Question 3 Model Answer: Interview (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Language) : Revision Note
Question 3 Model Answer: Interview
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 interview.
Text C and Question 3
The following is Text C taken from a past exam paper. It is about a writer’s experience of supporting her husband’s training to compete in an extreme event.
Question:
Question 3 interview model answer
Based on the above question, the following model answer is an example of a full-mark, interview-style response:
Worked Example
How exactly do you need to prepare for a challenge like Ironman and why is each aspect of that preparation important?
There are lots of elements involved in preparing for a challenge like Ironman. You need to dedicate lots of time to training; in my case, I started six months before the event because it takes time to build stamina. For me, it was also essential to get a coach who had experience of these types of challenges, as they could help me stay on track and motivated. Because Ironman involves different activities, you need to ensure your training involves cycling, swimming and running, and focus more time on your weakest area. Don't just concentrate on the thing you find easiest as you have more to gain by working on the activity you find hardest.
How do you think preparing for Ironman affected other areas of your life and what advice would you offer anyone considering entering an Ironman for the first time?
You definitely have to make sacrifices when training for this kind of event. I didn't get to spend much time with my family, and we missed out on things like our regular camping trips. I'm very lucky to have a supportive partner, but I would suggest trying to train together or do things together for as long as you can. Your social life will be affected, but it's not forever so don't let that put you off. There is a financial consideration as well, such as the cost of all the kit, so you need to factor that in if you are considering entering for the first time.
What were the rewards of completing an Ironman for you and your family?
When I finished the event, I felt a massive sense of achievement. The crowd were all cheering when I crossed the finishing line, and having my kids there made it a special memory to cherish. I feel as though I could be a bit of an inspiration for others, as my wife is planning on entering next year, and I think doing this kind of challenge sets a good example to my children. If I can do it, anyone can! And the publicity definitely helped boost my new travel company's business!
Commentary
The answer starts by addressing the first bullet point, in the “voice” of the character
The answer references specific details from the text
Direct references to the text are then developed and expanded upon
The tone and choice of language is appropriate for an interview
The character’s “voice” is confident and sustained
The bullet point asks what advice the character would give, so using direct address is appropriate
The answer continues to reference specific detail from Text C
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 three 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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