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Focus this part of your answer on the second part of the source, from line 20 to the end - AQA - GCSE English Language - Question 4 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 4
Focus this part of your answer on the second part of the source, from line 20 to the end. A student said, "This part of the story, where the hyena behaves wildly, i... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Focus this part of your answer on the second part of the source, from line 20 to the end - AQA - GCSE English Language - Question 4 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
consider your impressions of how the hyena behaves
Answer
The hyena's behavior is depicted as erratic and somewhat comical, particularly in how it circles around Pi. This wild movement can be interpreted more as a display of frustration than as a significant threat. The repetitive actions, characterized by the writer's use of onomatopoeic sounds like 'yip yip yip', contribute to a sense that the hyena is more amusing than menacing. Moreover, Pi's initial fear transforms into a kind of perplexity as he observes the animal, which further underscores the notion that the hyena, despite its wildness, is not as terrifying as it seems.
Step 2
evaluate how the writer presents the threat of the hyena to Pi
Answer
The writer presents the threat of the hyena as gradually diminishing. At first, Pi experiences genuine fear, yet this feeling shifts as he realizes that the hyena is not behaving in a traditionally threatening manner. The author skillfully portrays the tension through the continuous movement of the hyena, creating an atmosphere of suspense. However, the threat is undercut by the humor inherent in the hyena’s clumsy antics, which make it more of a nuisance than a real danger.
Step 3
support your response with references to the text
Answer
In the text, the description of the hyena running in circles—'going yip yip yip'—highlights the comedic aspects of its behavior. The writer's choice of sound reflects the absurdity of the situation Pi finds himself in, where the true danger often seems exaggerated. This is evident when Pi himself realizes that he is capable of facing the situation with some understanding, as indicated in moments where Pi acknowledges the absurdity of the hyena's actions. The gradual shift from fear to understanding allows readers to see that the threat posed by the hyena is more psychological than physical.