English 1st Additional Language Paper 1, 2 and 3 Spring School 2011 3rd 7th October Learners Guide

English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za

Contents Introduction ............................................................................................. 3

Programme Outline................................................................................. 4

Broadcast Schedules .............................................................................. 5

ENGLISH FOR THE EXAMS .................................................................. 6

Preparing for the English Examination Papers. ....................................... 9

EXAM OVERVIEW FOR ENGLISH PAPER 1: LANGUAGE ................. 11

TIPS FOR ENGLISH PAPER 1: LANGUAGE ....................................... 11

EXAM OVERVIEW FOR ENGLISH PAPER 2: LITERATURE .............. 17

TIPS FOR ENGLISH PAPER 2: LITERATURE ..................................... 17

OVERVIEW FOR ENGLISH PAPER 3: CREATIVE WRITING ............. 29

TIPS FOR ENGLISH PAPER 3: CREATIVE WRITING......................... 29

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Introduction
Have you heard about Mindset? Mindset Network, a South African non-profit organisation, was founded in 2002. We develop and distribute quality and contextually relevant educational resources for use in the schooling, health and vocational sectors. We distribute our materials through various technology platforms like TV broadcasts, the Internet (www.mindset.co.za/learn) and on DVDs. The materials are made available in video, print and in computer-based multimedia formats. At Mindset we are committed to innovation. In the last two years, we successfully ran a series of broadcast events leading up to and in support of the NSC examinations Now we are proud to announce our 2011 edition of Matric Exam Revision, which began with our Winter School in July. Weve expanded the broadcast to support you in seven subjects - Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Literacy, English 1st Additional Language, Accounting and Geography. During our Spring School, you will get exam overviews, study tips on each of the topics we cover, detailed solutions to selected questions from previous examination papers, short question and answer sessions so you can check you are on track and live phone in programmes so you can work through more exam questions with an experienced teacher. Getting the most from Spring School Before you watch the broadcast of a topic, read through the questions for the topic and try to answer them without looking up the solutions. If you get stuck and cant complete the answer dont panic. Make a note of any questions you have. When watching the Topic session, compare the approach you took to what the teacher does. Dont just copy the answers down but take note of the method used. Make sure you keep this booklet for after Spring School. You can re-do the exam questions you did not get totally correct and mark your own work by looking up the solutions at the back of the booklet. Remember that exam preparation also requires motivation and discipline, so try to stay positive, even when the work appears to be difficult. Every little bit of studying, revision and exam practice will pay off. You may benefit from working with a friend or a small study group, as long as everyone is as committed as you are. Mindset believes that the 2011 Spring School programme will help you achieve the results you want. If you find Spring School a useful way to revise and prepare for your exams, remember that we will be running Exam School from 15th October to 22nd November as well where we will be repeating material from Spring School with additional live shows. See the full schedule below.

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Programme Outline
The Mindset Winter School is designed to focus on two subjects each day. For each subject you will find the following sessions: Examination Overview This is a 15 minute session that gives details of what you can expect in each examination paper. Practical guidelines are also given on how to prepare for the day of the exam. Topics Tips In this session you will be given a 15 minutes summary of the key ideas you need to know, common errors and study hints to help you prepare for your exams. Topic Session An expert teacher will work through specially selected questions from previous exam papers. Live Phone-in This is your chance to ask your own questions. So submit your question to the Help Desk and we might call you back to help you live on TV. All questions you submit will be answered within 48 hours as normal. The Help Desk is available through the following channels. Web: www.learnxtra.co.za MXit: learnxtrahelpdesk Facebook: www.facebook.com/learnxtra Email: helpdesk@learnxtra.co.za Phone: 086 105 8262

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Broadcast Schedules
Spring School
Monday 3rd October 09h30 13h00 13h30 Maths Literacy: Shape and Space Maths Paper 1: Linear Programming Maths Literacy: Data Handling Accounting: Manufacturing Accounts English FAL: Paper 3 Accounting: Cash Flow and Interpreting Statements English FAL: Paper 1 Accounting: Financial Statements Maths Paper 1: Calculus Tuesday 4th October English FAL: Paper 2 Wednesday 5th October Physical Sciences Paper 1: Waves, Sound and Light Lunch Life Sciences Paper 1: Evolution Geography: Climatology Maths Paper 2: Trigonometry Equations and Identities Geography: Geomorphology Maths Paper 2: Coordinate Geometry and Transformations Geography: Mapwork Life Sciences Paper 2: Environmental Studies Physical Sciences Paper 2: Organic Chemistry Life Sciences Paper 2: Life Processes Physical Sciences Paper 2: Rates and Chemical Equilibrium Life Sciences Paper 2: Reproduction Thursday 6th October Maths Paper 2: Trigonometry Graphs and Solving 3D Problems Friday 7th October Physical Sciences Paper 2: Electrochemistry

17h00

Physical Sciences Paper 1: Mechanics

19h00

Life Sciences Paper 1: DNA & RNA Physical Sciences Paper 1: Electricity and Magnetism Life Sciences Paper 1: Genetics Broadcast Ends

21h00

Maths Paper 1: Functions Maths Literacy: Financial Maths

23h00 01h00

Exam School Saturday 15th October: Prelim Review Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Maths Literacy Wednesday 19th October: Maths Literacy Paper 2 Thursday 20th October: Mathematics Paper 2 Friday 21st October: English FAL Saturday 22nd October: Prelim Review - Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Maths Literacy Sunday 23rd October: Accounting Monday 24th October: Accounting Tuesday 25th October: Mathematics Paper 1 Wednesday 26th October: Maths Literacy Paper 1 Thursday 27th October: Mathematics Paper 1 Saturday 29th October: Mathematics Paper 2 Tuesday 8th November: Physical Sciences Paper 1 Wednesday 9th November: English FAL Thursday 10th November: Physical Sciences Paper 1 Saturday 12th November: Physical Sciences Paper 2 Sunday 13th November: Physical Sciences Paper 2 Monday 14th November: English FAL Wednesday 16th November: Life Sciences Paper 1 Thursday 17th November: Life Sciences Paper 1 Saturday 19th November: Life Sciences Paper 2 Sunday 19th November: Life Sciences Paper 2 Monday 21st November: Geography Tuesday 22nd November: Geography

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ENGLISH FOR THE EXAMS

Writing exams can be stressful. However, a great way to help yourself is to simply understand what the examiner is asking of you! So, remember to read the examination instructions and questions carefully and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is expected of you! Tip: Look at the mark allocation for every question. The mark allocation often tells you how much detail is required and how much time you should spend on a question.

Every subject has its own special vocabulary describing terms which you need to know but there are common terms that are often used in exam questions that are common to all subjects. The list below is given to help guide you answer questions correctly. Question: Example: Calculate Calculate the average rainfall for January and the average rainfall for December. Explanation: You must work out the answer. You can use a calculator but remember to write down all the steps and dont just give a final answer. In some cases you will need to include units of measurement in your final answer. Dont forget the units. Question: Example: Compare Compare the minimum and maximum hours for Powerlite with the minimum and maximum hours for Beamer. What do you notice? Explanation: You must give a response in which you examine the specific differences and similarities between two things or events. Identify the characteristics for one thing. In the example above the minimum hours for Powerlite. Then state what is true for the second thing using the same characteristic. In the example you would write down the minimum hours for Beamer. Next write down a second characteristic for the first thing and then do the same for the second object and so on. Question: Describe Example: Describe the African Hypothesis. Explanation: You must give a precise account in your own words. Write in full sentences. Question: Discuss Example: Discuss the exaggerated features in the picture. (Caricature) Explanation: You are expected to examine and consider the topic of the question including reasons for and against as well as drawing a conclusion. Write your answer in full sentences.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Question: Example: Explain Explain by using energy principles, why the kinetic energy at the end of the balls motion is less than at the start of its motion. Explanation: Provide a reason why or how something takes place. You must provide an analytical explanation as well as include examples. In this Physics example you would need to do a calculation to support your answer. You should not just do calculations though. In your final answer you need to write a concluding sentence. The kinetic energy at the end of the balls motion is 45 J which is less than the energy it had at the start (64 J). This is because the ball was moving over a rough surface and some kinetic energy was converted into heat due to friction. Question: Identify Example: Identify the organisms that are represented by each of A, B and C. Explanation: You must pick out, find or select the answer. Question: Example: List List FOUR characteristics that primates and humans have in common. Explanation: You are required to provide the answer in the form of a list. (No reasoning or explanation necessary just the word or phrase) Question: Name Example: Name the effect that is illustrated in experiment 1. Explanation: You must simply name the correct answer but be specific. Be careful to write down your answer in words. Dont use symbols or abbreviations. Question: Example: Predict Predict the form that a graph of a variant of whitishcoloured peppered moths would have taken. Explanation: You are expected to answer by stating what they think or expect will occur. Question: Example: Quote a sentence Quote a sentence from the passage which proves that Florence Nightingale did not discriminate against anyone. Explanation: You are required to repeat words from the provided text or passage. Question: Example: State State ONE reason why apes and humans are referred to as hominids. Explanation: Write a brief, specific answer that is to the point.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Question: Example: Substantiate Do boys and girls experience this pressure equally or differently? Substantiate your answer using the information in the table? Explanation: You must prove or verify you answers with sufficient and valid support. Here you need to use the information given in the question. Question: Suggest Example: Suggest TWO ways of reducing NO(g) in urban areas. Explanation: You are required to propose or offer ideas. Question: Example: Tabulate Tabulate THREE visible differences from the two skulls shown above that scientists have used to differentiate between Homo sapiens and other primates. Explanation: You must answer the question in the form of a table. Make sure you follow the rules for drawing up a table. Question: Example: Explanation: Why questions Why are there more accidents involving pedestrians between 5:00pm and 8:00pm? This is another way of asking you to explain an event or evidence presented. You need to write a full sentence giving a reason or reasons for the evidence identified in the question. Which questions Which drink is more popular? A type of comparison question. Make sure you select an answer based on the evidence presented in the question. Although it would be best to write a full sentence, in some subjects the correct word or phrase would be enough. Direct questions Is there solution A better than solution B? There are different words used to ask direct questions but for these types of questions you must answer Yes or No and then explain your choice in a full sentence giving reasons for your answers. Short questions Match the statement in Column A with the word in Column B. Write down only the number and letter in your answer Write down only the words, GREATER THAN, EQUAL TO or LESS THAN. Explanation: These types of questions are often easy but you must follow the instructions given. You will be penalised if you dont follow the instructions.

Question: Example: Explanation:

Question: Example: Explanation:

Question: Example:

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Preparing for the English Examination Papers.

1. Read as much as you can during the year and look closely at the daily news to be able to know whats going on in our world. The more you read and have a good general knowledge, the better you will do in Comprehension and Visual Literacy. 2. Study as many cartoons and comic strips as possible during the year and apply the skills you were taught when analysing visual literacy. 3. Study extremely hard for Paper 2(Literature), because a good mark in this paper, could improve your overall English mark. This is only study work and tests knowledge of the content of the literature genres you have studied. 4. Make sure that you understand the examination terminology. You should know what is expected of you when a certain question is being asked: Example: Quote a line .... In this case you should know that you write down the exact words from the text and put these words in inverted commas. ( ) 5. Read through your poems and short stories/drama/novel again if at all possible. The better you know the content, the better you will do. 6. Test whether you understand the typical exam questions by doing some past DoE exam papers (1 and 2). The more papers you can use in your revision, the more at ease you will be when you have to write your exams. The type of questions asked stays the same every year, and the format of the papers stays the same. 7. Prepare well in advance for all your papers and subjects. Set up a study timetable according to your final Gr. 12 exam time-table and stick to your study roster. If you study a small section every day, then you will feel you have achieved something and you are not as nervous by the time you have to go and write your first paper. 8. Your study programme should be realistic and should allow you enough time to study at least 3-4 weeks before the exams. 9. Use all notes and resources that you have: notes made in classes, extra notes given by your teachers, text books, study guides and old exam papers. 10. Eat well, sleep enough and exercise during the exam period since it is a very stressful time. When you receive your exam paper: Dont panic, because you have prepared well. You are always given additional reading time before you start writing before you even start reading, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. Read through the paper to see what is expected of you. Pay special attention to the instructions given. For example make sure you start each new question on a new page Time management is crucial. You have to make sure that you answer all questions asked in the given time. Make quick notes on your paper to ensure that you stick to the planning of questions and the times given. You may underline or highlight important instructions or questions in the paper while you are reading through it. It is a good idea always to underline the key words of a question to make sure you answer it correctly. (Example: Describe/Discuss/Quote etc.) Brought to you by Page 9

English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za When you start answering your paper, it is important to read every question twice to make sure you understand what to do. MANY marks are lost because learners misunderstand questions and then answer incorrectly. LOOK at the mark allocation. If a question counts 2 marks, you will have to mention at least two ideas, facts or words. If a question counts more, a longer paragraph is needed. In FAL, questions usually count 1- 3 marks. (Except in paper 3 if an essay question is answered) When you start writing make sure you number your answers exactly as they are in the questions. Think carefully before you start writing. It is better to write an answer once and do it correctly than to waste time rewriting answers. DO NOT use correction fluid (Tippex) because you may forget to write in the correct answer while you are waiting for the fluid to dry. Rather scratch a wrong answer out lightly with pencil or pen and rewrite the correct answer. Check your work. There is usually enough time to finish Eng. FAL papers and it helps to go through your answers. You may just pick up a language or spelling error or realise that you have answered a question incorrectly.

Examination terms for English TERM Account for Comment on Compare Contrast Describe Discuss Evaluate Explain Give an account of Give the context of Illustrate Motivate Relate Summarise Tabulate List Mention Name State Complete Distinguish EXPLANATION Explain why Give an opinion based on the facts in order to explain Point out BOTH the similarities and differences Point out the differences Say what happens Give the facts and evaluate or comment on them Assess the information in order to reach a conclusion Give the reason for the meaning of Tell the story of Say who is speaking to whom, when, where, why and what the results are Give examples by referring to actions or words Give reasons for Tell the story of what happens Give only the main points Make a table or list Do not use full sentences. Just write down the words, names etc. Write down Give the names of Write down Fill in the missing words or spaces Write down the differences between

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EXAM OVERVIEW FOR ENGLISH PAPER 1: LANGUAGE Comprehension

30 marks for Comprehension Question 1 & 2

Summary
10 Marks for Summary Question 3

Language
40 Marks Question 4: Visual Literacy 20 Marks -Cartoon - Advertisement Question 5:Languague and Editing Skills -Text - Apply language skills to text

20 Marks

TIPS FOR ENGLISH PAPER 1: LANGUAGE Comprehension

1. Comprehension means understanding. Therefore, a comprehension task tests your understanding of a particular text (passage, extract or article). When answering the questions, you have to show that you understand what the text means. You must be able to answer the questions from the given passage. Comprehension questions are not like literature questions: you are not supposed to give your own view or interpretation (unless asked). You have to answer in such a way as to show that you understand the text. 2. Understanding of difficult words: It is impossible for you ever to understand the meanings of ALL the words used in a comprehension passage. It helps to try and figure out the meaning of a word by looking at the context in which it is used try to understand what it could mean as used in a specific sentence. Dont just leave a question out, because you do not understand a word. 3. NEVER leave questions unanswered. Always try! You might just write down something that is correct or earns you half of the marks. 4. Look at the heading/title of the passage: it is always a summary of what the passage is about and a good indication of what you can expect from reading the whole text. 5. Always make sure that you know what the source of the text is: from which magazine or paper the text was taken. It helps to decide whether the tone is formal (newspaper) or a bit more informal or even humorous (some magazines or Lifestyle sections of newspapers). Brought to you by Page 11

English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za 6. Typical questions:

Why? explain or give reasons What? identify or explain something; say what it is How? describe something with regard of the manner or way it happened When? provide an answer with regard to TIME Where? provide an answer with regard to PLACE To what extent? state how much something applies or not Quote write directly from the source and put in inverted commas ( ) Answer in OWN words do not quote! Explain what you understand in your own English. Give a synonym: give a word meaning the same (If they ask from the passage, then the word must be taken from the passage. If not, you may give your own word). Give an antonym: give a word meaning the opposite (See Synonym notes). 6. Never start an answer with because or coz! Write full sentences where applicable or just one word or phrase if asked. 7. Time is a problem to many learners: learners become stressed if they see that time is running out. Below are a few guidelines that you may follow to help you: Preview the passage: look at the first sentences in every paragraph just to have an idea of what the passage will be about Read the text quickly with a pencil in the hand and underline lines that you think could be important Read the questions: (look at question words and mark allocation). Read the text very carefully: while doing that, mark possible answers to questions. Begin answering the questions: mark allocation is very important because it gives you an idea of how much time should be spent on a question. Number correctly! Answer questions EXACTLY as asked: it helps to underline a key phrase or word in the questions when you read through it. A key word might be something like Give a reason for .... When asked: Yes/No; True/False, you have to answer yes/no first and then give a reason in order to get marks. Yes/No or TRUE/FALSE without a reason, wont get you any marks. If asked: FACT or OPINION, firstly say what it is and THEN give a reason or motivation 2 marks. Multiple choice questions: write ONLY the number and correct symbol or correct answer. Example: 1B or 2. Bread Brought to you by Page 12

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Summary
The summary question in the exam (Paper 1) can be taken from any source and you will be asked to write the summary in point form. Tips on how to write summaries: 1. Read the instructions make sure you know how many words are expected in your summary and which part of the given passage must you summarise. 2. Read the passage at least twice with a pencil in hand. 3. Highlight or underline the main points or ideas. 4. It is usually easier to highlight one main idea per paragraph as a starting point. 5. Write a rough draft in your OWN words: dont look at the passage and try to write down what you can remember after reading the passage. This is usually a good indication of what is important. 6. Give the summary a title if required. 7. Write the rough draft of the summary: Do not repeat ideas Use your own words Do not use quotes or direct speech Leave out all the descriptive words like adjectives and adverbs Use full sentences (although short) 8. Count the number of words used: too few make sure all facts are included; too long shorten phrases to words, omit examples and other extra words. 9. Edit your work: Correct spelling, grammar 10. Write the summary out neatly(final draft): put in the word count at the end; include the title in your word count if required (Do not lie about your word count)

Language
How to approach the Language Section Based on a text or several short texts Questions will be on language used in a particular context You will not be tested on your knowledge of language terms BUT on your ability to apply your knowledge Always make sure that you know where the text comes from: a dialogue, diary entry, recipe, a newspaper extract, an advertisement, a book cover and many more A visual text (Visual Literacy) will always be included: might be a bar graph, a table, a cartoon, an advertisement or any other picture-based piece of information Always look at mark allocation Give ONE answer only never write two answers and think the marker will select the correct one! Markers mark the first answer given. The better your general knowledge and vocabulary, the better you will perform. It helps to read newspapers and study cartoons and various advertisements throughout the year. Brought to you by Page 13

English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za The examiner does not want to trick you, but only to assess how well you can use everyday English. Study all the notes you have on visual literacy, language and editing, common errors, dictionary work, punctuation, where and when to use the apostrophe, plurals, passive and active voice, direct and indirect speech, the cloze exercise and tenses. Visual Literacy: Cartoons or Comic strip What do you need to look at when analysing a cartoon or comic strip? Pay attention to the following: Body language of characters (How do they use their bodies to convey a certain message: non-verbal communication) Gestures (Movement of hands) Facial expression (Do they look sad, happy, irritated etc.) Verbal communication (What do the characters say?) Tone (of voice) Setting (What is the background to the pictures) Scale (Is one character bigger than the other?) Stereotypes and Caricatures (See Additional Information, Section C) Speech bubbles (Words of characters) Thought bubbles (Thoughts of characters) FONT size (size of letters in text)

A drawing or sequence of drawings usually showing a humorous situation. Cartoons are mostly accompanied by a caption (words) Cartoonists often try to convey a political message by using caricature or satire.

A drawing that exaggerates or distorts (make bigger and make funny) a person or a thing to create humour or get a message across. It often serves a political purpose or it is used to convey a stereotype.

A generalised and over-simplified picture of a person or group or country. Stereotypes are often based on people's prejudice or ideas that they normally don't have proof of. Example: All lawyers tend to be deceitful or devious.

Cartoon

Caricature

Stereotype

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Visual Literacy: Advertisement The goal of advertising is to convince the public to buy a product or support a certain company or service. It may include flyers, newspaper or magazine ads, SMS messages, websites and off course the radio. Clever techniques are used to attract the consumers attention. In this session we are going to teach you to identify these techniques and target groups. Only if we are aware of techniques used by companies to manipulate us to buy their products, can we make informed choices about which products to buy. Different advertising techniques used to attract the buyer/readers attention to the product A) Visual Techniques

Colourful, romantic or beautiful photos Different fonts (letter types and sizes) and also "funny" letters Exclamation marks Large print Outline diagrams and tables Statistics to impress the buyer Unusual or "funny" layout or planning of Ad Wavy lines and shapes/interesting lines and shapes in Advertisement

B) Linguistic (Language) Techniques Assertions (words that convince people that buying this product will give them a healthier life, better lifestyle or better image) Funny language - like creating new words Emotive language - that will stir emotions of the reader (like "wonder product, "scientifically proven", "real", "100% pure", "new", "better", "all natural", "guaranteed results" etc.) Interesting headlines or captions Puns (play on words) Repetition of words and ideas Rhetorical questions (grab the reader's attention) Slogans - a typical phrase linked to a product

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Target groups and human desires

Target groups
(who is the advertisement aimed at?)
car lovers computer addicts DVD and play station lovers health conscious people energetic shoppers people who like travelling gamblers smokers drinkers people who like parties moms with toddlers or babies MANY more

Human desires
to be like other people to have the latest technology to have the latest and most expensive new products like cars to be healthy to save money to be a family person to be safe to be protective of one's family to be loved and have friends MANY more

The AIDA principle (From: X-Kit, Essential Reference: English, PEARSON) The AIDA principle says that a good advertisement must have 4 features: A attention - Advertisement should grab the readers attention I interest Interest of reader needs to be held long enough to read the advertisement D desire Advertiser wants reader to have a desire for the product A action Advertiser wants the reader to take action and order or buy the product

A Attention

I Interest

D Desire

A Action

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za

EXAM OVERVIEW FOR ENGLISH PAPER 2: LITERATURE

There are 4 sections in the Literature Paper: Section A (Novel) Section B (Drama) Section C (Short Stories) Section D (Poetry) You must answer TWO questions from TWO different Sections Each section is worth 35 marks. Paper = 70 marks (2 hours) Hints There are choices in each Section. Make sure you select the question you can answer best. Number your answer exactly as it appears in the question paper. Spend about an hour on each question.

TIPS FOR ENGLISH PAPER 2: LITERATURE

How to prepare for the Literature Paper If you have enough time it is wise to read your prescribed works by yourself just to refresh your memory on the content of the texts. You have to STUDY for the Literature Paper! Thorough preparation, anyone can do well in the Literature Section of the exams. Revise and study ALL the notes your teachers have given you. Do not just focus on the content of the stories. Look at the different characters who are the main characters and why? Do they develop and grow as characters or not? Revise the plot (story line): Look at the introduction of the stories, the rising action, the climax and the conclusion. Revise the background of the different authors. Make sure that you know and understand the different themes of all your prescribed works.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za TIPS FOR ANSWERING LITERATURE QUESTIONS 1. Contextual Questions o Remember: The examiners want to see if you know and understand the text you cannot write down your own interpretation of the texts, unless so asked! o Make sure you understand the question word: it helps to underline the key phrase of question word of a question like discuss or write down. o Look carefully at the mark allocation to decide how detailed your answer should be. A ONE or TWO mark question has to be less detailed than when a question counts 3 or more marks. o ONE or TWO mark questions as short as possible either a word or a phrase. o THREE marks or more: Remember the following: Give the answer in your OWN words. Explain your statement. Substantiate or motivate your answer by either quoting from the text or by giving a clear reference from the text. Use quotation marks when you are quoting from the text! Give one good point for each mark. o Try to answer ALL the questions you might write down something that is good enough to give you a mark. o Remember: the contextual questions usually refer to the whole book and NOT only to the passage given in the exam. You have to know what happened in the play or novel before and after a selected passage. o Read and re-read the passage before attempting the questions. o Underline the question words in the questions to make sure that you answer what is asked! o Spell the names of characters and places in the story correctly. o Always check your answers after you have done everything to make sure your answers are written in good English and that there are no careless spelling errors. o Do NOT start you answer with because or cause 2. How to quote o o o o o o It helps to learn a few good quotations while you study it gives a good impression when used in an answer. If you quote, write down directly from the text dont change words! Put the quote in quotation marks ( ) Avoid long quotations. Do not quote a paragraph or many sentences. If you quote a single word or phrase, then the quoted text is put in inverted commas as part of a longer sentence. DO NOT quote if you are asked to give an answer in your OWN words.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za 3. The Literature Essay o A literature essay is a response where you have to reason and discuss a topic or theme from the novel or play. You either have to agree or disagree with a statement or discuss a character. o The style of the literature essay is formal and NOT written in the first person. o This essay should be planned before writing the final draft. o It helps to use quotes from the text. If you cannot remember a quote correctly, paraphrase in your own words. o How to write: Analyse the topic: Underline what is asked and make sure you understand what the essay is all about. Plan the essay using a mind map or a format that is easy for you. Stick to what is asked! You may write a whole page on something that is not asked and then you wont obtain marks. The essay must have an introduction restate or introduce the topic; it should have two to three paragraphs as development and discussion of the topic. Do not retell the story, but focus on what is asked. Keep the style formal. Use quotes but avoid long quotations that may become faulty. Essay must end with a conclusion: round off your essay with a strong statement or conclusion. Do not just rewrite the question. Read through the essay again to correct spelling and language errors. o The CONTENT of the essay counts more than the presentation and style of writing. The examiner wants to make sure that you have an in-depth knowledge of the topic or the novel/play. o The STYLE of the essay is assessed in terms of structure and planning, language, punctuation and spelling. Good marks will be given for a good introduction and conclusion.

Tips on Section A: The Novel

If writing is not POETRY, it is PROSE. A Novel is an example of PROSE writing. NOVELS are longer works of PROSE and tell stories either realistic or imaginary. Novels are made up of a series of events that develop as the story is told. Because of the length of the NOVEL, the writer can experiment with different techniques and the longer story has many characters and many stories may be developed within one novel. There are many types of NOVELS: Romance Novel, Thriller, Historical Novel, Science Fiction, Westerns (Cowboy stories) and even Fantasy Novels (think of Harry Potter) When we study a novel, we look at different aspects of the story.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Summary of the NOVEL:

WHERE? WHEN? Background of story

What happens Events arranged in a certain way Story line

Setting

Plot

Themes
Main idea of story Contains the message of the NOVEL May have a number of themes

Characters
May have a large number of characters Main characters Minor characters Character Development

Narrator Structure Ending

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First person Second person Third person Persona Writing Linear Circular Flashbacks Looks into the future Contains solution of story Open-ended

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Important points to remember! The Setting: This is the background of where and when the story takes place. It may be in one time and place or change through the story. The setting is important to understand the theme and the characters. Plot: This is what happens in the story (sequence of events) Some novels have a lot of action in the story line BUT some are very slow and nothing seems to happen. All the action is then inside the characters hearts and minds. Theme: This is the main message that the writer wishes to get across to the reader. A novel may have more than one theme. Themes are often linked. Certain characters are linked to certain themes. Common themes are: love, hate, family struggles, politics and social comments, childhood memories and justice. Characters: May have a large number of characters depending on the length of novel. Always one or a few MAJOR (main) characters most important to the development of the story. Always a few minor (smaller) characters in a novel linked to the main characters. Characters usually develop/change through the story. Round characters: -are characters that grow and develop during the course of the novel. What makes them change? 1) Interaction with other characters and 2) Things that happen in the plot. Flat characters: - do not really develop or change throughout the novel. These characters are usually very predictable and they dont really surprise the reader, because you know what they are going to do or how they are going to react. How do we get to know the characters? 1) Their words 2) What they think and how they feel 3) What they do and 4) What other characters say about them or how they react to them. Example: Joan was a very brave woman

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Narrator: The writer of the story has to decide how the story will be told and by whom.narrator) First person narrator (I/we): One of the characters tells the story and we have phrases like: I drove far to find the deserted house. (Writer cant always be present in ALL actions in story) Third person narrator: the writer tells the story and refers to each character as she, he or they. The writer is always present and knows what goes on in every characters life = omniscient author. Persona writing: where the story is told by a first person narrator who really exists, like a famous movie star or politician. The person also makes comments about him- or herself. Structure: (how plot is organized) Linear: Novel develops in order from beginning to the end. Circular: Novel starts almost at the end of the story, then goes back to the beginning. The whole story is told until it reaches the end again (conclusion). Flashbacks: Novel moves backwards and forwards in time throughout the book. Looks into the future: Somewhere in the story, characters may have a look into the future by either what they see, dream or wish. Ending: Most story lines are built around CONFLICT between two characters or even amongst many characters. The ending of the story usually is a conclusion of this conflict and a resolution (solving) of the problem(s). A story may be open-ended= no proper ending and the reader must decide on its ending Tips on Section B Drama The DRAMA genre refers to all kinds of plays. You have to remember that plays are written to be acted and not only for reading in class. While reading a play, you should always imagine the play being performed on stage. When studying a drama, we have to look at factors like lighting, stage directions, costumes, setting and not only at the plot, characters and theme.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Hints: The following questions should be asked when studying a drama: Who is the playwright (writer) of the play? What is his background? What is the TITLE of the play? Does the TITLE mean something important in relation to the play? What is the SETTING of the play where and when does it take place? What is the THEME of the play? (What is it about?) What is the STRUCTURE of the play? (Arrangement of Acts and Scenes) What is the PLOT of the play? (Main events) What kinds of CONFLICT happen in the play? Who are the CHARACTERS in the play? (Characteristics, roles they play, relationships between characters) Your PERSONAL RESPONSE to the play. (How do you feel?) The structure and form of a play

Prologue:
Play may begin with an introductory speech (sometimes called a CHORUS in Shakespeare plays)

Plot:
Action in story - created through conflict between various characters

Subplot:
Sometimes there is more than one story line that only complicate the action

Setting:
The place and time where the story takes place (may be more than one setting)

Theme:
This is what the play is all about and can be the main message of the play. (Can be more than one theme)

Acts/Scenes:
Play divided into acts which may be further divided into scenes. Some plays have ONE act - one-act play.

Epilogue:
Sometimes a speech ends a play - Epilogue - often in Shakespeare plays.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Tragedy, Comedy and Dramatic Irony

Tragedy
Deals with serious and imprtant subjects Situations of tension and conflict Action rises to a climax Tragedy comes at the end of the play with the death of the hero or heroine. Shakespeare tragedies are good examples

Comedy
Get different styles of comedy Also sometimes deal with serious topics, but solutions are more positive Often include songs and dances Love and marriage are common themes Always end with happiness for the main characters

Dramatic Irony
This happens in a play when the audience knows more about what is happening than the characters. Audience have a better understanding of the main events.

Play format

Dialogue:

- the conversation between characters and

written in typical dialogue form.

Stage directions: Aside:

are written in italics and

enclosed in brackets and do the following: tell us HOW the stage should be set; show changes in lighting; give sound cues; give instructions to the actors.

- another kind of stage direction. When a character says

something ONLY so that the audience can hear e.g. Macbeth: [Aside] If chance will have me king .......

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Character development in plays (How do we get to know characters)

The tone of voice Body language facial expressions and Interactions with other characters gestures

The lines the actors say

Actor

Way in which characters are grouped on stage

Tips on Section C: The Short Story

It is important to read and re-read the prescribed stories. It is only through repetition that you will be able to do well in the contextual questions, because it helps you to know the content of the stories thoroughly. Make a summary of each short story where you can include the following: Author Background and Setting Themes Characters Plot Symbols Language / Style An example of a summary of The Deep River by Bessie Head is given on the next page.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za

Themes: 1) The individual vs the group: Individual actions vs the unity of the tribe 2) Gender issues: Looking at the fact that women had no choices and men had to act in a "manly" way 3) Romantic Love: Love that was seen as something only woman can feel

Background and setting: The African Kingdom of Monemapee: a traditional African village with the normal African rituals and beliefs

Symbols: River is the central symbol and the titile of the story source of life for the tribe

Plot: Told by an omniscient character( narrator who is "everywhere" and can experience and comment on all the actions and thoughts)

Characters: Sebembele: Individual, faces a problem and choices Rankwana: Tries to act as individual The Tribe: More important than the individuals

Language/Style: Narrated in the style of the ORAL TRADITION involves rhythm and repetition, e.g. "the people"

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za

Tips on Section D: Poetry

Poetry is usually written in lines and stanzas NOT in sentences and paragraphs. There are also many different kinds of poetry. If we look at the structure of poetry, we examine features such as length, pattern of lines, rhyme and the arrangement of stanzas and verses. Poems are divided into different kinds because of their different structures. Poetic form and format A poem has lines and stanzas (verses) Does not have to have verses In FREE VERSE, the poet defines his own form. May use POETIC LICENCE they may use words as they please to fit their poem. Enjambment occurs at the end of lines where there is no punctuation to create a sense of flow and unbroken ideas. (1) Either Narrative or Lyrical in form. (2) Other forms like ballads, sonnets or odes have also developed. (3) Narrative = tells story Ballad = oldest form of narrative poetry, usually about love, death, war and rhythm has a strong beat, lots of action. Epic = very long narrative poem telling the story of an historical figure or event. (4) Lyrical poetry: poem with musical or song= It conveys the personal thoughts and feelings of the speaker. Most famous poem format is the SONNET. SONNETS: Always has 14 lines Shakespearean and Italian Sonnet Shakespearean: 3 quatrains and a rhyming couplet: abab cdcd efef gg Rhyming couplet at end summarizes the theme. Italian Sonnet: Usually divided into octave (first 8 lines) and sestet (last 6 lines) Definite break in thought and often the octave conveys the problem and the sestet the solution. Octave- abbaabba( rhyme scheme) Sestet varies and may have cdecde or cdcdcd or cddcef. Modern poets often combine the two sonnet forms but still use the 14 lines format. Rhyme Schemes: Pair Rhyme: aabb ccdd Alternate rhyme: abab cdcd Enclosed rhyme: abba cddc 2 rhyming lines = couplet 4 rhyming lines = quatrain 6 rhyming lines = sestet 8 rhyming lines = octave Brought to you by Page 27

English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Examples: Pair The cat sits on the mat On somebodys hat Licking its paw With a wide-open jaw Alternate: The cat sits on the mat Licking its paw On somebodys hat With a wide-open jaw Enclosed: The cat sits on the mat Licking its paw With a wide-open jaw On somebodys hat

a a b b

a b a b

a b b a

Remember: Rhyming is about SOUND and NOT spelling e.g. light rhymes with kite spelling different. How to approach a poetry question Look at the TITLE of the poem meaning in relation to the poem as a whole. Look at POETs name who is the poet, when did he/she live, what famous themes does the poet usually write about? Read through poem and try to figure out what the general idea or THEME is. Look at the STRUCTURE of the poem: how is it arranged into lines, stanzas and rhyme scheme? Look at DICTION: Choice of words. Try to understand the meaning of difficult words by looking at the context in which they are used. Positioning of words and WORD ORDER: sometimes unusual word order is used to emphasize an idea or theme. Look at Figures of Speech and sound devices (Next Session). What is the TONE of the poem? Ask yourself WHAT FEELING does the poet or speaker express in the poem. Read questions carefully and look at mark allocation.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za

OVERVIEW FOR ENGLISH PAPER 3: CREATIVE WRITING

This Paper carries more marks than Paper 1. If you prepare well for this Exam you can improve your overall result. There are four Sections in Paper 3: Section A: Essay Section B: Longer Transactional Text Section C: Shorter Text

50 Marks 30 Marks 20 Marks

Hints You must do one question from each section. Start each question on a new page. Make sure you number your answer correctly. Plan your answer by drawing a mind map, flow chart or a list of key words. Edit and make changes to the plan and then write your final answer out neatly. Put a line through your planning. Remember to proof read your final answer. Manage your time carefully do not spend more than 80 minutes on Section A, 40 minutes on Section B and 30 minutes on Section C. Write neatly so that it is easy for the examiner to mark your work

TIPS FOR ENGLISH PAPER 3: CREATIVE WRITING

Hints on writing the Essay Planning is essential. Make sure that you have an introduction, a middle and an ending. Write in full sentences. Use words that you know how to spell. Make sure your essay has a title and is numbered correctly. You will have a choice of different topics to write on, including photos that need to be given a title. Take time to decide which topic you know more about. It is best to write on something you have personal experience of. Your essay must link to the title you have chosen Once you have selected a topic and done the planning, dont change your mind. Do not write too much or too little. Do not include the title in your word count. Re-reading and edit your essay. Look for common grammar errors and for spelling.

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English (FAL) Exam Revision Learners Guide Spring School October 2011 www.learnxtra.co.za Section B: Longer Transactional Text In this section you need to answer in one of the questions. Examples of questions may include: Dialogue Letter Newspaper Article Report Reviews

Section C: Shorter Text In this section you need to answer in one of the questions. Examples of questions may include: Advertisement Invitations SMS Notes Directions

Hints for Transactional Texts Make sure you know the structure and format required to answer each of the questions in this section. For example: Make sure you set out the address correctly in letter End a letter correctly Reports and Letters need to be signed Make your selection based on what you know and have experienced. Plan your response carefully Make sure the tone of your response is appropriate for the question you have selected. Think carefully about the audience you are writing for. Be guided by the word count given in the question. Dont write too much or too little. Dont waste time counting each word. You should know how many words you usually write on a line. Multiply this number by the number of lines Re-read and edit your final answer. Check for common grammar and spelling errors.

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