1. Read the following passage:

1. India's education system, once renowned for its rigour and depth, is now grappling with a crisis, precipitated by the meteoric rise of coaching institutes. Initially conceived to supplement traditional schooling, these institutes have evolved into a dominant force, creating a parallel industry that is profoundly altering how students learn and grow. This surge in investment reflects a deep-seated anxiety regarding the securing of a prosperous future for their children. However, this trend has led to several significant and damaging consequences for India's education system.

2. One of the most pressing concerns surrounding coaching institutes is their penchant for prioritizing rote learning over fostering critical thinking and profound subject understanding. As a result, we are witnessing the emergence of a generation of students who excel in examinations but struggle to apply their knowledge in practical, everyday situations. The coaching institutes' laser-like focus on exam preparation comes at the expense of a well-rounded education. Vital elements such as communication skills, creativity, and emotional intelligence are frequently eclipsed by the intense emphasis on cracking competitive exams. Activities that contribute to holistic development, including arts, sports, and other extracurricular pursuits, are often relegated to the periphery.

3.This one-dimensional approach not only stifles individual talents but also hampers the overall development of students, rendering them less adaptable and versatile in their personal and professional lives. The pressure exerted by coaching institutes has severe repercussions on students' mental health, fostering an environment saturated with stress and anxiety.)The relentless drive for high scores often subjects students to gruelling schedules, leaving little room for relaxation or social interaction. The constant fear of failure can lead to serious mental health issues, including burnout and, tragically, even suicide. The mental well-being of students should be a top priority, but it often

gets neglected in the relentless pursuit of academic excellence. According to reports, 1.2% of students commit suicide due to exam failure.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above: 10 marks

(i) What is one of the significant changes in India's education system according to the paragraph?

(Select the most accurate option based on the given text.) 1

A. The decline of traditional schooling methods.

B. The rise and dominance of coaching institutes.

C. Increased government funding for education.

D. A focus on extracurricular activities.

(ii) Coaching centers generate huge revenues for the state. (True/False/Not Given) 1

(iii) Based on the paragraph 2, which of the following words is closest in meaning to "penchant"?

A.    Aversion           B. Inclination.  C. Indifference   D. Disregard

(iv) The coaching institutes' focus on rote learning over critical thinking and practical application is to students' education as:1

A. Fast food is to healthy eating.

B.A thoroughbred horse is to a race track.

C.A microscope is to a broad view.

D.A detailed map is to an abstract painting.

(v) Assertion: The rise of coaching institutes in India has significantly damaged the traditional education system.

Reasoning: Initially meant to supplement traditional schooling, coaching institutes have now become a dominant force, creating a parallel industry. 1

A. Both assertion and reasoning are true, and the reasoning explains the assertion.

B. Both assertion and reasoning are true, but the reasoning does not explain the assertion.

C. Assertion is true, but the reasoning is false.

D. Assertion is false, but the reasoning is true.

(vi) Which of the following CAN NOT be the result of the pressure exerted by coaching institutes? 1

a. decreased stress and anxiety

b. fostering of individual talents

c. poor adaptability and versatility

d. serious mental health issues, including burnout and suicide

A. Option a and b          B. Option a and c          C. Option d and b          D. Option c and d

(vii) What is the theme of paragraph 2 and how do you justify it? (30-40 words) 2

(viii)Give at least one cause and one effect of student anxiety? (30-40 words) 2