Question 3 Model Answer: Article (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Language): Revision Note
Question 3 Model Answer: Article
For this task, you will be asked to produce a piece of writing in a particular format, based on what you have read in Text C. You may be asked to write in one of six possible formats (genres):
A letter
A report
A journal entry
A speech
An interview
An article
The following guide will demonstrate how to answer Question 3 in the format of an article. The task itself is taken from a past exam paper.
Text and question
The following text is about a drummer who has been invited to play with a jazz band at their next gig, which is at an open-air summer concert.
Question:
Article model answer
Based on the above question, the following model answer is an example of a full-mark article response:
Worked Example
This month's featured concert is the last of a series of open-air performances at Sutton Park, featuring The Nightblooming Jazzmen. With the exception of their drummer, "Old Stanley", the Jazzmen are a group of retired musicians who are clearly comfortable with each other. They are definitely a bunch of charmers, with their bow ties and moustaches. In an attempt to draw bigger audiences, they have moved to jazz and swing, and the retro vibe suits them. There are no magic tricks or backing tracks here; just a stripped-back, honest sound which the crowd lapped up.
The venue was a graffiti-covered bandstand in the local park, a regular event each summer, with the daytime crowd consisting mainly of the older generation. This was a loyal crowd, and the Jazzmen's talent swayed everyone in their favour, as the reception was largely positive. Afterwards, as we munched on crackers and dips, the atmosphere was lively as the Jazzmen's groupies, Ruth, Nancy and Betty, recalled previous concerts and the fact that they all love the music.
At the party, I grabbed Old Stanley (real name Nathanial) to find out how he fits in with the rest of the band. He is a lot younger, sporting a false moustache and bleached eyebrows, but it's clear he is making an effort to fit in, and the rest of the band appreciate it. His musical ability is obvious, having learned his skills from his father, once an accomplished jazz musician. While his manners might not be on a par with the others (I catch him talking with his mouth full), he obviously feels at home with the style of music and the rest of the band, especially Hal. He therefore is a welcome addition to the ensemble.
Commentary
The answer uses the suggested sentence starter from the task instructions
The response directly refers to details from the text, with appropriate development
The tone and register are appropriate for an article written for a music magazine (sub-headings are not required for this kind of article)
Each bullet point in the task is dealt with in a separate paragraph
Details from the text are well integrated into the response
The first person perspective is appropriate for the format of the task
Development is not too far-fetched
Examiner Tips and Tricks
The suggested word count for this task is a guide, and you are not penalised for writing under or over 250-350 words. However, writing too little can mean that your answer does not have enough development or detail. Writing too much can mean that you go off topic and lose focus, which again can be self-penalising. It is therefore a good idea to stick as closely as you can to the word count guidance.
Our model answers are not written in timed, exam conditions. We have therefore shown a range of points that could be included to answer this question, and provided a model you can use to help with the structure of your answer.
You can find further guidance on suggested word counts for CIE here.
Summary
Remember to read the question carefully and highlight:
The instructions (what you have to do)
The focus of each bullet point
Re-read Text C and highlight the relevant information you can use in your answer
Address each bullet point in order:
Make sure you cover all of the bullet points as equally as possible
Base all of your answer on the ideas and details you find in Text C
Decide on the voice and style you want to create and maintain that in your answer
Do not just repeat details of what happened:
You need to develop your ideas to demonstrate understanding
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