Question 1 Demo Answer: Article | English Language for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

Introduction

In this assignment, you'll create a written piece following a specific format, drawing from the opinions, ideas, and information presented in one or two reading passages. Your writing might take one of three potential formats or genres.

• A letter
• A speech
• An article

The following guide will demonstrate how to answer Question 1 in the format of an article. The task itself is taken from a past exam paper. It includes:

• Addressing the reading assessment objectives
• Planning your response
• Article model answer
• Unannotated model answer
• Summary

Addressing the reading assessment objectives

Up to 15 marks can be earned in this task for your capability to assess both the obvious and inferred ideas, opinions, and attitudes conveyed in one or two texts, and integrate them to craft a refined and elaborate response.
Let's take a look at how you do this, using the following Question 1 example:

Your response here has to be based on the ideas, opinions and attitudes contained in the following two texts:

After carefully reading the task, you should then read the texts and highlight the ideas and opinions that could inform your writing. Your response might use the following ideas from these texts:

Text A

• The internet is often unjustly criticized for various issues.
• There is a connection between social media and feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, and social isolation, although the nature of this link is not fully understood.
• Contrary to common belief, the internet has the potential to reduce rather than increase loneliness.
• Meaningful relationships can be fostered through online interactions.
• Social media platforms play a role in helping individuals discover friends and cultivate a social circle.
• Both online and offline, individuals can express their true selves, blending their digital and real-life identities.
• Long-distance friendships can be developed through online channels.
• Conversations and friendships formed online hold equal depth and validity as those established in person.
• Applications designed for making friends are becoming more prevalent.
• For some individuals, forming friendships online might be more comfortable than in traditional settings.

Text B

• Research emphasizes the significance of genuine friendships in individuals' lives.
• Our genetic makeup inclines us towards cultivating a limited number of intimate friendships, even within extensive social circles.
• Despite the internet's capacity to facilitate connections over vast distances, our social media usage doesn't equate to having more close friends.
• The dynamics of friendship are evolving in contemporary society.
• Meaningful friendships necessitate shared real-life experiences for their strength and depth.
• Nurturing profound connections entails more dedication and engagement beyond virtual interactions.

Planning your response

Once you have completed reading the texts, identified relevant opinions, ideas, and attitudes, and summarized them in your own words, it is crucial to allocate five minutes to plan your written response. In your plan:

• Decide on your perspective and point of view.
• Compose a statement that encapsulates your viewpoint, drawing from your interpretation.
• Jot down the key points that bolster your stance for incorporation in your opening paragraph.
• Determine whether you will present a counter-argument and outline the supporting points.
• Revisit your primary argument, ensuring the incorporation of perspectives from all texts, if applicable.
• Detail the aspects you will address to fulfill the second task requirement.
• Plan how you will initiate and conclude your response, ensuring the establishment of the appropriate style and tone.

Article Model Answer

The model answer below illustrates an exemplary response to the provided task:

Unannotated Model Answer

Commentary:

• The heading employs alliteration to engage the reader's interest.
• The introduction utilizes persuasive techniques and showcases a grasp of the task.
• The response demonstrates an understanding of the target audience, maintained consistently.
• Style, tone, and voice are suitable and coherent, drawing from concepts in Text A and Text B.
• Any specific references to ideas or opinions in the text are rephrased in the candidate's own words.
• The use of a personal anecdote is fitting for an article.
• The final paragraph directly addresses the second point in the task.
• A personal perspective is maintained throughout the response.
• Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are consistently accurate.

Summary

• When approaching a question, it is crucial to carefully read and understand it. Identify key aspects such as the purpose of your writing, the target audience, and the significance of your message.
• Focus on each bullet point by extracting relevant details from the text that can be further elaborated in your response.
• After reading the texts, pinpoint essential information that can be expanded upon in your answer.
• Summarize the identified information in your own words using bullet points.
• Organize your writing by centering each paragraph on a single main idea or viewpoint.
• Address each bullet point systematically, ensuring equal coverage of all points.
• Establish and maintain a consistent voice and style throughout your response.
• Avoid mere repetition of text details; instead, assess and enhance the concepts, opinions, and attitudes presented in the texts.