Question 3 Model Answer: Interview (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Language)
Revision Note
Written by: Deb Orrock
Reviewed by: Kate Lee
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:
Unannotated model answer
Model answer: 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. It is really important to dedicate a good amount of time to training. For this particular challenge, I started six months before the event, as there is such a lot to get organised: you need time to build up strength and stamina. For me, it was also essential to get a coach who was an expert in these kinds of challenges, and who could help me to develop monthly training plans in order to build up my fitness. It also helped that he could keep me on track and help me to stay motivated and focused. Because Ironman involves different types of physical challenges, you need to ensure that training involves bike rides, swims and runs, which also involves planning. I started on 1-3 hour bike rides initially, and then I was lucky as we had a pool near to where we live in which I could train for the swimming element. This was great because swimming was probably my weakest discipline initially. If you are not lucky enough to live near a pool, then this definitely needs to be considered as it is important that you are practising all of the disciplines, not just the one you find easiest. Finally, making sure you have the right kit is also essential, such as different pairs of goggles with different tints, so that you are prepared for different road and weather conditions and that you feel as comfortable as possible during the event. 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 was very lucky to have such an understanding partner who supported me throughout my training. Initially it was a bonding experience, but as the preparation became more intense, I was more and more absent. So I would say be aware of this and try to train together or do things together for as long as you can. Lots of people questioned my decision to sacrifice so much for this challenge. My business partner in particular was less than supportive, and I did find it difficult to balance everything, but it helps if everyone is on the same page and if you are able to talk through any potential barriers. Yes, your social life will be affected, but it’s not forever so don’t let that put you off. But you do have to be aware of the financial implications of entering this kind of event, such as the cost of all the kit and other paraphernalia. So be realistic and consider what you really need. What were the rewards of completing an Ironman for you and your family? When I finished the event, I felt a massive sense of excitement and achievement. The crowd cheering really gave the finish line a sense of occasion, and the fact that my kids were there as well made it a special memory to cherish. My head was held high when I crossed the finish line, as I realised that I’d done it and it was all worth it. 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 it shows a good example to my children of the power of physical and mental resilience and self-belief. And the publicity definitely helped to 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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