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Read TEXTS A and B below and answer the questions set - NSC English HL - Question 1 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 1
Read TEXTS A and B below and answer the questions set. TEXT A LAUGHTER IN THE TIME OF A PANDEMIC 1 Almost immediately after the first case of Covid-19 was confirm... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read TEXTS A and B below and answer the questions set - NSC English HL - Question 1 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
1.1 The response of a South African, is to lighten the tension through humour (1), when facing a crisis.
Answer
In South Africa, laughter serves as a crucial coping mechanism during crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic. By using humour, individuals can alleviate stress and foster a sense of community, enabling them to face significant trials with a lighter spirit.
Step 2
1.2 People have access to news around the world through social media platforms. (1) Social media allows people to find interesting ways to comment on the news. (2)
Answer
Social media plays a pivotal role in information dissemination, allowing users to engage creatively by sharing memes, jokes, and personal insights. This accessibility transforms how individuals respond to global events, encouraging interactive commentary that resonates widely.
Step 3
1.3 The use of a question at the beginning of the paragraph introduces the writer's argument/engages the reader's interest.
Answer
By posing a question, the writer actively involves the reader, prompting them to consider the cultural significance of humour in navigating challenges. This technique effectively piques interest and sets the stage for deeper exploration of the underlying themes.
Step 4
1.4 The writer presents a favourable (biased) view of 'pavement radio', where he suggests that it is an unfiltered form of communication which challenges official information. This view ignores the possibility of misinformation being spread via unofficial channels.
Answer
The writer highlights 'pavement radio' as an invaluable grassroots communication tool, elevating marginalized voices. However, this perspective may overlook the risks associated with unverified information, which can spread quickly and lead to confusion or misinformation among the public.
Step 5
1.5 Humour helps to build the community through integrating the traditional practices of storytelling and the communal interpretation of the narratives into the creation of humour.
Answer
Humour acts as a social glue, combining storytelling traditions with contemporary issues. This integration fosters community resilience, providing a shared space for individuals to relate to each other's experiences while dealing with the stresses of daily life during challenging times.
Step 6
1.6 The diction conveys the writer's distrust of the mainstream media. Here it is tainted: it is 'tightly controlled' by the authorities and 'compliant' which causes 'widespread distrust'. 'Widespread corruption' limits the credibility of the mainstream media and so generates a lack of respect on the part of the citizens.
Answer
The language employed by the writer evokes a sense of skepticism towards mainstream media, suggesting it serves to reinforce power structures rather than inform the public accurately. Terms like 'tightly controlled' and 'compliant' highlight the perceived manipulation and contribute to an erosion of trust amongst citizens.
Step 7
1.7 The paragraph underscores the writer's argument that the people were easily manipulated by mainstream media. It is a concise assertion that draws the reader in by showing empathy with the common plight of the man in the street.
Answer
The writer emphasizes the vulnerability of ordinary citizens, illustrating how media narratives can shape perceptions and responses to crises. By using relatable examples, the argument gains traction, encouraging readers to empathize with the plight of the everyday person.
Step 8
1.8 The conclusion is valid as the writer emphasizes that we need to address the current problems more effectively. He ends off with the paradox that humour and jokes are actually deadly serious which suggests their immense impact as well as the serious issues they are addressing.
Answer
In concluding, the writer effectively juxtaposes the levity of humour with its underlying seriousness, reinforcing that while laughter can provide relief, it also reflects deeper societal concerns. This duality underscores the importance of engaging with both the comedic and serious dimensions of life in a complex society.
Step 9
1.9 The woman is depicted as suffering hardship/being trapped by deadly forces/looking anxious/holding a begging bowl in her hand/carrying a baby on her back/wearing broken shoes/crying. These reveal her poverty and vulnerability.
Answer
The visual representation of the woman encompasses themes of despair and struggle against adversity. Her physical state and actions convey a powerful message about the societal conditions that contribute to her plight, revealing the harsh realities faced by many.
Step 10
1.10 The poor character is hemmed in by the looming monster made up of Covid-19 viruses and the figure of the grim reaper (poverty and hunger) which outstretched its arms and a scythe. The cemetery in the background represents death. These threats suggest that her situation is hopeless and she is caught between 'a rock and a hard place'. This captures the cartoonist's message that there is no way out of her dire situation.
Answer
The imagery depicted illustrates the pervasive threats that accompany crises such as Covid-19, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of poverty and disease. This artistic choice communicates a potent sense of entrapment, resonating with the experiences of those affected by societal neglect and hardship.