1

Section A: Directed Writing

Read both texts and answer Question 1.

Text A: Blog written by John, 45 years Text B: Blog written by Priya, 19 years
I’ve always approached new technology with AI is transforming our world, and I find it
caution, and artificial intelligence (AI) is no incredibly exciting. It’s amazing how it’s already
exception. While I recognize its potential to making life easier and more efficient in so many
improve our lives in many ways, I worry about ways. As a student, I’ve experienced firsthand
the long-term implications of its widespread how AI-powered tools can help me study
use. One major concern is job displacement. As better. Whether it’s generating ideas for essays,
AI continues to evolve, more tasks traditionally learning new concepts through interactive
performed by humans are now being apps, or solving math problems with step-by-
automated. This could lead to significant step explanations, AI saves time and makes
unemployment, especially in industries where learning more engaging.
repetitive tasks dominate. Are we prepared to
deal with such large-scale changes to our But AI’s impact isn’t limited to education. It’s
workforce? everywhere, from apps that recommend the
perfect playlist to systems that make navigating
Another issue is our growing reliance on AI. It’s new places effortless. These tools simplify daily
convenient to let AI handle decisions for us, life and open up opportunities we couldn’t
whether it’s choosing the fastest route to a have imagined a few years ago. For me, the
destination or deciding what products we most exciting thing about AI is its potential for
might like to buy. However, this convenience creativity. It’s fascinating how AI can compose
comes at a cost: we may become less capable music, create artwork, or even assist in
of critical thinking and decision-making over scientific discoveries.
time. Then there’s the question of data privacy.
Most AI systems rely on large amounts of Of course, I’m aware of the challenges AI
personal data to function effectively, but do we presents. Data privacy is a concern – I want to
really know how that data is being stored, know how my information is being used.
shared, or used? There’s also the fear that automation could
replace jobs. However, I believe we can address
AI undoubtedly has its benefits, especially in these issues through education and proper
fields like healthcare, where it can analyse regulation. We need to ensure people
medical data quickly and accurately, potentially understand how AI works and set clear rules to
saving lives. It’s also revolutionizing education protect individuals and society.
by offering personalized learning experiences.
These are great applications, but they need to Instead of fearing AI, we should embrace it and
be guided by strict ethical principles and learn how to use it wisely. For young people like
transparency. We must understand how AI me, AI represents endless possibilities. It’s a
makes its decisions and ensure those decisions tool that can help us achieve more, think
align with our values. differently, and solve complex problems. I
believe we’re at the beginning of a new era, one
Ultimately, I believe AI should be seen as a tool where AI will play a crucial role in shaping our
to assist us, not as a substitute for human future for the better.
intelligence.
 2

Question 1

Students are more enticed towards using Artificial Intelligence (AI) these days. Your principal has asked
you to talk about it in the school assembly as a Head of Council.

You are asked to write a Speech, and deliver your thoughts:

• evaluate the ideas and opinions given in both the texts.

• give your own views, based on what you have read about Artificial Intelligence.

Base your speech on what you have read in both texts, but be careful to use your own words.
Address both the bullet points. Write about 250 to 350 words.

Up to 10 marks are available for the content of your answer, and up to 15 marks for the quality of
your writing. [25]
 3

Section B: Composition

Answer one question.

Write about 350 to 450 words on one of the following questions.

Up to 10 marks are available for the content and structure of your answer and up to 15 marks for
the style and accuracy of your writing.

EITHER

Descriptive writing

2 Write a description of a bustling train station during a major power outage. [25]

OR

Descriptive writing

3 Describe a daring event, like a rollercoaster ride or bungee jump, and the emotions you felt
afterward. (Remember you can describe the atmosphere, emotions, excitement and the feelings.)
[25]

OR

Narrative writing

4 Write a story that includes the sentence: ‘He opened the drawer, found the envelope and
immediately thought of returning it’. [25]

OR

Narrative writing

5 Write a story in which something magical happens during an ordinary day. [25]
Marking Scheme (Grade 11 – Mock Examination – 2025 – English)
Paper 02: Writing

Section A, Question 1:

Concerns about AI

• Job displacement: Automation may replace human tasks, leading to unemployment, especially
in repetitive industries.
• Dependence on AI: Over-reliance could reduce our ability to think critically and make decisions
independently.
• Data privacy: Worries about how personal data is stored, shared, and used by AI systems.
• Ethical concerns: AI’s applications must be guided by ethics and transparency, especially in
healthcare and education.

• AI as a tool: AI should assist, not replace human intelligence, with strict oversight to avoid
negative future consequences.
Excitement for AI

• AI’s convenience: AI improves efficiency and simplifies life, from education to everyday tasks
(e.g., playlist recommendations, navigation).

• Educational benefits: AI enhances studying, helping students generate ideas, solve problems,
and learn interactively.
• Creative potential: AI contributes to creativity, including music composition, artwork creation,
and scientific advancements.

• Challenges: Data privacy and job displacement are concerns but can be addressed through
education and regulation.
• Embracing AI: AI should be embraced and used responsibly, especially by young people, to solve
problems and shape the future positively.
Table A, Reading

Use the following table to give a mark out of 10 for reading.

Level Marks Description

5 9–10 • Selects a wide range of relevant facts, ideas and opinions from the text(s).
(R5)
• Analyses, evaluates and develops the chosen content in a way that clearly
fulfils all elements of the task. (R3)
4 7–8 • Selects a range of relevant facts, ideas and opinions from the text(s). (R5)
• Some analysis, evaluation and development and a clear focus on the task.
(R3)
3 5–6 • Identifies sufficient relevant facts, ideas and opinions from the text(s). (R5)
• Some development of ideas in a reasonably focused response. (R3)
2 3–4 • Identifies some relevant points from the text(s). (R5)
• Occasional development of ideas in a response that is sometimes focused.
(R3)
1 1–2 • Attempts to identify a few relevant points from the text(s). (R5)
• Evidence of some focus on the task. (R3)
0 0 • No creditable content
Table B, Writing

Use the following table to give a mark out of 15 for writing.

Level Marks Description

5 13–15 • Content is complex, well developed and effective. (W1)
• Well-organised structure that assimilates ideas from the text(s). (W2)
• Uses a wide range of well-constructed sentences accurately, including
complex sentences. (W3)
• Precise and effective use of a wide range of vocabulary. (W3)
• Consistently appropriate tone and register for audience and purpose. (W4)
• Highly accurate use of complex spelling, punctuation and grammar. (W5)
4 10–12 • Content is developed and effective. (W1)
• Secure organisation that combines ideas from the text(s). (W2)
• Uses a range of sentence structures accurately, including some complex
ones. (W3)
• Effective use of a range of vocabulary. (W3)
• Mostly appropriate tone and register for audience and purpose. (W4)
• Accurate use of spelling, punctuation and grammar, including some complex
language. (W5)
3 7–9 • Content is relevant with some development. (W1)
• Some attempt to organise and structure ideas from the text(s). (W2)
• Uses most sentence structures accurately, sometimes attempting complex
ones with success. (W3)
• Uses a straightforward range of appropriate vocabulary. (W3)
• Some awareness of an appropriate tone and register for audience and
purpose. (W4)
• Uses a straightforward range of spelling, punctuation and grammar. (W5)
2 4–6 • Content is straightforward with occasional development. (W1)
• Occasional attempt to organise and structure ideas from the text(s). (W2)
• Uses simple sentence structures accurately which may be repetitive. (W3)
• Uses a range of simple vocabulary which may be repetitive. (W3)
• A little awareness of appropriate tone or register. (W4)
• Generally accurate use of more simple spelling, punctuation and grammar.
(W5)
1 1–3 • Content is simple with a little development of ideas. (W1)
• Organisation and structure rely largely on sequence in original text(s). (W2)
• Attempts to use simple sentence structures. (W3)
• Uses some simple vocabulary accurately. (W3)
• Some accuracy in simple spelling, punctuation and grammar. (W5)
0 0 • No creditable content.
 Section B: Composition

Questions 2, 3, 4 or 5

This question tests the following writing assessment objectives (25 marks)

W1 articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined

W2 organise and structure ideas and opinions for deliberate effect
W3 use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures appropriate to context
W5 make accurate use of spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Marking criteria for Section B

Table A, Composition: Content and structure

Level Marks Description

5 9–10 Consistently effective response to the task
• A wide range of descriptive or narrative features used to create a
consistentlyeffective response. (W1)
• Structure is clear, well balanced and carefully organised for deliberate
effect.(W2)
4 7–8 Mostly effective response to the task
• A range of descriptive or narrative features used to create a mostly
effectiveresponse. (W1)
• Structure is mostly clear, balanced and well organised, with some choices
made for deliberate effect. (W2)
3 5–6 Sometimes effective response to the task
• Some use of descriptive or narrative features to create a sometimes
effectiveresponse. (W1)
• Structure is reasonably clear, with some organisation and some choices
made for deliberate effect. (W2)
2 3–4 Adequate response to the task
• A few ideas and/or experiences are expressed in an attempt to convey
whatis thought, felt and/or imagined. (W1)
• Structure is occasionally clear, with some attempt at organisation to
achieveeffects. (W2)
1 1–2 Task is addressed
• An attempt to convey what is thought, felt and/or imagined. (W1)
• Some attempt to structure ideas. (W2)
0 0 • No creditable content
Table B, Composition: Style and accuracy

Level Marks Description

5 13–15 • Uses a wide range of well-constructed sentences accurately, including
complex sentences. (W3)
• Precise and effective use of a wide range of vocabulary. (W3)
• Highly accurate use of complex spelling, punctuation and grammar. (W5)
4 10–12 • Uses a range of sentence structures accurately, including some complex
ones. (W3)
• Effective use of a range of vocabulary. (W3)
• Accurate use of spelling, punctuation and grammar, including some complex
language. (W5)
3 7–9 • Uses most sentence structures accurately, sometimes attempting complex
ones with success. (W3)
• Uses a straightforward range of appropriate vocabulary. (W3)
• Uses a straightforward range of spelling, punctuation and grammar. (W5)
2 4–6 • Uses simple sentence structures accurately which may be repetitive. (W3)
• Uses a range of simple vocabulary which may be repetitive. (W3)
• Generally accurate use of more simple spelling, punctuation and grammar.
(W5)
1 1–3 • Attempts to use simple sentence structures. (W3)
• Uses simple vocabulary accurately. (W3)
• Some accuracy in simple spelling, punctuation and grammar. (W5)
0 0 • No creditable content
Read Text A carefully and then answer Questions 1 and 2 on the Question Paper.

Text A: The Echoes of the Rush

1. Enticed by the tour operator's board declaration—"Traverse the most dangerous road in the
world in safety and comfort"—I found myself buckled into the plush front seat of a sturdy four-
wheel-drive vehicle. The cooling blast of the air conditioning was a welcome reprieve from the
oppressive spring heat as our journey commenced. Our destination was a remote canyon that,
over a century and a half ago, had been the site of a feverish gold rush. Thousands of
prospectors, driven by dreams of wealth, had braved the treacherous terrain in pursuit of their
fortunes.
2. The first leg of the trip was uneventful. For 22 kilometres, we sped along a straight, sunbaked
highway, surrounded by an arid landscape devoid of life or habitation. Then, without warning,
the driver veered onto a narrow dirt track that seemed better suited for goats than vehicles. A
pair of weathered signs stood at the entrance. One featured a menacing skull and crossbones,
warning of the dangers ahead. The other provided a brief history of the gold rush, accompanied
by a faded photograph of a prospector proudly standing on the land he had claimed.
3. This marked the beginning of the road carved out of solid rock by men who had risked life
and limb. Dangling from precarious ropes, they had hacked their way into the heart of the
canyon, chasing whispered rumours of untold riches.
4. The track descended sharply, twisting and turning with an unpredictability that made it feel
alive. At one particularly harrowing bend, the road looped so tightly around a rocky outcrop
that I felt as though we were being hurled into the abyss. Glancing back, I saw the gap we had
just squeezed through, narrow as a clenched fist, now hidden by the jagged cliffs.
5. Below, the river snaked through the canyon, its turquoise waters frothing as they crashed
against rocks. The roar of the current reverberated against the towering walls, a sound both
mesmerizing and intimidating. On the left, the sheer face of the canyon loomed so close it felt
suffocating. Ahead, a stretch of road had been washed away by winter rains, leaving a
treacherous path of loose gravel and unstable ground.
6. We had no choice but to abandon the vehicle temporarily. Carefully, we scrambled across
the damaged section, every step a gamble against gravity. The driver crept forward behind us,
the wheels of the vehicle mere centimetres from the edge. Below, the mangled remnants of an
old truck served as a grim reminder of what could go wrong.
7. For nine kilometres, the road clung to the canyon walls, defying both logic and gravity. When
we finally descended to the riverbed, the landscape opened up to reveal the ghost of a
settlement. Time and nature had erased nearly all traces of the miners who had once lived here.
The makeshift homes had been swept away by floods or dismantled in the wake of broken
dreams. Only the courthouse remained, now repurposed as a museum.
8. Inside, a collection of artifacts and photographs painted a vivid picture of the hardships
endured by those who had come seeking fortune. One image showed a wagon piled high with
supplies, drawn by skeletal packhorses across a bone-dry riverbed. Another depicted a group
of miners, their hollow eyes and weathered faces betraying the toll of their labour.
9. Before we began the return journey, our guide offered us the chance to try our luck at
panning for gold. Standing by the riverbank, we were handed heavy sieves and shown how to
scoop up gravel and swirl it in the current. The process was monotonous yet strangely hypnotic.
We sifted through the sediment, watching the lighter particles wash away in the hopes that the
heavier gold would settle at the bottom.
10. Though reason told me the chances of finding anything were slim, I couldn’t help but fall
under the spell of "gold fever." Each time I dipped the sieve into the water, my heart quickened,
and my imagination ran wild with visions of wealth and luxury. The sunlight glinting off the
water transformed the gravel into a tantalizing mirage of riches.
11. Minutes turned into an eternity. My back throbbed, and sweat clung to my skin as the heat
intensified. Finally, with exhaustion overcoming ambition, I set the sieve down and
acknowledged defeat. Like the countless prospectors who had preceded me, I found no trace
of gold. My fleeting dreams of fortune had been carried away by the relentless current.
12. As we prepared for the treacherous drive back, I cast a final glance at the canyon. Its raw
beauty and haunting silence stood as a testament to the resilience of those who had dared to
dream. Unlike them, I would soon return to the comforts of modern life, my brief dalliance with
history leaving me both humbled and awed.
Read Text B carefully and then answer Questions 3 on the Question Paper.

Text B: The Ocean Retreat

The writer of this review has just returned from a visit to The Ocean Retreat, located off the
coast of New Zealand.

Recently, I stumbled upon a photography book called Living on the Edge, featuring breathtaking
images of people living in remote, oceanfront homes. In one of the photos, the author sat on a
floating deck with waves lapping beneath him and said, “This is where I find peace.” It was
mesmerizing.

And guess what? It turns out you don’t have to only dream of such a place. Since The Ocean
Retreat opened earlier this year, you too can stay in a unique floating villa surrounded by the
open sea. As soon as I heard about it, I knew I had to experience it for myself.

The Ocean Retreat is the brainchild of marine biologist couple, Emma and Liam Westwood, who
have long been advocates for sustainable living by the sea. Inspired by the rising interest in eco-
tourism, they envisioned this serene getaway to bring people closer to the ocean while
promoting its conservation.

Built over a quiet bay just off New Zealand's north coast, the retreat consists of five floating
villas connected by a wooden walkway. The Westwood designed the retreat to reflect the
beauty of its marine environment while causing minimal disturbance to it. Solar panels power
the villas, rainwater is collected for use, and all waste is carefully managed to ensure the
retreat’s impact on the ocean is as gentle as possible.

Upon arrival, Emma greeted me at the mainland dock and explained, “We ask guests to pack
light – just the essentials. Our boat will take you to your villa. Once you’re there, you’ll feel like
you’ve left the world behind.”

The ride out to the retreat was magical, with dolphins playfully escorting the boat. Emma shared
how the couple’s passion for ocean preservation had guided every detail of the project. We
reached the villas, and I was led to the most striking of them all: The Crystal Cove.

Suspended on anchored platforms, the villa looked as though it floated on air. Its glass walls
offered uninterrupted views of the sea, blending perfectly with the water's shimmering surface.
Inside, the facilities were minimal but thoughtfully designed: a cozy bed with an ocean view, a
compact kitchenette, and a sustainable toilet system. Meals were delivered daily by boat, and
a shared shower station was located a short paddle away on the central platform.

The Crystal Cove had an underwater observation room. Sitting there, surrounded by glass, I
watched schools of fish dart through the turquoise water, their colours glowing in the natural
light. That night, I fell asleep to the soothing sound of waves beneath me.
When I woke up the next morning, I was greeted by the sight of a seal lounging on the floating
deck. Though it was tempting to stay in the villa all day, I couldn’t resist exploring the retreat’s
other features.

The Pearl, another villa a short walk away, is shaped like an oversized seashell and has a large
outdoor hammock for stargazing. The Reef Suite is ideal for families, offering two levels with a
spiral staircase connecting them. The Sunfish, an open-concept villa perfect for summer stays,
is set to open next month. Finally, there’s the Wave House, designed to resemble a breaking
wave, which will be completed by the end of the year.

Later, over a breakfast of fresh fruit and homemade bread delivered to my deck, Liam spoke
passionately about their plans to offer guided snorkelling trips to a nearby coral reef and quiet
kayaking tours through the bay’s mangroves.

Unsurprisingly, the retreat’s commitment to the environment extends to its activities. Loud jet
skis and other disruptive water sports are off-limits here. Instead, guests are encouraged to
connect with nature and experience the ocean’s beauty in a peaceful, sustainable way.

So, will I be returning? Without a doubt.

 Section A

Read Text A, The Echoes of the Rush, in the insert and answer Question 1 and Question 2.

Question 1

(a) In what way is the information board significant to the narrator? (Paragraph 01).

.............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(b) Using your own words, explain what the text means by "every step a gamble against
gravity." (Paragraph 06).

................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................ [2]

(c) Give two features of the canyon road that made it dangerous for travelers. (Paragraph 04/5)

Feature 1: ......................................................................................................................... [1]

Feature 2: .......................................................................................................................... [1]

(d) Give two details that show the hardships faced by the miners who once lived in the
settlement. (Paragraph 08).

Detail 1: ............................................................................................................................ [1]

Detail 2: ............................................................................................................................. [1]

(e) Explain what the phrase "the mangled remnants of an old truck served as a grim reminder"
reveals about the narrator's feelings towards the journey. (Paragraph 06)

................................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................
[1]

(f) (i) How did the narrator feel about the experience of panning for gold?
(ii) Give two details from the text to support your answer. (Paragraph 11).

(i) .......................................................................................................................................... [1]

(ii) ..............................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................
[2]
(g) (i) What was the main challenge the group faced while crossing the damaged section of the
road?
(ii) How was the challenge overcome? (Paragraph 5/6).

(i) .......................................................................................................................................... [1]

(ii) ..............................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................
[1]

(h) Explain, using your own words, different emotions the narrator experiences throughout the
journey.

Give three details from anywhere in the text to support your answer.

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [3]

[Total: 16
Question 2

(a) Read this extract from the text:

"The roar of the current reverberated against the towering walls." (Paragraph 05)

What does the writer want to suggest to us about the situation at this point?

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(b) Explain why the narrator uses the word ‘mesmerizing’ rather than ‘beautiful’ in the
expression “a sound both mesmerizing and intimidating”. (Paragraph 05).

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(c) “Time and nature had erased nearly all traces of the miners who had once lived here."
(Paragraph 07). What two impressions does the writer want to convey to the reader in the
sentence.

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [2]

(d) Read the extract from the text:

“Finally, with exhaustion overcoming ambition, I set the sieve down and acknowledged
defeat." (Paragraph 11).

What effect does the writer suggest about the narrator by using the words ‘acknowledged
defeat’?

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [2]
(e) Identify one example from the text below of how the writer uses language effectively
to convey the narrator's feelings about their lack of success in panning for gold.

“Like the countless prospectors who had preceded me, I found no trace of gold. My fleeting
dreams of fortune had been carried away by the relentless current." (Paragraph 11)

Explain the impression the writer creates in the example you have identified.

Example: ....................................................................................................................................

Explanation: ...............................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [3]

[Total: 9]
 Section B

Read Text B, The Ocean Retreat, in the insert and answer Question 3.

Question 3

(a) According to Text B, summarize what would appeal most to guests on a visit to the Ocean
Retreat?

You must use continuous writing (not note form).

Use your own words where appropriate.

Avoid copying long sections of the text.

Your summary should be no more than 150 words.

Up to 10 marks are available for the content of your answer and up to 10 marks for the
quality of your writing.

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................................
[20]
(b) Imagine you are Emma Westwood and have received an invitation from a local newspaper
for an interview.

You are interviewed by a local news programme about the sea life and the Ocean Retreat.

Give your answer to the interviewer’s question, using information from the text.

Interviewer’s question: Do you really think Ocean Retreat is a successful project in terms of
saving the sea life?

What is your opinion and why?

Your answer:

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [5]

[Total: 25]
Marking Scheme (Grade 11 – Mock Examination – 2025 – English)

Paper 01: Reading

Section A

Read Text A, The Echoes of the Rush in the insert and answer Question 1 and Question 2.

(a) In what way is the information board significant to the narrator? (Paragraph 01)
(1 mark)
The information board provides the highlights the dangers of the road ahead, and the comfort and ease
the tour operators provide.
(b) Using your own words, explain what the text means by "every step a gamble against gravity."
(Paragraph 06)
(2 marks)
It means that walking on the unstable and damaged path was extremely risky, as any wrong move could
lead to slipping or falling down the steep canyon.
(c) Give two features of the canyon road that made it dangerous for travellers. (Paragraph 04/5)
(2 marks)
1. The road was extremely narrow, barely allowing the vehicle to pass.

2. A section of the road had been washed away, leaving only loose gravel and unstable ground.
(d) Give two details that show the hardships faced by the miners who once lived in the settlement.
(Paragraph 08)
(2 marks)

1. The miners’ faces in the photographs revealed exhaustion and the physical toll of their labour.
2. The skeletal packhorses in the images showed the harsh conditions and lack of resources.
(e) Explain what the phrase "the mangled remnants of an old truck served as a grim reminder" reveals
about the narrator's feelings towards the journey. (Paragraph 06)
(1 mark)
It shows the narrator’s sense of foreboding and awareness of the dangers, as the sight of the truck
highlights the deadly risks of the road.
(f)
(i) How did the narrator feel about the experience of panning for gold?
(ii) Give two details from the text to support your answer. (Paragraph 11)
(3 marks)
(i) The narrator felt exhausted or let down.
(ii) Supporting details:

• Minutes turned into an eternity.

• My back throbbed, and sweat clung to my skin as the heat intensified.
• “Finally, with exhaustion overcoming ambition, I set the sieve down and acknowledged defeat.”
• My fleeting dreams of fortune had been carried away by the relentless current.
(g)
(i) What was the main challenge the group faced while crossing the damaged section of the road?
(ii) How was the challenge overcome? (Paragraph 5/6)
(2 marks)
(i) The main challenge was crossing the unstable and washed-out section of the road without falling into
the canyon.
(ii) They overcame the challenge by abandoning the vehicle temporarily and carefully scrambling across
the damaged section on foot.
(h) Explain, using your own words, different emotions the narrator experiences throughout the journey.
Give three details from anywhere in the text to support your answer.
(3 marks)
The narrator experiences:
• Curiosity and anticipation: Inspired by the history of the gold rush and the promise of
adventure.
• Fear and tension: When navigating the treacherous road, such as at the narrow bends.
• Disappointment and humility: After failing to find gold, realizing the struggle of the prospectors.

(Accept different emotions and references if matches the criteria).

QUESTION 2
(a) Read this extract from the text: "The roar of the current reverberated against the towering walls."
(Paragraph 05). What does the writer want to suggest about the situation at this point in the story?
(1 mark)
The writer suggests that the situation is both powerful and overwhelming, emphasizing the grandeur
and intensity of the canyon.

(b) Explain why the writer uses the word 'mesmerizing' rather than 'beautiful' in the expression "a
sound both mesmerizing and intimidating." (Paragraph 06).
(1 mark)
The word "mesmerizing" suggests that the sound captivates and holds the narrator's attention, while
also implying a hypnotic, almost unsettling quality.
(c) What two impressions does the writer want to convey to the reader in the following sentence?
"Time and nature had erased nearly all traces of the miners who had once lived here." (Paragraph 07).
(2 marks)
1. The fleeting and fragile nature of human endeavours.

2. The relentless power of nature to reclaim what was once man-made.

(d) Read this sentence from the following text: "Finally, with exhaustion overcoming ambition, I set the
sieve down and acknowledged defeat." (Paragraph 11).
What effect does the writer suggest about the narrator by using the words "acknowledged defeat"?
(2 marks)
The writer suggests that the narrator feels resigned and humbled, recognizing the futility of his efforts
in the face of reality.
(e) Identify one example from the text below of how the writer uses language effectively to convey the
narrator's feelings about their lack of success in panning for gold. (Paragraph 11).
(3 marks)
Example: “My fleeting dreams of fortune had been carried away by the relentless current.”
Explanation: The metaphor compares the narrator’s hopes to something being physically swept away,
emphasizing the inevitability of their failure and evoking a sense of loss and finality.
 Section B

Read Text B, The Ocean Retreat, in the insert and answer Question 3.

Question 3: (a)

1. Unique Setting: Floating villas surrounded by the open sea offer a one-of-a-kind experience.

2. Stunning Views: Glass walls and underwater observation rooms provide uninterrupted views of
marine life and the ocean.
3. Eco-Friendly Design: Solar panels, rainwater collection, and sustainable waste management
align with environmental values.

4. Peaceful Atmosphere: A quiet, natural environment with no disruptive activities like jet skis or
motorboats.
5. Immersive Activities: Snorkelling, kayaking, and observing marine life create a deeper
connection with the ocean.

6. Minimalist Luxury: Thoughtfully designed villas with cozy interiors and features like outdoor
stargazing hammocks.
7. Personalized Experience: Meals delivered by boat and warm hospitality from the retreat’s
founders.
8. Escape from the Everyday: Guests leave the world behind for a tranquil and rejuvenating
experience.

Question 3: (b)

Possible Answer:

Yes, The Ocean Retreat is a successful project in saving sea life. By using sustainable practices like
solar energy, waste management, and eco-friendly construction, we minimize our environmental
impact. Additionally, our underwater observation rooms and guided activities inspire guests to
appreciate and protect marine ecosystems, promoting ocean conservation effectively.
Marking criteria for Question 3(a)Table R, Reading
Use the following table to give a mark out of 10 for reading.

Level Marks Description

5 9–10 • A wide range of relevant ideas (R1)
• Ideas are skilfully selected and used (R5)
4 7–8 • A good range of relevant ideas (R1)
• Ideas are carefully selected and used (R5)
3 5–6 • A range of relevant ideas (R1)
• Relevant ideas selected; may include excess material (R5)
2 3–4 • Some relevant ideas used; may include indiscriminate selection (R1 and R5)
1 1–2 • Some ideas referred to; limited evidence of selection (R1 and R5)
0 0 • No creditable content

Table W, Writing

Use the following table to give a mark out of 10 for writing.

Level Marks Description

5 9–10 A relevant response that is expressed clearly, fluently and mostly withconcision.

• The response is well organised. (W2)

• The response is the candidate’s own words and/or structures where
appropriate with a range of vocabulary which clarifies meaning.
(W3)
4 7–8 A relevant response that is expressed clearly with some areas of concision.

• The response is organised. (W2)

• The response is the candidate’s own words and/or structures
whereappropriate. (W3)
3 5–6 A relevant response that is generally expressed clearly.

• There is some evidence of organisation. (W2)

• The response is mainly the candidate’s own words and/or structures
whereappropriate. (W3)
2 3–4 A relevant response that can generally be followed.

• There are areas of the response expressed in the candidate’s own words
and/or structures. (W2 and W3)
1 1–2 The response lacks clarity.

• There is occasional use of own words and/or structures. (W2)

• There may be long explanations or the response may be brief. (W3)
0 0 • No creditable content.