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A Level H1 General Paper Composition Situational Writing Quiz

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Questions

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A-Level General Paper H1 Quiz - Composition Situational Writing

Name: _________________________ Class: _________________________ Date: _________________________ Score: ______ / 50

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes Total Marks: 50

Instructions:

  • This quiz consists of 20 questions testing your understanding of situational writing techniques, stylistic choices, and composition skills relevant to A-Level General Paper H1.
  • Read each question carefully before answering.
  • Use your own words as far as possible unless otherwise instructed.
  • Marks are indicated in brackets. Allocate your time accordingly.

Section A: Stylistic Analysis – Word Choice and Effect (Questions 1–5)

10 marks

1. Explain the author's use of the word "inevitably" in the following sentence: "With the rise of social media, traditional forms of communication have inevitably declined." [2 marks]






2. A writer describes a government policy as a "sweeping reform." Explain what the word "sweeping" conveys about the nature of the reform. [2 marks]






3. In a letter to the editor, a resident writes: "The proposed development will merely exacerbate the existing traffic congestion." Explain the effect of the word "merely" in this sentence. [2 marks]






4. A journalist describes a celebrity's apology as "carefully crafted." What does the phrase "carefully crafted" suggest about the nature of the apology? [2 marks]






5. Explain the author's use of the word "even" in the following sentence: "Even seasoned professionals struggle to adapt to the rapid pace of technological change." [2 marks]






Section B: Structural and Stylistic Choices (Questions 6–10)

10 marks

6. Why might a writer choose to begin a persuasive article with a rhetorical question? Provide one clear reason. [2 marks]






7. A speechwriter uses a series of short, declarative sentences in the opening paragraph: "We face a crisis. The evidence is clear. Action is overdue." Explain the intended effect of this structural choice on the audience. [2 marks]






8. In a formal report, a writer uses bullet points to present key findings instead of continuous prose. Explain one advantage of this stylistic choice. [2 marks]






9. A student writing a proposal to the school principal uses the phrase "I believe" multiple times. Explain why this might weaken the persuasive impact of the proposal. [2 marks]






10. A feature article concludes with a personal anecdote. Explain how this structural choice might affect the reader's engagement with the topic. [2 marks]






Section C: Register, Tone, and Audience Awareness (Questions 11–15)

10 marks

11. You are writing a formal letter of complaint to a company about a defective product. Identify two features of language or tone that would be appropriate for this context. [2 marks]






12. A blog post aimed at teenagers uses the phrase "you guys" and contractions such as "don't" and "can't." Explain why this register is appropriate for the intended audience. [2 marks]






13. Rewrite the following sentence to make it more formal and suitable for an academic essay: "A lot of people think that climate change isn't really a big deal." [2 marks]






14. A speech delivered at a community event begins with: "Good evening, neighbours and friends." Explain the effect of this opening on the relationship between the speaker and the audience. [2 marks]






15. In a letter of application for a scholarship, a student writes: "I'm super passionate about biology and I've always wanted to be a doctor since I was a kid." Identify two ways in which the register could be improved for this formal context. [2 marks]






Section D: Situational Writing – Application and Evaluation (Questions 16–20)

20 marks

16. You have been asked to write a proposal to your school's student council, arguing for the introduction of a peer mentoring programme for junior students. In the space below, write the opening paragraph (approximately 80–100 words) that clearly states the purpose of the proposal and establishes a persuasive tone. [5 marks]














17. A local newspaper has invited readers to submit letters expressing their views on the following statement: "Public libraries are no longer relevant in the digital age." Write the first two paragraphs of a letter to the editor (approximately 100–120 words) that either supports or challenges this view. Your response should demonstrate awareness of the audience and purpose of a letter to the editor. [5 marks]

















18. Read the following extract from a speech delivered at a youth leadership conference:

"Young people today are often dismissed as entitled and disengaged. But I see something different. I see a generation that is more connected, more aware, and more determined than any before it. The question is not whether young people care—it is whether we are willing to listen."

(a) Identify the tone of the extract and provide one example of a word or phrase that establishes this tone. [2 marks]






(b) Explain how the structure of the extract (the contrast between the first two sentences and the final sentence) contributes to its persuasive effect. [3 marks]










19. You are the secretary of your school's Environmental Club. Write a short email (approximately 80–100 words) to all club members, informing them about an upcoming beach clean-up activity. Your email should include the date, time, venue, what to bring, and a brief persuasive appeal to encourage participation. [5 marks]

















20. Evaluate the effectiveness of the following opening sentence for a speech advocating for mental health awareness in schools:

"Mental health is not a luxury; it is a necessity, and it is time we treated it as such."

In your response, comment on the language techniques used and their likely impact on the audience. [5 marks]




















END OF QUIZ

Answers

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A-Level General Paper H1 Quiz - Composition Situational Writing

ANSWER KEY AND MARKING SCHEME

Total Marks: 50


Section A: Stylistic Analysis – Word Choice and Effect (Questions 1–5)

10 marks


1. Explain the author's use of the word "inevitably" in the following sentence: "With the rise of social media, traditional forms of communication have inevitably declined." [2 marks]

Answer: The word "inevitably" suggests that the decline of traditional communication was unavoidable or bound to happen as a direct consequence of social media's rise. It conveys a sense of certainty and removes any suggestion that the outcome could have been prevented or reversed. The author uses this word to present the decline as a natural, predictable result rather than a surprising or contingent development.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies that "inevitably" conveys unavoidability or certainty.
  • 1 mark: Explains the effect on the reader (presents the decline as natural/predictable) or links to the author's purpose (to emphasise the causal relationship).
  • Accept paraphrased responses that capture the sense of "unavoidable consequence."

2. A writer describes a government policy as a "sweeping reform." Explain what the word "sweeping" conveys about the nature of the reform. [2 marks]

Answer: The word "sweeping" conveys that the reform is extensive, far-reaching, and comprehensive in scope. It suggests that the policy affects many areas or aspects of the system rather than being limited or incremental. The writer uses this word to emphasise the scale and ambition of the reform, implying that it represents a significant or radical change rather than a minor adjustment.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies that "sweeping" suggests extensive/far-reaching/comprehensive scope.
  • 1 mark: Explains the implication (significant change, broad impact, not incremental).
  • Accept: "wide-ranging," "all-encompassing," "thorough."

3. In a letter to the editor, a resident writes: "The proposed development will merely exacerbate the existing traffic congestion." Explain the effect of the word "merely" in this sentence. [2 marks]

Answer: The word "merely" functions as a qualifier that downplays or dismisses any potential benefits of the development. It suggests that the development will do nothing more than worsen the traffic situation, implying that it offers no redeeming or positive outcomes. The resident uses "merely" to frame the development as having a singular, negative effect, thereby strengthening the critical tone of the letter.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies that "merely" downplays, limits, or dismisses other possible outcomes.
  • 1 mark: Explains the rhetorical effect (strengthens criticism, frames the development negatively, implies no benefits).
  • Accept: "only," "simply," "nothing more than."

4. A journalist describes a celebrity's apology as "carefully crafted." What does the phrase "carefully crafted" suggest about the nature of the apology? [2 marks]

Answer: The phrase "carefully crafted" suggests that the apology was deliberately and meticulously constructed, possibly with strategic intent rather than spontaneous sincerity. It implies that the celebrity (or their team) invested significant effort in choosing the right words and framing the apology to manage public perception. The journalist's choice of words may carry a slightly sceptical tone, hinting that the apology might be calculated or inauthentic rather than genuinely remorseful.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies that "carefully crafted" suggests deliberate construction or strategic intent.
  • 1 mark: Explains the implication (possible insincerity, calculation, or image management).
  • Accept responses that note the contrast with spontaneous or heartfelt apologies.

5. Explain the author's use of the word "even" in the following sentence: "Even seasoned professionals struggle to adapt to the rapid pace of technological change." [2 marks]

Answer: The word "even" functions as an intensifier that emphasises the surprising or unexpected nature of the statement. It suggests that if seasoned professionals—who would normally be expected to cope well—are struggling, then the challenge must be exceptionally difficult. The author uses "even" to highlight the severity or universality of the problem, implying that less experienced individuals would face even greater difficulties.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies that "even" emphasises surprise or unexpectedness.
  • 1 mark: Explains the rhetorical effect (highlights severity, implies universality, contrasts expectation with reality).
  • Accept: "even" as a marker of inclusion of an extreme or unlikely case.

Section B: Structural and Stylistic Choices (Questions 6–10)

10 marks


6. Why might a writer choose to begin a persuasive article with a rhetorical question? Provide one clear reason. [2 marks]

Answer: A writer might begin with a rhetorical question to immediately engage the reader by prompting them to think about the issue before the argument is presented. This technique draws the reader into the topic, creates a sense of dialogue or shared inquiry, and can challenge the reader's assumptions, making them more receptive to the writer's subsequent arguments.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies a valid reason (engagement, prompting thought, creating dialogue).
  • 1 mark: Explains the effect on the reader or the persuasive purpose.
  • Accept any one well-developed reason. Examples: "to provoke curiosity," "to establish common ground," "to highlight a problem."

7. A speechwriter uses a series of short, declarative sentences in the opening paragraph: "We face a crisis. The evidence is clear. Action is overdue." Explain the intended effect of this structural choice on the audience. [2 marks]

Answer: The series of short, declarative sentences creates a sense of urgency, clarity, and forcefulness. The brevity of each sentence delivers the message with impact, leaving no room for ambiguity or hesitation. This structural choice is intended to grab the audience's attention immediately, convey the seriousness of the situation, and establish a commanding, authoritative tone that compels the audience to listen and respond.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies the effect (urgency, clarity, impact, authority).
  • 1 mark: Explains how this affects the audience (grabs attention, conveys seriousness, compels response).
  • Accept: "creates a staccato rhythm," "emphasises key points," "builds momentum."

8. In a formal report, a writer uses bullet points to present key findings instead of continuous prose. Explain one advantage of this stylistic choice. [2 marks]

Answer: Using bullet points enhances readability and allows the reader to quickly identify and absorb the key findings without having to parse dense paragraphs. This format improves clarity and accessibility, making the report more user-friendly, especially for busy readers who may be scanning for specific information. It also visually separates each point, giving each finding equal emphasis and making the structure of the information more transparent.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies a valid advantage (readability, clarity, accessibility, emphasis).
  • 1 mark: Explains why this is beneficial in a formal report context.
  • Accept any one well-developed advantage.

9. A student writing a proposal to the school principal uses the phrase "I believe" multiple times. Explain why this might weaken the persuasive impact of the proposal. [2 marks]

Answer: Repeated use of "I believe" may weaken the proposal because it frames the arguments as personal opinions rather than objective, evidence-based claims. In a formal proposal to an authority figure like a principal, persuasive writing is more effective when it presents arguments as reasoned, factual, and supported by evidence. Overusing "I believe" can make the writer appear uncertain, subjective, or lacking in confidence, reducing the credibility and authority of the proposal.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies that "I believe" signals personal opinion rather than objective argument.
  • 1 mark: Explains the impact on credibility, authority, or persuasiveness in a formal context.
  • Accept: "sounds tentative," "undermines objectivity," "weakens authoritative tone."

10. A feature article concludes with a personal anecdote. Explain how this structural choice might affect the reader's engagement with the topic. [2 marks]

Answer: Concluding with a personal anecdote can create an emotional connection between the reader and the topic, making abstract or complex issues feel more relatable and human. This structural choice leaves the reader with a memorable, concrete image or story that reinforces the article's main message. It can also evoke empathy or reflection, encouraging the reader to continue thinking about the topic after finishing the article, thereby deepening their engagement.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies the effect (emotional connection, relatability, memorability).
  • 1 mark: Explains how this affects reader engagement (evokes empathy, reinforces message, encourages reflection).
  • Accept: "provides a human face to the issue," "creates a lasting impression."

Section C: Register, Tone, and Audience Awareness (Questions 11–15)

10 marks


11. You are writing a formal letter of complaint to a company about a defective product. Identify two features of language or tone that would be appropriate for this context. [2 marks]

Answer: Two appropriate features include:

  1. Polite and respectful tone: Even when expressing dissatisfaction, the language should remain courteous (e.g., using "I would appreciate" rather than "You must"). This maintains professionalism and increases the likelihood of a positive response.
  2. Precise and factual language: The letter should state the problem clearly with specific details (e.g., date of purchase, product model, nature of defect) rather than using vague or emotional language. This demonstrates that the complaint is legitimate and well-founded.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies one appropriate feature with explanation.
  • 1 mark: Identifies a second appropriate feature with explanation.
  • Accept other valid features: formal salutation and closing, measured tone, avoidance of accusations, clear statement of desired outcome.

12. A blog post aimed at teenagers uses the phrase "you guys" and contractions such as "don't" and "can't." Explain why this register is appropriate for the intended audience. [2 marks]

Answer: This informal register is appropriate for a teenage audience because it mirrors the conversational language that teenagers use in their daily interactions, making the content feel relatable and accessible. Using "you guys" creates a sense of inclusivity and direct address, as if the writer is speaking personally to the reader. Contractions like "don't" and "can't" contribute to a natural, unpretentious tone that avoids sounding overly formal or distant, which might alienate younger readers.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies that the informal register matches the audience's own language use (relatability).
  • 1 mark: Explains the effect (inclusivity, accessibility, avoids alienation).
  • Accept: "builds rapport," "creates a friendly tone," "sounds authentic."

13. Rewrite the following sentence to make it more formal and suitable for an academic essay: "A lot of people think that climate change isn't really a big deal." [2 marks]

Answer: Model answer: "Many individuals hold the view that climate change does not constitute a significant concern." OR "A widely held perception is that climate change is not a matter of substantial importance."

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Replaces informal expressions ("a lot of people" → "many individuals/many people," "isn't really a big deal" → "is not a significant concern/matter of importance").
  • 1 mark: Overall sentence achieves formal, academic register with appropriate vocabulary and structure.
  • Accept any reasonable formal paraphrase that maintains the original meaning.

14. A speech delivered at a community event begins with: "Good evening, neighbours and friends." Explain the effect of this opening on the relationship between the speaker and the audience. [2 marks]

Answer: The opening "Good evening, neighbours and friends" establishes an immediate sense of familiarity, warmth, and community between the speaker and the audience. By addressing them as "neighbours," the speaker emphasises shared locality and common ground, while "friends" suggests goodwill and personal connection. This inclusive greeting reduces the distance between speaker and audience, creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and approachability that makes the audience more receptive to the speaker's message.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies the effect (familiarity, warmth, inclusivity, community).
  • 1 mark: Explains how this shapes the speaker-audience relationship (reduces distance, builds rapport, creates receptiveness).
  • Accept: "creates a sense of belonging," "establishes common identity."

15. In a letter of application for a scholarship, a student writes: "I'm super passionate about biology and I've always wanted to be a doctor since I was a kid." Identify two ways in which the register could be improved for this formal context. [2 marks]

Answer: Two improvements:

  1. Replace informal intensifiers: "Super passionate" should be replaced with a more formal expression such as "deeply passionate" or "profoundly interested." The word "super" is colloquial and undermines the formal tone expected in a scholarship application.
  2. Use more sophisticated phrasing: "Since I was a kid" could be revised to "from a young age" or "since childhood." Additionally, "I've always wanted to be a doctor" could be expressed as "I have long aspired to pursue a career in medicine," which sounds more mature and considered.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies one valid improvement with explanation.
  • 1 mark: Identifies a second valid improvement with explanation.
  • Accept other valid points: removing contractions ("I'm" → "I am"), using more precise vocabulary, adopting a more formal sentence structure.

Section D: Situational Writing – Application and Evaluation (Questions 16–20)

20 marks


16. You have been asked to write a proposal to your school's student council, arguing for the introduction of a peer mentoring programme for junior students. In the space below, write the opening paragraph (approximately 80–100 words) that clearly states the purpose of the proposal and establishes a persuasive tone. [5 marks]

Marking Scheme:

CriterionMarksDescriptor
Purpose and clarity2Clearly states the proposal's purpose (introducing a peer mentoring programme) and target audience (junior students). The reader immediately understands what is being proposed.
Persuasive tone2Establishes a convincing, appropriate tone (formal yet engaging). Uses language that appeals to the student council's values (e.g., student welfare, community, leadership). May include a hook or compelling rationale.
Language and register1Demonstrates appropriate formal register suitable for a proposal to the student council. Grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure are accurate and effective.

Model Opening Paragraph:

"This proposal seeks the Student Council's consideration of a peer mentoring programme designed to support the academic and social transition of junior students into our school community. Research consistently demonstrates that structured peer mentoring fosters a sense of belonging, improves academic outcomes, and cultivates leadership skills among senior mentors. Given our school's commitment to holistic student development, the introduction of such a programme would not only benefit incoming students but also strengthen the collaborative culture that defines our institution."

Marking Notes:

  • Award marks based on the rubric above.
  • Accept variations in approach as long as the purpose is clear and the tone is persuasive and appropriate.
  • Word count: approximately 80–100 words. Minor deviations are acceptable if the content is strong.

17. A local newspaper has invited readers to submit letters expressing their views on the following statement: "Public libraries are no longer relevant in the digital age." Write the first two paragraphs of a letter to the editor (approximately 100–120 words) that either supports or challenges this view. Your response should demonstrate awareness of the audience and purpose of a letter to the editor. [5 marks]

Marking Scheme:

CriterionMarksDescriptor
Clear stance and argument2Takes a clear position (supporting or challenging the statement) and presents a coherent argument or line of reasoning in the opening paragraphs.
Audience and purpose awareness2Demonstrates understanding of the letter-to-editor format (e.g., addresses the editor, references the original statement, adopts a public-facing tone). Engages the newspaper's readership effectively.
Language and register1Uses appropriate formal register with accurate grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure suitable for publication.

Model Opening Paragraphs (Challenging the View):

"Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to the assertion that public libraries are no longer relevant in the digital age—a claim that overlooks the multifaceted role these institutions play in our communities. While it is undeniable that digital technology has transformed how we access information, to declare libraries obsolete is to misunderstand their enduring value.

Public libraries are not merely repositories of books; they are inclusive spaces that provide equitable access to knowledge, technology, and community programmes. For many individuals—particularly those without reliable internet access or quiet study environments—libraries remain indispensable. Furthermore, they serve as hubs for lifelong learning, offering workshops, reading programmes, and cultural events that digital platforms cannot replicate."

Marking Notes:

  • Award marks based on the rubric above.
  • Accept responses that support the statement, provided they are well-argued and demonstrate audience awareness.
  • Word count: approximately 100–120 words for two paragraphs. Minor deviations are acceptable.

18. Read the following extract from a speech delivered at a youth leadership conference:

"Young people today are often dismissed as entitled and disengaged. But I see something different. I see a generation that is more connected, more aware, and more determined than any before it. The question is not whether young people care—it is whether we are willing to listen."

(a) Identify the tone of the extract and provide one example of a word or phrase that establishes this tone. [2 marks]

Answer: The tone is defiant and inspirational (or assertive and empowering). The speaker challenges negative stereotypes about young people and reframes them positively.

Example: The phrase "But I see something different" establishes this tone by directly countering the dismissive view presented in the first sentence. Alternatively, the repetition of "more connected, more aware, and more determined" conveys an assertive, uplifting tone.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Correctly identifies the tone (defiant, inspirational, assertive, empowering, or similar).
  • 1 mark: Provides a relevant example from the extract with brief explanation.
  • Accept other valid tone descriptors with appropriate justification.

(b) Explain how the structure of the extract (the contrast between the first two sentences and the final sentence) contributes to its persuasive effect. [3 marks]

Answer: The extract's structure employs a contrast and shift strategy that enhances its persuasive impact. The first sentence presents a negative, widely held perception ("dismissed as entitled and disengaged"), which the speaker immediately counters with "But I see something different." This contrast captures the audience's attention and positions the speaker as someone who challenges conventional assumptions.

The final sentence—"The question is not whether young people care—it is whether we are willing to listen"—shifts the focus from defending young people to challenging the audience. This reframing places the responsibility on the listeners (presumably adults or leaders) rather than on young people, making the argument more compelling. The structure moves from problem (negative stereotype) to rebuttal (positive reframing) to call to action (challenge to the audience), creating a persuasive arc that engages both emotion and reason.

Marking Notes:

  • 1 mark: Identifies the contrast between the first and second sentences and explains its effect (captures attention, challenges assumptions).
  • 1 mark: Explains the function of the final sentence as a reframing or shift in focus.
  • 1 mark: Discusses the overall persuasive arc or cumulative effect of the structure.
  • Accept well-reasoned alternative analyses.

19. You are the secretary of your school's Environmental Club. Write a short email (approximately 80–100 words) to all club members, informing them about an upcoming beach clean-up activity. Your email should include the date, time, venue, what to bring, and a brief persuasive appeal to encourage participation. [5 marks]

Marking Scheme:

CriterionMarksDescriptor
Content and completeness2Includes all required information: date, time, venue, items to bring, and a persuasive appeal. Information is clear and accurate.
Persuasive appeal1Includes a brief but effective appeal that encourages participation (e.g., emphasises impact, community spirit, or environmental benefit).
Format and register1Uses appropriate email format (subject line, salutation, closing). Register is suitable for communication with club members (friendly yet professional).
Language and clarity1Language is clear, concise, and free of errors. Word count is approximately 80–100 words.

Model Email:

Subject: Upcoming Beach Clean-Up – Join Us!

Dear Club Members,

I am pleased to announce that our next beach clean-up will take place on Saturday, 15 June 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at East Coast Park, Area C. Please bring gloves, a reusable water bottle, and sun protection. The club will provide trash bags and refreshments.

This is a wonderful opportunity to make a tangible difference to our coastal environment while bonding with fellow members. Every piece of litter we remove is one less threat to marine life. I strongly encourage all of you to participate and contribute to this meaningful cause.

Warm regards, [Name] Secretary, Environmental Club

Marking Notes:

  • Award marks based on the rubric above.
  • Accept variations in format and phrasing as long as all required elements are present and the tone is appropriate.
  • Word count: approximately 80–100 words. Minor deviations are acceptable.

20. Evaluate the effectiveness of the following opening sentence for a speech advocating for mental health awareness in schools:

"Mental health is not a luxury; it is a necessity, and it is time we treated it as such."

In your response, comment on the language techniques used and their likely impact on the audience. [5 marks]

Marking Scheme:

CriterionMarksDescriptor
Identification of techniques2Identifies at least two language techniques (e.g., antithesis/contrast, declarative statement, inclusive pronoun "we," metaphor of "luxury" vs. "necessity," call to action).
Analysis of effect2Explains how each identified technique contributes to the persuasive impact of the sentence on the audience. Analysis is specific and well-developed.
Overall evaluation1Provides a concluding evaluative statement on the overall effectiveness of the sentence as an opening for a speech on mental health awareness.

Model Answer: The opening sentence is highly effective due to its use of several persuasive language techniques. Firstly, the antithesis between "luxury" and "necessity" creates a stark contrast that immediately challenges the audience's perception of mental health. By framing mental health as a "necessity," the speaker elevates its importance and rejects any suggestion that it is optional or secondary. This reframing is powerful because it compels the audience to reconsider their assumptions.

Secondly, the declarative structure ("it is a necessity") conveys conviction and authority, leaving no room for ambiguity. The use of the inclusive pronoun "we" in "it is time we treated it as such" fosters a sense of collective responsibility, implying that the audience shares the obligation to act. This transforms the statement from a mere observation into a call to action, urging immediate change.

Overall, the sentence is an effective opening because it combines emotional appeal with logical force, establishing urgency and a shared purpose that would engage the audience from the outset and set the tone for a compelling advocacy speech.

Marking Notes:

  • Award marks based on the rubric above.
  • Accept other valid techniques and analyses (e.g., use of short, punchy clauses; rhythm and pacing).
  • The evaluation should demonstrate critical engagement with the language, not just description.

END OF ANSWER KEY