ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE

LAST PUSH INDABA

GRADE 12
 ALL PAPERS
1. Check the cover page – Have you received the correct
paper?
2. Reading time before writing – 10 minutes =
a. Paper 1 (read the whole paper through including
the front page and instructions page)
b. Paper 2 (read ONLY the front page, instructions,
Poetry questions AND the Novel AND
Drama you have done at your school.)
c. Paper 3 (read the whole paper through including
the front page and instructions page)
Minimum requirements per
paper to pass:
P1 = 28/70
P2 = 32/80
P3 = 40/100
Do not write in pencil or
do corrections in pencil –
it will be ignored.
Help! I cannot read an ordinary clock
face!
Place your digital watch on the edge
of your desk – if you keep looking at
it on your arm it may look suspicious.
PAPER 1
 PAPER 1
The instructions and information page is NB!
INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION

1. This question paper consists of THREE sections:

SECTION A: Comprehension (30)

SECTION B: Summary (10)
SECTION C: Language structures and conventions (30)

2. Read ALL the instructions carefully.

3. Answer ALL the questions.

4. Start EACH section on a NEW page.

5. Rule off after each section.

 PAPER 1
6. Number the answers correctly according to the numbering system
used in this question paper.

7. Leave a line after each answer.

8. Pay special attention to spelling and sentence construction.

9. Suggested time allocation:

SECTION A: 50 minutes
SECTION B: 30 minutes
SECTION C: 40 minutes

10. Write neatly and legibly. Work out time

allocation and
stick to it!
SECTION A: COMPREHENSION
Manual Page 3 to 5

• Number correctly
• Instruction words are very important
• Mark allocation
• Refer to paragraph 1 means READ PARAGRAPH
1 BEFORE ANSWERING.
➢ Teach learners to read the whole text and not
just the specific paragraph. They need to have
knowledge of the text as a whole.
• In your own words = not lifted
• If a word or phrase is quoted in the question, it
means that it is vocabulary based = own words for
explanation or discussion
• Diction and tone – if examples from the text are not
given, maximum marks cannot be achieved.
• Irony – expectation vs reality.
➢ Both sides have to be given. (Check if asked to
explain, discuss or identify.)
• Consider text as a whole with relation to title, last
sentence or paragraph – have to make link,
therefore reference has to be made to both.
• Own view / Opinion – based on context
• Critically comment = an element of what you think
• Text A and B are linked together but need not agree
➢ Text A: …
➢ Text B: …
➢ Discussion …
➢ Does not have to be 2 facts Text A, 2 facts Text B,
but both texts have to be mentioned.
SECTION B: SUMMARY
• Instructions NB!
• Topic NB!
➢ “How to”, or advice – cannot write in continuous
tense.
• Markers count the number of words.
➢ Remember that after 90 words, the marker
reads to the end of the sentence.
• Do not use telegram-style writing = full sentences.
• Ensure full facts are given.
• Lifting is not a crime – rather get 7 marks for
correct facts that are lifted…
• In the paragraph you get 1 mark per correct fact,
regardless of whether it is in the same sentence or
not.
Cartoons
• Humour in cartoons – what makes it funny?
• Consider both the visual and text.
• Mark allocation
• Instruction words – same concept as with
comprehension
• Does the question require you to look at the visual
clues only?... Or the verbal clues/text/body copy?... Or
both?
• Diction, tone, visual and verbal techniques – same
concept as with comprehension (if reference to, and
link is not made, maximum marks cannot be achieved.)
• Ensure learners understand that attitude and tone are
different – tone is an indication of attitude.
• Refer to different frames – if all frames are not referred
to, maximum marks cannot be achieved.
• Style NB!
• Techniques used NB!
Style
Trial
• Tone
• Register
• Intention
• Attitude
• Language
GENERAL – TIPS FOR TEACHERS
• Work through the paper before you start marking
– work out the memo for yourself.
• You have to understand what is expected of the
learner.
• Do not look for key words or phrases – find the
learner’s voice.
➢ Stronger learners are often penalised because they
have a larger/ stronger vocabulary.
• Remember:
➢1 mark = 33%
➢2 marks = 66%
➢3 marks = 100%
➢Global marking
➢Benefit of the doubt to the learner.
• Use comments when marking to show your thinking – it
helps the moderator.
PAPER 2
ENGLISH HL
PAPER 2
 Composition of paper & instructions
• Paper 2 consists of THREE SECTIONS:
• Poetry (30 marks)
• Novel (25 marks)
• Drama (25 marks)
• Candidates cannot just watch the film and answer a novel or
drama they have not studied.
• Candidates cannot answer two essays in Section B and C ; or
two contextual questions in Section B and C.
• Final answer sheet must include:
• 2 seen poems (essay and/or contextual) The order does not
• 1 unseen poem matter as long as it is
• 1 essay from Section B or C clearly labelled.
• 1 contextual question from Section B or C
Section A: Poetry

The poetry section consists of 5 questions:

Q1 – Essay (seen poetry)
Q2 – Contextual question (seen poetry)
Q3 – Contextual question (seen poetry)
Q4 – Contextual question (seen poetry)
Q5 – Contextual question (unseen poetry)
 POETRY ESSAY
(Question 1 - 2021 NOV)

GARDEN OF LOVE – WILLIAM BLAKE

 Before WRITING A POETRY ESSAY:
• Know everything there is to know about the poem:
• Theme
• Structure
• Diction
• Figures of speech AND their appropriateness (Imagery)
• Tone
• Background
• Decode the essay question. What statement do they want you to
prove? What are you allowed to include?
• Candidates cannot just retell the poem. They need to focus their
answer, and answer what is asked.
EXAMPLE OF A POETRY ESSAY

QUESTION 1: GARDEN OF LOVE – ESSAY QUESTION

In the ‘Garden of Love’, the speaker is critical of the role the

Church plays in the lives of people.

With close reference to diction, imagery and tone, critically

discuss the validity of this statement.

Your response should take the form of a well-constructed essay

of 250 – 300 words (about ONE page).
 STEP 1 – DECODE THE QUESTION

In the ‘Garden of Love’, the speaker is critical of the role the Church
plays in the lives of people.

• Critical = NEGATIVE
• The Church = What does the Church do to people = RESTRICTION

Prove that this statement is true by referring to certain aspects of

the poem as proof.
 STEP 2 – DECODE THE INSTRUCTIONS
With close reference to diction, imagery and tone, critically discuss
the validity of this statement.

CANDIDATES MUST USE EXAMPLES OF DICTION

CANDIDATES MUST USE EXAMPLES OF IMAGES
CANDIDATES MUST IDENTIFY THE TONE

VALIDITY :
IS THIS STATEMENT VALID / INVALID / VALID AND INVALID
 STEP 2 – DECODE THE INSTRUCTIONS
Your response should take the form of a well-constructed essay of
250 – 300 words (about ONE page).

Candidates only have 13 minutes to PLAN and write your

essay.
• PLAN using a mind map or a list : VERY IMPORTANT.
• DO NOT do a rough copy!
• Write the final in pen and edit on it in the SAME colour PEN.
• DO NOT waste time on counting words.
 STEP 3 – plan the ESSAY (DICTION)
WHAT IS DICTION:

• Diction (Dictionary) = words; words that connect to the topic

and have certain symbolic (deeper) meanings.
• These words or phrases need to be quoted and then candidates
must explain what the words mean and how they connect to the
topic.
• Do not use lines or line numbers.
DICTION

• ‘green’ the Garden of Love used to be a place of joy and

innocence.
• The ‘sweet flowers’ are replaced by ‘tombstones’ and ‘graves’
which symbolise death and fills the garden with a sense of gloom.
• ‘The gates’ were ‘shut’ showing that the Garden is no longer a
joyful place, but one of restriction where people cannot freely
enter.

QUOTE + DISCUSS + LINK BACK TO OPPRESSION BY THE CHURCH

 STEP 3 – PLAN YOUR ESSAY (IMAGERY)

WHAT IS IMAGERY:

• Imagery is usually created by Figures of Speech. Candidates do

not have to identify the figures of speech, but they must be able
to explain what these images mean.
• Quote these words or phrases and then explain what they mean
and how they connect to the topic.
• Do not use lines or line numbers.
• Imagery and Diction are closely related to each other.
IMAGERY

• ‘Thou shalt not’ creates the image of the 10 commandments and

shows that the Church restricts and controls people’s behaviour.
• ‘Black gowns’ strongly contrast the ‘green’ from the speaker’s
childhood and represent the oppression and restriction of the
Church.
• ‘Priests walking their rounds’ gives us the image that the Priests
act as guards to ensure that people cannot express their natural
instincts or joy.
• ‘Binding with briars’ suggests that the speaker's natural instincts
are bound and that his joy is sinful and deserving of punishment.

QUOTE + DISCUSS + LINK BACK TO OPPRESSION BY THE CHURCH

STEP 3 – PLAN YOUR ESSAY (TONE)

WHAT IS TONE:

• The attitude or emotion that the poet wants to convey to the

reader.
• Identify the tone and link it to the topic.
• If a poem’s tone changes throughout the poem, indicate this in
your essay.
TONE

• The speaker’s tone is

despairing/disapproving/scornful/critical of the repressive
attitude of the Church.
• He is shocked by the restricting influence of the Church.

IDENTIFY + LINK BACK TO OPPRESSION BY THE CHURCH

STEP 4 – WRITE the essay: STRUCTURE

• A poetry essay must have:

• An introduction
• A body, which consists of more than one paragraph.
• A conclusion
• Use the following acronyms to assist:
• Introduction: T – Title
A – Author
K – Key words in the topic
• Body - one paragraph for:
• Diction
• Imagery
• Tone
STRUCTURE
• Conclusion:
• The conclusion should not repeat what has already been
said.
• State whether you agree / disagree / partially agree or
disagree.
• Keep it short and sweet.
• Language usage and tone:
• Use formal language.
• This is not a creative essay, use simple language that gets
straight to the point.
• Refrain from using the pronoun I.
• Use present tense verbs.
• Try to stay away from contractions.
• Do not use slang or offensive language.
POETRY contextual
(Question 2-4)

NSC NOVEMBER 2021

 GENERAL TIPS
• Candidates cannot guess which poems will be asked.
• Candidates should not pick poems because they like/dislike a certain poem.
• When studying poetry they must pay special attention to:
• Structure
• Speaker’s message
• Main theme
• Reader’s attitude (Give it a name)
• Effectiveness of images
• Diction – the deeper meaning of words in context
• Candidates should pay close attention to mark allocation.
• Candidates must refer to the lines as indicated/the whole poem when
instructed.
• Be careful of double-barrel questions.
• Don’t forget to state the obvious! ‘The marker doesn’t know you know.’
POETRY: unseen
(Question 5)

NSC NOVEMBER 2021

 GENERAL TIPS
• Time is of the essence – Leave Question 5 for last.
• During the first reading of the poem: don’t overthink it.
• Read the questions and then candidates should reread the poem.
• What is the poem about? Use this main theme to influence thinking.
• Use line reference in questions as a guide:
• What is the literal meaning of the line?
• What is the figurative/symbolic meaning of the line (IN CONTEXT)?
• Identify the key words in the question.
• Key terms that candidates should know the meaning of:
• Atmosphere/Mood Tone
• Reader’s impression attitude Diction
• Speaker’s message/attitude Images/Figures of speech
 Section B & C:
NOVEL AND DRAMA
 Literature Essay
(Question 6, 8, 10, 12,
14)
NSC NOVEMBER 2021
Before writing a literature essay, candidates must:
• Read the prescribed text.
• Know the themes of the novel and understand the meaning of words
frequently used: hypocritical / aestheticism / hedonism / Faustian bargain
/ anthropomorphism / zoomorphism / animalism.
• Know the names of the characters and how to spell them; know WHO
each character is (character analysis).
• Know the events of the plot. Know WHAT happens in chronological order.
• Decode the essay question.
• An essay question focusses on a specific aspect of the novel or character.
Candidates cannot just retell the story. They need to focus your answer,
and answer what is asked.
• A literature essay is like a court case, you must provide ‘evidence’ from
the text to support whether you agree and/or disagree with the question.
 EXAMPLE OF A DORIAN GRAY ESSAY

QUESTION 6: THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY – ESSAY

QUESTION

The novel exposes the superficial and hypocritical nature of its main
characters and the society in which they live.

Critically discuss the extent to which you agree with this statement.

Your response should take the form of a well-constructed essay of

400 – 450 words (2 - 2½ pages).
 STEP 1 – DECODE THE QUESTION
The novel exposes the superficial and hypocritical nature of its
main characters and the society in which they live.

WHAT ARE THEY LOOKING FOR???

• Superficial nature of main characters
• Hypocritical nature of main characters
• Superficial nature of the society
• Hypocritical nature of the society

• WHAT does superficial mean: Appearing to be true or real on the

surface.
• WHAT does hypocritical mean: Behaviour that contradicts what one
claims to believe.
 STEP 2 – DECODE THE INSTRUCTIONS

Critically discuss the extent to which you agree with this statement.

DO YOU FULLY AGREE, FULLY DISAGREE OR PARTIALLY AGREE

OR
Critically discuss the validity of this statement.
IS IT COMPLETELY VALID, COMPLETELY INVALID OR PARTIALLY
VALID
OR
Do you agree with this statement? Justify your response by a close
reference to the text.
DO YOU FULLY AGREE, FULLY DISAGREE OR PARTIALLY AGREE
 STEP 2 – DECODE THE INSTRUCTIONS
Your response should take the form of a well-constructed essay of
400 – 450 words
(2 - 2½ pages).

• Candidates only have 55 minutes to PLAN and write their essay.

• PLAN using a mind map or a list : VERY IMPORTANT. Organise your
ideas.
• DO NOT do a rough copy!
• Write your final in pen and edit on it in the SAME colour PEN.
• DO NOT waste time counting words.
 STEP 3 – PLAN YOUR ESSAY
MAIN CHARACTER SOCIETY
MAIN CHARACTER BASIL HALLWARD • Society attaches great
DORIAN GRAY • Basil is drawn to Dorian’s value to being kind,
• Wants to remain young, good looks and refuses to selfless and acting in a
reflects society and LH believe that such a moral manner.
obsession with beauty. gorgeous man can do • YET, immorality is
• Leads a double life: horrible things. everywhere – Dorian can
gentleman by day and LORD HENRY do as he pleases because
opium addict at night. • LH preaches hedonism he is beautiful, and
• He remains beautiful and aestheticism but does therefore society believes
while his portrait shows not give up his reputation he is pure of heart.
the true reflection of his to pursue it. He is a • Adrian Singleton and Alan
bad deeds. married man and lives by Campbell are not so lucky,
• Dorian doesn’t care about the rules of Victorian and their reputations are
the death of Sybil, society. ruined by their friendship
although he claimed he SIBYL VANE with Dorian.
loved her. • Sibyl falls in love with • The society pretends to
• Dorian kills Basil and Dorian’s outer care about the difficult
shows no remorse but appearance ‘Prince lives of the poor but do
blames Basil instead Charming’ , has no very little to help them.
(Dorian only cares about interest in the true
himself). Dorian.
 EXAMPLE OF A LIFE OF PI ESSAY
QUESTION 8: LIFE OF PI – ESSAY QUESTION (2021 NOV)

Pi’s ability to endure his ordeal may be attributed to his relationships with
Richard Parker, his mother and the French cook.

Critically discuss the extent to which you agree with the above statement.

Your response should take the form of a well-constructed essay of 400 – 450
words (2 - 2½ pages).
 STEP 1 – DECODE THE QUESTION
Pi’s ability to endure his ordeal may be attributed to his relationships
with Richard Parker, his mother and the French cook.

• WHAT ARE THEY LOOKING FOR???

• How Richard Parker helped Pi survive
• How Pi’s mother helped him survive
• How the French cook helped Pi survive

• Richard Parker ‘Better story’ and ‘factual story’

• Pi’s mother NOT the orangutang! Don’t be too literal.
• French cook NOT the hyena
 STEP 3 – PLAN YOUR ESSAY
RICHARD PARKER (TIGER) RICHARD PARKER (ALTER EGO)
• Pi rescues RP = relationship • Allows Pi to cope with the
necessary for physical and horrific things he has seen and
emotional wellbeing. experienced:
• Saves Pi from hyena. • Shipwreck
• Saves Pi from blind Frenchman. • Amputation of the sailor
• Pi’s companion: • Cannibalism
• His only friend, his only • Mother’s death
company, listens to Pi, face • Stripped of humanity
adversity together. • Allows Pi to distance himself
• Pi’s distraction: from his horrific deeds:
• Forces Pi to fish, keep busy, • Cannibalism
check solar stills, clean • Murder
lifeboat. • Loss of his vegetarianism
• Keeps Pi sane: • Psychologically leaves Pi so he
• Gives him a purpose, gives does not have to carry his
him a reason to stay deeds with him into adulthood.
alive/something to care for. • Therefore he is able to live a
• Taming, training, normal life, with minimal
anthropomorphising RP. psychological damage.
 THE COOK
PI’S MOTHER • The Cook saves Pi from drowning.
• Pi’s mother doesn’t judge him and • Initially, Pi is dependent on the French
teaches him to love Cook’s knowledge of food and survival.
reading/storytelling. • He encourages Pi to catch fish and cure
• This gives Pi the ability to stay sane by slivers of meat.
writing in his journal. • He introduces Pi to eating meat and
• She is also a believer, this motivates Pi catching turtles.
not to give up on his spiritual beliefs. • His most important lesson is that of
• Her example of adaptability on the survival, he teaches Pi that in order to
lifeboat, allows Pi to break his survive in these circumstances he
vegetarian belief and gives him some needs to become vicious and
reassurance. animalistic, even selfish…this is difficult
• Undoubtedly her death has the biggest for Pi as he is a gentle and sensitive
impact on Pi, her strength and sacrifice soul.
forces Pi’s animalistic behaviour to • Although he is appalled by the Cook’s
come forth and he forever remembers behaviour, he acknowledges that the
her sacrifice as he avenges her death Cook was necessary for survival.
by killing the cook and singing to her • The evilness of the Cook triggers Pi’s
on her birthday. evil deeds.
STEP 4 – WRITE your essay: STRUCTURE
• The literature essay must have:
• An introduction
• A body, which consists of more than one paragraph
(Group similar information together.)
• A conclusion
• Use the following acronyms to assist:
• Introduction: T – Title
A – Author
K – Key words in the topic
O – Outline
• Each paragraph: S – Statement
E – Elaborate / Explain
E – Examples / Evidence (As many as you can; not just one)
L – Link your paragraph back tot the topic
 STRUCTURE
• Conclusion:
• The conclusion should not repeat what has already been said.
• State: agree / disagree / partially agree or disagree.
• End your essay by referring to the novel as a whole (the climax / fate of the main
character / message.)
• Language usage and tone:
• Use formal language.
• This is not a creative essay, use simple language that gets straight to the point.
• Refrain from using the pronoun I, this is not about your personal feelings and
opinions; you are simply providing evidence on the topic you have been given.
• Use present tense verbs.
• Try to stay away from contractions.
• Do not use slang or offensive language.
 Literature essays – Good practice
• In some poems/novels/dramas there are difficult terms and ideas that
candidates must be familiar with:
• Responses must cover the entire topic (not just a part of it).
• A simple narration of the plot will not earn learners content marks. Answers to
essay questions must be focussed and the skill of extracting relevant
information and discarding irrelevant information is paramount.
• In questions regarding diction and imagery, the image or word must be quoted
and then explained (references to line numbers or general summaries do not
earn content marks).
• Candidates need to be taught how to break down questions and focus on the
expectations of questions. Teach the concepts of diction, tone, atmosphere,
significance, imagery, effectiveness of images, link to speaker’s attitude/
speaker’s message etc.
• Reference to the main text is paramount. EVIDENCE is king!
• Accurate content knowledge is of extreme importance, quoting is not necessary
and usually leads to inaccuracies.
• If a candidate is uncertain of the meaning of a word in the topic, they must rather
attempt the essay question on their second genre.
• Practicing literature essay writing under controlled conditions with a set time
limit is important in improving the candidate's ability to effectively respond.
• The importance of planning cannot be underestimated, this is usually directly
linked to the mark awarded for structure.
• Planning is NOT writing a rough copy and simply rewriting it.
• Argumentative/discursive essays need to be taught thoroughly in lower grades to
allow candidates to understand what is expected of them.
• Essays in point form is a major structural mistake.
• Literature essays (poetry/novel/drama) cannot be pre-prepared or learnt off by
heart … rather use previous essays to practice the skill.
• Candidates cannot lift ‘quote’ from contextual questions – this does not help
them in any way and is an indication that the candidates doesn’t know the
content.
• Quotes are not necessary to do well in essays.
• Candidates must focus on supplying a relevant and convincing argument.
 Section B & C:
NOVEL AND DRAMA
 Contextual question
(Question 7, 9, 11, 13,
15)
NSC NOVEMBER 2021
 Contextual questions
• Account for = give a reason why and explain
• Place the extract into context = what happened just before the extract (3
marks)
• Critically discuss = discuss and give an opinion (based on the text)
• Explain = what and why
• Last question of contextual = mini-essay Validity of a statement – Is it valid or
invalid
• Significance = What, why and importance
• Comparative/ Consistency questions = before and after
• Irony – don’t explain what irony is. Start with statement then say but or
however…
• DRAMA: “If you were the director”
• Body language
• Tone (Voice)
• Why must the actor use this tone and body language? Reas on
• Use this extract as a starting point = Mention the extract and then mention 2 =
things from the rest of the novel or drama to support your opinion.
• Don’t use the extract like a comprehension.
• Don’t quote from the extract to support an answer.
• The extracts are meant to focus candidates and draw their attention to a
specific event in the novel or drama – questions are then asked from before,
during and after the extract.
• Show understanding of the novel/drama as a whole.
• Identify question words and key terms in each question.
• Candidates are allowed to answer contextual questions in point form.
• Give enough evidence to justify mark allocation.
• Know how and why characters change and which actions contribute to major
plot events.
PAPER 3
PAPER 3
Write in BLUE
Or
BLACK ink only!
Edit in the same
colour.

Number your topics

correctly!
 Complete ALL 3 pieces!

Plan using a mind map / list / spider diagram -

Whatever works for you!

Write directly from planning.

Edit in the colour you have written in.

Be aware of register!

Slang – rather not!

Contractions may be used in informal register.

 Word count – Essays and transactional
pieces = Paragraphs

e.g. letter – count words in paragraphs

e.g. dialogue – count words in conversation,

not names.

Essay 400-450 words (2-2½ pages)

Transactional 180-200 words (20-25 lines)

This is not necessarily accurate for a dialogue /

interview.
 RULE NUMBER 1:
If you do not know what a
word means, select another
topic e.g. Write an obituary
of a friend who was killed
while trying to break a
record in extreme sport!
 RULE NUMBER 2:

Always cancel planning!

 RULE NUMBER 3:

Do a mind map for

planning and then write
directly from planning.
There is no time for a
rough draft.
 DO NOT DO THIS!

PLAGIARISM is a criminal offence!

Do not simply retell a story /

book / film you have read!
WRITING: Read your instructions carefully to ensure you
include everything the examiner wants in the writing piece!

You have to write 3 pieces – one from Section A and two from
Section B – and you have to do planning for ALL WRITING
PIECES.

PLANNING: A mind map or spider diagram or list is fine.

Make sure that your planning is done before you write. Before
you start check how much time is allocated to each piece. Write
down e.g.

Section A: Essay (100 min)

Section B: 2 X 40 min

Make sure that you stick to the time. You need to complete
both sections to earn maximum marks!
SECTION A: ESSAY Read through all topics and look
at visuals – what speaks to you?

Choose what you can write about.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX!

STAY AWAY FROM LIFE ORIENTATION TOPICS!
UNLESS YOU CAN GIVE THE TOPIC A NEW SPIN!

Number of topics for essays: Eight topics, of which a

minimum of two and a maximum of three should be
visual stimuli.
PREPARATORY PAPER 2022
1.1. Music and sport…the great unifiers. [50]
Could agree or disagree
1.2. “Don't be pushed around by the fears in your
mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.”
[Roy T. Bennett] [50]
Quotes are not a good idea for weak learners
1.3. The waiting room. [50]

1.4. Colourful confusion. [50]

1.5. Write a story in which you incorporate the

words: (underline the words in the essay so
that the marker doesn’t have to look for it.) [50]
…I gasped in surprise.
SECTION B: TRANSACTIONAL TEXTS

QUESTION 2

• Respond to TWO of the following topics.

• The BODY of each of your answers should be 180-200
words (20-25 lines) in length.
• Pay attention to the following:
- Audience, register, tone and style
- Choice of words and language structure
- Format
• Write down the NUMBER and TITLE/HEADING of the text
you have chosen, e.g. 2.1. E-mail.
Examination Guidelines

SECTION B – LONGER TRANSACTIONAL

WRITING
Candidates will be expected to answer TWO
questions in this section. SIX topics will be set
from the categories indicated below. Set a
minimum of ONE.

Category A: Minimum 1, maximum 2

Category B: Minimum 1, maximum 3
Category C: Minimum 1, maximum 3

No longer so predictable!
 SECTION B – LONGER TRANSACTIONAL WRITING

Category A: Friendly letter / Formal letter (request /

application / business / complaint / sympathy /
congratulations / thanks) / Formal / Informal letter to
the press / Curriculum Vitae and covering letter (asked
as a combination) / E-mail Minimum 1, maximum 2

Category B: Formal report / informal report / review /

newspaper article / magazine article / agenda and
minutes of meeting (asked as a combination)
Minimum 1, maximum 3

Category C: Formal speech / informal speech /

dialogue / written interview / obituary
Minimum 1, maximum 3
 SECTION B – LONGER TRANSACTIONAL WRITING

Category A: Friendly letter / Formal letter (request /

application / business / complaint / sympathy /
congratulations / thanks) / Formal / Informal letter to
the press / Curriculum Vitae and covering letter (asked
as a combination) / E-mail Minimum 1, maximum 2

It is no longer a given that there will be a letter in the

paper.
Know your formats
Two types of letters – Formal/Business and
Informal/friendly
2.1 E-MAIL
You are studying a course at University which your
parents/guardians encouraged you to study. You have
completed your first year of studies and have decided to
change to another course, one you are really excited about.

Write an e-mail to your parents/guardians in which you

explain your decision. [25]
To: e-mail address
From: e-mail address
Subject: Change of course/Please forgive me
Date:

Dear Mom and Dad

Love
Sandy
To: momanddad@gmail.com
From: yourfavouritechild@gmail.com
Subject: Change of course
Date: 19 October 2022

Dear Mom and Dad

Love
Sandy
2.3 LETTER OF REQUEST

Localised flooding from excessive rain has caused a lot of

damage. Some residents of your town have been left without
a place to stay, with only the clothes on their backs and with
nothing to eat.

You believe that local business should assist. Write a letter to

a retail outlet requesting assistance for the residents of your
town. [25]
 SECTION B – LONGER TRANSACTIONAL WRITING

Category B: Formal report / informal report / review /

newspaper article / magazine article / agenda and
minutes of meeting (asked as a combination)
Minimum 1, maximum 3

If you have not mastered this category DO NOT

ATTEMPT it during exams.
Formats are essential!
2.2 AGENDA AND MINUTES OF MEETING

Your school turns 50 years old in 2023. A committee has been set up
to plan and organise this event. The Chairperson of the Festive
Committee convened a meeting to discuss this event. As the
Secretary of this committee, complete the Minutes of the Meeting for
the following Agenda:

1. Welcoming
2. Attendance
3. Apologies
4. Format and details of the event
5. Programme
6. Other matters
7. Date of next Meeting
8. Closing [25]
 SECTION B – LONGER TRANSACTIONAL WRITING

Category C: Formal speech / informal speech /

dialogue / written interview / obituary
Minimum 1, maximum 3

Ask yourself whether the dialogue sounds like a

conversation
Make sure you know the formats!
2.4 SPEECH

Your grandparents have taken care of you since you were tiny.
Your grandmother is celebrating her 80th birthday. You and your
grandmother have an exceptionally special bond.

Write the speech that you will deliver at her birthday party. [25]
2.5 OBITUARY

A colleague at work has passed away. As you are the only

one who worked closely with this colleague you have been
asked to write an obituary on behalf of the company.

Write the obituary that will appear in the local newspaper. [25]
2.6 INTERVIEW

You recently attended the launch of a new product which the

inventor claims will assist the public during loadshedding.
You have the opportunity to interview the inventor of “Not
Loadshedding”.

Write the interview that transpires between you and the

inventor. Write in dialogue format. [25]

Set the scenario or start at the action.

Do not let your characters greet and introduce themselves.

Give characters names.

Actions and emotions at the beginning of the speaker’s words e.g.

Sammy: (excited) What does this mean for the general public?
EXAMPLES
A LETTER OF APPLICATION No punctuation marks in
25 Mahler Street
addresses, salutation etc. Riebeeckstad
Formal = 2 addresses 9469

1 April 2022
The Manager
Mr Price
Goldfields Mall
Welkom
9660
Yours sincerely = when you know
Sir/Madam the name of the person you are addressing
Application for position

I wish to apply for the position of Sales Person in your company. The post was advertised in The
Vista of 30 March 2019.

I was educated at My High School where I passed the Senior Certificate in English Home
Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematical Literacy, Computer Application
Technology, Life Sciences, Consumer Studies and Life Orientation.

I have a Grade 12 certificate, am computer literate and have excellent people skills. Your
advertisement specifies that applicants must have these skills. Please find enclosed my curriculum
vitae, recent testimonials and copies of my certificates.

If I am fortunate in securing the position, I shall endeavour to give every satisfaction.

Yours faithfully
J Peters (Ms)
 OBITUARY

What is an obituary?
A notice of the passing on of
someone known by the target
audience.
Over and above ‘formally’
announcing the death, it also
sketches the cause of death as
well as the funeral arrangements.
Euphemism is used – passed away
instead of died.
Tribute is where you say positive things about the
deceased.

NB! Refer to the requirements in the exam

paper or task,

Don’t simply lift from the question paper. It must be

clear that you understand what is meant –
e.g. extreme sport = skydiving
 Example
Your favourite aunt has passed away under tragic
circumstances. She was actively involved in various
charity organisations. Although she had no children
of her own, you were raised by her. She would not
want flowers but rather donations to House of Hope.

Write the obituary you will present.

NOTE!
If you read your obituary and it
sounds like a speech you will present
at the funeral, then it isn’t an
obituary! X
OK! What does the examiner want from
you?

Your favourite aunt has passed away

under tragic circumstances. She was
actively involved in various charity
organisations. Although she had no
children of her own, you were raised by
her. She would not want flowers but
rather donations to House of Hope.
Present your obituary.
FAVOURITE
AUNT…
TRAGIC CIRCUMSTANCES
CAR ACCIDENT…

PLAN… NO CHILDREN
ACTIVELY RAISEDYOU…
INVOLVED IN
CHARITY
WORK… DONATIONS TO
HOUSE OF HOPE…
 Smith, Edith (Edie)
(nee Ross)
1960 - 2018

Edith Smith, 58, passed away on 21 November

2018 at Welkom Mediclinic after a tragic
accident. Tragic √

She was born on 2 May 1960 in Kimberley, the

daughter of Andy and Linda Ross. Edie attended
Kimberley Combined School and graduated at the
University of Cape Town. She was employed at
First National Bank Welkom and worked as Human
Resources Manager until her tragic passing.
Edie was actively involved in charity
organisations. She was a well-known face in
fund raisers for House of Hope, CANSA and
Sponsor a Learner. She passionately fought for
the rights of the voiceless. As an active
member of her church, her lovely voice will be
sorely missed in the church choir.

Edie, your contributions and help to those less

fortunate will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her husband, William and

her niece Emily, whom she raised as her own.
No children of own, raised her niece √ Favourite aunt √
The funeral service will be held on 28
November 2018 at 11:00 at the Old
Apostolic Church, Central Place,
Riebeeckstad. In lieu of flowers, kindly
donate contributions to the House of Hope.
No flowers! Donations to House of Hope √

Edie, or Queenie, as she was lovingly known,

will be remembered for her kindness,
compassion and love for her fellow man.
Formal speech / informal speech

OR

Dialogue / written interview.

NO! SPEECH!

Oh Yes!
√
Good morning / Good day
/ Good afternoon /
Good evening ladies and
gentlemen
 When you write a speech, write
from your heart!
Mean what you say!

You have been asked to present a speech at the

Open Day for potential Grade 8 learners. You have
to ensure that your speech convinces the learners
that this is the school for them.

Tell them of all the exciting things your school has

to offer. Make sure you include references to
academic achievements, cultural events, sporting
activities and fun events your school may celebrate.
Consider that you are writing
your speech:

❖ Who are you addressing?

❖ What is the occasion?
❖ Register, tone
❖ Add humour (if the occasion
allows)
 PLANNING
exciting events
fun events

Open day for Grade 8s

cultural events
academic
achievements

sporting activities
Good morning future Grade 8s. I am … and I welcome you
on behalf of our Principal, Staff, RCL and learners. We
are exceptionally excited to know that there are so many
learners who wish to become part of our great family.

Academic achievements
The main goal of selecting a school is to be able to
become the best you can academically. Yes, that’s true,
but there is no harm done in having the best experience
of your life while doing this!
Exciting events – examples supplied in next paragraph
If you become a member of our family you get to
participate in some of the most exciting events ever! We
not only concentrate on academic achievements but
believe that a well-balanced life is of utter importance.
Success = happiness and here is where you’ll find it!
Become part and parcel of our special Grade 8 club. This
exclusive offer includes team building camps, the famous
Fools’ Concert, athletics meetings, Girl Guides and
Boy Scouts, art and hobby classes, music and singing
lessons and of course the very popular Melodrama. Well,
I haven’t even touched on the pageant for our school’s
Junior and Senior princes and princesses or the Idols
Evening, or even the Spring challenge. If you want to
have the best stories to tell your grandchildren one day,
then you had better start getting your material together
now! Fun events/cultural events/sporting activities

Becoming a member of this family is your first step in

the right direction. This is a choice you will never regret!

Welcome to our family!

DIALOGUE/INTERVIEW

• Set the scenario

• Start at the action!
• Don’t waste words with
introductions and greeting
one another!
Topic
Writing an interview:

You have an opportunity to interview a

celebrity who has had his/her reputation
tarnished.

Write the interview which

transpires between you
and the celebrity.

(TARNISHED =
damaged, ruined)
Trevor: You have been accused of a very serious
offence. How has this affected your
work?

John: I have been falsely accused of stealing

my former girlfriend’s cell phone.
Although I was found innocent of the act
it has had a negative effect on any job
offers I might receive. It seems you are
found guilty by default!
GIVE YOUR CHARACTERS NAMES e.g.
The interviewer may be Trevor Noah and
the celebrity may be Charlize Theron or
Bonang Matheba.

Do not use
Me: OR Interviewer:
You: Interviewee:
Now is your time
to shine!

If you write something

personal and your religion
is an important part of your
life, write about it. BUT be careful!

Just don’t preach or quote large portions

from the Scriptures!
Serious consequences! Have fun, be
positive but stay
away from:

• Politics
• Religion - preaching
• Drunken parties
• Sexual exploits
• Vulgarity
Serious consequences!

So what happens if I ignore these

instructions?
Your Language mark may only be one
column higher than Content, so when
Content is marked down, you penalise
yourself!
 125/250 marks

Paper 3 = 100
Paper 2 Literary essay = 25
NB! Make sure you do
ALL 3 WRITING
PIECES!
PREPARE FOR PAPER 3!
REMEMBER – Teachers and markers read
a lot AND ACTUALLY WATCH FILMS.

THEY HAVE A LIFE!

THEY DO NOT LIVE UNDER A ROCK.

Your best is good enough!
Study!
You are almost there!
Good Luck!