the passage and answer the questions A and B.

When adolescent girls are pulled out of school, either for marriage or work, they often lose their mobility, their friends and social status. The lack of mobility among adolescent girls also curtails their economic and non-formal educational opportunities. Moreover, they lack information about health issues. According to a study, only about three in five adolescents have even heard of HIV. It is also reported that more than 50 percent of adolescent girls are undernourished and suffer from anemia.  Adolescent fertility rate increased from 20.3% in 1993 to 24.4% in 2007. Moreover, neonatal mortality is another concern for younger mothers.  While the situation for adolescent boys is somewhat better, many are vulnerable and lack the power to make decisions about their own lives. Many boys who are unable to go to school, or are unemployed, remain unaware of social or health issues. They are at considerable risk of being drawn into criminal activities. They are likely to get exposed to drugs and alcohol causing irreparable damage to their health and life. [Text: Unit−6; Lesson−2]

1. Choose the correct answer from the alternatives. 1 × 5 = 5

(a) The word ‘mobility’ means ⎯⎯.  i. ability ii. creativity iii. movement iv. activity

(b) The phrase ‘exposed to’ may best be replaced by ⎯⎯. 

1. to remove something ii. make public iii. experience something harmful iv. shocking news

(c) The closest meaning of ‘study’ is ⎯⎯.  i. skipping ii. omitting iii. reporting iv. learning

(d) The word ‘anaemia’ refers to ⎯⎯.  i. blood pressure ii. blood sugar  iii. shortage of blood iv. blood contamination

(e) The ‘neonatal’ is closely related to ⎯⎯.  i. a newborn baby ii. a mother iii. an adolescent iv. a disease

1. Answer the following questions. 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Why are adolescent girls the worst sufferers?

(b) What happens to a girl when she loses mobility?

(c) Who, do you think, are more vulnerable to adolescent health problems⎯boys or girls? Why? (d) What major problems do boys face during adolescence?

(e) Why should all of us say “no’ to drugs?

2. Read the following text and make a flow-chart highlighting the different aspects of socio cultural life as reflected in folk music. (No. 1 has been done for you) 2 × 5 = 10

In Bangladesh folk music has great variety, with songs being composed on culture, festivals, views of life, natural beauty, rivers and rural and riverine life. These songs are also about social inequality and poverty, about the material world and the supernatural. Mystical songs have been composed using the metaphors of rivers and boats. Since the country is basically riverine, the Bhatiyali forms an important genre of folk music. Folk music is formed and develops according to the environment.  Differences in the natural environment are reflected in the people of the different regions. The dialects too vary across the different regions. Bangladeshi folk music therefore varies from region to region. Thus there are the northern Bhawaiya, the eastern Bhatiyali and the southwestern Baul songs. [Text: Unit−5; Lesson−2]

1. Songs reflecting rural and riverine life
2. Write a summary of the following text. 10

The term ‘diaspora’ is used to refer to people who have left their homelands and settled in other parts of the world, either because they were forced to do so or because they wanted to leave on their own. The word is increasingly used for such people as a collective group or a community. The world has seen many diasporas but scholars have been studying the phenomenon with great interest only in recent decades.  Among the great diasporas of history is that of the Jewish people, who were forced to leave their lands in ancient times. The movement of Aryans from Central Europe to the Indian sub-continent thousands of years ago is also a noteworthy diaspora, although the causes of this diaspora are unclear. In twentieth century history, the Palestinian diaspora has attracted a lot of attention and been a cause of concern for world leaders because of the plight of Palestinians. There have been massive diasporas in Africa, too, over the centuries, either because of war or because of the ravages of nature. But the chief reason why the phenomenon of diaspora is attracting so much attention now is globalization. [Text: Unit−9; Lesson−1]

4. Read the following text and fill in the blanks with suitable word from the box. There are more words than needed. You may change the form of the words if necessary. 0.5 × 10 = 5

Every year millions of people all over the world die unnecessarily as a result of pollution. These unfortunate and (a) ⎯⎯ deaths are brought about by four specific factors. Firstly, air pollution from factories, burning trash, and vehicle (b) ⎯⎯ cause pneumonia, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. Then, water pollution from industrial discharge, the indiscriminate (c) ⎯⎯ of toxic chemicals, and the (d) ⎯⎯ of human waste into rivers and canals causes poisoning and (e) ⎯⎯  diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea. The next factor is the noise pollution from vehicle horns and (f) ⎯⎯ that might cause aggression and damage hearing. And finally, (g) ⎯⎯ pollution from dumped or untreated human waste causes serious discomfort to our sense of smell, and attracts disease-bearing (h) ⎯⎯ such as rats and flies. We should take (i) ⎯⎯ action to control these problems and clean up the environment to (j) ⎯⎯ these unnecessary diseases.

5. Fill in the gaps using suitable words. 1 × 10 = 10

We all know what a dream is. Generally, we dream during our sleep. Some dreams are sweet or (a) ⎯⎯. When we dream something extremely bad, we call it a (b) ⎯⎯. Dreams have no (c) ⎯⎯. They are soft and (d) ⎯⎯. The dream we have during the day time is called (e) ⎯⎯. Dreams have fascinated philosophers for thousands of years, but none could (f) ⎯⎯ specifically what dream actually is. Dreams can be extraordinarily (g) ⎯⎯ or very vague. While many theories have been proposed no consensus has emerged. It is important to consider that science is still (h) ⎯⎯ the exact purpose and function of sleep itself. Some researchers suggest that dreams have no (i) ⎯⎯ purpose, while others believe that (j) ⎯⎯ is essential to mental, emotional and physical well-being.

6. The sentences in the following text are jumbled. Rearrange them in a proper. 10

(a) All the servants were called and interrogated.

(b) In order to find out the thief, the judge chalked out an intelligent plan.

(c) Once a gold necklace was lost from a rich man’s house. 

(d) The servants were summoned to the court but they denied having stolen the necklace.

(e) When the servants came to the court the next day, the thief had already cut off an inch of his tick.

(f) But nobody confessed their guilt.

(g) So the owner of the house lodged a complaint in the court.

(h) The judge found one of the sticks shorter than the others and in this way he could easily catch the thief.

(i) Naturally it was suspected that one of the servants had stolen the necklace.

(j) He gave each of the suspects a stick of equal length and said that one of the sticks would increase by an inch the next day.

Part−II: Writing Test [40 Marks]

7. Write a paragraph on ‘Food Adulteration’ in about 200 words based on the answers to the following questions. 10

(a) What do you mean by food adulteration? (b) How does food get adulterated? (c) Who are responsible for food adulteration? (d) What is the impact of adulterated food on our body? (e) What can be done to stop it?

8. Read the beginning of the following story and complete it in your own way. Give a title to the story. 7 Once upon a time, a crow was very thirsty. It flew from place to place in search of water but unfortunately it did not find any water. All on a sudden it saw…..
9. Suppose, you are Ratul. Write an e-mail to your younger brother narrating the benefits of reading newspapers daily. 5
10. The chart below shows the number of mobile phone and internet users in Bangladesh from the year 2014 to 2018. Describe the chart in at least 80 words. You should highlight the information and report the main features. 10

Mobile phone users  Internet users  N.B. : Numbers indicate million people

11. Write down the theme of the following poem. (Not more than 50 words): 8

I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,

And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made;

Nine bean rows will I have there, a hive for the honey bee

And live alone in the bee loud glade.

And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow

Dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings;

There midnight’s all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow,

And evening full of the linnet’s wings.

I will arise and go now, for always night and day

I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;

While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey,

I hear it in the deep heart’s core.

2. Rajshahi Board−2019

English (Compulsory)− First Paper 

[According to the syllabus of 2019]

Full marks: 100 Time : 3 hours

[Answer all the questions. Figures in the margin indicate full marks.]

Part−I : Reading Test [60 Marks]

1. Read the passage and answer the questions A and B.

As a child you must have been told to greet your elders and visitors to your home according to your culture and tradition. You must also have been taught to be polite in company and keep quiet while others, especially your elders, speak. Possibly, at times you even protested such disciplining. Now, certainly you know that you can’t always behave the way you want specially in the presence of others.  There are rules of behavior you have to follow in a company. We are social beings and have to consider   the effect of our behaviour on others, even if we are at home and dealing with our family members. We have two terms to describe our social behaviour− ‘etiquette’ and ‘manners.’ ‘Etiquette’ is a French word and it means the rules of correct behaviour in society. The word ‘manners’ means the behaviour that is considered to be polite in a particular society or culture. Manners can be good or bad. For example, it is a bad manner to speak with food in one’s mouth. No one likes a bad mannered person.  Remember that etiquette and manners vary from culture to culture and from society to society. We learn etiquette and manners from our parents, families and various institutions, such as schools, colleges or professional bodies. There are rules of behaviour for all kinds of social occasions and it is important to learn them and practise them in everyday life. The manners that are correct in a wedding reception will not do in a debating club. Therefore, we have to be careful about etiquette and manners.  We know how important it is to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ in everyday life. A few more polite expressions such as ‘pardon me,’ ‘excuse me’, ‘may I,’ are bound to make your day smooth and pleasant. [Text : Unit−4; Lesson−1]

1. Choose the correct answer from the alternatives. 1 × 5 = 5

(a) The word ‘possibly’ refers to ⎯⎯.  i. really ii. perhaps iii. exactly iv. eventually

(b) The best synonym of ‘smooth’ is ⎯⎯.  i. glossy ii. uneven iii. peaceful iv. urbane

(c) Therefore, we have to be ⎯⎯ about etiquette and manners.  i. judicious ii. liberal iii. sensitive iv. cautious

(d) The word ‘vary’ is a/ an ⎯⎯.  i. adverb ii. verb iii. adjective iv. noun

(e) If there are elders or visitors at your home, the proper attitude towards them is to ⎯⎯. i. annoy them ii. avoid them iii. accost them iv. rebuke them

1. Answer the following questions. 2 × 5 = 10

(a) What is meant by ‘etiquette’ and ‘manners’?

(b) Who likes a bad mannered person? Give an example of a bad manner.

(c) Why is it important to learn and practise the rules of behaviour in everyday life?

(d) Where do we learn etiquette and manners from?

(e) Write a few polite expressions mentioned in the passage.

2. Read the following text and make a flow-chart showing the names of some significant diasporas and causes mentioned in the passage. (No. 1 has been done for you) 2 × 5 = 10

The term ‘diaspora’ is used to refer to people who have left their homelands and settled in other parts of the world, either because they were forced to do so or because they wanted to leave on their own. The word is increasingly used for such people as a collective group and/or a community. The world has seen many diasporas but scholars have been studying the phenomenon with great interest only in recent decades.  Among the great diasporas of history is that of the Jewish people, who were forced to leave their lands in ancient times. The movement of Aryans from Central Europe to the Indian sub-continent thousands of years ago is also a noteworthy diaspora, although the causes of this diaspora are unclear. In twentieth century history, the Palestinian diaspora has attracted a lot of attention and been a cause of concern for world leaders because of the plight of the Palestinians. There have been massive diasporas in Africa, too, over the centuries, either because of war or because of the ravages of nature. But the chief reason why the phenomenon of diaspora is attracting so much attention now is globalization. [Text : Unit−9; Lesson−1]

1. Diaspora of the Jewish people 2. 3.    4.    5.    6.
2. Write a summary of the following text. 10

According to some myths and legends, Gazi Pir was a Muslim saint who is said to have spread Islam in the parts of Bengal close to the Sundarbans. He was credited with many miracles. For example, he could supposedly calm dangerous animals and make them docile. He is usually depicted in paats or scroll paintings riding a fierce-looking Bengal tiger, a snake in his hand, but in no apparent danger. According to some stories, he also fought crocodiles who threatened the people of a region full of canals and creeks, indeed, a kind of watery jungle bordering the Bay of Bengal. Because of his alert and vigilant presence, all predatory animals were said to have been kept within bounds. It was also believed that he enabled villagers to live close to forests and jungles and cultivate their lands.  Consequently, people of these regions would pray to him for protection. The story of Gazi Pir has been preserved in folk literature as well as art and has been performed in indigenous theatre. In fact, some Gazir paat scrolls are part of the collection of the British Museum. [Text : Unit−14; Lesson−3]

4. Read the following text and fill in the blanks with suitable words from the box. There are more words than needed. (Make any grammatical change if necessary). 0.5 × 10 = 5

To encourage female education, the government has taken some (a) ⎯⎯ steps such as giving stipends to girl students, (b) ⎯⎯ more female teachers, etc. (c) ⎯⎯ girls cannot receive the full benefit of education mainly because of the following reasons. (d) ⎯⎯ misinterpretation and social structures (e) ⎯⎯ girls from going to schools. Even in urban schools girls are not (f) ⎯⎯ by many  parents to live in hostels for their daughters’ (g) ⎯⎯. Early marriage and childbirth make women (h) ⎯⎯ to home with no (i) ⎯⎯ of going back to school. Any expenditure for sending girls to school is considered a (j) ⎯⎯ by many parents whereas it is regarded as an investment in case of boys.

5. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words in each gap. 1 × 10 = 10

The persona of a traffic policeman has always been a (a) ⎯⎯ one. It has often found (b) ⎯⎯ space and close treatment in literature and other (c) ⎯⎯. Besides the many poems about this (d) ⎯⎯ character, there is at least one (e) ⎯⎯ where the central character is a traffic policeman. In 1963, Greek film maker Filippos Fylaktas made this film (f) ⎯⎯ My Brother, the Traffic Policeman. It featured a slightly (g) ⎯⎯ traffic police, Antonis Pikrocholos who is utterly (h) ⎯⎯ to service and duty and applies the traffic (i) ⎯⎯ with unyielding (j) ⎯⎯.

6. Rearrange the following sentences to make a coherent order. 10

(a) He showed extraordinary credit in every examination of the school.

(b) He has made great contribution to the scientific research of Bangladesh.

(c) Dr. Kudrat-e-Khuda was born on 8th May at village Margram in the district of Birbhum in West Bengal in 1900 AD.

(d) In 1925 getting star marks he passed M.Sc in Chemistry from Kolkata Varsity.

(e) He died on 3rd November in 1977.

(f) His father Hazrat Shah Abdul Mukit was a pious man.

(g) In 1929 he passed D.Sc from Imperial College in England.

(h) At the age of six, he was admitted into a Furkania Madrasa and then he was admitted into an English School.

(i) He made a great plan to give the new structure of education system.

(j) In 1953, he was appointed Chairman of Secondary Education Board.

Part−II : Writing Test [40 Marks]

7. Write a paragraph on ‘The Sundarbans’ on the basis of the answers to the following questions in about 200 words: 10

(a) What type of forest is the Sundarbans? (b) What is the location of the Sundarbans? (c) Why is the Sundarbans famous? (d) What is the present condition of this forest? (e) What are the causes of destruction of the Sundarbans and what causes the extinction of tigers? (f) What role does the Sundarbans play in the national economy?

8. The following is the beginning of a story. Complete it in your own words : 7

Once there lived a poor farmer. He had a goose. It used to lay a golden egg everyday. He sold the golden egg in the market. He was very greedy……

9. Suppose, you are Shamim, Rifat is your younger brother. Write an e-mail to your younger brother advising him to take part in games and sports regularly. 5
10. The pie-chart below shows the percentage of travelers in Bangladesh travelling in different transportation ways per day. Describe the pie-chart in at least 80 words. 10
11. Write down the theme of the following poem. (not more than 50 words) 8

I sit on one of the dives

On fifty-second Street

Uncertain and afraid

As the clever hopes expire.

Of a low dishonest decade:

Waves of anger and fear

Circulate over the bright

And darkened lands of the earth,

Obsessing our private lives;

The unmentionable odour of death

Offends the September night.  

3. Jashore Board−2019

English (Compulsory)− First Paper

[According to the syllabus of 2019]

Full marks : 100 Time : 3 hours

[Answer all the questions. Figures in the margin indicate full marks.]

Part−I : Reading Test [60 Marks]

1. Read the following text and answer the questions A and B.

Valentina Tereshkova was born in the village Maslennikovo, Tutayevsky District, in Central Russia.  Tereshkova’s father was a tractor driver and her mother worked in a textile plant. Tereshkova began school in 1945 at the age of eight but left school in 1953 and continued her education through distance learning. She became interested in parachuting from a young age, and trained in skydiving at the local Aeroclub, making her first jump at age 22 on 21 May 1959. At that time, she was employed as a textile worker a local factory. It was her expertise in skydiving that led to her selection as a cosmonaut.  After the flight of Yuri Gagarin (The first human being to travel to outer space in 1961), the Soviet Union decided to send a woman in space. On 16 February 1962, “Proletaria” Valentina Tereshkova was selected for this project from among more than four hundred applicants. Tereshkova had to undergo a series of training that included weightless flights, isolation tests, centrifuge tests, rocket theory, spacecraft engineering, 120 parachute jumps and pilot training in MiG-15 UTI jet fighters.  Since the successful launch of the spacecraft Vostok-5 on 14 June 1963, Tereshkova began preparing for her own flight. On the morning of 16 June 1963, Tereshkova and her back-up cosmonaut Solovyova were dressed in spacesuits and taken to the space shuttle launch pad by a bus. After completing her communication and life support checks, she was sealed inside Vostok 6. Finishing a two-hour countdown, Vostok-6 launched faultlessly. [Text : Unit−1; Lesson−3]

1. Choose the correct answer from the alternatives. 1 × 5 = 5

(a) What does the word ‘expertise’ mean?  i. proficiency ii. ability iii. knowledge iv. expert opinion

(b) Who was Tereshkova’s backup cosmonaut?  i. Solovyova ii. an ordinary pilot iii. Nobody iv. her cousin

(c) When Tereshkova made her first jump, she was an employee ⎯⎯.  i. in a local textile factory ii. in a sewing factory  iii. in a kindergarten school iv. in an aerospace company

(d) How many applicants were there for the project?  i. 300 ii. 400 iii. 450 iv. 500

(e) What does the word ‘proletaria’ in the passage refer to?  i. the working class people ii. people with special needs  iii. common people iv. people who are sick

1. Answer the following questions. 2 × 5 = 10

(a) What do you know about Tereshkova’s early life?

(b) What led to the selection of Tereshkova as a cosmonaut?

(c) What can you say about the trainings Tereshkova took?

(d) Who was the first human being to fly to outer space?

(e) Briefly discuss Tereshkova’s experience in Vostok-6.

2. Read the following text and make a flow chart showing the objectives of peace movement. (One is done for you) 2 × 5 = 10

A peace movement is a social movement that seeks to achieve ideals such as the ending of a particular war (or all wars), minimize inter-human violence in a particular place or type of situation including ban of guns, and is often linked to the goal of achieving world peace. Means to achieve these ends include advocacy of pacifism, non-violent resistance, diplomacy, boycotts, demonstrations, peace camps; supporting anti-war political candidates and banning guns, creating open government, direct democracy; supporting people who expose war-crimes or conspiracies to create wars, and making laws. Different organizations involved in peace movements may have some diverse goals, but one common goal is sustainability of peace.  Peace movement is basically an all-encompassing “anti-war movement”. It is primarily characterized by a belief that human beings should not wage war on each other or engage in violent conflicts over language, race, natural resources, religion or ideology. It is believed that military power is not the equivalent of justice. The peace movement tends to oppose the proliferation of dangerous technologies and weapons of mass destruction, in particular, nuclear weapons and biological warfare. Moreover, many object to the export of weapons including hand-held machine guns and grenades by leading economic nations to lesser developed nations. [Text : Unit−10; Lesson−5]

1. Ending of a particular war 2. 3.    4.    5.    6.
2. Write a summary of the following text. 10

Universities should never be made into mechanical organizations for collecting and distributing knowledge. Through them the people should offer their intellectual hospitality, their wealth of mind to others, and earn their proud right in return to receive gifts from the rest of the world. But in the whole length and breadth of India there is not a single University established in the modern time where a foreign or an Indian student can properly be acquainted with the best products of the Indian mind. For that we have to cross the sea, and knock at the doors of France and Germany.  Educational institutions in our country are India’s alms-bowl of knowledge; they lower our intellectual self-respect; they encourage us to make a foolish display of decorations composed of borrowed feathers. [Text : Unit−15; Lesson−1]

4. Fill in the gaps with suitable words from the box. Make any grammatical change if necessary. 0.5 × 10 = 5

Education is the process by which our mind develops through formal (a) ⎯⎯ at an institution. It is mental and (b) ⎯⎯ training. It provides opportunities of growth and helps to (c) ⎯⎯ challenges.  Moreover, the purpose of education is to (d) ⎯⎯ an individual. The aim of education is also to train individuals to make right (e) ⎯⎯. It ennobles our mind and refines our (f) ⎯⎯. It broadens our outlook and removes (g) ⎯⎯. It helps us to be (h) ⎯⎯ of our rights and responsibilities. Education furnishes us with an (i) ⎯⎯ in expressing truth. Therefore, it is compared to light which dispels the (j) ⎯⎯ of ignorance.

5. Fill in the blanks with appropriate word in each gap. 1 × 10 = 10

There goes a proverb that child is (a) ⎯⎯ of the man. Today’s child is the (b) ⎯⎯ of a nation. He will (c) ⎯⎯ the country. The whole (d) ⎯⎯ depends on their proper (e) ⎯⎯. It is our fundamental (f) ⎯⎯ to rouse their (g) ⎯⎯ talent. A sound environment is (h) ⎯⎯ both in the family and the society so that a child (i) ⎯⎯ up physically, mentally and spiritually. Only then it will be (j) ⎯⎯ to build up a beautiful and developed country.

6. Rearrange the following sentences to make a coherent order. 10

(a) The king was fond of knowing his future from the astrologer.

(b) The king called him to the palace.

(c) At this the king got furious and condemned him to death.

(d) A good astrologer visited the capital of the king.

(e) Once there was a king.

(f) With ready wit he said, ‘The stars declare that I’ll die only a week before your death”.

(g) But another thought crossed his mind before the astrologer was removed for execution.

(h) The king then asked, “How long would you live?”

(i) The astrologer told something very unpleasant.

(j) He then thought for a while some ways of escape.

Part−II : Writing Test [40 Marks]

7. Write a paragraph on ‘Climate Change’ in about 200 words based on the answers to the following questions. 10

(a) What is climate change? (b) What are the causes of climate change? (c) What are the impacts of climate change? (d) How is climate change a threat to Bangladesh? (e) How can climate change be minimized?

8. The following is the beginning of a story. Complete it in your own words: 7

Once there lived a happy cobbler in a town. He passed his days in singing and dancing…..

9. Suppose, you have a pen friend living in Canada. Now write an e-mail inviting him to visit your country. 5
10. The graph chart shows the choice of profession by educated people in our country. Describe the graph chart in at least 80 words: 10 70% 60% 50%  40%  30%  20%  10%  0% Research Banking Teaching  Farming Business Govt. Job
11. Write down the theme of the following poem. (Not more than fifty words) 8

I wandered lonely as a cloud

That floats on high o’er vales and hills,

When all at once I saw a crowd,

A host of golden daffodils;

Beside the lake, beneath the trees,

Fluttering and dancing on the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine

And twinkle in the milky way

Along the margin of a bay:

Ten thousand saw I at a glance,

Tossing their heads in sprightly dance. 

4. COMBINED BOARD EXAM−2018 (CODE−185: DB; JB; SB & DJB)

English (Compulsory)− First Paper

Full marks: 100 Time : 3 hours

[Answer all the questions. Figures in the margin indicate full marks.]

PART−I : READING TEST [60 Marks]

1. Read the passage and answer the questions A and B.

When you are in the driving seat of a car, you have the steering and the horn in your hands, the brake and accelerator under your feet, eyes open looking ahead, left and right. The same can be said about a motorcycle rider, with some modifications. These are all very visible. But, behind all, there is something that keeps working unseen.  And that is the Central Processing Unit (CPU), your brain. CPUs are artificially intelligent machines that are programmed to do specific jobs under fixed conditions and judgements. But the human brain is intelligent by nature. It is the most sophisticated machine that is able to operate on ever-changing conditions and standards of judgement. As conditions in the traffic keep invariably changing, this virtue of sophistication of your brain must be at work when you are driving. The difference between traffic in the roads and highways and racing circuit must not be blurring inside you. Never imagine yourself to be a Michael Schumacher driving an F-l at 300 mph. Leave no room for fantasy. You must always be ready to encounter unexpected behaviour from any vehicle or pedestrian.  ‘Keep your cool’ is easy to advise but difficult to maintain. Still you must always restrain yourself because, at the end of the day, you don’t want to be regarded as a killer. Now you see, the last thing that differentiates you from a computer is your conscience. [Text : Unit−4; Lesson−1]

1. Choose the correct answer from the alternatives. 1 × 5 = 5

(i) What could be the closest meaning for ‘modification’?  a. To change b. To make less extreme  c. Adjust d. An alteration or adjustment to something

(ii) The word ‘Sophisticated’ refers to ⎯⎯.  a. gorgeous b. advanced c. unrefined d. uncomplicated

(iii) ‘Invariably’ could be best replaced by ⎯⎯.  a. regular b. alterable c. inconsistent d. always (iv) The human brain is called Central Processing Unit (CPU) because ⎯⎯.  a. it is the central part of the body b. it performs all important activities c. it is the centre of all activities d. it is the central part of mind

(v) The best synonym of ‘encounter’ is ⎯⎯.  a. battle b. meeting c. face d. clash

1. Answer the following questions. 2 × 5 = 10

(a) What kind of skill does car driving require?

(b) What is meant by ‘eyes open looking ahead, left and right’?

(c) Why is human brain called the most sophisticated machine?

(d) How do CPUs and brains differ?

(e) Do you support the idea that conscience is our best guide on the roads? Why? Why not?

2. Read the following text and make a flow chart showing the causes and aspects of conflict. (No. 1 has been done for you) 2 × 5 = 10

Conflict can be described as a disagreement among groups or individuals characterized by antagonism and hostility. This is usually fueled by the opposition of one party to another in an attempt to reach an objective different from that of the other party. The elements involved in the conflict have varied sets of principles and values, thus allowing a conflict to arise.  Conflict can be defined in many ways but one of the simplest is that it pertains to the opposing ideas and actions of different entities, resulting in an antagonistic state. Conflict is an inevitable part of life. All of us possess our own opinions, ideas and sets of beliefs. We have our own ways of looking at things and we act according to what we think is proper. Hence, we often find ourselves in conflict in different scenarios; it may involve other individuals, groups of people, or a struggle within our own selves. Consequently, conflict influences our actions and decisions in one way or other. [Text : Unit−10; Lesson−2]

1. Disagreement among groups or individuals 2. 3.    4.    5.    6.
2. Write a summary of the following text. 10

Universities should never be made into mechanical organizations for collecting and distributing knowledge.  Through them the people should offer their intellectual hospitality, their wealth of mind to others, and earn their proud right in return to receive gifts from the rest of the world. But in the whole length and breadth of India there is not a single University established in the modern time where a foreign or an Indian student can properly be   acquainted with the best products of the Indian mind. For that we have to cross the sea, and knock at the doors of France and Germany. Educational institutions in our country are India’s alms-bowl of knowledge; they lower our intellectual self-respect; they encourage us to make a foolish display of decorations composed of borrowed feathers. [Text: Unit−15; Lesson−1]

4. Read the following text and fill in the blanks with suitable word from the box. There are more words than needed. Make any grammatical change if necessary. 0.5 × 10 = 5

Man’s dignity depends upon his works. Man is a (a) ⎯⎯ being on earth. He is to (b) ⎯⎯ for others. He should not be (c) ⎯⎯ if he is of (d) ⎯⎯ blood. He should be (e) ⎯⎯ to help any (f) ⎯⎯ of man. The man whom he is helping may be (g) ⎯⎯ to him by (h) ⎯⎯. But after all, he is a man. He has the (i) ⎯⎯ blood and flesh as the above (j) ⎯⎯ man.

5. Fill in the blanks with appropriate word in each gap. 1 × 10 = 10

Dream is a series of thoughts, images and sensations occurring in a person’s mind during sleep. Dream is a (a) ⎯⎯ of unconscious wishes, thoughts and imaginations. It (b) ⎯⎯ be sweet or horrible. When we dream (c) ⎯⎯ pleasant, we call it a sweet dream. (d) ⎯⎯ when we dream something extremely bad, we (e) ⎯⎯ it a nightmare.  Dream is meaningless if (f) ⎯⎯ is a day dream. But dream has also (g) ⎯⎯ real purpose as it is related to our (h) ⎯⎯, emotional and physical well-being. The main benefit (i) ⎯⎯ dream is that it produces new thoughts (j) ⎯⎯ ideas in brain and helps to clean up clutter from mind.

6. Rearrange the following sentences to make a coherent order. 10

(a) They were aliens in their own country and were subjected to all sorts of indignities.

(b) The blacks were treated cruelly.

(c) The great leader vowed to put an end to the inhuman practice.

(d) They were denied all basic human rights.

(e) Even dogs received a much better treatment than the blacks.

(f) Eventually, the great leader realised the goal of liberating his own people.

(g) He was thrown behind the prison bar.

(h) Nelson Mandela was the greatest leader of South Africa.

(i) But the oppressive rulers could not break the spirit.

(j) In fact, he was one of the greatest leaders of the world who struggled against apartheid throughout his whole life.

Part−I : Writing Test [40 Marks]

7. Write a paragraph on “Food Adulteration” on the basis of the answers to the following questions in about 200 words. 10

(a) What is food adulteration? (b) How is food adulterated? (c) Who are responsible for food adulteration? (d) What is the impact of adulterated food on our body? (e) What can be done to stop it?

8. The following is the beginning of a story. Complete it in your own words. 7

Once upon a time there lived a dove. It was passing its days happily. One day while he was sitting on a tree beside a river, he saw an ant……

9. Suppose, your friend got first prize in debate competition. Write an e-mail congratulating him. 5
10. The graph below shows “The number of people living below the poverty line from 1995 to 2010”. Describe the graph in 150 words. You should highlight and summarize the information given in the graph. 10 The number of people living below the poverty line (%)
11. Write down the theme of the following poem. (not more than 50 words) 8

TIME, you old gipsy man.

Will you not stay.

Put up your caravan

Just for one day?

All things I’ll give you.

Will you be my guest,

Bells for your jennet

Of silver the best,

Goldsmiths shall beat you

A great golden ring,

Peacocks shall bow to you,

Little boys sing,

Oh, and sweet girls will

Festoon you with May,

Time, you old gipsy,

Why hasten away? 

Answer

1. A. (i) d. An alteration or adjustment to something (ii) b. advanced (iii) d. always (iv) c. it is the centre of all activities (v) c. face
2. (a) Car driving requires a number of skills as well as activities. Firstly, we have to keep our hands on the steering and on the horn. Then, we have to keep our feet on the brake and accelerator. Then we have to keep our eyes on surroundings. Of course, our brain keeps working unseen to control everything. A driver has to keep his/her cool and always restrain himself/ herself.

(b) The expression ‘eyes open looking ahead, left and right’ means a careful and agile eyesight to look around while driving a car.

(c) Human brain is called the most sophisticated machine because it is able to operate on ever-changing conditions and standards of judgement.

(d) CPU is artificially an intelligent machine which works with some modifications whereas our brain is natural and it works naturally. Again, CPU is guided by our brain but we are not guided by it. Conscience differentiates us from a computer in the way that we are guided by conscience and we command computer.

(e) I do support the idea. It is because our conscience upholds us from mechanised consideration, helps us differentiate between right and wrong, good or evil.

2. 1. Disagreemen t among groups or individuals
3. Fueled by the opposition of one party to another
4. Pertains to the opposing ideas and actions of different entities
5. An inevitable part of life
6. Influences our actions and decisions in one way or another
7. Can be destructive if left uncontrolled
8. A university should be a centre of gaining knowledge and wisdom. Through universities teachers should offer their intellectual creativity and their wealth of mind to others. But academic institutions in our country are the alms-bowl of knowledge. And the education provided by them lowers our intellectual self-respect and reverence. It is really a matter of great regret.
9. (a) rational (b) work (c) proud (d) blue (e) ready (f) class (g) inferior (h) birth (i) same (j) mentioned 5. (a) type/ sort/ kind/ state/ condition (b) may/ can/ might (c) something/ anything (d) But/ Instead (e) call/ deem/ consider (f) it/ this/ that (g) a (h) mental/ psychological/ cognitive (i) of (j) and
10. h j b a d e c g i f or h j b d a e c g i f

5. Dhaka Board – 2019

English Second Paper

Part A: Grammar (Marks 60)

1. Fill in the blanks in the following text with articles (a/an/the) as necessary. Some of the blanks may not require an article. Put a cross (x) in those blanks:

(a) — parliament house of Bangladesh is (b) — exquisitely designed building. In fact, it is (c) — wonder of modern architecture and technology. It is one of (d) — largest and most spectacular parliament buildings in (e) — world. It is (f) — highly expensive building. (g) — maintenance cost of the parliament house is about 50 million taka per year. An American architect (h) — Louis I Kahn designed this (i) — building. Everyday many (j) — visitor comes to visit the building.

2. Complete the text with suitable prepositions :

Mr. Reza works (a) — a clerk in a local school. He is poor but honest. His honesty is known (b) — everyone in his locality. He often suffers (c) —  hunger. He is deprived (d) — comfort and many other things. Nevertheless, he does not long (e) — wealth. He never hankers (f) — name and fame. He leads his life (g) — honest means. He is satisfied (h) — what he has. But sometimes he runs into debt and poverty is responsible (i) — this debt. However, he does not like to depend (j) — others.

3. Complete the sentences with suitable phrases/words given in the box :

 (a) Your enemies are looking for you. — you left this place.

(b) It is raining heavily. — closing the window?

(c) Rifat often behaves — he were a prince. It becomes very difficult for me to tolerate him.

(d) Humayon Ahmed was a teacher, author, dramatist and filmmaker. He — on 13 November 1948.

(e) — you work hard, you will not make a good result.

(f) I — resign my job than tolerate injustice. I have moral courage to raise voice against Injustice.

(g) Son :— a satellite —?

Father : I have heard of it but never got a chance to see it.

(h) We informed the police — the incident took place. But the police didn’t arrive even after two hours.

(i) Our society is full of bad persons. We — remain aware of them.

(j) — is a hue and cry on the road. Something must have happened. 

4. Complete the sentences using suitable clauses/phrases:

(a) We are late. The class will start soon. Walk fast lest— 

(b) There goes a proverb that —. So, we must make proper use of time.

(c) The condition of Mitu’s father was not well. If I knew his mobile number, — .

(d) Though Bangladesh is a small country, —. We are proud of our world heritage sites.

(e) We are a free nation now. 1971 is the year when —.

(f) English is an international language. —you cannot get a good job.

(g) I found a box in the room. The box was too heavy for —.

(h) I was really in a great danger. He came here with a view to —.

(i) I can’t recall his name. It is long since — .

(j) Time will decide everything. Do your best—.

5. Read the text and fill in the gaps with correct form of verbs as per subject and context. Cricket is a popular game. Both the young and the old (a) — (get) pleasure from this game. In lact. cricket (b) — (call) the gentlemen’s game. It (c) — (entertain) us with politeness and discipline. A sense of brotherhood and fraternity (d) — (create) among the playing nations through it. At present cricket is the most popular game in Bangladesh. The English (e) — (play) it here in this subcontinent and since then it (f) — (become) an integral part of our entertainment. Our team (g) — (consist) of skilled players. They already (h) — (show) their performance in several matches. But it is a matter of sorrow that sometimes our players (i) — (play) so poorly that our countrymen (j) — (become) astonished.
6. Read the text and change the sentences as directed:

You must have heard the name of Bayazid Bostami.

(a) He was one of the greatest saints of Islam. (positive) One night he was learning his lessons.

(b) At that time his mother asked him for a glass of water. (passive)

(c) There was no drinking water in the house, so he went out to fetch it. (complex)

(d) When he came back, he found his mother sleeping. (compound) Then he passed the whole night standing with a glass of water beside his mother.

(e) He showed a great love and respect to his mother. (exclamatory) 

7. Change the narrative style by using indirect speeches :

“Where do you like to go, sir?” asked the ticket seller. “Cox’s Bazar,” replied the stranger. “How many tickets do you need?” “I will buy five tickets.” “Take these tickets. They will cost three thousand taka,” said the ticket seller.

8. Identify the unclear pronoun references in the following paragraph, where necessary. Re-write the sentences so that all pronoun references are clear:

Autism is a physical disorder of the brain wig causes a lifelong developmental disability. Unfortunately, a number of boys and girls become victim of it after their birth. Children with autism vary widely in activities, abilities, behaviors etc. and the symptoms may appear differently in film. The sorrows and sufferings of the parents of those know no bounds. Though the autistic children are quite different in activities from the normal children, they should not be neglected. Rather, we have a great responsibility towards them.

9. Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces:

Arsenic is a (a) — (pre-modify the noun) substance. It is (b) — (use an intensifier to pre-modily the adjective) dangerous for human health. (c) — (use a demonstrative to pre-modify the noun) substance is found in the water of the tubewell. There are (d) — (use quantifier to pre-modify the noun) villages in (e) — (use possessive to pre-modify the noun) country. Most of our (f) — (use a noun-adjective to pre-modify the noun) people drink tubewell water. As a result, many of them are suffering from arsenic problem. This problem is (g) — (pre-modify the verb) found in North Bengal. We should take proper measures (h) — (post-modify the verb with an infinitive phrase). Government is trying to mark the tubewells having arsenie (i) — (use a participle to post modify the verb) red colour. People should be refrained from drinking water of (j) — (use demonstrative to pre-modify the noun) tubewells. Otherwise, they will suffer from arsenicosis.

10. Fill in the blanks with suitable linking words/sentence connectors:

Trees are a vital part of our environment. (a) — they bear a great impact on the climate. (b) — we are not kind and careful about them. (c) — we destroy trees at random. (d) — one day the country will bear the consequence of greenhouse effect. (e) — ours is an agricultural country. Our economny depends on agriculture. (f) — trees play a vital role on our climate. (g) — trees keep soil strong and protect it. (h) — trees save us from flood and many other natural calamities. (i) — trees provide us timber which is of great use specially in construction works and for making furniture. (j) — trees are our best friends.

11. Read the following passage and then write the antonym or synonym of the words as directed below:

After the flight of Yuri Gagarin, the first human being to travel to (a) outer space in 1961, the Soviet Union decided to send a woman in space (b) Proletarian Valentina Tereshkova was selected for this project from among more than four hundred applicants. Since the successful (c) launch of the spacecraft Vostok-5 on 14 June 1963. Tereshkova (d) began (e) preparing for her own fight. On 16 June 1963, she was dressed in space-suits and taken to the space shuttle launch pad by a bus. After completing her communication life support checks, she was scaled inside Vostok-5. Finishng a two-hour countdown, Vostok-5 launch (f) faultlessly. Although Tereshkova experience (g) nausea and physic (h) discomfort for much of the flight, she orbited the earth 48 times and spent almost three days in space. She also (i) maintained a fight log and took photographs of the horizon, which were (j) later used to identify aerosol layers within the atmosphere. (a)outer (antonym): (b) proletarian (synonym): (c) launch (synonym): (d) began (antonym): (e) prepare (synonym: (f) faultless (antonym): (g) nausea (synonym): (h) discomfort (antonym). (i) maintain (synonym): (j) later (antonym).

12. There are ten errors in the use of punctuation marks in the following text. Re-write the text correcting the errors:

Student: Excuse me sir I want to discuss with you some grammatical problems.

Teacher: What class are you in? Student: Sir I am in class XII am a newly admitted student here. 

Teacher: Okay, tell me your problems.

Student: I want to understand the difference between a phrase and a clause.

Teacher: Dont worry. ill help you understand the difference.

Part B: Composition (Marks 40)

13. Suppose, you are Abid and studying at ABC College in Feni. Now on behalf of the students of your college, write an application to the principal of your college to set up an English Debating Club at your college.

Dhaka Board HSC English 2nd Paper Question Solution 2019

Question Number 01. The B. an C. a   D. the  E. the    F. x    G. the     H. x   I. x   J. x

Question Number 02. as B. to C. from   D. of   E. for   F. after   G. by    H. with    I. for   J. on

Question Number 03. it is high time B. Would you mind C. as if   D. was born   E. Unless  F. would rather   G. What does…. look like     H. as soon as   I. have to   J. There

Question Number 04. you should miss the class   B. time is money   C. I would call him   D. but   E. got independence   F. without knowing it   G. me to lift.   H. meet me   I. we met last   J. use of it

Question Number 05. get    B. is called  C. entertains  D. creates   E. played    F. has become   G. consist   H. have showed  I. play   J. become Question Number 09. metallic B. very C. This  D. many   E. our   F. country  G. foremost   H. against it (not sure)  I. poisoned    J. those

6. Dinajpur Board 2019

Part A: Grammar (Marks 60)

1. Fill in the blanks in the following text with article in the following text with articles (a, an, the) as necessary. Some of the blanks may not require an article. Put a cross (x) in those blanks.

Childhood or boyhood is (a) — man’s formative period. During this period (b) — child receives training from its mother. (c) — mother’s tender heart always looks to (d) — welfare and and well-being of (e) — child. If during this period (f) — mother tries to bring to (g) —  child up carefully and sure according to her (h) — best ideas. (i) — child is sure to grow with its superiors, parents and teachers, and love (j) — all irrespective of caste, creed and colour.

2. Complete the text with suitable prepositions :

A craftwork in an applied form (a) — art, a social and cultural product reflecting the inclusive nature (b) — folk imagination. A craftwork, which usually doesn’t bear the signature of its maker, retains a personal touch. When we look (c) — a thirty-year old nakshi kantha, we wonder (d) — its motifs and designs that point (e) — the artistic ingenuity and the presence of the maker (f) — it. The fact that we don’t know her name or any other details (g) — her doesn’t take anything away (h) — our appreciation (i) — the artist. Indeed the intimate nature (j) — the kantha and the tactile feeling, it generates animate the work and make it very inviting.

3. Complete the sentences with suitable phrases/words given in the box.

 (a) I have never walked five miles at a stretch — ten miles. The idea of walking so much distance frightens me.

(b) I have never visited Kuakata. — visiting this place in the coming summer vacation?

(c) People do not like his way of behaviour. He always behaves — he were a great leader.

(d) The price of mango is high in our country. — we turn this land into a mango orchard?

(e) The criminal ran away — he saw the police. He was afraid of being arrested.

(f) Smoking tells upon the smoker’s health greatly. You — give up this bad habit.

(g) Once — lived a king named Solomon. He was very wise.

(h) Shimul — work hard than beg. He is very industrious and painstaking

(i) Tapan is somewhat backward in his preparation for the coming HSC Exam. He — study hard to get completely prepared before the exam.

(j) Albert Einstein was a great scientist of physics. He — in 1879 and breathed his last in 1955.

4. Complete the sentences using suitable clauses/phrases.

(a) He is a liar. Do not rely –

(b) Mobile phone is a wonder of modern science. But –

(c) Time has its wings. It was five years since we —

(d) Our country is beset with many problems. We all should come forward with a view to –

(e) Whenever he speaks in English, —. But we learn through mistakes.

(f) Patriotism is a noble virtue. It is high time —.

(g) A student has to be punctual. He has to study regularly lest –

(h) There is nobody -. Hence happiness is a relative term.

(i) Trees are essential for our existence. So, we should plant —.

(j) Early rising gives a man enough free time. Since I am an early riser, –.

5. Read the text and fill in the gaps with the correct form of verbs as per subject and context.

People who (a) — (appear) most often and most gloriously in the pages of history (b) — (be) great conquerors and generals. Whereas, the people who really (c) — (help) civilization forward are often never (d) — (mention) at all. We do not know who first (e) — (set) a broken leg or (f) — (launch) a sea worthy boat or (g) — (calculate) the length of a year. The great men are those who (h) — (work) ceaselessly to quicken the pace of civilization. On the contrary, the condemned men are those who (i) — (cause) bloodshed and violence in the world. All of us (j) — (adore) the great men of the world.

6. Read the text and change the sentences as directed.

Success never comes automatically.

(a) We work hard to attain success in our life (Complex).

(b) Peace and prosperity is not possible without being industrious (Affirmative).

(c) A man who leads an idle life, brings misery for his life (Simple).

(d) He can never help the people of the society (Passive). Such kind of man is the burden on the society.

(e) Everybody abhors him (Negative).

7. Change the narrative style by using indirect speeches.

“My sons,” said he, “Listen to me. A great treasure lies hidden in the estate. I am about to leave you.” “Where is it hidden?” said the sons. “I am about to tell you,” said the old man. “But you must dig the land for it.”

8. Identify the unclear pronoun references in the following paragraph. Where necessary, rewrite the sentences so that all pronoun references are clear.

The Liberation War of Bangladesh is a memorable event in our national life. She achieved her independence through sacrifice and bloodshed. It is the birthright of a man. On the night of March 25 1971 the Pakistan army fell upon the unarmed sleeping Bangalees. But we were not cowards. They built up strong resistance against them. They fought with courage for long nine months. After nine month’s bloody war and sacrifice of the freedom fighters, the red sun of independence rose in our soil on the 16th December, 1971. Now, we remember them with great respect.

9. Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces.

Bangladesh is a (a) — (pre-modify the noun) country. Though it is a small country, it has a (b) — (pre-modify the noun) population. People (c) — (post-modify the verb with an adverb) depend on agriculture. They grow different kinds of crops (d) — (pre-modify the verb with an adverbial phrase). We earn (e) — (pre-modify the noun with a noun adjective) currencies by exporting some of these crops. We are also rich in (f) — (pre-modify the noun with adjective) resources. Now, we are able (g) — (post-modify the adjective with an infinitive) natural gas from underground. Our industries are also rising (h) — (post-modify the verb with an adverb). We export (i) — (pre-modify the noun with a noun-adjective) products to the developed countries. In this regard, we have already earned a (j) — (pre-modify the noun) reputation.

10. Use appropriate sentence connectors in the blank spaces of the following passage.

We cannot walk on a road in the darkness without light. (a) — we cannot step forward in our life without education. (b) — throughout the ages, education has been compared to light and (c) — ignorance has been compared to darkness. (d) — the light of education enlightens us. (e) — it broadens our mind and widens our outlook. (f) — it is education which helps us to become good citizens. (g) —education creates good citizens and ensures the smooth development of a country. (h) — ignorance stands on the way of development of an individual. (i) — ignorance has a detrimental effect on the overall development of a nation. (j) — we should come forward to educate every single person of our country and thereby ensure the development of our country.

11. Read the passage and then write the antonym or synonym of the words as directed below.

An ideal teacher knows the art of teaching. He is the master of his subject. He makes his lessons interesting. His method of teaching is convincing and inspiring. An ideal teacher treats his students like his own children. He praises the good work done b mistakes. he is never harsh to him. He tactfully makes his student realize his mistake. An ideal teacher is never angry with his students. He believes in simple living and high thinking. He never sets a wrong example before his students. He has high moral values. (a) ideal (synonym); (b) master (synonym): (c) make (antonym); (d) method (synonym) (e) convincing (antonym); (f) praise (antonym): (g) mistake (synonym): (h) angry (antonym); (i) simple (antonym): (j) moral (synonym).

12. There are ten errors in the use of punctuation marks in the following text. Rewrite the text correcting the errors. Hasan: Can you tell me a little about Dhaka

Hasib: Sure what would you like to know

Hasan: Well whats a good time to visit there?

Hasib: I think you can visit in winter.

Hasan: Good and what should I see there

Hasib: Well you can visit Sonargaon Folk Art Museum and you can see the handicrafts. But you must not leave Dhaka without visiting the Lalbagh Fort.

Hasan: Anything else

Hasib: Oh yes if you have time you may visit Ahsan Manjil. You could have an excellent experience of the Mughal and the British architecture

7. Chattagram Board 2019

English (compulsory) second paper

Part A Grammar (60 Marks)

1. Fill in the blanks in the following text with articles (a/an/the) as necessary. Some of the blanks may not require an article. Put a cross (X) in those blanks.

What is patriotism? It is (a) — noble virtue. It inspires (b) — man to dedicate his life to the freedom and development of his (c) — country. (d) — man without patriotism is no better than (e) — beast. A true patriot is honoured by (f) — his countrymen. He thinks for (g) — betterment of his country. On (h) — contrary, (i) — unpatriotic man thinks only of his own interest. Those who die for (j) — country, are true patriots.

2. Complete the text with suitable prepositions.

What are the qualities of a good student? A good student is always attentive (a) — his studies. He is never indifferent (b) — his studies. He does not learn things (c) — rote. He is always curious and innovative. He does not hunt only (d) — traditional guide-books. His thirst (e) — knowledge knows no bounds. He does not confine himself (f) — the traditional studies. He is aware (g) — the current affairs (h) — the world. He listens (i) — his teachers and abides (j) — their advice.

3. Complete the sentences with suitable phrases/words given in the box.

 (a) Accessibility to higher education in our country is very difficult. Students must work hard — get themselves admitted into universities.

(b) Time is very important in our life. You cannot prosper in life — you make the best use of time.

(c) The students were talking in the class. — the teacher entered the class than they stopped talking.

(d) He proceeded — he had never seen me. His behaviour shocked me.

(e) The man is very weak. He cannot walk a mile — five miles.

(f) I’m in short of time. — the train is late?

(g) Once — lived a farmer. He had four sons.

(h) Have you seen a camel? — it —?

(i) — is unfortunate that many students spoil their time by using Facebook.

(j) Joynul Abedin was a great artist. He — in Kishoreganj.

4. Complete the sentences using suitable clauses phrases.

(a) English is an international language. So, to keep pace with the process of globalization —.

(b) I am an early riser. I am used to —.

(c)You are getting fat. If you want to lose weight, —.

(d) Many people of our country are illiterate. They do not know —.

(e) Women constitute half of the total population. No progress is possible —.

(f) An unhealthy man cannot enjoy life. A proverb goes that —.

(g) She loves reading. She will be reading while we —.

(h) Habit of eating is also important for good health. We should eat a balance diet —.

(i) Environment pollution is a serious problem nowadays. We should plant trees —.

(j) Environment is polluted in many ways. It is high time —.

5. Read the text and fill in the gaps with the correct form of verbs.

Man is a social and rational being. He (a) — (have) freedom of choice, thought and expression. But everybody should (b) — (consider) that he is not the only person in a society. There (c) — (be) many persons in the society. They (d) — (have) the same right that one (e) — (expect) from one’s society. So to (f) — (form) a peaceful society one should be watchful to see that other’s rights are not violated. Every citizen must (g) — (cultivate) the habit of obeying the rules and regulations of the society. Selfishness (h) — (not help) the society. Rather it (i) — (destroy) the peace and happiness of others. So, we all (j) — (think) of the greater interest of the society.

6. Read the text and change the sentences as directed.

(a) Tea is the most popular drink. (comparative)

(b) Tea helps us remove our fatigue. (Passive)

(c) Almost everyone enjoys tea. (Negative)

(d) Bangladesh is one of the tea producing countries. (Compound)

(e) Bangladesh exports tea and earns a lot of foreign exchange. (Simple)

7. Change the narrative style by using indirect speeches.

“Whose picture is it?” I asked. “A little girl’s of course,” said Grandmother. “Can’t you tell?” “Yes, but did you know the girl?” “Yes, I knew her,” said Granny, “But she was a very wicked girl and I shouldn’t tell you about her.”

8. Identify the unclear pronoun references in the following text and rewrite the sentences so that all pronoun references are clear.

Do you know the importance of trees? They are our best friends. Our existence on earth will be at stake without it. We inhale oxygen which trees produce. Again, we exhale carbon dioxide which it absorbs Besides, we get food from trees and firewood to cook it. But some irresponsible people cut down trees indiscriminately. It should be brought to light. Furthermore, one should take keen interest to plant more trees so that we can live comfortably on earth.

9. Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces.

We can’t think of our existence without language. It plays a (a) — (use an intensifier) important role in our life. We use language from the time we wake up (b) — (post-modify the verb) till we go to bed at night. We use language not only in our (c) — (pre-modify the noun) hours but also in our dreams. We use language (d) — (use an infinitive) what we feel and to say what we like or dislike. We also use language (e) — (post-modify the verb with an infinitive) information. Language is (f) — (pre-modify the adjective) present in our life. It is an (g) — (pre-modify the noun) part of our life. As an (h) — (pre-modify the noun) nation, we also have a language. But we had to struggle (i) — (post-modify the verb) to establish the right of our language. Many (j) — (pre-modify the noun) sons sacrificed their lives for the language.

10. Use appropriate sentence connectors in the blank spaces of the following passage.

We must be aware of the dangers of smoking. It is harmful to us in various ways. It causes various diseases (a) — blood pressure, heart attack, bronchitis, cancer, etc. (b) — it pollutes air (c) — smoking causes harm to (d) — the smokers (e) — the non-smokers who remain by them. (f) —we should give up smoking. (g) — it is (h) — great an addiction to get rid of (i) — nothing is impossible for us. (j) — we are determined to give up it, we can certainly do it. 11. Read the passage and then write the antonym or synonym of the words which are underlined.

Children are our best assets. They always like to listen to fascinating stories. But if the stories are uninteresting. they lose interest. There should not be anything immoral in the stories for children. Again, stories should not be so long that they can make children impatient. Stories should not even contain anything illogical or anything that can make children indifferent to their studies. The stories should be instructive leading the children to be perfect morally and ethically. Parents and teachers can play a vital role here in guiding the children what to choose and what not.

(a) fascinating (antonym): (b) interest (synonym); (c) impatient (antonym); (d) immoral (synonym): (e) contain (synonym): (f) illogical (antonym); (g) indifferent (synonym): (h) perfect (antonym); (i) instructive (synonym): (j) ethical (antonym).

12. There are ten errors in the use of punctuation marks in the following text. Rewrite the text correcting the errors. Student : Excuse me sir. May I come in?

Teacher: Yes come in.

Student: Thank you sir.

Teacher: What can I do for you

Student: Would you kindly make me clear about the use of this punctuation mark

Teacher: Didnt you attend my class yesterday?

Student: No sir. I did not come.

Teacher: Why You must not miss any class.

Student: Ill never miss any class sir.

Question Solution 2019 Question

Number 01. A. a B. a C. x D. A E. a F. x G. the H. the I. a J. the

Question Number 02. A. to B. from C. without D. to E. for F. to G. of H. in I. to J. by

Question Number 03. A. in order to B. unless C. No sooner had D. as if E. let alone F. what if G. there H. what does ….. look like I. It J. was born

Question Number 04. A. you need to learn it. B. walk in the morning C. you should take exercise D. how to read and write E. without them F. health is wealth G. will playing H. regularly I. to protect the environment J. we should take proper measurement

Question Number 05. A. has B. consider C. are D. have E. expect F. form G. cultivate H. does not help I. destroys J. should think

Question Number 06. A. bore/repel B. attentiveness, absorption, engrossment, heed, regard, notice, scrutiny; curiosity, inquisitiveness; enjoyment, delight C. pleased, calm, indifferent, reluctan D. unethical, bad, morally wrong, wrongful, wicked, evil, unprincipled, unscrupulous, dishonourable, dishonest, unconscionable, iniquitous, disreputable, fraudulent, corrupt, depraved, vile, villainous, nefarious, base, unfair, underhand, devious E. hold, have room/space/seating/capacity for, carry, accommodate, seat “the boat contained four people” F. logical G. unconcerned about, apathetic about/towards, uncaring about, casual about, nonchalant about, offhand about, uninterested in, uninvolved in/with H. imperfect, faulty, defective I. informative, instructional, informational, illuminating, enlightening, revealing, explanatory, telling; educational, educative, edifying, didactic, pedagogic, doctrinal, preceptive, improving, heuristic; moralistic, homiletic; useful, helpful; J. unethical

8. Rajshahi Board – 2019

English (compulsory) second paper

Part A Grammar (60 Marks)

1. Fill in the blanks in the following text with articles as necessary. Some of the blanks require an article. Put a cross (x) in those blanks.

The national flag represents (a) — independence of (b) — country. Ours is (c) — independent country. Hence, we have a national flag symbolizing our independence. (d) — cloth of flag is made of (e) — cotton Silk or linen. Our flag is rectangular in shape maintaining (f) — ratio of its length and breadth 10:6. There are different sizes of national flag. The background of our flag is green which symbolizes our life and energy. In the middle point of the flag there is (g) — blood-red circle representing our hard struggle and bloodshed. (h) — red circles represents the heroic bloodshed of (i) — martyrs. The national flag plays (j) — vital role in the life of a nation.

2. Complete the text with suitable prepositions.

When the sun was setting (a) — the treetops, the jailor came (b) — the room of Socrates to bid him prepare (c) — death. In those days, people were sentenced to death by giving a cup (d) — poison in Athens. Socrates knew this and he nodded (e) — the jailor. Bursting (f) — tears the jailor went out of the room and returned (g) — a cup of hemlock. Socrates lifted the cup to his lips. His pupils tried to keep back their tears but soon the room was filled (h) — the sound of weeping. With the cup of poison (i) — hand, Socrates said, “What is the strange sound? I have heard that a man should die (j) — peace. So, be silent and have patience.”

3. Complete the sentences with suitable phrases/words given in the box.

(a) Our spring is very charming. During spring various kinds of flowers bloom. — seems that everything has got a new life.

(b) Baby: Mom, — an owl — ?

(c) Don’t disturb me. You — leave me alone at this moment.

(d) The poor man — starve than beg.

(e) — exists no life on Mars.

(f) — taking tea with me?

(g) Sir Walter Scott was both a poet and a novelist. He — in 1771.

(h) She acts — she were mad.

(i) — we reached the station, the train started.

(j) He did not even see a hill — a mountain.

4. Complete the sentences using suitable clauses/phrases.

(a) Florence Nightingale wanted to be a nurse with a view to —.

(b) She was thirty years old when —.

(c) If a man sows good seed, —.

(d) I got up late today. Let’s take a taxi so that —.

(e) A village doctor is a person who —. He is the best friend to the villagers.

(f) She said, “It is high time we —.”

(g) I wish I could fly in the sky. If I had the wings of a bird, I —.

(h) I don’t know why you go there, most probably—.

(i) But all sorts of attempts to solve food problem will fail unless —.

(j) He who follows two hares —.

5. Read the text and fill in the gaps with the correct form of verbs as per subject and context.

A poor man was once (a) — (put) in a jail, although he (b) — (do) no wrong. After a long time the king of the state (c) — (visit) the jail and the man told him that he was innocent but a (d) — (file) against him by some of his enemies. The king (e) — (inquire) privately and in (f) — (find) that it was true. He (g) — (give) the man some money and set him free. He went straight the market. In a shop there, wild birds (h) — (keep) in cages for sale. He said to the shopkeeper, “I wish to buy all the birds of your shop. These birds unjustly (i) — imprison and I like to (j) — (set) them free.”

6. Read the following sentences and change them as directed in the bracket.

(a) Tell me your age. (Complex) (b) Some poets are at least as great as Tennyson. (Superlative)

(c) What though the field be lost! (Assertive)

(d) My watch was lost. (Active)

(e) He confessed that he was guilty. (Simple)

7. Change the narrative style by using indirect speeches.

A cat hearing that a hen was laid up sick in her nest, paid her a visit of condolence and said, “How are you, my dear? What can I do for you? Only tell me. Is there anything in the world that I can bring for you?” “Thank you,” said the hen. “Do you be good enough to leave me, and I have no problem but I shall soon be well.”

8. Identify the unclear pronoun references in the following paragraph. Where necessary, rewrite the sentences so that all pronoun references are clear.

Salam and Salma are siblings. They read in a local primary school. Salam is in class five where her sister Salma reads in class three. They go to school together. Sometimes they take rickshaw because it is five kilometers away from their home. Today, she is going to school with her father because her brother Salam is sick. He is taking medicine and bed rest.

9. Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces.

Taking food is essential. We take food (a) — (use an infinitive phrase to post-modify the verb). We cannot survive on earth if we do not take food. In fact, (b) — (use a quantifier to pre-modify the noun phrase) living beings need to take food. But it is a matter of great regret that (c) — (use possessive to pre-modify the noun) food is being adulterated. (d) — (use a noun-adjective to modify the noun) adulteration is increasing (e) — (use an intensifier to pre-modify the adverb) alarmingly that we cannot stop it. (f) — (use a determiner to pre-modify the noun phrase) dishonest businessmen use (g) — (pre-modify the noun) chemicals in food and fruits to make illegal and quick money. But they do not think about (h) — (use a possessive to pre-modify the noun) health. (i) — (use present participle) adulterated food, people get sick. They are often attacked with different fatal diseases. So, (j) — (use a gerund) food safety is a must today.

10. Use appropriate sentence connectors in the blank spaces of the following passage.

Unemployment is a great problem in our country. (a) — it is the burning question of the day (b) — almost all the countries of the world suffer from the curse of unemployment problem. (c) —Bangladesh is the worst sufferer of this so-called problem. (d) — nowhere in the world this problem is so acute as in our country. (e) — there are many reasons behind it. (f) — our country is industrially backward. (g) — our system of education fails to give a student an independent start of life. (h) — it has little provision for vocational training. (i) —our students and youths have false sense of dignity. (j) — they run after jobs blindly.

11. Read the passage and then write the antonym or synonym of the words as directed below.

Human life is dynamic. Everyone, therefore, must have a plan to do something or to be something in life. And that is one’s aim in life. A man without an aim has no direction and car as expected. So, everyone should choose a profession which suits him most. The choice profession depends on one’s taste, interest, aptitude and ability. These vary from person to person. Teaching is a noble profession. The teachers are nation-builders. They educate the children and train them to become good and useful citizen in future.

(a) dynamic (antonym): (b) plan (antonym): (c) aim (synonym): (d) direction synonym (e) profession (synonym): (f) suit (antonym): (g) aptitude (antonym): (h) vary (synonym): (i) educate (synonym): (j) citizen (antonym).

12. There are ten errors in the use of punctuation marks in the following text. Rewrite the text correcting the errors. Youve cut off your hair, asked Jim, laboriously as if he had not arrived at that patent fact yet even after the hardest mental labour. Cut it off and sold it, said Della. Dont you like me just as well anyhow Im me without my hair arent I Jim looked about the room curiously. You say your hair is gone he said with an air of almost idiocy.

9. Jashore Board 2019

English Second Paper

Part A: Grammar (Marks 60)

1. Fill in the blanks in the following text with articles (a/an/the) as necessary. Some of the blanks may not require an article. Put a cross (x) in those blanks:

Industry is (a) — key to success in our life. (b) — industrious can prosper in life. (c) — man who does not undertake (d) — hard work can never go (e) — long way in (f) — world. Many (g) — man is not aware of (h) — significance of (i) — diligence for which they cannot reap (j)— benefit of success.

2. Complete the following text with suitable prepositions:

Patriotism is the quality inherent (a) — a man. This is why, he feels a natural attachment (b) — his native land. Love (c) — motherland is necessary for the betterment of a nation. The people who are patriotic are noted (d) — their patriotism. They are different (e) — other people. Their contribution does not sink (f) — oblivion. They are worthy (g) — praise. They lay down their lives for the good of the country. They are not unaware (h) — their status in the society. They are celebrated (i) — their patriotism. They should not be looked down (j) — in any way.

3. Complete the sentences with suitable phrases/words given in the following box

(a) — flying in the sky? I think you will enjoy a lot.

(b) — was a king named Robert Bruce. He was very famous.

(c) He — and brought up in Bangladesh. This is a very beautiful country.

(d) Bangladesh is an emerging power in the world cricket. But we—struggle more to win the world cup.

(e) He cannot tell my name, — my address. He is really a liar. (f) —the earth—? It’s not completely round.

(g) We — walk fast than get on the train. The train is very crowded.

(h) The class started — I reached my college. I was really lucky.

(i) You look so weak. You — go home as early as possible.

(j) The man pretended — he had been very poor. So, we disliked him.

4. Complete the sentence using suitable clauses/phrases.

(a) We cannot buy a car if —. It costs a lot of money.

(b) You are now very helpless. Call me whenever —.

(c) The man was so weak that —. He should consult with a doctor.

(d) Since it was raining heavily —. We stayed at home.

(e) Though he is dull of hearing, —. He can make a good result.

(f) Danger comes when —. So, we have to be careful in our life.

(g) When I was a child, —. I was fond of playing cricket.

(h) Hardly had we seen the police when —. Thus we were saved.

(i) Speak the truth or —. A truthful man is always honoured everywhere.

(j) He took — in lieu of biology. Biology is difficult for him.

5. Read the test and fill in the gaps with the correct form of verbs as per subject and context: 0.5 x 10-5

Kuakata, locally (a) — (know) as Sagar Kannya (b) — (be) an uncommon scenic spot of Bangladesh. Kuakata (c) — (take) its origin from the story of a ‘Kua’ or well-dug on the sea-shore. It (d) — (allow) a visitor to watch both the sunrise and the sunset from the beach. The beach (e) — (have) a typical natural setting. This sandy beach (f) — (slope) gently into the bay and (g) — (bathe) there is as pleasant as is swimming or diving. Fishing boats (h) — (ply) in the Bay of Bengal and (i) — (surf) waves add to the vibrant colours of Kuakata. Steps (j) — (take) to preserve the beauty of the famous beach.

6. Go through the following sentences and change as directed:

(a) An honest man is honoured everywhere by all. (active)

(b) He is not only a teacher but also a singer. (simple)

(c) Though we are improving very fast, we have to work hard for the country. (compound)

(d) Very few cricket teams in the world are as unpredictable as Pakistan. (superlative)

(e) My friend came to me to get help from us. (complex)

7. Change the following narrative style by using indirect speeches:

“Have you learnt your lessons?” father said to Arman. “No. I’ve forgotten,” said he. “That’s very bad. You must be more careful about your preparation for the examination. By doing so, you can make a good result,” said his father. “Thank you very much for your timely advice.”

8. Identify the unclear pronoun references in the following paragraph. Where necessary, rewrite the sentences so that all pronoun references are clear:

Both educated and uneducated women are at present as important as men in our society. She constitutes nearly half of our total population. No country can make real progress keeping half of it in darkness. Without the upliftment of our women, it is not at all possible. Again, without education, women cannot be uplifted. So proper education should be given to her in order that they can work hand in hand with them in all development programmes.

9. Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces:

Air and water are the most (a) — (pre-modify the noun with an adjective) elements of the environment. But we are polluting them (b) — (post modify the verb with an adverb). Mills and factories use fuel (c) —(post modify the verb with an infinitive) their products. The burning of this fuel creates smoke (d) — (post modify the verb with an adverbial). Motor vehicles also pollute the air, (e) — (use an appositive). Water is polluted by (f) — (pre-modify the noun with a quantifier) kinds of waste and filth. We also contaminate water (g) — (post-modify the verb with a present participle phrase) into it. Farmers use (h) — (pre-modify the noun with an adjective) fertilizers and insecticides and pollute water. (i) — (pre-modify the noun with a past participle) water is (j) — (pre-modify the adjective with an intensifier) harmful for health.

10. Use appropriate sentence connectors in the blank spaces of the following passage.

Honesty is a noble virtue. The man (a) — possesses this uncommon quality is the happiest man in the world. Truly speaking, a man should have trustworthiness. (b) — nobody believes a liar. A liar may prosper for the time being. (c) — ultimately he goes to the dogs. (d) — we should be honest in our life. It is believed that honesty is the best policy. (e) — dishonesty is the sign of downfall. God helps those who are honest, (f) — dishonest people are cursed. Childhood is the best time, (g) — children should be taught honesty. It is seen that children follow their parents. (h) — parents should be honest. (i) — children should be allowed to mix with those friends who are really honest. (j) — they build up their character.

11. Read the passage and then write the antonym or synonym of the underlined words as directed below

Courtesy is a virtue in a man. It goes without saying that courtesy costs us nothing but gives a lot. So, you should be courteous. You must have politeness. People will disrespect and dislike you if you are discourteous. Nobody likes discourtesy. Try to be gentle from your student life. You can win the heart of your enemy by being courteous. You can ensure removal of hatred and anger by embracing your enemy. Courtesy can remove the bitter relationship and improve mutual understanding and cordiality among people.

(a) virtue (synonym): (b) a lot (synonym): (c) courteous (antonym): (d) discourtesy (synonym): (e) win (antonym): (f) enemy (synonym): (g) ensure (synonym): (h) anger (antonym): (i) remove (synonym): (j) cordiality (antonym).

12. Then are ten errors in the use of punctuation marks in the following text. Rewrite the text correcting the errors: Jerry: I can chop some wood today.

Writer: But I’ve a boy coming from the orphanage.

Jerry: Im the boy

Writer: You/But you’re very small in size.

Jerry: Size doesn’t matter chopping wood. Some of the big boys don’t chop well, Ive been chopping wood for a long time.

Writer: Very well theres the axe. Go ahead see what you can do

Part B : Composition (Marks 40)

13. Suppose, you are Apurba/Amina studying at ‘X’ College in Dhaka. You want to go on a Study Tour somewhere with your classmates. Now, on behalf of your classmates of your college, write an application to the principal seeking permission to arrange a Study Tour.
14. Think that you are a local reporter of the Daily Star. Recently your college has arranged the prize giving ceremony in the college compound. Now, write a report of about 120-150 words on it. Give a title to your report.
15. Write a paragraph describing The Advantages and Disadvantages of Facebook’ in about 100-150 words. 10
16. Write a short composition on ‘Childhood Memories’. Write within at least 200 words but don’t exceed 250 words.

10. Cumilla Board-2019

English (compulsory) second paper

part A: Grammar (6O Marks)

1. Fill in the blanks in the following text with articles (a/an/the) as necessary. Some of the may not require an article. Put a cross (X) in those blanks

An honest man is true to his (a) — words. He does not deviate from (b) — path of honesty. He knows that true happiness consists in (c) — honesty. He does not fall victim to (d) — greed. He does not hanker after (e) — worldly property. (f) — honest man abstains him from corruption. He does not mix with (g) — corrupt people. He is (h) — man who tries to get pleasure from good deeds. (i) — greed for wealth does not touch him. People should follow the path of (j) — people of the society.

2. Complete the following text with suitable prepositions.

Preposition connects all types (a) — objects together and support them make a better sense (b) —  the readers. They help us to understand the relationship (c)  — objects. (d) —  example, the book and the table are (e) —   the kitchen. This ensures you a basic understanding.  If we add another preposition, it makes it even clearer. This book is (f)  —  top of the table (g)  —  the kitchen. We have a clear picture (h)  — our mind (i)  — their relationship of those two objects and their relationship (j)  —  each other.

3. Complete the sentences with suitable phrases/words given in the box.

(a)The child cannot walk—– run in the field.

(b) Tareq Ahmed is a renowned teacher. He —– in 1960.

(c) At present, the children do not know —– swim in water.

(d) Parents —–work hard to take care of their children.

(e) Rima studies hard —— GPA-5 should be missed.

(f) Father, ——a ghost ——?

(g) Tanisha went to college—— she could learn something,

(h) ——people stopped corruption from society.

(i) —— swimming in the river? For the first time, it seems new experience for all.

(j) You will not succeed in life —— you work hard.

4. Complete the sentences using suitable clauses/phrases.

(a) Samudra Haque is a great journalist. Do you know where——?

(b) Unity is power. Unless you are united, you ——.

(c) Work carefully lest —— .

(d) Shabbir Khan is a quack. He behaves as though  ——

(e) It is very cold. I have to put on warm clothes so that   ——

6. Read the text and transform the sentences as directed

Dowry is a curse for our society. It darkens the lives of many women.

(a) Dowry hampers the peace of the society. (Make it Passive)

(b) The brutal condition of the dark age must be stopped soon. (Make active)

(c) This is one of the major problems of Bangladesh. (Make it Positive)

(d) The dowry seekers are very greedy and demand money from bride’s father. (Make it Simple)

(e) What an unworthy crime the dowry is! (Make it Assertive)

7. Change the narrative style by using indirect speeches.

“Why are you loitering here and there now? Are you in trouble?” said the school teacher. “I am loitering because I have none to take care of me,” said the boy. The school teacher said, “Do you feel hungry?” “Yes, I am very hungry now,” said the boy.

8. Identify the unclear pronoun references in the following paragraph where necessary. Rewrite the sentences so that all pronoun references are clear.

Women are nowadays as important as men in the society. She constitutes nearly half of the total population. No nation can make real progress keeping half of it in the dark. Without the improvement of the women’s status, it is not at all possible. Again, without education, women cannot be uplifted. So, proper education should be given to her so that they can work hand in hand with them in all development programmes.

9. Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces.

Newspaper plays a very (a) — (pre-modify the noun) role in modern civilization. It publishes news and views of home and abroad. Only (b) — (pre-modify the noun) knowledge is not enough in this competitive world. A newspaper helps a man (c) — (post-modify the verb with infinitive) his general knowledge. Besides academic books one should read newspapers (d) — (post modify the verb). Newspaper helps one (e) — (post-modify the verb with an infinitive) the facts the world. (f) — (pre-modify the verb with a participle phrase) regularly. One can be aware of everything. There are (g) — (pre-modify the noun) kinds of newspapers. One should select newspaper (h) — (post-modify the verb). One should choose the (i) — (pre-modify the noun) newspaper because many newspapers present news partially. Whatever the paper is, it (j) — (pre-modify the verb) helps a man.

10. Fill in the blanks with suitable linking words/sentence connectors.

Unemployment is a great curse. (a) — all the countries of the world suffer from the curse. (b) — nowhere in the world, this problem is so acute as in our country. (c) — there are many reasons behind it. (d) — our country is industrially backward. (e) — our traditional education system is not service-oriented. (f) — our students and youths have false sense of dignity. (g) — run after jobs only. (h) — unemployment problem should be removed at any cost. (i) — education system should be changed. (j) — more mills and factories should be established.

11. Read the following passage and then write the antonym or synonym of the words as directed below.

Modern education is somewhat different from that of the past. In method, it seeks to draw out improve the mind, to make it eager and curious. It depends more on observation than bookish knowledge. A mind that is intellectually alert, will learn from books. It develops the la talent of any individual. Teachers play a vital role in teaching the students. They aren’t instructors. Rather, they support and guide students so that the students can succeed in their way of life.

(a) different (synonym); (b) seek (synonym); (c) eager (antonym); (d) observation (synonym) (e) mere (antonym); (f) alert (synonym); (g) latent (antonym); (h) instructor (synonym); (i) guide (antonym): (j) way (synonym).

12. There are ten mistakes in the use of punctuation marks in the following text. Rewrite the correcting the mistakes. Sajid : Hurrah weve won the match.

Sifat : What match Sajid

Sajid : The football match between your school team and ours school team.

Sifat Oh my Almighty! How did it happen?

Sajid We won by 3 goals to one (1). 

Sifat : I thought our team was better than yours.

Saiid : The result shows who is better

Sifat : Anyway, well do better next year.

Sajid : Best of luck Sifat.

11. Sylhet Board 2019

English (compulsory) second paper part

A: Grammar (60 Marks)

1. Fill in the blanks in the following text with articles (a/an/the) as necessary. Some of the blanks may not require articles. Put a cross (x) in those blanks

I have (a) — uncle who has just retired from (b) — army. He used to be (c) —FBI agent, and everybody says he has been an honest man all his life. As a child, I loved him for his stories. He once told me that he met (d) —one-eyed alien from (e) — space. (f) — alien did not need any oxygen. And it did not have (g) — nose. I now understand that it was (h) — hard story to believe. I am not sure he was telling me (h) —truth. May be he is not so (j) — honest, after all.

2. Complete the text with suitable prepositions.

Luna’s cat was missing. So she started looking around (a) — it. She opened her closet and looked (b) — . Then she went to the bedroom crawling (c) — the floor to look (d) —the bed. The cat was not there. In fact, it was nowhere inside the house. Therefore, Luna decided to go (e) — to look for it. Just as she was (f) — to open the door, the door bell rang. It was her neighbour, Mrs. Haq. “Look Luna! Your cat is (g) — the sunshade!” said Mrs. Haq pointing (h) — a tall building opposite (i) — her house. Luna smiled and thanked her friendly neighbour, saying that (j) — her help she would not be able to find out her cat.

3. Complete the sentences with suitable words/phrases from the list.

(a) “Can I smoke here?” “I — you didn’t. It’s a no smoking zone.”

(b) This car is absolutely fine — the engine is concerned.

(c) We rushed to the station lest we might miss the train. But the train was late and we had to wait for an hour. We — hurried. (d) It’s well past 10 and Diba is still in bed. — she got up.

(e) Nishi is a nice girl. But — cooking, she is absolutely hopeless.

(f) Lima has always lived alone. She — living alone.

(g) Well, you don’t need to — . We know that you have some talent.

(h) Look at that building! It looks — it were going to fall down!

(i) I am very tired. I don’t — going out this evening.

(j) “It’s getting late. I have to go now.” “You — not. It’s raining very hard.”

4. Complete the following sentences with suitable clauses/phrases.

(a) “Do you know this man?” “Yes, I know him. — since he was a boy.”

(b) What a lovely view that was! If I had had a camera, –.

(c) I have never been suspicious of his honesty. I have always believed –.

(d) It was very hot outside. Nobody actually wanted –.

(e) The woman – was taken to hospital.

(f) When my sister was young, she hid chocolate in impossible places. Once I found a bar –.

(g) My grandfather has no interest in TV. He often talks about the old days –.

(h) I am not a rich man. So, I never go to the shops –.

(i) Don’t worry. We are going to be there right on time. I am driving –.

(j) She never travels alone. She is – of travelling alone.

5. Read the text and fill in the gaps with the correct form of verbs in brackets.

When I was a child I (a) — (be) afraid of the dark, and I (b) — (go) to sleep with a light on. Even then, I feared that monsters (c) — (climb) in through my bedroom window. Every sound I (d) — (hear) struck fear into me. Often, I ran away from the room and (e) — (sleep) on the floor at the foot of my parents’ bed. Now that I (f) — (be) almost twenty, I obviously do better than what I (g) — (do) as a child. However, I (h) — (be) still scared of bedtime. I hate (i) — (sleep) alone and I still keep a tiny night-light on. And before I go to bed, I double-check every door and every window to make sure that they (j) — (be) locked. 6. Transform the underlined parts of the following text as per direction.

(a) “Beautiful Isn’t she?” Tanvir whispered. (Make it assertive)

(b) Tania nodded in agreement, but she was extremely nervous. (Make it complex)

(c) The tigress was now quite close to them. (Make it interrogative) Tania’s heart was pounding, but Tanvir seemed oblivious to any danger.

(d) He got closer to the animal and pressed the shutter button with a boyish grin in the face. (Make it simple)

(e) And it suddenly occurred to Tania that her husband was the strongest man she had ever met. (Use the positive degree of the adjective)

7. Change the narrative style by using indirect speeches.

“Why did you stop me? I didn’t do anything wrong, did I?” asked Riyad. “You were driving too fast,” said the traffic sergeant, giving him a glare, “Now, show me your driving license.”

8. Here is a text with five unclear pronoun references. Rewrite the text making all the pronoun references clear. Underline the areas where you make any changes.

Robin hates people who are mean to animals. Last afternoon, as he was walking home from work he saw some boys throwing stones at an old lame dog. Immediately, he rushed to help the animal “Stop it!” he shouted as he ran towards the unruly boys, “Leave him alone!” Startled by the big man’s shouts, they ran away. One of them jeered at him while running away Robin, however, was totally unmoved by the jeering. He was happy that he could save it. Robin has always felt some affection for animals. Once he even went to the police station to complain about a neighbour who threw a cat out of the window. Instead of taking any action, they laughed at him advised him not to worry about such ‘petty’ matters.

9. Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces

A library is a (a) — (pre-modify the noun) of knowledge. The students (b) — (use a participle) to all classes visit it in their library periods. Our college library is housed in two rooms (c) — (pre-modify the noun) almirahs are placed in one room. The other room is the (d) — (use a participle to modify the noun) room where magazines, journals and newspapers are placed. There are about five thousand books in our library which are arranged (e) — (post-modify the verb). Any type of book can be traced in no time. The books cater to the needs and interests (f) — (use a prepositional phrase). There are two separate sections in the library. One of them reference books like (g) — (use nouns) etc. The other section contains books (h) — (prepositional phrase). Every student has a library (i) — (use a noun). The reading room is always crowded (j) — (post-modify the verb) in the afternoon.

10. Use appropriate sentence connectors in the blank spaces of the following passage. 5×10-5

Education is essential in our life. (a) —we are not properly educated, we cannot live an honourable life in society. It teaches us (b) — how to earn but also how to spend. (c) — it teaches (d) — to live in amity with others in society. (e) — we must get proper education, (f) — we should bear in mind (g) —education is not only what we learn at educational institutions but also (h) — we learn outside these institutions. (i) — education is a lifelong process. It begins just after our birth (j) — ends only in death.

11. Read the text and give the synonyms/antonyms of the underline words as per instruction given below the text.

Rima is a good-looking young woman. Her large, dark eyes are beautiful. Her complexion is flawless, and she has got a lovely big smile. Her long, black hair is full and shiny. She is tall and slender, and her movement is graceful. And she always dresses stylishly. Everybody appreciates her beauty. But Rima worries that people do not notice her talents and hard work. She wants people to know that a woman can have beauty ambition.

(a) good-looking (synonym); (b) dark (synonym): (c) flawless (synonym); (d) shiny (antonym) (e) slender (antonym); (f) graceful (synonym): (g) stylishly (antonym): (h) appreciate (antonym) (i) notice (antonym): (j) ambition (synonym).

12. There are ten errors in the use of punctuation marks in the following text. Rewrite the text correcting the errors.

The traveller said to the peasant “Can you tell me the way to the nearest inn” The peasant said “Yes I can Do you want one in which you can spend the night” The traveller said, stay there I only want a meal” Follow me and I will take you to a nice one.

BARISHAL
BOARD-2019

English (Compulsory)- Second
Paper

Full
marks: 100

Time:
3 hours

[Answer all the questions. Figures in the margin indicate full
marks.]

Part-A: Grammar [Marks: 60]

1. Use
articles where necessary. Put a cross (x) where article is not needed. 0.5 x 10 = 5

Mr. Bright is (a) — European. As he is (b) — Englishman, he knows (c) — English
well. He is (d) — honourable to everyone though he is (e) — one-eyed man. One day
having (f) — SOS, he went to (g) — USA. His brother, Johnson living there
joined (h)— Army last year. He is (i) — younger of the two brothers. When
Bright met his brother, he could not but shed (j) — tears.

2. Fill
in the gaps with appropriate prepositions.
0.5 x 10 = 5

The old
grey-bearded sailor sat (a)—a stone (b)—the church. The sailor watched the
people walking (c)—him. The marriage guest listened (d)—him. He had a strange
mad look (e)— his eyes. The old man told him (f)—his last journey (g)—the sea.
They had sailed away (h)—the south (i)—they arrived (j)-cold grey seas.

3.
Complete
the sentences with suitable phrases/ words given in the box. 0.5 x 10 = 5

(a)
We — hire a rickshaw. It’s already too late. We have to reach the exam. hall
in time.

(b)
I can’t remember the name of the story — the details about the different
characters. I read the story many years ago.

(c)Nobody
likes Suborna at all. She talks — she knew everything in the world.

(d)Rabindranath
Tagore is one of the greatest poets in world literature. He — in the famous
Tagore family.

(e)
— does a leopard —?

(f)
The cricket match restarted — the third umpire declared the decision. It was
a great relief for the spectators.

(g)
It was a terrible ship. —was no crew in the ship of death.

(h)In
ancient time, people —
fight against dangerous wild animals. Is it same in the present days?

(i)
In our country, rainy season is very different. During this season — rains
heavily without any gap.

(j)
Tarek — sleep than watch such type of film. It’s really boring.

4. Complete the sentences using
suitable clauses/ phrases. 0.5 x 10 = 5

(a)
A railway station is the place where

(b)
No
sooner had he reached the station —.

(c)
He is satisfied with what —.

(d)
The car made in Japan —.

(e)
He behaved as if —.

(f)
What is lotted —.

(g)
My purse has been lost where —.

(h)
My friend, Ripon, appeared before the interview board. As he was smart, —.

(i)
You are a liar. You cannot eat a mango let alone —.

(j)
I am very hungry today. I had better —.

5.
Read
the text and fill in the gaps with right form of verbs as per subject and context. 0.5 x 10 = 5

Once
there (a) — (live) an idle king. He (b) — (not undergo) physical labour. As a
result, he (c) — (get) bulky and could not move from one place to another. He
(d) — (call) in a doctor. The doctor (e) (be) — clever and wise. He did not (f)—
(prescribe) any medicine for the king. He asked the king to buy a club and (g) —
(move) it in the air till his hands (h) — (get) moistened. The king started (i)
— (follow) the prescription. Thus, the king (j) — (relieve) of his problem.

6. Read the text and change the
sentences as directed. 1×5=5

Anger
is nothing but a vice. (a) It begets only the worst. (Negative) (b) Anger is
one of the most inhuman vices. (Positive) (c) So, we should control it for our
own sake. (Passive) (d) He who is taken by anger causes a lot of troubles.
(Simple) (e) Realizing it, we should try to be emotionally balanced. (Complex)

7.
Change
the narrative style by using indirect speeches.
5

Returning
home, my mother said to me, “Your progress in studies is very slow. You
always move about with a group of your friends. Aren’t you idling away your
time with them? Can’t you be more serious?” “I am sorry and I will
amend myself,” I replied.

8. Identify the unclear pronoun
references in the following paragraph. Where necessary, rewrite the sentences
so that all pronoun references are clear. 1 x 5 = 5

Honesty
is the best policy. It is honesty which brings happiness in life. Without it,
none can dream of a great life. These who were great in their lifetime were
honest. They worked with sincerity, lived earnestly and died with honour. His
contributions to this world are unforgettable. So if you want themselves to be
in their league, be honest. Remember, there is no shortcut way to a great life.

9.
Read the following text and use modifiers as directed in the blank spaces. 0.5
x 10 = 5

The
roads (a) — (use an adjective phrase to post modify the noun) are beset with
problems. (b) — (pre-modify the noun) driving is one of them. Most of the
drivers are not (c) — (pre-modify the participle) trained. They are not well
educated. They can (d) — (use an adverb to pre-modify the verb) put their
signature and read Bengali. They are indifferent to (e) — (use a noun
adjective) life. They do not realize that life is (f) — (use a determiner)
valuable than time. They drive (g) — (post modify the verb). They do (h) — (use
an adverb to pre-modify the verb) drive consciously. Even they themselves are
not conscious of (i) — (use a possessive) own lives. They drive (j) — (use an
adverb phrase to post modify the verb) and try to overtake others.

10.
Use appropriate sentence connectors in the blank spaces of the following
passage. 0.5 × 10 = 5

We
should always keep in mind (a) — all kinds of physical exercise are not
suitable for all. (b) — different people have different capacities. (c) —,
harder exercise (d) — wrestling and gymnastics are suitable for young people
(e) — they have energy to perform them. Weaker and old people should take the
milder exercise (f) — walking, jogging and free hand exercise. Over exercise
never does good (g) — it breaks down the health. (h) — we should always take
those exercises (i) — would suit us. Physical exercise is important for the
preservation of good health. It (j) — builds our character.

11.
Read the passage and then write the antonym or synonym of the words as directed
below. 0.5 x 10 = 5

In
Bangladesh, students require to read English for about ten years. But the level
of proficiency they reach is very low. No wonder that most of them fail in
their English tests. People taking the Civil Service Examination are also
tested on their knowledge of English, but the results are equally disappointing
although almost all the candidates have presumably master degree in various
disciplines. Even those who pass or qualify are hardly able to write a free
composition in acceptable English. Obviously, there is something seriously
wrong with the teaching and learning of English in Bangladesh.

(a)
require (synonym) (b) proficiency (antonym) (c) wonder (synonym) (d) tested
(synonym) (e) equally (antonym) (f) disappointing (synonym) (g) presumably
(antonym) (h) qualify (antonym) (i) Obviously (antonym) (j) wrong (synonym)

12.
There are ten errors in the use of punctuation marks in the following text.
Rewrite the text correcting the errors. 0.5 x 10 = 5

While
I was going to market yesterday I met a boy begging in the street on being
asked to tell the reason of begging the boy with a sad mind and tearful eyes
said oh sir I have a sad tale to tell you would you please hear my story yes I
would like to I said to him Instead of telling the story the boy simply began
to cry.

Part-B: Composition [Marks:
40]

13. Write an application to
the principal of your college for providing multimedia facilities in the class
room. 8

14. Suppose, you are a
reporter of ‘The Daily Star’. Now, write a report for your newspaper on ‘Food
Adulteration’ which has become a burning issue.
8

15. Dowry system is a curse
for our society. Write a paragraph on it.
10

16. Write a composition on
“The Necessity of Compulsory ICT Education in Bangladesh”. 14