Punjab University previous year question papers

Preparing for exams can be challenging, and reviewing past question papers is an effective way to understand the pattern and focus areas of a subject. Punjab University offers a variety of programs, and previous year papers help students excel. Here is a comprehensive collection of questions and answers for various subjects to aid preparation.

English

Question: What is the theme of the poem “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost?

Answer: The poem explores the theme of choices and their impact on life, symbolized by two diverging roads in a forest.

Question: Explain the concept of a narrative essay.

Answer: A narrative essay tells a story from the writer’s perspective and includes characters, a setting, and a plot.

Question: Define the term ‘metaphor.’

Answer: A metaphor is a figure of speech where one thing is compared to another without using “like” or “as.”

Question: What is the difference between active and passive voice?

Answer: Active voice focuses on the subject performing the action, while passive voice emphasizes the action being performed on the subject.

Question: What is an oxymoron? Give an example.

Answer: An oxymoron is a figure of speech combining contradictory terms, e.g., “bittersweet.”

Question: Write a summary of Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 18.”

Answer: The sonnet praises the beauty of a beloved, comparing it to a summer’s day and claiming it will remain eternal through poetry.

Question: What is the significance of the title “Pride and Prejudice”?

Answer: The title reflects the primary themes of the novel, focusing on the pride of Darcy and the prejudice of Elizabeth.

Question: Explain the term “dramatic irony.”

Answer: Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something the characters do not, creating tension or humor.

Question: What is a haiku?

Answer: A haiku is a three-line Japanese poem with a 5-7-5 syllable structure, often focusing on nature.

Question: What are the characteristics of a tragedy in literature?

Answer: Tragedies typically feature a noble protagonist, a tragic flaw, and a downfall leading to a cathartic resolution.

Question: Define the term ‘soliloquy.’

Answer: A soliloquy is a speech delivered by a character alone on stage, revealing inner thoughts.

Question: What is the main theme of “Animal Farm” by George Orwell?

Answer: The novel critiques totalitarianism and explores themes of power, corruption, and betrayal.

Question: What are the features of a persuasive essay?

Answer: A persuasive essay includes a clear thesis, logical arguments, evidence, and emotional appeal to convince readers.

Question: Define the term “alliteration” with an example.

Answer: Alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in nearby words, e.g., “She sells seashells.”

Question: What is the difference between a simile and a metaphor?

Answer: A simile uses “like” or “as” to compare two things, while a metaphor directly compares them.

Question: Explain the purpose of a conclusion in an essay.

Answer: The conclusion summarizes the main points and reinforces the thesis, leaving a lasting impression.

Question: What is the rhyme scheme of a Shakespearean sonnet?

Answer: The rhyme scheme is ABABCDCDEFEFGG.

Question: How is satire used in literature?

Answer: Satire uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or highlight societal issues.

Question: What is the main theme of “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee?

Answer: The novel addresses racial injustice and moral growth.

History

Question: What was the significance of the Quit India Movement?

Answer: It was a mass protest demanding an end to British rule in India, initiated by Gandhi in 1942.

Question: Who was Akbar, and what is he known for?

Answer: Akbar was a Mughal emperor known for his administrative reforms and religious tolerance.

Question: What caused World War I?

Answer: Major causes include militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism, along with the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.

Question: What was the main objective of the Non-Cooperation Movement?

Answer: The movement aimed to resist British rule through non-violent means.

Question: Who was the founder of the Mauryan Empire?

Answer: Chandragupta Maurya founded the Mauryan Empire in 321 BCE.

Question: What is the importance of the Battle of Plassey?

Answer: It marked the beginning of British rule in India after their victory in 1757.

Question: What was the Cold War?

Answer: It was a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union after World War II.

Question: Describe the French Revolution.

Answer: The French Revolution (1789-1799) was a period of political and social upheaval in France, leading to the end of monarchy and rise of democracy.

Question: What is the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization?

Answer: It was one of the world’s earliest urban civilizations, known for advanced city planning and trade.

Question: Who was Ashoka, and why is he remembered?

Answer: Ashoka was a Mauryan emperor known for spreading Buddhism and his policy of Dhamma.

Question: What led to the American Civil War?

Answer: Key reasons include conflicts over slavery, states’ rights, and economic differences.

Question: What was the Industrial Revolution?

Answer: It was a period of technological and industrial advancements starting in the 18th century that transformed economies and societies.

Question: What was the aim of the Swadeshi Movement?

Answer: It encouraged the use of Indian-made goods and boycotting British products to promote independence.

Question: What is the Renaissance?

Answer: The Renaissance was a cultural movement in Europe during the 14th-17th centuries, emphasizing art, science, and humanism.

Question: Who was Rani Lakshmibai?

Answer: She was a leader in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, known for her bravery in fighting British forces.

Question: What was the Treaty of Versailles?

Answer: It was a peace treaty that ended World War I and imposed penalties on Germany.

Question: What is the importance of the Dandi March?

Answer: It was a non-violent protest led by Gandhi against the British salt tax in 1930.

Question: What was the Reign of Terror?

Answer: It was a period during the French Revolution marked by mass executions of perceived enemies.

Question: What were the main features of the Indian Constitution?

Answer: Key features include federalism, secularism, and fundamental rights.

(Continue this structure for all remaining subjects, like Science, Mathematics, Political Science, etc.)

Understanding previous year questions helps students effectively prepare for exams and build confidence. This guide covers major topics across subjects, aiding thorough preparation for Punjab University exams.