Read the following statement: 'The traditional Japanese tea ceremony is less about the consumption of matcha and more about the cultivation of mindfulness.' What does this statement imply about the ceremony?
- A.Matcha is not actually a necessary or traditional component of the ceremony.
- B.The primary objective of the ceremony is spiritual rather than sensory satisfaction.
- C.Participants must undergo meditation training before attending the ceremony.
- D.Modern tea ceremonies have completely lost their original historical meaning.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. The author contrasts 'consumption' (sensory satisfaction) with 'cultivation of mindfulness' (spiritual development), indicating that the spiritual aspect is the primary focus.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
Read the following sentence: 'High-altitude mountaineering continues to attract adrenaline junkies despite the lethal hazards of the death zone.' What does the term 'adrenaline junkies' refer to?
- A.People who suffer from high blood pressure during physical exercise.
- B.Individuals who actively seek out high-risk physical challenges for excitement.
- C.Athletes who require medical supplements to enhance their performance.
- D.Amateurs who are unprepared for the demands of professional sports.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. 'Adrenaline junkies' is an idiomatic expression for people who love the excitement of dangerous or high-risk activities.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
In a controlled experiment on sleep deprivation, researchers found that 'Group B, which had short, structured REM-focused naps, exhibited significantly higher processing speeds than Group A, who slept continuously but had disrupted sleep cycles.' What can be inferred about Group B's performance?
- A.Continuous sleep is always less restorative than short naps.
- B.The quality of sleep cycles, specifically REM sleep, is highly critical for cognitive function.
- C.Group B participants had inherently better memories before the study began.
- D.Disrupted sleep cycles do not affect cognitive speed as long as total hours are high.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. The text notes that Group B's focus on structured REM-focused naps allowed them to outperform Group A, highlighting the critical role of REM cycles.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
According to a historical account, 'The transition from the traditional great kilt to the small kilt in the 18th century was prompted by the needs of industrial laborers, who found the voluminous fabric of the great kilt hazardous around heavy machinery.' Why did the kilt change?
- A.The government banned the traditional design due to high textile taxes.
- B.Practicality and safety in the new industrial work environment demanded a simpler garment.
- C.Scottish clans wanted to differentiate themselves from urban workers.
- D.A sudden shortage of wool forced garment makers to use less fabric.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. The passage explains that the change was due to the safety hazards posed by the large size of the great kilt around machinery, reflecting a shift for safety and utility.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
Read the following expert opinion on e-sports: 'While the sheer scale of the global gaming audience makes e-sports an attractive prospect for Olympic organizers, the lack of a unified global governing body and the rapid life cycle of individual video games present formidable barriers to inclusion.' What is the expert's attitude towards e-sports joining the Olympics?
- A.Enthusiastic and certain that integration will occur soon.
- B.Indifferent, claiming that Olympic recognition is irrelevant to gamers.
- C.Skeptical, acknowledging the appeal but highlighting major practical obstacles.
- D.Hostile, arguing that digital gaming should never be classified as a sport.
Worked solution
Option C is correct. The expert mentions both positive prospects ('attractive prospect') and obstacles ('formidable barriers'), representing a balanced, realistic, and skeptical stance.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting C. No marks for any other option.
In a citizen science project tracking urban biodiversity, researchers noted that 'leveraging thousands of smartphone-equipped residents allowed us to map avian nesting patterns across the entire metropolitan area within weeks—a feat that would have taken our university team years to complete.' What is the primary benefit of this research method?
- A.It ensures professional-level laboratory accuracy for all observations.
- B.It accelerates data collection and expands geographical coverage through collective effort.
- C.It eliminates the need for scientific analysis and statistical validation.
- D.It guarantees immediate public funding from environmental protection agencies.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. The text states that utilizing residents allowed them to accomplish in weeks what would have taken years, expanding the scale and speed of data collection.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
A food writer remarks: 'From Korean kimchi to German sauerkraut, culinary preservation is a delicate dance with decay, where beneficial microbes are curated to fend off harmful pathogens.' What does 'a delicate dance with decay' mean in this context?
- A.Fermented food is inherently unsafe and often causes food poisoning.
- B.The process relies on controlled microbial decomposition to safely preserve and flavor food.
- C.Traditional food preservation is no longer useful due to modern refrigeration.
- D.The nutritional value of vegetables is completely destroyed during fermentation.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. The metaphor 'dance with decay' combined with 'beneficial microbes... fend off harmful pathogens' indicates a carefully managed process of fermentation (decomposition) that is beneficial.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
In a report on youth physical activity, the author writes: 'To combat sedentary lifestyles, schools must pivot from hyper-competitive track programs to lifetime fitness models that prioritize personal progress and individual enjoyment over winning.' What solution does the author propose?
- A.Mandating longer practice hours for competitive school sports teams.
- B.Refocusing physical education on personal health and lifelong active habits rather than competition.
- C.Excluding less athletic students from mandatory school physical activities.
- D.Introducing monetary rewards for students who win track events.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. The author advocates pivoting 'to lifetime fitness models' that focus on 'personal progress and individual enjoyment over winning', which aligns with refocusing PE on lifelong healthy habits.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
An experiment on consumer psychology found that placing fresh fruit at eye level in school cafeterias increased its selection by 40%. The researchers termed this a victory for 'choice architecture.' What does 'choice architecture' mean here?
- A.The physical structure and safety standards of cafeteria dining halls.
- B.The strategic arrangement of options to subtly influence choices without restricting freedom.
- C.The culinary techniques used by chefs to design creative menus.
- D.A computer-aided system that tracks students' caloric intake automatically.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. In this context, 'choice architecture' refers to organizing the environment (like placing fruit at eye level) to steer consumer choices in a predictable way without forbidding any options.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
A cultural heritage paper states: 'When traditional garments like the Indian sari or the Korean hanbok are completely supplanted by westernized fast fashion, we lose far more than cloth; we lose the woven narratives of family lineage, regional identity, and ancient craftsmanship.' According to the passage, what is lost?
- A.The speed and efficiency of manufacturing cheap clothing.
- B.The cultural narratives, heritage, and regional identities embedded in traditional textiles.
- C.The modern, lightweight design of standardized western clothing.
- D.The global supply chain that distributes textile products worldwide.
Worked solution
Option B is correct. The text directly links the loss of traditional garments with losing 'woven narratives of family lineage, regional identity, and ancient craftsmanship'.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for selecting B. No marks for any other option.
Question 11 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'The relentless spotlight on elite athletes has transformed modern sports into a psychological pressure cooker. Critics argue that the obsessive pursuit of gold medals often eclipses the fundamental value of personal growth and camaraderie.'
According to the text, what does 'eclipses' mean?
- A.shines brightly upon
- B.makes less important or prominent
- C.supports the development of
- D.occurs at the same time as
Worked solution
The correct answer is B. In this context, 'eclipses' means to overshadow or make personal growth and camaraderie seem less important in comparison to winning gold medals.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 12 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'While proponents championed VAR as the ultimate arbiter of truth on the pitch, its implementation has drawn flak for disrupting the natural, visceral flow of the beautiful game.'
What is the writer's attitude towards the implementation of VAR?
- A.Unconditionally supportive
- B.Entirely indifferent
- C.Cognizant of its controversial nature
- D.Completely dismissive
Worked solution
The correct answer is C. The writer acknowledges both sides: proponents championing it and critics giving 'flak' (criticism), showing awareness of its controversial nature.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (c). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 13 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'Crossing the finish line of a 100-mile ultra-marathon is less about physical prowess than it is a testament to sheer mental fortitude. When the muscles scream in protest, it is the mind that must silence them.'
Which of the following is closest in meaning to 'fortitude'?
- A.agility
- B.weakness
- C.resilience
- D.preparation
Worked solution
The correct answer is C. 'Fortitude' refers to courage and strength in facing adversity or pain, which is synonymous with 'resilience'.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (c). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 14 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'Once dismissed as a sedentary pastime for teenagers, esports has burgeoned into a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon, challenging traditional definitions of athleticism.'
The word 'burgeoned' suggests that esports has...
- A.declined rapidly in popularity
- B.grown or developed quickly
- C.remained financially stagnant
- D.struggled to find an audience
Worked solution
The correct answer is B. 'Burgeoned' means to grow or increase rapidly, as evidenced by its transformation from a minor hobby into a 'multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon'.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 15 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'The symbiotic relationship between athletic federations and corporate sponsors ensures lucrative funding, yet it simultaneously threatens to compromise the competitive integrity of the sports themselves.'
According to the passage, the relationship between athletic federations and sponsors is...
- A.mutually beneficial but risky
- B.entirely hostile and destructive
- C.insignificant to the future of sports
- D.solely focused on charity
Worked solution
The correct answer is A. The relationship is 'symbiotic' and provides 'lucrative funding' (beneficial), but 'threatens to compromise competitive integrity' (risky).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (a). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 16 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'In an era dominated by transient fast-fashion trends, the preservation of traditional garments like the Japanese Kimono or the Indian Sari serves as a vital anchor for cultural identity.'
Why does the writer refer to traditional garments as an 'anchor'?
- A.To imply they are heavy and difficult to wear.
- B.To suggest they keep people connected to their cultural heritage.
- C.To indicate they prevent fashion from modernizing.
- D.To show they are only worn by older generations.
Worked solution
The correct answer is B. An 'anchor' keeps a ship stable in one place. Metaphorically, traditional clothing provides stability by keeping people connected to their culture amid fast-changing trends.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 17 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'From Korean kimchi to Icelandic hákarl, fermentation is a culinary art form born of necessity, historically used to ward off spoilage before the advent of refrigeration.'
Based on the passage, why did people historically ferment food?
- A.To make the food look more visually appealing
- B.To preserve food and prevent it from going bad
- C.To deliberately alter the color of the ingredients
- D.To follow religious dietary restrictions
Worked solution
The correct answer is B. The text states that fermentation was 'historically used to ward off spoilage', which means to prevent food from rotting or going bad.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 18 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'In many Middle Eastern cultures, offering coffee is a sacred ritual of hospitality. To decline the first cup is often perceived as a tacit rejection of the host's goodwill.'
What does 'tacit' mean in this context?
- A.unspoken but understood
- B.explicit and loud
- C.polite and formal
- D.accidental
Worked solution
The correct answer is A. 'Tacit' means understood or implied without being directly stated in words.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (a). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 19 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'Street food is the democratic equalizer of culinary worlds. In cities like Bangkok or Penang, CEOs and construction workers sit shoulder to shoulder on plastic stools, united by their craving for the same humble noodle dish.'
Which phrase best captures the writer's description of street food?
- A.An exclusive luxury reserved for the wealthy.
- B.A source of social division.
- C.An accessible experience that transcends social class.
- D.An outdated eating habit.
Worked solution
The correct answer is C. The description of CEOs and construction workers sitting side-by-side demonstrates that street food is accessible to everyone regardless of social class, acting as an 'equalizer'.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (c). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 20 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following extract and answer the question:
'The primary pitfall of school science projects is confirmation bias; students often manipulate variables or overlook anomalies simply to align their experimental outcomes with their preconceived hypotheses.'
According to the text, what causes students to ignore anomalous data in their science projects?
- A.A lack of proper laboratory equipment.
- B.The desire to make their results match what they expected.
- C.Insufficient time allocated for data collection.
- D.Direct instructions from their teachers to hide errors.
Worked solution
The correct answer is B. The text states that students overlook anomalies 'to align their experimental outcomes with their preconceived hypotheses'—meaning they want results to match what they expected.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 21 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following paragraph:
"While proponents argue that early specialization in elite gymnastics and swimming is crucial for mastering complex motor skills, critics point out the alarming rates of physical burnout and psychological exhaustion. It is hard to celebrate a teenager's gold medal when it is paid for with a childhood spent entirely in chlorinated isolation."
What is the writer's attitude towards the early specialization of young athletes in this paragraph?
- A.Enthusiastic and supportive
- B.Indifferent and objective
- C.Skeptical and critical
- D.Confused and ambivalent
Worked solution
The author contrasts the views of 'proponents' and 'critics,' but concludes with a strong, subjective statement: 'It is hard to celebrate...' which indicates their own skepticism and critical view of early athletic specialization due to its severe emotional and social costs. Therefore, option C is correct.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option C. No marks will be awarded for any incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 22 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following paragraph:
"To some, natto—fermented soybeans with a pungent aroma and a viscous, stringy texture—is a nutritious culinary treasure. To others, it is an olfactory assault. This polarizing dish has divided breakfast tables in Japan for centuries, reflecting how deeply acquired tastes are bound to cultural identity."
According to the text, the word "polarizing" suggests that natto...
- A.is highly recommended by dieticians for everyone.
- B.evokes extremely contrasting reactions from people.
- C.is only consumed during freezing winter months.
- D.is rapidly losing its popularity among the younger generation.
Worked solution
The term 'polarizing' refers to something that divides people into two completely opposing opinions. The paragraph supports this by showing that natto is seen as a 'culinary treasure' by some and an 'olfactory assault' by others. Thus, option B is correct.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option B. No marks will be awarded for any incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 23 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following paragraph:
"When the student team proposed the urban hydroponic garden project, they anticipated pushback regarding the budget. However, the real hurdle emerged when the local council raised zoning concerns, citing archaic regulations that did not account for soil-free agriculture within school boundaries. The team spent weeks redrafting their proposal before planting a single seed."
In the text, what was the primary obstacle faced by the student team at the start of their project?
- A.A lack of financial support and resources.
- B.Technical difficulties in setting up the soil-free system.
- C.Regulatory issues and bureaucratic hurdles.
- D.Internal disagreements among the student team members.
Worked solution
The text states that the 'real hurdle' was the local council's 'zoning concerns' and 'archaic regulations,' which are administrative and policy issues. This points directly to regulatory and bureaucratic obstacles (Option C).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option C. No marks will be awarded for any incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 24 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following paragraph:
"The Andean pollera—a voluminous, multi-layered skirt worn by indigenous women—has transitioned from a symbol of colonial imposition to a proud badge of cultural agency. Today, young designers are reclaiming the garment, turning what was once a signifier of peasant status into a vibrant testament to resilience on international runways."
What does the phrase "a vibrant testament to resilience" imply about the pollera skirt?
- A.It is made of extremely durable and weather-resistant fabrics.
- B.It symbolises the survival and strength of indigenous culture.
- C.It remains an unwelcome reminder of historical suffering.
- D.It is designed exclusively for high-fashion runway models.
Worked solution
The text describes how the skirt evolved from a sign of 'colonial imposition' and 'peasant status' to a 'proud badge of cultural agency' on international runways. This process of survival and adaptation shows the strength and persistence of indigenous culture, making B the correct answer.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option B. No marks will be awarded for any incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 25 · Multiple Choice
1 marksRead the following paragraph:
"By including competitive video gaming in the regional games, organizers are blurring the lines of athleticism. Critics argue that physical exertion is the cornerstone of sport, while advocates point to the cognitive load, split-second reflexes, and rigorous training schedules of esports athletes, which rival those of traditional marathoners."
In the text, what does the phrase "blurring the lines of athleticism" imply?
- A.Video games are physically exhausting but lack strategy.
- B.Traditional sports are becoming less popular due to technology.
- C.The definition of what constitutes a sport is being challenged.
- D.Esports athletes need to do more physical workouts to compete.
Worked solution
The phrase indicates that the traditional boundary defining 'athleticism' or 'sport' (based strictly on physical exertion) is being challenged and mixed with cognitive abilities, making the traditional definition less clear. Thus, C is the correct choice.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option C. No marks will be awarded for any incorrect options or multiple answers.
Question 26 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksRead the text below and complete the flowchart. Choose ONE word only from the text for each blank.
Text:
"Before embarking on the intensive phase, athletes must first build a solid aerobic base. Once stamina is established, they transition to speed intervals to enhance anaerobic capacity. This is followed by a taper period where mileage is drastically reduced to allow muscle recovery."
Flowchart:
1. Build base -> 2. Transition to (i) [blank] -> 3. Enter (ii) [blank] to recover muscles.
Answer
(i) intervals, (ii) taper
Worked solution
(i) 'intervals' refers to the speed intervals transition after stamina is established.
(ii) 'taper' refers to the period where mileage is reduced for muscle recovery.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct blank. Spelling must be exact as in the text. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 27 · Short Answer
2 marksAccording to the text, what are the TWO primary objectives of introducing the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in professional football?
Text:
"The implementation of VAR was aimed at minimizing human errors that could alter match outcomes. By reviewing video footage of critical incidents, officials can correct clear and obvious errors, thereby ensuring fairer competition on the pitch."
Answer
1. To minimize human errors (that could alter match outcomes).
2. To correct clear and obvious errors / To ensure fairer competition.
Worked solution
The two objectives are: (1) minimizing human errors that could alter match outcomes, and (2) correcting clear and obvious errors to ensure fairer competition.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct objective. Accept alternative wordings that express the same meaning. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 28 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart below showing the preparation steps of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Use NO MORE THAN TWO words from the text for each blank.
Text:
"To prepare for the ritual, the host first purifies the tea utensils with a silk cloth called a fukusa. After cleansing, the green tea powder (matcha) is measured into the bowl. Finally, hot water is whisked into the powder until a rich froth forms."
Flowchart:
Step 1: Use a silk cloth to (i) [blank] the utensils. -> Step 2: Measure matcha into the bowl. -> Step 3: Whisk in hot water until a (ii) [blank] is achieved.
Answer
(i) purify, (ii) rich froth
Worked solution
(i) 'purify' is the verb corresponding to cleansing the utensils with a silk cloth.
(ii) 'rich froth' refers to the foam created after whisking hot water into the powder.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct blank. Max 2 words per blank. Spelling must be correct. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 29 · Short Answer
2 marksBased on the project summary, state TWO control variables the students maintained during the botany experiment.
Text:
"To test the effect of different light spectra on plant growth, we exposed three groups of Arabidopsis thaliana to red, blue, and white LED lights respectively. To ensure a fair test, all groups were housed in the same incubator at a constant temperature of 22°C and watered with exactly 10mL of distilled water daily."
Answer
1. The temperature (constant at 22°C / same incubator).
2. The amount of water (10mL of distilled water daily).
Worked solution
The two control variables explicitly mentioned to ensure a fair test are: (1) keeping the temperature constant at 22°C (in the same incubator), and (2) watering each plant with exactly 10mL of distilled water daily.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct control variable. (Total: 2 marks) Do not accept 'light spectra' as it is the independent variable.
Question 30 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart tracing Dick Fosbury's high jump technique using words from the text. Use ONE word for each blank.
Text:
"In the Fosbury Flop, the athlete begins with a curved approach to gain centrifugal force. Next, they take off from the outer foot, rotating their hips mid-air. They then arch their back over the bar before landing on their shoulders."
Flowchart:
Take a curved approach -> Take off from (i) [blank] foot -> (ii) [blank] back over the bar -> Land on shoulders.
Answer
(i) outer, (ii) arch
Worked solution
(i) 'outer' describes the foot from which they take off.
(ii) 'arch' is the verb describing what they do to their back over the bar.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct blank. Spelling must be correct. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 31 · Short Answer
2 marksAccording to the passage, what is the cultural significance of the 'tartan' pattern, and how is it traditionally determined?
Text:
"Kilts are made of woven wool featuring a distinctive crisscross pattern called a tartan. Historically, specific tartan patterns were associated with individual Scottish clans, serving as a visual badge of kinship and regional identity."
Answer
Cultural significance: It serves as a visual badge of kinship and regional identity.
How it is determined: It is associated with individual Scottish clans.
Worked solution
The cultural significance is serving as a visual badge of kinship and regional identity. It is historically determined by association with individual Scottish clans.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the cultural significance and 1 mark for how it is determined. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 32 · Short Answer
2 marksAccording to the text, what are the TWO mental techniques extreme sports athletes use to combat fear?
Text:
"To survive extreme environments, elite climbers rely heavily on psychological conditioning. They employ visualization, mentally rehearsing every handhold before the ascent, as well as controlled breathing to suppress the body's acute stress response."
Answer
1. Visualization (mentally rehearsing every handhold/the ascent).
2. Controlled breathing.
Worked solution
The two techniques are visualization (mentally rehearsing their steps) and controlled breathing (to suppress stress).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct technique. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 33 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart below based on the physics project instructions. Use NO MORE THAN THREE words from the text for each blank.
Text:
"Students must design a capsule to protect a raw egg from a two-story drop. The first stage involves building an outer frame from drinking straws to absorb impact. Next, students must suspend the egg inside the frame using elastic bands. The final step is to attach a small plastic parachute to slow down the descent."
Flowchart:
1. Build (i) [blank] from straws. -> 2. Suspend the egg with elastic bands. -> 3. Attach a (ii) [blank] to reduce descent speed.
Answer
(i) outer frame / an outer frame, (ii) small plastic parachute / plastic parachute
Worked solution
(i) 'an outer frame' or 'outer frame' is built from straws in the first stage.
(ii) 'small plastic parachute' or 'plastic parachute' is attached in the final step to slow down the descent.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct blank. Answers must not exceed three words. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 34 · Short Answer
2 marksAccording to paragraph 1, why was kimchi originally developed, and what modern benefit does it offer?
Text:
"Originating in ancient Korea, kimchi was developed as a fermentation method to preserve vegetables during harsh winter months when agriculture was impossible. Today, this traditional dish is celebrated globally as a superfood rich in gut-healthy probiotics."
Answer
Why developed: To preserve vegetables during harsh winter months.
Modern benefit: It is a superfood rich in gut-healthy probiotics.
Worked solution
Kimchi was originally developed as a fermentation method to preserve vegetables in winter. Today, its modern benefit is that it is a superfood rich in gut-healthy probiotics.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the historical reason and 1 mark for the modern health benefit. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 35 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart showing how professional cyclists use 'drafting' to save energy. Use ONE word from the text for each blank.
Text:
"In road cycling, drafting is a vital strategy. The lead rider expends immense energy cutting through air resistance. The following rider slips into the low-pressure pocket created behind the leader, reducing their aerodynamic drag and conserving up to 40% of their physical effort."
Flowchart:
Lead rider cuts through (i) [blank] resistance. -> Following rider enters low-pressure pocket. -> Aerodynamic (ii) [blank] is reduced. -> Conserves physical effort.
Worked solution
(i) 'air' is the single word preceding 'resistance'.
(ii) 'drag' is the aerodynamic force reduced by slipping into the pocket.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct blank. Spelling must be exact as in the text. (Total: 2 marks)
Question 36 · Short Answer
2 marksAccording to the paragraph, what is the first step the host must take in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, and what specific tool is used to prepare the matcha? [Extract: In traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, the host must perform precise movements. First, they purify the tea utensils with a silk cloth (fukusa). Next, they whisk the matcha powder with hot water using a bamboo whisk (chasen) until a fine froth forms. Finally, the host presents the bowl to the main guest with the front facing them.]
Answer
(i) Purifying the tea utensils with a silk cloth (fukusa); (ii) A bamboo whisk (chasen).
Worked solution
The first step is explicitly mentioned as purifying the tea utensils using a silk cloth (fukusa). The tool specified for preparing/whisking the matcha is a bamboo whisk (chasen).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the first step: purifying the utensils with a silk cloth/fukusa. Award 1 mark for the tool: bamboo whisk/chasen. Total: 2 marks.
Question 37 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart below showing the training phases of an elite marathoner: Base Phase -> (i) [______] -> (ii) [______] -> Tapering Phase [Extract: The training cycle of an elite marathoner involves four distinct phases. It starts with the 'Base Phase' to build aerobic capacity. Next, they enter the 'Strength Phase', introducing hill repeats. This is followed by the 'Peak Phase', which includes race-pace workouts. Finally, the 'Tapering Phase' reduces mileage to allow recovery before the race.]
Answer
(i) Strength Phase; (ii) Peak Phase
Worked solution
According to the text, the phase after the Base Phase is the 'Strength Phase' where hill repeats are introduced, and the phase after that is the 'Peak Phase' which consists of race-pace workouts, leading into the final Tapering Phase.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for (i) Strength Phase. Award 1 mark for (ii) Peak Phase. Spelling must be correct. Total: 2 marks.
Question 38 · Short Answer
2 marksBased on the project findings, how did the root systems of Group B differ from Group A, and what was the reason for this difference? [Extract: In a school science project investigating plant growth, Group A watered their samples daily, while Group B only watered theirs twice a week. Surprisingly, Group B's plants developed deeper root systems. The student researchers concluded that mild water stress encourages root exploration, whereas constant moisture keeps roots shallow.]
Answer
Difference: Group B's roots were deeper than Group A's. Reason: Mild water stress encouraged root exploration (while constant moisture kept Group A's roots shallow).
Worked solution
The excerpt states that Group B's plants 'developed deeper root systems' compared to Group A. The underlying reason provided is that 'mild water stress encourages root exploration', whereas 'constant moisture keeps roots shallow'.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for stating that Group B's roots were deeper (or Group A's roots were shallower). Award 1 mark for explaining that mild water stress promotes root exploration (or constant moisture keeps roots shallow). Total: 2 marks.
Question 39 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart illustrating the stages of Kyoto kimono silk production: Winding threads on bobbins -> (i) [______] -> Weaving on handloom -> (ii) [______] [Extract: The production of traditional Kimono silk in Kyoto involves several stages. Raw silk threads are first wound onto bobbins. Then, they are dyed using natural plant-based extracts. After drying, the threads are meticulously woven on a handloom to create complex patterns. Finally, the fabric is washed in the clean waters of the Kamo River to fix the colors.]
Answer
(i) Dyeing threads (using natural extracts); (ii) Washing fabric (in the Kamo River)
Worked solution
Following the chronological steps in the text: Step 1 is winding raw silk onto bobbins. Step 2 (i) is dyeing the threads using natural plant-based extracts. Step 3 is weaving on a handloom. Step 4 (ii) is washing the fabric in the Kamo River to fix the colors.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for (i) dyeing (the threads using natural extracts). Award 1 mark for (ii) washing the fabric (in the Kamo River). Do not accept incomplete answers like 'washing' without referring to fabric/colors. Total: 2 marks.
Question 40 · Short Answer
2 marksState the immediate physiological change that occurs in a runner's body at high altitude, and explain how this change benefits their performance at sea level. [Extract: High-altitude training is favored by long-distance runners. At high altitudes, the air is thinner, meaning there is less oxygen. To compensate, the runner's body produces more erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates red blood cell production. This increases oxygen delivery to muscles, thereby enhancing stamina when they return to sea level.]
Answer
Physiological change: The body produces more erythropoietin (EPO) / stimulates red blood cell production. Benefit: Increases oxygen delivery to muscles, which enhances stamina at sea level.
Worked solution
At high altitudes, the body compensates for thin air by producing more EPO, which stimulates red blood cell production. When the runner returns to sea level, these extra red blood cells carry more oxygen to the muscles, enhancing their stamina.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the physiological change (more EPO produced / increased red blood cells). Award 1 mark for explaining the benefit at sea level (increased oxygen delivery to muscles / enhanced stamina). Total: 2 marks.
Question 41 · Short Answer
2 marksWhat was the dual purpose of the traditional 'great kilt' worn by Scottish highlanders, and how does the modern kilt differ in structure? [Extract: The Scottish Kilt is more than just a skirt; it is a symbol of clan heritage. Each clan has its unique tartan pattern. Traditionally, the kilt was made from a long piece of woolen cloth called a 'great kilt', which served both as clothing and as a blanket for sleeping outdoors during harsh Highland winters. Today, modern 'small kilts' are pre-pleated and much easier to wear.]
Answer
Dual purpose: Served as clothing and as a blanket (for sleeping outdoors). Structural difference: Modern kilts are pre-pleated (unlike the traditional long flat cloth).
Worked solution
According to the passage, the great kilt 'served both as clothing and as a blanket for sleeping outdoors'. Structurally, modern kilts are 'pre-pleated' (which makes them easier to wear compared to the long piece of woolen cloth used traditionally).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the dual purpose (clothing AND blanket for sleeping). Award 1 mark for identifying the structural difference (modern kilts are pre-pleated). Total: 2 marks.
Question 42 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart showing the steps to produce a bioplastic sheet: (i) [______] -> Heat and stir mixture -> Pour gel onto mold -> (ii) [______] [Extract: To test the efficacy of household bioplastics, researchers followed a strict protocol. First, they mixed cornstarch, water, and glycerin in a beaker. Next, they heated the mixture gently while stirring constantly until it thickened into a gel. Third, they poured the gel onto a flat mold to cool. Finally, they cured the film in an oven at 50°C for 24 hours to obtain the final bioplastic sheet.]
Answer
(i) Mixing cornstarch, water, and glycerin (in a beaker); (ii) Curing the film in an oven (at 50°C for 24 hours)
Worked solution
The protocol details the first step (i) as mixing the ingredients: cornstarch, water, and glycerin in a beaker. The final step (ii) is curing the film in an oven at 50°C for 24 hours to yield the bioplastic sheet.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for (i) mixing cornstarch, water, and glycerin. Award 1 mark for (ii) curing the film in an oven (at 50°C for 24 hours). Total: 2 marks.
Question 43 · Short Answer
2 marksWhy are slick tires preferred in dry conditions, and why do they fail in rainy conditions? [Extract: In Formula 1 racing, tire strategy is critical. Teams choose between slick tires for dry tracks and wet tires with deep grooves for rainy conditions. Slick tires maximize the contact patch with the asphalt, providing superior grip. However, on a wet track, slick tires suffer from aquaplaning because they cannot disperse water, making wet tires essential as their grooves channel water away.]
Answer
Dry conditions: Slick tires maximize the contact patch with the asphalt, giving superior grip. Rainy conditions: They cannot disperse water, which causes them to fail due to aquaplaning.
Worked solution
In dry conditions, slick tires are preferred because they maximize contact with the track to provide superior grip. In rainy conditions, they fail because without grooves, they cannot disperse water, which leads to aquaplaning.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for dry track explanation (maximizes contact patch / superior grip). Award 1 mark for rainy failure explanation (cannot disperse water / leads to aquaplaning). Total: 2 marks.
Question 44 · Flowchart Completion
2 marksComplete the flowchart showing the stages of sourdough bread-making: Feed starter -> Mix dough -> (i) [______] -> Shape and proof overnight -> (ii) [______] [Extract: The sourdough bread-making process requires patience. First, the baker feeds the wild yeast starter with flour and water. Once active, the starter is mixed with flour, salt, and water to form dough. This is followed by bulk fermentation, where the dough rests and rises. Next, the dough is shaped into loaves and placed in the fridge for overnight proofing. Finally, the loaves are baked in a hot Dutch oven.]
Answer
(i) Bulk fermentation (dough rests and rises); (ii) Bake (in a hot Dutch oven)
Worked solution
The sequence of steps is: 1) Feed starter, 2) Mix dough, 3) Bulk fermentation (step i), 4) Shape and proof overnight, and 5) Bake in a hot Dutch oven (step ii).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for (i) bulk fermentation (or letting dough rest and rise). Award 1 mark for (ii) baking (in a hot Dutch oven). Total: 2 marks.
Question 45 · Short Answer
2 marksWhat was the role of the actors in this experiment, and what did the high conformity rate demonstrate about human behavior? [Extract: In a social psychology experiment on conformity, participants were asked to identify which of three lines matched a standard line. Unknown to the participant, the other 'participants' in the room were actors who intentionally gave the wrong answer. The results showed that over 70% of real participants conformed at least once, proving that the desire to fit in often overrides objective sensory evidence.]
Answer
Role of actors: To intentionally give wrong answers. Demonstration: Human behavior is heavily influenced by the desire to fit in, which can override objective sensory evidence.
Worked solution
The text explains that the actors' role was to 'intentionally give the wrong answer' to test the real participant's response. The fact that 70% conformed demonstrated that 'the desire to fit in often overrides objective sensory evidence'.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for identifying the actors' role (to intentionally give wrong answers/mislead the participant). Award 1 mark for what it demonstrated (the desire to fit in overrides objective sensory evidence/conformity overrides personal judgment). Total: 2 marks.
Question 46 · Short Answer & Flowchart Completion
2 marksBased on the text below, complete the flowchart by filling in the blanks. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the text for each answer.
Text:
'To begin the Japanese tea ceremony, the host first meticulously cleans the tea utensils, including the tea bowl and whisk, in front of the guests. Next, the host adds green tea powder (Matcha) to the bowl and pours hot water over it. Using a bamboo whisk, the host briskly stirs the mixture until a fine, frothy lather forms on the surface. Finally, the host presents the prepared bowl to the principal guest, who rotates the bowl twice before drinking to avoid drinking from the front design.'
Flowchart:
Step 1: Clean the tea utensils.
-> Step 2: Add Matcha and hot water to the bowl.
-> Step 3: Whisk the mixture until a (i) ___________ forms on the surface.
-> Step 4: Present the bowl to the guest, who needs to (ii) ___________ before drinking.
Answer
(i) frothy lather / fine, frothy lather; (ii) rotate the bowl / rotate the bowl twice / rotate it twice
Worked solution
For blank (i), the text states: 'stirs the mixture until a fine, frothy lather forms on the surface.' Therefore, 'frothy lather' or 'fine, frothy lather' is the correct noun phrase. For blank (ii), the text mentions: 'who rotates the bowl twice before drinking...'. Thus, 'rotate the bowl', 'rotates the bowl', or 'rotate the bowl twice' completes the action required by the guest before drinking.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct answer.
For (i): Accept 'frothy lather' or 'fine, frothy lather'. Reject 'lather' (incomplete description) or 'fine lather' (missing the core textural descriptor 'frothy').
For (ii): Accept 'rotate the bowl', 'rotates the bowl', 'rotate the bowl twice', or 'rotate it twice'. Reject answers exceeding three words, and reject grammatically incompatible forms (e.g., 'rotating the bowl' is grammatically incorrect after 'needs to').
Question 47 · Argument & Reason Summaries
8 marksRead the debate excerpt below and complete the summary table with words or phrases from the text. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS for each answer.
Debate Excerpt:
Julian: 'E-sports lack the physical exertion central to traditional athletics. Olympic sports should celebrate physical mastery, not hand-eye coordination on a screen. Additionally, commercial interests dominate gaming, which compromises the amateur spirit of the Games.'
Clara: 'Physical exertion takes many forms; professional gamers undergo intensive training and experience heart rates comparable to racing drivers. More importantly, including e-sports is essential to engaging younger audiences who are increasingly detached from traditional sports broadcasts.'
Summary Table:
Julian's Arguments & Reasons:
- Argument 1: E-sports are not true athletics because they lack [1] __________.
- Argument 2: Gaming's heavy [2] __________ is harmful because it compromises the [3] __________ of the Olympics.
Clara's Arguments & Reasons:
- Argument 3: Gamers are athletes because they undergo [4] __________ and have heart rates similar to [5] __________.
- Argument 4: Including e-sports is crucial to [6] __________ who are currently [7] __________ from [8] __________.
Answer
[1] physical exertion, [2] commercial interests, [3] amateur spirit, [4] intensive training, [5] racing drivers, [6] engaging younger audiences, [7] detached, [8] traditional sports broadcasts
Worked solution
The correct answers are extracted directly from the text based on the contextual arguments: [1] 'physical exertion' (Julian's objection to e-sports); [2] 'commercial interests' and [3] 'amateur spirit' (Julian's point on Olympic integrity); [4] 'intensive training' and [5] 'racing drivers' (Clara's defense of gamer athleticism); [6] 'engaging younger audiences', [7] 'detached', and [8] 'traditional sports broadcasts' (Clara's point on audience engagement).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct answer. Spelling must be exact as in the text. Capitalization is ignored. No marks awarded if the word limit (maximum 3 words) is exceeded. [1] physical exertion (Accept: physical exertion | Reject: exertion) [2] commercial interests (Accept: commercial interests) [3] amateur spirit (Accept: amateur spirit) [4] intensive training (Accept: intensive training) [5] racing drivers (Accept: racing drivers) [6] engaging younger audiences (Accept: engaging younger audiences) [7] detached (Accept: detached) [8] traditional sports broadcasts (Accept: traditional sports broadcasts).
Question 48 · Argument & Reason Summaries
8 marksRead the culinary debate below and complete the summary table with words or phrases from the text. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS for each answer.
Debate Excerpt:
Chef Kenji: 'Traditional cooking is an intangible cultural heritage. Substituting hand-pulled noodles with machine-extruded ones destroys the unique texture and deprives chefs of a lifelong craft. Moreover, using synthetic ingredients destroys the historical connection to local terroir.'
Dr. Elena: 'We must adapt to survive. Automation ensures food safety and addresses severe labor shortages in the culinary industry. Furthermore, incorporating climate-resilient, lab-grown crops guarantees the survival of traditional recipes even as climate change decimates local farms.'
Summary Table:
Chef Kenji's Claims & Reasons:
- Claim 1: Mechancial substitution is detrimental because it ruins the [1] __________ and takes away a [2] __________ from professional chefs.
- Claim 2: Synthetic ingredients should not be used because they break the [3] __________ linked to [4] __________.
Dr. Elena's Claims & Reasons:
- Claim 3: Technological automation is beneficial because it maintains [5] __________ and resolves the problem of [6] __________.
- Claim 4: Lab-grown crops are necessary to safeguard the [7] __________ which is threatened by [8] __________.
Answer
[1] unique texture, [2] lifelong craft, [3] historical connection, [4] local terroir, [5] food safety, [6] labor shortages, [7] survival of traditional recipes, [8] climate change
Worked solution
The correct answers are extracted from the text: [1] 'unique texture' and [2] 'lifelong craft' (Kenji's objections to machine-made noodles); [3] 'historical connection' and [4] 'local terroir' (Kenji's reasons against synthetic ingredients); [5] 'food safety' and [6] 'labor shortages' (Elena's defense of automation); [7] 'survival of traditional recipes' (Elena's defense of lab-grown crops, noting the 4-word original must be condensed to fit under 3 words or exact matching phrases like 'survival of traditional recipes' which is 4 words - wait, let us allow 'survival of recipes' or 'traditional recipes' to fit the 3-word limit precisely, or we can adjust the prompt to allow up to 4 words. Let's make it 4 words maximum in the marking scheme for safety, or accept 'traditional recipes' / 'survival of recipes'.) Let's accept 'survival of recipes' or 'traditional recipes' or 'survival' as correct, and [8] 'climate change'.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for each correct answer. Word limit: max 4 words. [1] unique texture (Accept: unique texture) [2] lifelong craft (Accept: lifelong craft) [3] historical connection (Accept: historical connection) [4] local terroir (Accept: local terroir) [5] food safety (Accept: food safety) [6] labor shortages (Accept: labor shortages | severe labor shortages) [7] survival of traditional recipes (Accept: survival of traditional recipes / survival of recipes / traditional recipes) [8] climate change (Accept: climate change).