Question 3 Model Answer: Speech (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Language) : Revision Note
Question 3 Model Answer: Speech
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 a speech. The task itself is taken from a past exam paper.
Text C and Question 3
The following example of Text C is about a journalist who has been invited to spend time at a base station in Antarctica.
Question:
Question 3 speech model answer
Based on the above question, the following model answer is an example of a full-mark speech response:
Worked Example
Good morning everyone! My name is Simon and I'm a Base Commander in Antarctica. I'm here today to talk to you about the opportunities and challenges of living and working on a base station in such difficult conditions.
There are a variety of jobs available at the base station. You might be working as a scientist, collecting samples out in a field camp and contributing to research into Earth's climate. You could be a marine biologist, who dive with seals and orcas. Or you could work as a mechanic or engineer to keep the place running, as they look after the planes, generators and ski equipment. And, of course, we would all be stuck without the pilots who transport us all to and from the field camps.
If you decide that working at a base camp is for you, then what can you expect when you arrive? Well, you'll be shown around, and you'll notice that there are no cafes or Wi-Fi. There isn't much in the way of entertainment - just card games and magazines really. But don't worry; you'll be too busy to notice. You'll be given field training, where you'll learn to abseil into crevasses, get yourselves out and rescue someone who has fallen in. You'll be responsible for putting up your own tents and cooking on camp-stoves, and then there are regular briefings and trips to collect water supplies. In the summer months, the scientists give lectures which give expert opinions on what we are studying, and its great to get different perspectives on things.
However, there are lots of challenges involved. It can be very isolating out here, especially in the winter, and some of the animals we share our home with can also be dangerous. There is not much leisure time, and we have to work hard, but there are also lots of rewards. We build a real sense of team-work and the people we work with become like family. The landscape is inspirational, and helps you to develop respect for our planet and its climate. So, if you feel like you've got what it takes, then I'd recommend giving it a go!
Commentary
The answer starts by demonstrating understanding of the format of the task (a speech) and what the task is about
Each bullet point in the question is dealt with in a separate paragraph
Direct references to the text are developed and expanded upon
The answer uses direct address to the audience, which is appropriate for a speech
All of the examples are taken from the text
The answer uses inference to develop points appropriately
The answer sustains a confident “voice” throughout
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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