IB DP · Thinka-original Practice Paper

2023 IB DP Language B Practice Paper with Answers

Thinka May 2023 HL (TZ2) IB Diploma Programme-Style Mock — Language B

70 marks150 mins2023
AnalysisSample paper
An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the May 2023 HL (TZ2) IB Diploma Programme Language B paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from IB.

Paper 1 - Writing

Choose one task from a choice of three. Write between 450 and 600 words using an appropriate text type and register.
1 Question · 30 marks
Question 1 · Extended Response
30 marks
Many schools are currently debating whether to embrace or ban generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT in classrooms. Write a text in which you argue either in favor of integrating AI tools to enhance learning or against them to protect academic integrity and critical thinking. Address the ethical implications, practical pros/cons, and outline recommendations for how your school should handle this technology.

Choose the most appropriate text type from the three options below:
- Blog post
- Opinion essay
- Open letter

Write between 450 and 600 words.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

### Key Expectations

#### 1. Text Type Conventions
Candidates must adopt the conventions of their chosen text type:
* **Blog post:** Needs an engaging title, a semi-formal but conversational tone, a first-person perspective, interactive features (e.g., call to action, invitation for reader comments), and subheadings or bullet points for readability.
* **Opinion essay:** Needs a formal/semi-formal academic tone, a clear title, an introduction stating the thesis, well-structured body paragraphs with clear transitions, and a concluding paragraph summarizing the arguments.
* **Open letter:** Needs a clear salutation addressed to a wider public or school community (e.g., *"Dear Students, Teachers, and Parents of the Oakridge Academy Community,"*), a clear statement of purpose in the introduction, a structured and persuasive argument using formal tone, and a formal closing/sign-off.

#### 2. Content & Argumentation
* **Stance:** Must be consistently maintained throughout the text.
* **Ethical implications:** Addresses issues like intellectual property, original voice, equity of access, or the threat of academic dishonesty.
* **Practical pros/cons:** For integration (personalized tutoring, brainstorming assistance, efficiency); against integration (over-reliance, reduction in writing/critical-thinking skills, inaccuracies/hallucinations).
* **Recommendations:** Actionable steps for the school community (e.g., training programs, establishing an 'AI Honor Code', or utilizing AI detector software alongside traditional assessment methods).

#### 3. Language
* Use of advanced vocabulary related to digital technology, ethics, and education (e.g., *cognitive offloading, academic integrity, algorithm, critical discernment, pedagogical, generative models*).
* Varied grammatical structures, including complex sentences, cohesive devices, and appropriate rhetorical strategies (e.g., rhetorical questions, persuasive repetition, or expert-like assertions).

Marking scheme

The writing is assessed against the official IB Language B assessment criteria for Paper 1 (total 30 marks):

### Criterion A: Language (12 Marks)
* **9–12 marks:** Command of the language is very effective. A wide range of vocabulary and complex grammatical structures are used accurately. The writing flows naturally with highly effective cohesion.
* **5–8 marks:** Command of the language is generally effective. Vocabulary and grammatical structures are mostly appropriate, though some errors may occur, particularly in complex sentences. Ideas are generally well-linked.
* **1–4 marks:** Command of the language is limited. Basic vocabulary and grammatical structures are used, but frequent errors impede communication. Ideas are poorly linked.

### Criterion B: Message (12 Marks)
* **9–12 marks:** The task is fully addressed. The argument is highly relevant, fully developed, and organized logically with a clear progression of ideas. Supporting details are highly persuasive and relevant.
* **5–8 marks:** The task is mostly addressed. Some parts of the prompt may be developed more effectively than others. The ideas are mostly relevant and structured, though there may be minor lapses in coherence.
* **1–4 marks:** The task is poorly addressed or misunderstood. Ideas are underdeveloped, repetitive, or irrelevant, with little or no logical structure.

### Criterion C: Conceptual Understanding (6 Marks)
* **5–6 marks:** Choice of text type is highly appropriate. The register, tone, and conventions of the chosen format (Blog post, Opinion essay, or Open letter) are consistently maintained and suit the target audience perfectly.
* **3–4 marks:** Choice of text type is generally appropriate. Register and tone are mostly consistent, with some minor lapses in following the conventions of the chosen format.
* **1–2 marks:** Choice of text type is inappropriate or poorly executed. The candidate fails to maintain the correct register, tone, or formatting conventions.

Paper 2 - Reading Section A

Answer all questions on Text A (factual/informational text on modern developments).
12 Question · 12 marks
Question 1 · Short Answer
1 marks
Based on Paragraph 1, what mechanism do the smart waste bins in Barcelona use to move trash underground?
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

According to the text, 'smart waste bins equipped with vacuum-like devices suck trash underground'. Therefore, the mechanism used is vacuum-like devices or vacuum suction.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for answers mentioning 'vacuum-like devices' or 'vacuum suction'. Do not accept answers that only mention 'smart bins' without the specific suction or vacuum mechanism.
Question 2 · Short Answer
1 marks
According to Paragraph 2, what specific environmental issue is Singapore trying to address with its sensor network?
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The text states that 'to combat urban heat islands, Singapore has deployed a network of sensors called "Virtual Singapore"'. Therefore, the specific environmental issue they are addressing is urban heat islands.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for 'urban heat islands' (accept 'urban heat' or 'creation of urban heat islands'). Reject answers that only mention 'solar radiation' or 'wind flow' as these are simulated factors rather than the overall environmental issue.
Question 3 · Vocabulary Matching
1 marks
Based on Text A (concerning modern developments in classroom technology), find the word in Paragraph 1 that matches the definition: 'absolutely necessary or essential'.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

In Paragraph 1, the author states: 'proponents of this technology argue that it is indispensable for personalized learning.' The word 'indispensable' means absolutely necessary or essential, which perfectly matches the definition.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the exact word: 'indispensable'. Do not accept spelling variations that change the word identity, or other words from the text.
Question 4 · Vocabulary Matching
1 marks
Based on Text A (concerning modern developments in classroom technology), find the word in Paragraph 1 that matches the definition: 'people who publicly support or advocate for an idea or proposal'.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

In Paragraph 1, the author writes: 'However, the proponents of this technology argue...'. The word 'proponents' refers to individuals who argue in favor of or support an idea.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the exact word: 'proponents'. Reject the singular 'proponent' as the definition asks for 'people' (plural).
Question 5 · Vocabulary Matching
1 marks
Based on Text A (concerning modern developments in classroom technology), find the word in Paragraph 1 that matches the definition: 'the state of being unknown, inconspicuous, or forgotten'.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

In Paragraph 1, the text states: 'others fear they might render traditional teaching methods obsolete, pushing them into obscurity.' The noun 'obscurity' means the state of being forgotten, undistinguished, or unknown.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the exact word: 'obscurity'. Reject 'obsolete' as it is an adjective meaning no longer produced or used, whereas the definition requires a noun for a 'state of being'.
Question 6 · Sentence Completion Matching
1 marks
Read Text A below and choose the correct ending from the options (A–H) to complete the sentence:

**Text A: The Rise of Vertical Farming**
Vertical farming is transforming urban agriculture. By stacking crop layers vertically, these modern facilities use 95% less water than traditional horizontal farms. Additionally, they completely eliminate the need for chemical pesticides because they operate in highly sterile, indoor environments. Although the initial setup costs of vertical farms are extremely high, proponents argue that the reduction in transportation emissions from local urban distribution justifies the investment. However, critics point out that the massive energy consumption required for constant LED lighting remains a significant ecological drawback.

**Options:**
**A.** relies heavily on traditional pest control methods.
**B.** can significantly reduce agricultural water consumption.
**C.** is hindered by the high energy demands of artificial lighting.
**D.** requires no initial capital investment.
**E.** completely eliminates the need for transportation.
**F.** avoids the use of chemical pesticides due to controlled environments.
**G.** is more expensive to run than traditional farming in the long term.
**H.** minimizes carbon emissions associated with food distribution.

*Sentence to complete:*
"Vertical farming facilities are highly sustainable because they..."
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct answer is **B**. Text A states that vertical farming facilities "use 95% less water than traditional horizontal farms," which directly corresponds to reducing agricultural water consumption.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct letter option: B.
Award 0 marks for any other letter or blank response.
Question 7 · Sentence Completion Matching
1 marks
Read Text A below and choose the correct ending from the options (A–H) to complete the sentence:

**Text A: The Rise of Vertical Farming**
Vertical farming is transforming urban agriculture. By stacking crop layers vertically, these modern facilities use 95% less water than traditional horizontal farms. Additionally, they completely eliminate the need for chemical pesticides because they operate in highly sterile, indoor environments. Although the initial setup costs of vertical farms are extremely high, proponents argue that the reduction in transportation emissions from local urban distribution justifies the investment. However, critics point out that the massive energy consumption required for constant LED lighting remains a significant ecological drawback.

**Options:**
**A.** relies heavily on traditional pest control methods.
**B.** can significantly reduce agricultural water consumption.
**C.** is hindered by the high energy demands of artificial lighting.
**D.** requires no initial capital investment.
**E.** completely eliminates the need for transportation.
**F.** avoids the use of chemical pesticides due to controlled environments.
**G.** is more expensive to run than traditional farming in the long term.
**H.** minimizes carbon emissions associated with food distribution.

*Sentence to complete:*
"The indoor nature of vertical farms means that they..."
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct answer is **F**. Text A explains that they "completely eliminate the need for chemical pesticides because they operate in highly sterile, indoor environments," which matches option F.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct letter option: F.
Award 0 marks for any other letter or blank response.
Question 8 · Sentence Completion Matching
1 marks
Read Text A below and choose the correct ending from the options (A–H) to complete the sentence:

**Text A: The Rise of Vertical Farming**
Vertical farming is transforming urban agriculture. By stacking crop layers vertically, these modern facilities use 95% less water than traditional horizontal farms. Additionally, they completely eliminate the need for chemical pesticides because they operate in highly sterile, indoor environments. Although the initial setup costs of vertical farms are extremely high, proponents argue that the reduction in transportation emissions from local urban distribution justifies the investment. However, critics point out that the massive energy consumption required for constant LED lighting remains a significant ecological drawback.

**Options:**
**A.** relies heavily on traditional pest control methods.
**B.** can significantly reduce agricultural water consumption.
**C.** is hindered by the high energy demands of artificial lighting.
**D.** requires no initial capital investment.
**E.** completely eliminates the need for transportation.
**F.** avoids the use of chemical pesticides due to controlled environments.
**G.** is more expensive to run than traditional farming in the long term.
**H.** minimizes carbon emissions associated with food distribution.

*Sentence to complete:*
"Advocates argue that urban vertical farming..."
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct answer is **H**. The text states that proponents (advocates) argue that "the reduction in transportation emissions from local urban distribution justifies the investment," which corresponds to minimizing carbon emissions associated with food distribution.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct letter option: H.
Award 0 marks for any other letter or blank response.
Question 9 · Sentence Completion Matching
1 marks
Read Text A below and choose the correct ending from the options (A–H) to complete the sentence:

**Text A: The Rise of Vertical Farming**
Vertical farming is transforming urban agriculture. By stacking crop layers vertically, these modern facilities use 95% less water than traditional horizontal farms. Additionally, they completely eliminate the need for chemical pesticides because they operate in highly sterile, indoor environments. Although the initial setup costs of vertical farms are extremely high, proponents argue that the reduction in transportation emissions from local urban distribution justifies the investment. However, critics point out that the massive energy consumption required for constant LED lighting remains a significant ecological drawback.

**Options:**
**A.** relies heavily on traditional pest control methods.
**B.** can significantly reduce agricultural water consumption.
**C.** is hindered by the high energy demands of artificial lighting.
**D.** requires no initial capital investment.
**E.** completely eliminates the need for transportation.
**F.** avoids the use of chemical pesticides due to controlled environments.
**G.** is more expensive to run than traditional farming in the long term.
**H.** minimizes carbon emissions associated with food distribution.

*Sentence to complete:*
"Despite its benefits, vertical farming..."
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct answer is **C**. The text notes that critics highlight the "massive energy consumption required for constant LED lighting" as a significant ecological drawback, which aligns with option C.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct letter option: C.
Award 0 marks for any other letter or blank response.
Question 10 · multiple_choice
1 marks
Based on the description of the Eco-Smart Transit Initiative (ESTI), what is its primary environmental and urban goal?
  1. A.To phase out all private vehicle ownership in the suburban districts.
  2. B.To optimize public transit flow in order to lower emissions and congestion.
  3. C.To privatize city bus lines to increase corporate efficiency.
  4. D.To encourage citizens to walk rather than use any motorized vehicles.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The ESTI's main target is integrating smart traffic-monitoring algorithms to streamline urban public transport, directly resulting in reduced vehicle idling times, lesser congestion, and diminished overall carbon emissions. This aligns with option B.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for choosing option B. 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple selections.
Question 11 · multiple_choice
1 marks
According to the passage, how does the ESTI system gather real-time data on localized urban air quality?
  1. A.Through a network of IoT sensors mounted on public buses and smart lampposts.
  2. B.By importing data from high-altitude weather balloons twice daily.
  3. C.By using crowd-sourced air-quality ratings submitted via a mobile app.
  4. D.By estimating pollution based on historical traffic flow models.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The passage highlights the deployment of physical Internet of Things (IoT) sensors mounted on street infrastructure (smart lampposts) and moving public buses to continuously monitor air parameters. This corresponds to option A.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for choosing option A. 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple selections.
Question 12 · multiple_choice
1 marks
What scientific and technical barrier did the engineering team have to overcome when developing the adaptive traffic management algorithm?
  1. A.Securing heavy-duty lithium-ion batteries that do not freeze in extreme winter conditions.
  2. B.Reducing data processing latency to ensure immediate, real-time traffic signal adjustments.
  3. C.Redesigning the physical fiber-optic layout underneath the historic city center.
  4. D.Translating the complex administrative dashboard into multiple regional dialects.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

To prevent traffic bottlenecks, the system must process huge amounts of incoming sensor data and update signal patterns instantly. Thus, reducing data processing latency across the decentralized node network was the key hurdle, matching option B.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for choosing option B. 0 marks for incorrect options or multiple selections.

Paper 2 - Reading Section B

Answer all questions on Text B (profile/human-interest text on family and achievements).
15 Question · 15 marks
Question 1 · true-false-justification
1 marks
Based on Text B, state whether the following statement is True or False, and justify your answer using a word or phrase from the text.

**Statement**: Mariana Silva received her primary education at a highly prestigious international academy.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

**Answer**: False
**Justification**: "she actually attended the local state school" (or "We didn't have computers, so we learned to observe nature instead.")

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct combination of **False** and a valid justification quote from the text.
- **Acceptable justifications**: "she actually attended the local state school" / "We didn't have computers..."
- **Reject**: Any response that only identifies "False" without a correct justification. No half-marks are awarded.
Question 2 · true-false-justification
1 marks
Based on Text B, state whether the following statement is True or False, and justify your answer using a word or phrase from the text.

**Statement**: Mariana's grandmother taught her architectural techniques that she still applies in her modern projects.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

**Answer**: True
**Justification**: "[a technique] Mariana now utilizes in her multi-million-dollar urban projects" or "Dona Clara taught her how to keep houses cool using natural ventilation and local clay, a technique Mariana now utilizes"

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct combination of **True** and a valid justification quote.
- **Acceptable justifications**: "a technique Mariana now utilizes..." or the full sentence describing the grandmother's technique and Mariana's current usage.
- **Reject**: Just "True" without a correct quote. No half-marks.
Question 3 · true-false-justification
1 marks
Based on Text B, state whether the following statement is True or False, and justify your answer using a word or phrase from the text.

**Statement**: Mariana no longer visits her home village after achieving global recognition.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

**Answer**: False
**Justification**: "She spends three months every year back in her home village" or "Mariana remains deeply connected to her roots."

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct combination of **False** and a valid justification quote.
- **Acceptable justifications**: "She spends three months every year back in her home village" / "remains deeply connected to her roots"
- **Reject**: Just "False" or incorrect quote.
Question 4 · true-false-justification
1 marks
Based on Text B, state whether the following statement is True or False, and justify your answer using a word or phrase from the text.

**Statement**: The design classes Mariana organizes for teenagers in her village cost money to attend.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

**Answer**: False
**Justification**: "she runs free design workshops for local teenagers" or "free design workshops"

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct combination of **False** and a valid justification highlighting that the workshops are free.
- **Acceptable justifications**: "free design workshops" / "she runs free design workshops for local teenagers"
- **Reject**: Just "False" without identifying "free" in the text.
Question 5 · Vocabulary Word Search
1 marks
Based on Text B, find a word in Paragraph 1 that means "obstacles or difficulties".
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct word from Paragraph 1 is "hurdles", which is used in the text to describe the challenges Maya faced ("not without its hurdles").

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct word "hurdles". Do not accept variations or spelling mistakes.
Question 6 · Vocabulary Word Search
1 marks
Based on Text B, find a word in Paragraph 1 that means "firm and constant".
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct word from Paragraph 1 is "unwavering", which describes her grandmother's support ("unwavering belief").

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct word "unwavering". Spelling must be exact.
Question 7 · Vocabulary Word Search
1 marks
Based on Text B, find a word in Paragraph 2 that means "extremely thorough and demanding".
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct word from Paragraph 2 is "rigorous", which describes the intense nature of her training program ("rigorous training regime").

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct word "rigorous". Spelling must be exact.
Question 8 · Vocabulary Word Search
1 marks
Based on Text B, find a word in Paragraph 3 that means "fascinated or completely held the attention of".
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct word from Paragraph 3 is "captivated", which describes the effect Maya's performance had on the listeners ("The audience was captivated").

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct word "captivated". Spelling must be exact.
Question 9 · short-answer
1 marks
According to the text, what originally inspired Elena Vance to start the 'GreenRoots' initiative?
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The text states that Elena Vance's inspiration for starting the 'GreenRoots' initiative came directly from reading her grandfather's old diary about urban farming in the 1950s.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for answers that mention her grandfather's diary/journal. Do not accept 'her grandfather' alone without reference to the diary/writings.
Question 10 · short-answer
1 marks
Which specific group of people opposed Elena's community garden project in its early stages?
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

In the early stages of her project, Elena faced opposition and skepticism from local developers who preferred to use the empty spaces for parking lots.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for 'local developers' or 'developers'. Do not accept 'local residents' or general 'skeptical people'.
Question 11 · short-answer
1 marks
What official honor was bestowed upon Elena in recognition of her contributions to community cohesiveness?
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

Elena's achievements in bringing community members together culminated in her receiving the 'National Civic Legacy Award'.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for 'National Civic Legacy Award' or 'Civic Legacy Award'. Do not accept vague answers like 'an award' or 'civic award' without 'legacy'.
Question 12 · Gap Fill (Multiple Choice Option)
1 marks
Read the following text extract about pianist Elena Rostova, then choose the word that best fits the gap [Gap 1]: 'Elena Rostova, a celebrated classical pianist, attributes much of her success to her grandmother, Sofia, who was also her first music teacher. Growing up in a small Siberian town, opportunities were scarce, but Sofia's [Gap 1] belief in her granddaughter's talent provided the foundation for her career.'
  1. A.steadfast
  2. B.hesitant
  3. C.negligible
  4. D.occasional
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct option is A ('steadfast'). The text emphasizes the grandmother's unwavering, continuous support despite hardships, making 'steadfast' the only logically appropriate adjective. 'Hesitant', 'negligible', and 'occasional' all describe weak or inconsistent support, which contradicts the context.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for correct answer A. No marks are awarded for any other choice.
Question 13 · Gap Fill (Multiple Choice Option)
1 marks
Read the following text extract about pianist Elena Rostova, then choose the word that best fits the gap [Gap 2]: 'As Elena grew older, she moved to Moscow to study at the Conservatory. The transition was difficult, and she often felt overwhelmed by the fierce competition. However, she recalls that her grandmother's letters of encouragement acted as a [Gap 2], guiding her through her darkest moments of self-doubt.'
  1. A.barrier
  2. B.beacon
  3. C.distraction
  4. D.burden
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct option is B ('beacon'). A 'beacon' metaphorically serves as a guiding light or source of inspiration during difficult times. This aligns perfectly with the phrase 'guiding her through her darkest moments'. 'Barrier', 'distraction', and 'burden' have negative connotations that do not fit the supportive role of the letters.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for correct answer B. No marks are awarded for any other choice.
Question 14 · Gap Fill (Multiple Choice Option)
1 marks
Read the following text extract about pianist Elena Rostova, then choose the word that best fits the gap [Gap 3]: 'Elena's breakthrough came when she won the International Tchaikovsky Competition, a moment she describes as a shared [Gap 3] for our entire family.'
  1. A.setback
  2. B.compromise
  3. C.triumph
  4. D.obligation
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct option is C ('triumph'). Winning a prestigious international competition is a major achievement, which is best described as a 'triumph'. 'Setback' (a reversal of progress), 'compromise' (a middle-ground agreement), and 'obligation' (a duty) do not fit the context of celebrating a grand victory.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for correct answer C. No marks are awarded for any other choice.
Question 15 · Gap Fill (Multiple Choice Option)
1 marks
Read the following text extract about pianist Elena Rostova, then choose the word that best fits the gap [Gap 4]: 'She has recently established a foundation in her grandmother's name to provide scholarships for young musicians from underprivileged backgrounds, proving that her achievements are not just about personal fame, but about [Gap 4] the legacy of love and support she received.'
  1. A.dismantling
  2. B.honoring
  3. C.neglecting
  4. D.exploiting
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The correct option is B ('honoring'). Establishing a foundation to help others in someone's memory is a direct way of 'honoring' their legacy. 'Dismantling' (taking apart), 'neglecting' (ignoring), and 'exploiting' (taking unfair advantage of) represent actions that are contrary to preserving and paying tribute to a positive legacy.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for correct answer B. No marks are awarded for any other choice.

Paper 2 - Reading Section C

Answer all questions on Text C (literary narrative extract).
13 Question · 13 marks
Question 1 · Sentence Completion
1 marks
**Text C**

*Elena stared at the spinning lump of gray clay, her fingers trembling slightly as the wheel whirred to life. For months, she had lived under the heavy shadow of her family’s expectations, expected to inherit the accounting firm that her grandfather had built with agonizing patience. Yet, the sterile numbers never spoke to her soul the way the tactile, muddy earth did. When she finally packed her single suitcase and boarded the midnight train to the coastal town of St. Ives, she felt an intoxicating mixture of liberation and sheer terror. Her new studio was nothing more than a drafty, converted coal shed with a cracked skylight, but to Elena, it was a palace of infinite possibilities. Here, she spent twelve hours a day coaxing delicate vessels from the stubborn clay. Her hands became permanently stained with copper oxide and cobalt slip, a vivid badge of her hard-won independence. On the third Tuesday of November, a local gallery owner named Arthur strolled into her damp sanctuary, his eyes narrowing as he inspected a lopsided, ash-glazed vase. Without a word, he placed a small red sticker on its rim—the universal symbol of a sale—and whispered, 'You have a rare, untamed raw talent, my dear.' At that moment, the cold nights and empty pockets ceased to matter; Elena knew she had finally found her true home.*

**Based on Text C, complete the following sentence using 1 to 3 exact words from the text.**

Elena's family hoped that she would take over her grandfather's...
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

According to the second sentence of the text, Elena was "expected to inherit the accounting firm that her grandfather had built with agonizing patience." Therefore, the exact words to complete the sentence are "accounting firm".

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the exact phrase "accounting firm". Do not accept any spelling variations or alternative phrasing.
Question 2 · Sentence Completion
1 marks
**Text C**

*Elena stared at the spinning lump of gray clay, her fingers trembling slightly as the wheel whirred to life. For months, she had lived under the heavy shadow of her family’s expectations, expected to inherit the accounting firm that her grandfather had built with agonizing patience. Yet, the sterile numbers never spoke to her soul the way the tactile, muddy earth did. When she finally packed her single suitcase and boarded the midnight train to the coastal town of St. Ives, she felt an intoxicating mixture of liberation and sheer terror. Her new studio was nothing more than a drafty, converted coal shed with a cracked skylight, but to Elena, it was a palace of infinite possibilities. Here, she spent twelve hours a day coaxing delicate vessels from the stubborn clay. Her hands became permanently stained with copper oxide and cobalt slip, a vivid badge of her hard-won independence. On the third Tuesday of November, a local gallery owner named Arthur strolled into her damp sanctuary, his eyes narrowing as he inspected a lopsided, ash-glazed vase. Without a word, he placed a small red sticker on its rim—the universal symbol of a sale—and whispered, 'You have a rare, untamed raw talent, my dear.' At that moment, the cold nights and empty pockets ceased to matter; Elena knew she had finally found her true home.*

**Based on Text C, complete the following sentence using 1 to 4 exact words from the text.**

When Elena took the train to St. Ives, her feelings were a combination of...
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The text states that when Elena boarded the midnight train, "she felt an intoxicating mixture of liberation and sheer terror." Thus, her combination of feelings is described as "liberation and sheer terror".

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for "liberation and sheer terror" or "liberation and terror". Accept "an intoxicating mixture of liberation and sheer terror" if the student fits it grammatically.
Question 3 · Sentence Completion
1 marks
**Text C**

*Elena stared at the spinning lump of gray clay, her fingers trembling slightly as the wheel whirred to life. For months, she had lived under the heavy shadow of her family’s expectations, expected to inherit the accounting firm that her grandfather had built with agonizing patience. Yet, the sterile numbers never spoke to her soul the way the tactile, muddy earth did. When she finally packed her single suitcase and boarded the midnight train to the coastal town of St. Ives, she felt an intoxicating mixture of liberation and sheer terror. Her new studio was nothing more than a drafty, converted coal shed with a cracked skylight, but to Elena, it was a palace of infinite possibilities. Here, she spent twelve hours a day coaxing delicate vessels from the stubborn clay. Her hands became permanently stained with copper oxide and cobalt slip, a vivid badge of her hard-won independence. On the third Tuesday of November, a local gallery owner named Arthur strolled into her damp sanctuary, his eyes narrowing as he inspected a lopsided, ash-glazed vase. Without a word, he placed a small red sticker on its rim—the universal symbol of a sale—and whispered, 'You have a rare, untamed raw talent, my dear.' At that moment, the cold nights and empty pockets ceased to matter; Elena knew she had finally found her true home.*

**Based on Text C, complete the following sentence using 1 to 3 exact words from the text.**

Elena's workspace in St. Ives was located in what used to be a...
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

The text states that her new studio was "nothing more than a drafty, converted coal shed." Therefore, the original function of the building is represented by the exact words "coal shed".

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for "coal shed". Also accept "converted coal shed".
Question 4 · Sentence Completion
1 marks
**Text C**

*Elena stared at the spinning lump of gray clay, her fingers trembling slightly as the wheel whirred to life. For months, she had lived under the heavy shadow of her family’s expectations, expected to inherit the accounting firm that her grandfather had built with agonizing patience. Yet, the sterile numbers never spoke to her soul the way the tactile, muddy earth did. When she finally packed her single suitcase and boarded the midnight train to the coastal town of St. Ives, she felt an intoxicating mixture of liberation and sheer terror. Her new studio was nothing more than a drafty, converted coal shed with a cracked skylight, but to Elena, it was a palace of infinite possibilities. Here, she spent twelve hours a day coaxing delicate vessels from the stubborn clay. Her hands became permanently stained with copper oxide and cobalt slip, a vivid badge of her hard-won independence. On the third Tuesday of November, a local gallery owner named Arthur strolled into her damp sanctuary, his eyes narrowing as he inspected a lopsided, ash-glazed vase. Without a word, he placed a small red sticker on its rim—the universal symbol of a sale—and whispered, 'You have a rare, untamed raw talent, my dear.' At that moment, the cold nights and empty pockets ceased to matter; Elena knew she had finally found her true home.*

**Based on Text C, complete the following sentence using 1 to 3 exact words from the text.**

For Elena, the permanent stains on her hands represented a...
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Worked solution

The text states that her permanently stained hands were "a vivid badge of her hard-won independence." Hence, they represented a "vivid badge".

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for "vivid badge". Accept "badge".
Question 5 · Sentence Completion
1 marks
**Text C**

*Elena stared at the spinning lump of gray clay, her fingers trembling slightly as the wheel whirred to life. For months, she had lived under the heavy shadow of her family’s expectations, expected to inherit the accounting firm that her grandfather had built with agonizing patience. Yet, the sterile numbers never spoke to her soul the way the tactile, muddy earth did. When she finally packed her single suitcase and boarded the midnight train to the coastal town of St. Ives, she felt an intoxicating mixture of liberation and sheer terror. Her new studio was nothing more than a drafty, converted coal shed with a cracked skylight, but to Elena, it was a palace of infinite possibilities. Here, she spent twelve hours a day coaxing delicate vessels from the stubborn clay. Her hands became permanently stained with copper oxide and cobalt slip, a vivid badge of her hard-won independence. On the third Tuesday of November, a local gallery owner named Arthur strolled into her damp sanctuary, his eyes narrowing as he inspected a lopsided, ash-glazed vase. Without a word, he placed a small red sticker on its rim—the universal symbol of a sale—and whispered, 'You have a rare, untamed raw talent, my dear.' At that moment, the cold nights and empty pockets ceased to matter; Elena knew she had finally found her true home.*

**Based on Text C, complete the following sentence using 1 to 4 exact words from the text.**

According to Arthur, Elena possessed a...
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Worked solution

Arthur whispers to Elena: "You have a rare, untamed raw talent, my dear." Therefore, the exact words describing what she possessed are "rare, untamed raw talent".

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for "rare, untamed raw talent". Also accept "untamed raw talent" or "raw talent".
Question 6 · multiple_choice
1 marks
In the first paragraph, what main reason does Gabriel give for relocating his studio to the windswept cliffs?
  1. A.He wanted to escape the constant noise and distractions of the village.
  2. B.He believed the harsh natural elements would physically alter his sculpting materials.
  3. C.He sought to find inspiration in the isolation and the changing patterns of the sea.
  4. D.He was forced to leave his previous workshop due to rising rent.
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Worked solution

In the text, Gabriel explains that the vastness of the horizon and the rhythmic, changing patterns of the sea offered him a fresh perspective and a source of creative renewal that he could not find in the cramped village. This aligns with option C, which highlights seeking inspiration in isolation and the sea.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct answer C. Reject all other options.
Question 7 · multiple_choice
1 marks
According to the second paragraph, what does the "unfinished marble bust" represent to Gabriel?
  1. A.A painful reminder of a promise he failed to keep to his late mentor.
  2. B.The creative potential and unresolved questions of his youth.
  3. C.His technical inability to capture complex human emotions.
  4. D.A valuable piece that he hopes to sell to secure his retirement.
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Worked solution

The narrator notes that looking at the raw, half-carved stone brings back memories of Gabriel's early twenties, characterized by endless possibilities, artistic curiosity, and questions that remain unanswered. This makes option B the correct interpretation.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Reject all other options.
Question 8 · multiple_choice
1 marks
How does Gabriel’s relationship with the local villagers develop throughout the text?
  1. A.He initially fears their judgment but gradually feels embraced by their quiet support.
  2. B.He begins by welcoming their visits but eventually retreats into complete isolation.
  3. C.He remains entirely indifferent to their presence from the beginning to the end.
  4. D.He views them as hostile outsiders who do not appreciate his artistic vision.
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Worked solution

Initially, Gabriel keeps his distance, worried that the villagers will perceive him as an eccentric outsider or judge his unconventional lifestyle. However, as they leave small gifts of food and silently observe his progress from a respectful distance, he begins to appreciate their quiet, non-intrusive form of companionship, corresponding to option A.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct answer A. Reject all other options.
Question 9 · multiple_choice
1 marks
What is the significance of the final image of the sea eroding the stone sculpture on the shore?
  1. A.It illustrates that natural forces will always destroy human endeavors.
  2. B.It highlights Gabriel's frustration with the impermanence of his life's work.
  3. C.It symbolizes a harmonious collaboration between the artist's creation and nature.
  4. D.It shows that Gabriel has abandoned his passion for sculpting altogether.
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Worked solution

The text describes how Gabriel willingly places his completed sculpture where the tide can reach it, viewing the water's gentle wear on the stone as a way for nature to complete his work. This represents a peaceful collaboration between the artist and the natural world, as stated in option C.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for the correct answer C. Reject all other options.
Question 10 · Pronoun/Referent Identification
1 marks
Based on the text below, who does the word 'They' refer to? Text: 'When Julian finally arrived at the old academy, he saw his former mentors waiting by the gate. They wore their traditional ceremonial robes...'
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Worked solution

The pronoun 'They' acts as the subject of the second sentence and refers directly to the plural subject of the previous sentence, 'his former mentors'.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for 'his former mentors' or 'former mentors'.
Question 11 · Pronoun/Referent Identification
1 marks
Based on the text below, what does the word 'which' refer to? Text: 'They wore their traditional ceremonial robes, which had faded over the decades.'
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Worked solution

The relative pronoun 'which' introduces a relative clause describing 'their traditional ceremonial robes'.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for 'their traditional ceremonial robes', 'traditional ceremonial robes', 'ceremonial robes', or 'robes'.
Question 12 · Pronoun/Referent Identification
1 marks
Based on the text below, what does the word 'its' refer to? Text: 'Clara, who had taught him everything about restoration, smiled and pointed to the massive wooden door. "This is where your journey truly began," she whispered, patting its worn surface.'
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Worked solution

The possessive adjective 'its' indicates that the worn surface belongs to 'the massive wooden door' that Clara pointed to.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for 'the massive wooden door', 'the wooden door', 'wooden door', or 'door'.
Question 13 · Pronoun/Referent Identification
1 marks
Based on the text below, what does the word 'these' refer to? Text: 'He looked at the brass handles; he had polished these every morning during his apprenticeship.'
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Worked solution

The demonstrative pronoun 'these' refers directly back to the plural noun phrase 'the brass handles' in the first part of the sentence.

Marking scheme

Award 1 mark for 'the brass handles', 'brass handles', or 'handles'.

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