ENGLISH QUESTION

4 PAST PAPER
QUESTION
ANNALYSIS

By Helene Ganawa

Show how the writer uses language and structure to interest and engage
the reader in Dangers of a Single Story
The writer uses vivid imagery to capture the reader's attention. "They played in the
snow, they ate apples, and they talked a lot about the weather, how lovely it was
that the sun had come out." The use of sensory details and vivid descriptions
creates a clear mental image for the reader, making the story more engaging and
relatable.
The writer employs personal anecdotes to establish a connection with the reader.
"What struck me was this: She had felt sorry for me even before she saw me." By
sharing personal experiences, the writer allows the reader to connect on an
emotional level, creating a sense of empathy and understanding.
The writer utilizes contrasts to emphasize the impact of different perspectives.
"Their poverty was my single story of them." The use of contrasts between the
writer's perception and the reality challenges the reader's assumptions, prompting
them to reflect on the power of stereotypes and the danger of single narratives.
The writer employs rhetorical questions to engage the reader in critical thinking.
"If I had not grown up in Nigeria, and if all I knew about Africa were from popular
images, I too would think that Africa was a place of beautiful landscapes, beautiful
animals, and incomprehensible people..." By posing thought-provoking questions,
the writer encourages the reader to question their own preconceived notions and
consider alternative perspectives.
The writer uses repetition for emphasis and to reinforce key ideas. "Stories matter.
Many stories matter." The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the importance of
narratives and underscores the central message of the text, engaging the reader by
highlighting the significance of diverse storytelling.
The writer employs personal reflection to create a sense of authenticity. "And, as
often happens in America, immigration became synonymous with Mexicans. There
were endless stories of Mexicans as people who were fleecing the healthcare
system, sneaking across the border, being arrested at the border, that sort of thing."
By sharing their own personal revelation and admitting their previous
misconceptions, the writer establishes credibility and fosters a connection with the
reader.
The writer uses descriptive language to evoke emotions in the reader. "I was
overwhelmed with shame." The strong emotional language conveys the writer's
intense feelings, allowing the reader to share in the experience and empathize with
the internal struggle depicted.
The writer employs cultural references to make the text relatable and engaging.
"She asked if she could listen to what she called my 'tribal music', and was
consequently very disappointed when I produced my tape of Mariah Carey." By
referring to popular culture and common stereotypes, the writer engages the
reader's familiarity and challenges their assumptions, adding depth and authenticity
to the narrative.
The writer uses a conversational tone to establish a personal connection with the
reader. "I would like to end with this thought: That when we reject the single story,
when we realize that there is never a single story about any place, we regain a kind
of paradise." The informal tone and direct address to the reader create a sense of
intimacy and inclusion, making the reader an active participant in the writer's
message and inviting them to reconsider their own perspectives.

How does the writer Benjamin Zephaniah, use language and structure in the text to
interest and engage the reader.
The writer effectively engages the reader through various linguistic and structural
devices. Firstly, they use personal anecdotes to establish a connection and capture
the reader's interest. As the writer states, "As a child I suffered, but learned to turn
dyslexia to my advantage, to see the world more creatively." This personal
anecdote creates a relatable and empathetic tone.
Secondly, the use of rhetorical questions prompts critical thinking, encouraging
readers to question conventional beliefs and consider alternative perspectives. For
example, the writer asks, "If there’s a God isn’t that a design fault? If you’ve built
something, you want efficiency." This rhetorical question sparks reflection on the
topic.
Thirdly, the writer employs direct speech to bring dialogue to life, adding tension
and conflict to the narrative. They share a teacher's response, "'Shut up, stupid boy.
Bad people would do one-third more bad.' I thought I’d put in a good idea. I was
just being creative." This use of direct speech creates a sense of immediacy and
engages the reader in the conversations with teachers and peers.
Additionally, the writer's use of colloquial language and slang creates an informal
and relatable tone. They mention, "I thought, ‘Oh great’, but now I realize he was
stereotyping me." This linguistic choice makes the text more accessible, allowing
readers to connect with the writer's experiences on a personal level.
Furthermore, the writer utilizes figurative language, such as metaphors, to add
depth and vividness to descriptions. They explain, "I saw a guy who spent all his
time sitting stooped over and I thought, ‘I don’t want to be like that,’ so I learned to
sit with a straight back." These figurative expressions enhance the reader's
understanding and immersion in the narrative.
Moreover, the writer employs contrast to challenge societal expectations and
stereotypes. They highlight their personal achievements by stating, "If you look at
the statistics, I should be in prison... but I think staying out of prison is about
conquering your fears and finding your path in life." This contrast defies
stereotypes and emphasizes the power of determination and self-belief.
Additionally, self-reflection evokes empathy and understanding, allowing readers
to connect with the writer's mindset and experiences. The writer shares, "I never
thought I was stupid... I just had self-belief." This reflection invites readers to
reconsider their own perceptions of dyslexia and intelligence.
Furthermore, repetition is used effectively to emphasize key ideas and add
rhetorical effect. The writer repeats the phrase, "didn't notice them or didn't take
them," to reinforce the missed opportunities of others and underscore their
gratitude for the chances they received.
Lastly, the writer employs inclusive language, using the pronoun "we," to create a
sense of unity and empowerment. They affirm, "We are the architects. We are the
designers." This inclusive language invites readers to align themselves with
individuals who possess dyslexia, fostering a connection and promoting a positive
and empowering perspective.
Through these linguistic and structural devices, the writer successfully engages the
reader, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the writer's
experiences with dyslexia.

How does the writer, Kari Herbert, use language and structure in the text to create
tension
The writer, Kari Herbert, skillfully employs language and structure to create
tension and suspense in the text. Firstly, Herbert uses vivid sensory imagery and
descriptive language to engage the reader and build anticipation. When describing
the narwhal hunt, she writes, "Two large pods of narwhal circled in the fjord... the
evening light was turning butter-gold, glinting off man and whale and catching the
soft billows of smoke from a lone hunter’s pipe." This vivid imagery immerses the
reader in the scene and heightens the anticipation for the upcoming events.

Secondly, Herbert utilizes sentence structure to create a rhythmic flow and enhance
the suspenseful atmosphere. For instance, she writes, "From where we sat at the
lookout it looked as though the hunters were close enough to touch the narwhal
with their bare hands and yet they never moved." The use of shorter sentences
followed by a longer descriptive sentence creates a pause and builds suspense,
leaving the reader curious about the hunters' actions.

Thirdly, Herbert employs rhetorical questions to intensify the suspense and engage
the reader's imagination. She wonders, "Distances are always deceptive in the
Arctic, and I fell to wondering if the narwhal existed at all or were instead
mischievous tricks of the shifting light." This rhetorical question invites the reader
to ponder the mysterious nature of the narwhal and adds an air of intrigue to the
narrative.

Furthermore, the writer utilizes foreshadowing to increase anticipation and create

suspense. When describing the hunters' efforts, she notes, "Each wife knew her
husband instinctively and watched their progress intently; it was crucial to her that
her husband catch a narwhal." This foreshadowing hints at the potential
consequences and high stakes involved in the hunt, leaving the reader eager to
know the outcome.

Additionally, Herbert uses contrasting language and descriptions to heighten the

suspenseful atmosphere. She juxtaposes the hunter's bravery and foolhardy nature,
stating, "He was so close, and so brave to attempt what he was about to do... it was
a foolhardy exercise and one that could only inspire respect." This contrast
between bravery and potential danger builds tension and keeps the reader on edge.

Moreover, the writer employs figurative language to create a sense of anticipation

and suspense. She writes, "My heart leapt for both hunter and narwhal... my heart
also urged the narwhal to dive, to leave, to survive." This personification of the
heart's emotions enhances the reader's emotional engagement and adds to the
suspenseful tone of the passage.

Furthermore, Herbert uses repetition of certain phrases to emphasize the

suspenseful nature of the events. She mentions, "And I know that one cannot afford
to be sentimental in the Arctic." The repetition of the phrase highlights the tension
between the practicality of survival and the potential conflict with conservation
concerns.

Additionally, the writer employs contrasting viewpoints to create dramatic tension.

She acknowledges the harshness of life in the Arctic and the needs of the hunters,
while also acknowledging the desire to protect animals for their beauty. This
contrast adds depth and complexity to the narrative, generating suspense as the
reader contemplates the ethical dilemma.

Lastly, Herbert uses reflective language to create a lingering suspense and leave the
reader with unresolved questions. She concludes, "This dilemma stayed with me
the whole time that I was in Greenland." This reflective statement implies that the
suspense and tension surrounding the hunt and ethical considerations continue
beyond the text, leaving the reader in a state of anticipation and reflection.

How does the writer, Steven Morris, use language and structure in the text to
convey his impressions of the adventures of the two men.
The writer, Steven Morris, effectively conveys his impressions of the adventures
of the two men through his use of language and structure in the text. Firstly, he
utilizes vivid and descriptive language to capture the dramatic events. When
describing the helicopter crash, Morris writes, "Yesterday a new adventure
undertaken by British explorers Steve Brooks and Quentin Smith almost led to
tragedy when their helicopter plunged into the sea off Antarctica." This vivid
description immediately captures the reader's attention and creates a sense of
urgency.

Secondly, Morris employs direct quotations to provide firsthand accounts and

perspectives. He includes a quote from Jo Vestey, Mr. Brooks' wife, who describes
the men as "boys messing about with a helicopter." This quote not only adds a
personal touch to the narrative but also reveals the skepticism and confusion
surrounding the men's purpose.

Thirdly, the writer uses a concise and straightforward sentence structure to convey
the key facts and events. For example, Morris states, "The men were plucked from
the icy water by a Chilean naval ship after a nine-hour rescue which began when
Mr. Brooks contacted his wife, Jo Vestey, on his satellite phone asking for
assistance." This clear and concise sentence structure ensures that the reader
receives the necessary information without unnecessary embellishment.

Furthermore, Morris includes expert opinions and contrasting viewpoints to

provide a balanced perspective. He quotes Günter Endres, editor of Jane's
Helicopter Markets and Systems, who questions the wisdom of using a small
helicopter in such a hostile environment. This inclusion of expert opinion adds
credibility to the writer's portrayal of the events.

Additionally, the writer employs irony to highlight the unexpected outcomes of the
men's adventures. He mentions their previous expedition across the Bering Strait,
which aimed to demonstrate good relations between east and west but ended in
farce when the Russians threatened military intervention. This ironic twist adds
depth to the narrative and invites the reader to reflect on the unpredictability of
such endeavors.
Moreover, Morris incorporates factual information to provide context and
background. He mentions the men's previous expeditions, their experience as
adventurers, and their qualifications as mechanical engineers and pilots. These
details enhance the reader's understanding of the men's motivations and
capabilities.

Furthermore, the writer utilizes a mix of direct reporting and indirect reporting to
present the sequence of events. He reports on the distress signals being beamed
from the helicopter and Mr. Brooks' emergency watch, as well as the involvement
of the Royal Navy, RAF, and British coastguards in the rescue operation. This
varied reporting style adds depth and richness to the narrative.

Additionally, Morris includes a sense of irony and humor through his choice of
words and phrases. He mentions the resentment in some quarters that the men's
adventure had cost taxpayers, describing it as a "farce" and highlighting the irony
that the expedition aimed to demonstrate good relations between countries.

Lastly, the writer employs a conversational and informal tone in his writing,
making the text more accessible and engaging to the reader. This choice of
language and tone adds a personal touch to the narrative and helps to connect the
reader with the events being described.

How does, Jamie Zeppa, use language and structure in the text to interest the
reader
Jamie Zeppa effectively utilizes language and structure in the text to interest the
reader in her memoir, "Beyond the Sky and the Earth: A Journey into Bhutan."
Through her use of vivid imagery, personal reflections, and historical context,
Zeppa engages the reader's curiosity and creates a sense of intrigue.

Firstly, Zeppa employs vivid and descriptive language to paint a rich picture of the
Bhutanese landscape. She describes Bhutan as "all and only mountains" and states,
"It is easier to picture a giant child gathering earth in great armfuls, piling up rock,
pinching mud into ridges and sharp peaks, knuckling out little valleys and gorges,
poking holes for water to fall through." These descriptions allow the reader to
visualize the majestic scenery and capture their interest.

Secondly, Zeppa uses personal reflections and experiences to create a connection

between the reader and herself as the narrator. She shares her exhaustion from the
arduous journey to Bhutan and her fascination with the mountains, stating, "From
my simple, pine-paneled room at the Druk Sherig hotel, I watch mountains rise to
meet the moon." These personal reflections invite the reader to share in her journey
and create a sense of intimacy.

Additionally, the writer incorporates historical context to add depth and intrigue to
the narrative. She discusses the origins of Bhutan, its religious influences, and its
interactions with Westerners. Zeppa mentions, "The new religion took hold but was
not a unifying force. The area remained a collection of isolated valleys, each ruled
by its own king." This historical context provides a broader understanding of
Bhutan and its unique cultural identity, intriguing the reader with the country's rich
heritage.

Furthermore, Zeppa utilizes a conversational and informal tone throughout the text,
making it more accessible and relatable to the reader. She describes her fellow
Canadian teachers and their breakfast at the hotel, using phrases like "instant
coffee, powdered milk, plasticky white bread, and flavorless red jam." This
informal tone creates a connection with the reader and makes the narrative feel
more personal.
Moreover, the writer incorporates contrasts and comparisons to engage the reader's
interest. She contrasts the traditional Bhutanese buildings with signs of cultural
infiltration, mentioning "teenagers in acid washed jeans, Willie Nelson's greatest
hits after the news in English on the Bhutan Broadcasting Service, a Rambo poster
in a bar." These contrasts highlight the unique blend of tradition and modernity in
Bhutan, piquing the reader's curiosity about this cultural juxtaposition.

Lastly, Zeppa utilizes a mix of descriptive passages, personal reflections, historical

context, informal tone, and contrasts to maintain the reader's interest throughout
the text. These literary devices work together to create a compelling narrative that
captures the reader's attention and invites them to explore the captivating world of
Bhutan alongside the author.

Through her vivid language, personal reflections, historical context, informal tone,
and effective use of contrasts, Jamie Zeppa successfully interests the reader in her
memoir, "Beyond the Sky and the Earth: A Journey into Bhutan." These quotations
allow the reader to directly experience the author's observations and insights,
making the narrative more engaging and immersive.