CAIE O Level English Language 1123 Subject: English Language Paper: 2 Practice Paper (Directed Writing) Read both texts, and then answer the following question. Text A: A very modern problem When I was young, I must admit that I spent a lot of time playing very basic computer games with 0my friends. But times change. Now I have children of my own: two lovely teenagers who (in some ways) benefit from the huge advancement--- in technology. But I really worry about their long-term use of computers. It seems to me that they’ve stopped thinking for themselves. Knowing facts and information is essential. Unfortunately, computers block that process. Instead, people just look things up online- they don’t bother to learn things any more. We now live in a world swamped by information and, often misinformation. Anybody can build a website containing badly researched ‘facts’. Years ago, people used books that were wellresearched and fact-checked. You could trust them. You can’t trust a computer to help you do that. I also worry about the time wasted on computers. A friend of mine told me his son spends hours playing game. He barely goes outside and doesn’t really communicate much. That can’t be a good thing for young people or their parents. Not only is it an unhealthy way to spend your life, but it also affects schoolwork. It’s not possible to succeed academically while being obsessed with computers. I’ve noticed recently how my son’s handwriting is beginning to deteriorate. He seems to type far too much these days and his beautiful handwriting is suffering. Text B: Digital Youth I know my older relatives look at me and think it must be terrible to grow up being suffocated by technology. But they are wrong. First of all, it’s not terrible- it’s great, and secondly, it’s not suffocating- it’s liberating. I could not have achieved what I have without the aid of computers. Computers make doing the basic things much quicker, which leaves more time for humans to think, do and create. And they’re also fun. There’s no better way to relax than doing some gaming at the end of a long day. But the greatest benefit- of computers is in the education of young people. At school I chose subjects that relied on modern technology. I learnt basic programming and how to code. I wrote music using cutting-edge software that allowed me to produce a professional piece of coursework. Best of all, in art I used a tablet to paint. You can see some of my art on the university website. People seem to like it. I’m from Karachi originally but am studying overseas. Computer technology has allowed me to keep in touch with family and friends. I’m able to speak to the people at home every day if I want. Computers are great- they make the world a smaller place in a good way and bring people together. Page 1 of 5 Directed Writing Read Text A and Text B in the insert and then answer Section A, Question 1 on this question paper. Write a magazine article for your school magazine about the use of computers among people of your age. The school magazine is read by students, parents and teachers. In your article you should: • evaluate the ideas and opinions in both the texts • give your own views about whether computers are a benefit or disadvantage to young people. Base your article on what you have read in both texts, but be careful to use your own words. Address both of the bullet points. Begin your article with a suitable headline. Write about 250 to 350 words. Up to 15 marks are available for the content of your answer, and up to 25 marks for the quality of your writing. Notes: (Rough) Arrange them according to your point of view and with possible evaluation: In today's digital age, the role of computers in the lives of young people is a topic of great debate. Some people express concerns about the impact of technology on the younger generation, while others view it as a liberating force. As a student who has grown up surrounded by computers and technology, I believe it's essential to examine both perspectives and offer my own insights on this matter. Firstly, valid concerns have been raised about the overreliance on computers for information. It has been argued that young people may not be learning effectively when they can simply look up facts online instead of acquiring knowledge through traditional means like books. While I agree that the ease of access to information online can sometimes lead to superficial learning, I also believe that computers offer numerous educational opportunities. Computers have transformed education by enabling students to delve into subjects like programming, music production, and digital art. These skills are highly relevant in today's job market and can empower young people to pursue their passions and interests. Furthermore, people are concerned about the time wasted on computers, particularly in the context of excessive gaming and reduced outdoor activities. It is argued that this can have negative consequences on both physical and academic development. I concur that balance is crucial. However, this can be countered by emphasizing the benefits of leisure activities like gaming, which can serve as a form of relaxation and stress relief. Moderation is key, and parents and educators should encourage a healthy balance between screen time and other activities. It may be further added that the decline in handwriting skills due to increased typing. While this is a valid concern, it's essential to adapt to the changing times. In today's digital world, proficient typing is a valuable skill that enhances communication and efficiency. Page 2 of 5 In conclusion, computers are neither solely a benefit nor a disadvantage for young people. Instead, they are tools that can empower us when used wisely. It's crucial to strike a balance between online and offline activities, foster critical thinking, and harness the educational opportunities that technology provides. Ultimately, the impact of computers on today's youth depends on how we choose to embrace and utilize this powerful tool in our lives. ............................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................ .......................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................ 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.......................................................................................................................................................... …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Page 4 of 5 …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Step 1: Read the text Step 2: Read the rubric. Identify the key ideas. Step 3: Underline the content------- facts/ opinion/ bias/ supportive evidence Step4: Reread the content and think about the similar ideas/opposite ideas Step 5: Think about your standpoint – are you going to write in favour of the topic or against the topic? Step 6: Think about the structure—which one will be appropriate for you – argumentative, persuasive or discursive? Step 7: Jot down your points in your copy in an arranged way. Add logic to them according to your point of view. Step 8: Plan how to arrange these ideas in the best possible way so that they will help you in developing your point of view. Write :Your writing will have three parts Introduction: 1 para: general intro----background inform---- thesis statement where you will include your opinion Body : 2-4 paras : depends on how you will utilize your points If it is argumentative writing--- then Para (2-3) - opponent point of view – bebutt your logic( para 4-5) - points in favour of your topic Within the body make sure that every paragraph has a topic sentence and it deals with only one points only. Conclusion: Sum up what have written upto now. Reclaim your position/ restate your opinion Remember: 1. Your writing should not be lengthy. (You can cross word limit, but not more than 50 words) 2. Think about the type of writing you are going to produce. Make sure that you ae/ using the correct format, structure and conventions of this writing. 3. Think about the audience, tone, register and the level of formality and informality you should maintain in writing. 4. After writing always check for spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors. Page 5 of 5
