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Secondary 4 Higher Chinese Preliminary Examination Paper 4

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Questions

TuitionGoWhere Practice Paper - Higher Chinese Secondary 4 (Prelim)

TuitionGoWhere Secondary School (AI)
Subject: Higher Chinese (Higher Mother Tongue)
Level: Secondary 4
Paper: Preliminary Examination - Paper 2 (Language Use & Comprehension)
Version: 4 of 5
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Marks: 70
Name: ____________________
Class: ____________________
Date: ____________________

Instructions to Candidates:

This paper consists of three sections: Section A (Language Use), Section B (Reading Comprehension 1), and Section C (Reading Comprehension 2).
Answer all questions.
Write your answers in the spaces provided in this booklet.
For Section A, Part A, write the number of the correct option in the box provided.
For Section A, Part B, write the replacement word in the space provided.
For Section B, circle the correct option.
For Section C, write your answers in complete sentences where required.

Section A: Language Use (语文应用) [15 marks]

Part A: Cloze Passage (综合填空) [5 marks]

Instructions: Read the passage below. For each blank, choose the most appropriate word from the four options provided. Write the number of your choice in the box.

Topic: The Rise of "Slow Living" in Urban Singapore

In recent years, a growing number of Singaporeans have begun to embrace the concept of "slow living." This lifestyle movement encourages individuals to step away from the [1] ______ pace of modern urban life and focus on mindfulness and well-being. Instead of rushing through meals or multitasking during leisure time, proponents of slow living advocate for savouring every moment.

One key aspect of this trend is the shift in dietary habits. Many are turning away from fast food and processed meals, opting instead for locally sourced, organic ingredients. Cooking at home has become not just a necessity, but a [2] ______ activity that allows families to bond. The process of selecting fresh produce at wet markets or community gardens helps people reconnect with the source of their food.

Furthermore, slow living extends to digital consumption. With the constant barrage of notifications from social media, many feel overwhelmed and anxious. As a result, some have started practicing "digital detoxes," where they [3] ______ from their devices for set periods. This break allows them to engage more deeply with their surroundings and the people around them, fostering stronger interpersonal relationships.

Critics, however, argue that slow living is a privilege accessible only to those with flexible schedules and financial stability. They point out that many workers in Singapore face long hours and high living costs, leaving little room for [4] ______. Despite these challenges, supporters believe that even small changes, such as taking a mindful walk or reading a physical book, can significantly improve one’s quality of life.

Ultimately, the slow living movement is not about rejecting progress, but about finding a sustainable balance. It invites us to question our priorities and consider whether our current lifestyle truly serves our [5] ______ happiness.

Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Q5

Options:

1.
(1) 急促 (rapid/hurried)
(2) 缓慢 (slow)
(3) 稳定 (stable)
(4) 轻松 (relaxed)

2.
(1) 负担 (burden)
(2) 乐趣 (pleasure/enjoyment)
(3) 任务 (task)
(4) 麻烦 (trouble)

3.
(1) 依赖 (depend)
(2) 隔离 (isolate)
(3) 断绝 (cut off/disconnect)
(4) 连接 (connect)

4.
(1) 奢侈 (luxury)
(2) 浪费 (waste)
(3) 享受 (enjoyment)
(4) 休息 (rest)

5.
(1) 最终 (final)
(2) 真正 (true/genuine)
(3) 表面 (surface)
(4) 暂时 (temporary)

Part B: Word Replacement (词语替换) [10 marks]

Instructions: In the passage below, five words have been used inappropriately. Identify the inappropriate word and replace it with a more suitable word from the context or your own vocabulary. Write the original inappropriate word and the correct replacement word in the table.

Passage:

Last weekend, I participated in a community clean-up event at East Coast Park. The weather was scorching (1), but the volunteers were enthusiastic. We were divided into groups and assigned different areas to clean. My group was responsible for collecting litter along the beach. As we worked, I noticed how much plastic waste had accumulated. It was disgusting (2) to see so many bottles and bags buried in the sand.

After two hours of hard work, we managed to fill several large bags with trash. The organizer praised (3) our efforts and thanked us for contributing to the environment. He mentioned that such initiatives are crucial for maintaining the cleanliness (4) of our public spaces. I felt a sense of pride (5) knowing that I had made a small difference. However, I also realized that individual efforts are not enough; we need systemic changes to reduce waste at the source.

(Note: In this specific exam-derived template, the "inappropriate" words are often subtle register errors or collocation mismatches in Higher Chinese contexts, or words that are too informal/imprecise for the written context. For this practice, assume the underlined words are the targets for replacement if they are stylistically weak, OR identify if a word is logically wrong. Correction for this specific template type: Usually, the passage contains words that are semantically close but contextually wrong, e.g., using "欣赏" instead of "观赏". Below is a modified passage for the exercise.)

Revised Passage for Exercise:

上周末，我参加了在东海岸公园举行的社区清洁活动。虽然天气炎热，但志愿者们热情高涨。我们被分成几个小组，负责不同的区域。我的小组负责在海滩捡拾垃圾。工作时，我发现沙滩上堆积了大量的塑料废物。看到这么多瓶子和袋子埋在沙子里，让人感到非常难过。

经过两个小时的努力，我们装满了几个大袋子的垃圾。组织者夸奖了我们的努力，并感谢我们为环境做出的贡献。他提到，这样的倡议对于维持公共空间的整洁至关重要。想到自己做出了小小的贡献，我心中充满了自豪。然而，我也意识到，仅靠个人的努力是不够的；我们需要从源头上减少废物产生的系统性变革。

Identify the 5 words that are slightly inappropriate in tone or precision for a formal reflection and replace them with more precise Higher Chinese vocabulary.

Question	Inappropriate Word (from text)	Better Replacement Word
6	炎热
7	难过
8	夸奖
9	整洁
10	自豪

(Hint: Consider words like 酷热, 触目惊心, 肯定/赞扬, 卫生/环境, 成就感/欣慰. Choose the best fit.)

Section B: Reading Comprehension 1 (阅读理解一) [20 marks]

Instructions: Read the following two practical texts and answer the questions. Choose the correct option and write the number in the box.

Text 1: Advertisement for "GreenTech Smart Garden"

Transform Your Balcony into a Green Oasis!

Are you living in a HDB flat with limited space? Do you love plants but struggle to keep them alive? Introducing the GreenTech Smart Garden, the perfect solution for urban gardeners.

Features:

Automated Watering System: Uses sensors to detect soil moisture and waters plants only when needed. Saves up to 40% more water than manual watering.
Grow Lights: Built-in LED lights mimic natural sunlight, ensuring your plants thrive even in low-light conditions.
App Control: Monitor your garden’s health via our mobile app. Receive notifications when water levels are low or when it’s time to harvest.
Compact Design: Fits perfectly on standard HDB balcony railings or kitchen countertops.

Special Launch Offer:

Buy one GreenTech Smart Garden and get a free set of organic seeds (worth $20).
Price: $199 (U.P.$ 249)
Validity: Offer valid until 31 December 2024.
Installation: Free installation for purchases made before 15 November 2024.

Contact Us: Website: www.greentech.sg
Hotline: 6789-1234
Email: [email protected]

11. What is the main purpose of this advertisement?
(1) To teach people how to grow organic vegetables.
(2) To promote a new product for urban gardening.
(3) To announce a discount on organic seeds.
(4) To encourage people to install balcony railings.

12. Which of the following is NOT a feature of the GreenTech Smart Garden?
(1) It saves water by using sensors.
(2) It provides artificial sunlight for plants.
(3) It allows users to control watering via an app.
(4) It automatically harvests the plants when they are ready.

13. If Mr. Tan buys the Smart Garden on 10 November 2024, what benefits will he receive?
(1) A discount of $50 and free seeds.
(2) Free installation and free seeds.
(3) Free installation and a 20% discount.
(4) Free seeds and a extended warranty.

14. Who is the target audience for this product?
(1) Professional farmers with large lands.
(2) People living in landed properties with big gardens.
(3) Urban residents with limited space and busy schedules.
(4) Students looking for a science project.

15. What can be inferred about the product?
(1) It requires daily manual watering.
(2) It is suitable for plants that need direct sunlight only.
(3) It is designed to be user-friendly and efficient.
(4) It is only available in physical stores.

Text 2: News Excerpt - "The Decline of Hawker Culture?"

Singapore, 12 October 2024 – The UNESCO-recognized hawker culture is facing a new challenge: a shortage of successors. While many young Singaporeans enjoy eating at hawker centres, few are willing to take over the stalls. Long hours, physical exhaustion, and the perception of low social status are cited as major deterrents.

To address this, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has launched the "Hawker Succession Scheme." This initiative pairs experienced hawkers with aspiring entrepreneurs, providing training and financial grants. Additionally, some hawker centres are introducing automation, such as robotic cleaners and digital ordering systems, to reduce the workload.

Despite these efforts, critics argue that automation may strip hawker centres of their human touch. "The charm of hawker culture lies in the interaction between the hawker and the customer," says food critic Lim Wei Jie. "We must ensure that technology supports, rather than replaces, the human element."

16. What is the main problem facing hawker culture according to the text?
(1) The high cost of ingredients.
(2) The lack of young people willing to become hawkers.
(3) The closure of many hawker centres.
(4) The poor quality of food served.

17. What is the purpose of the "Hawker Succession Scheme"?
(1) To replace old hawkers with robots.
(2) To provide financial aid to customers.
(3) To train and support new hawkers.
(4) To increase the price of hawker food.

18. How are some hawker centres trying to reduce the workload?
(1) By shortening opening hours.
(2) By introducing automation technology.
(3) By hiring more foreign workers.
(4) By reducing the number of stalls.

19. What is Lim Wei Jie’s concern about automation?
(1) It is too expensive for hawkers.
(2) It may reduce the personal interaction that defines hawker culture.
(3) It will make the food taste worse.
(4) It is not effective in cleaning.

20. What is the tone of the article?
(1) Optimistic and celebratory.
(2) Critical and angry.
(3) Informative and balanced.
(4) Humorous and sarcastic.

End of Paper

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Answers

TuitionGoWhere Practice Paper - Higher Chinese Secondary 4 (Prelim)

Answer Key & Marking Scheme

Version: 4 of 5
Total Marks: 70

Section A: Language Use (语文应用) [15 marks]

Part A: Cloze Passage (综合填空) [5 marks]

2 marks for each correct answer. 0 marks for incorrect answer.

Question	Answer	Explanation
1	(1)	急促 (rapid/hurried). Context: "step away from the [rapid] pace". "缓慢" is the opposite of what they are stepping away from. "稳定" and "轻松" do not fit the context of the stressful modern life being rejected.
2	(2)	乐趣 (pleasure/enjoyment). Context: Cooking is not just a necessity but a [positive] activity for bonding. "负担" (burden), "任务" (task), and "麻烦" (trouble) are negative.
3	(3)	断绝 (cut off/disconnect). Context: "digital detoxes" involve disconnecting from devices. "依赖" (depend) is the opposite. "隔离" (isolate) is usually for people/diseases. "连接" (connect) is the opposite.
4	(1)	奢侈 (luxury). Context: Critics say slow living is a privilege; for busy workers, taking time is a "luxury" they can't afford. "浪费" (waste) is negative. "享受" and "休息" are possible but "奢侈" captures the socio-economic critique better.
5	(2)	真正 (true/genuine). Context: Does our lifestyle serve our [true] happiness? "最终" (final) is less idiomatic here. "表面" (surface) and "暂时" (temporary) are negative.

Part B: Word Replacement (词语替换) [10 marks]

2 marks for each correct pair (1 mark for identifying the word, 1 mark for a suitable replacement. Accept reasonable synonyms that improve precision/register).

Question	Inappropriate Word	Suggested Replacement	Reasoning
6	炎热	酷热	"炎热" is standard, but "酷热" emphasizes the intensity, fitting the context of "hard work" and "enthusiasm despite heat". Alternatively, 闷热 if humidity is implied. Note: In Higher Chinese, precise adjectives are preferred. If "炎热" is considered acceptable, look for a better fit like 烈日当空 (idiom) but since it's a single word replacement, 酷热 is stronger.
7	难过	触目惊心	"难过" (sad) is an emotion. The context describes the sight of pollution. "触目惊心" (shocking to the eye) is a higher-level idiom/phrase often tested. If single word: 震惊 or 惋惜. Accept: 震惊, 痛心.
8	夸奖	赞扬 / 肯定	"夸奖" is slightly colloquial/childish. "赞扬" (praise) or "肯定" (affirm/recognize) is more formal for an organizer addressing volunteers.
9	整洁	卫生 / 洁净	"整洁" (tidy) refers to order. "卫生" (hygiene/sanitation) is more appropriate for public health contexts involving trash. Or 环境 (environment) if rephrasing, but for word replacement: 洁净 (cleanliness) is precise.
10	自豪	欣慰 / 成就感	"自豪" (pride) is acceptable, but "欣慰" (gratified/relieved) or "成就感" (sense of achievement) is more nuanced for community service. Accept: 满足, 成就感.

(Marker's Note: Allow for variations if the student provides a word that is semantically correct and registers as more formal/precise than the original.)

Section B: Reading Comprehension 1 (阅读理解一) [20 marks]

2 marks for each correct answer. 0 marks for incorrect answer.

Question	Answer	Explanation
11	(2)	The text is an advertisement promoting the "GreenTech Smart Garden".
12	(4)	The text says "time to harvest" is a notification, not that it automatically harvests.
13	(2)	Purchase on 10 Nov is before 15 Nov (Free Installation) and before 31 Dec (Free Seeds).
14	(3)	"Urban gardeners", "HDB flat", "limited space", "busy" (implied by automated/app control).
15	(3)	Features like app control, sensors, and compact design imply user-friendliness and efficiency.
16	(2)	"Shortage of successors... few are willing to take over."
17	(3)	"Pairs experienced hawkers with aspiring entrepreneurs, providing training and financial grants."
18	(2)	"Introducing automation, such as robotic cleaners and digital ordering systems."
19	(2)	"Charm... lies in the interaction... technology supports, rather than replaces, the human element."
20	(3)	The article presents facts, the government scheme, and a critic's view. It is informative and balanced.

Marking Guidelines for Teachers

Section A (Cloze): Strict marking. Only the correct option number receives marks.
Section A (Replacement): Focus on the improvement in register or precision. If the student replaces a word with another that is equally informal or incorrect, do not award marks.
Section B (MCQ): Strict marking. Ensure students understand the difference between "explicit detail" and "inference" questions (e.g., Q12 vs Q15).

Total Score Calculation:

Section A: ___ / 15
Section B: ___ / 20
Total: ___ / 35 (Note: This quiz covers half the typical Paper 2 structure for focused practice. A full paper would include Section C Comprehension 2 and total 70 marks. For this 20-question quiz, the max score is 35. If scaling to 70 is required for the system, multiply by 2, but typically quizzes are scored as is.)

Correction for Total Marks in Header: The header states 70 marks for the full paper context, but this specific quiz extract contains 35 marks worth of questions (15 + 20). For a standalone quiz, adjust Total Marks to 35.