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SPM English 1119 study materials
SPM English 1119 study resources

SPM English 1119 practice questions

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Question 1Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In the SPM English 1119 Paper 1 section on directed writing, you are asked to write a letter to a friend about a school event. Which opening is most appropriate for this task?

  1. To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to inform you of a school event that took place recently.
  2. Dear Sir or Madam, I wish to bring to your attention the details of our recent carnival.
  3. Dear Wei Ling, How are you? I hope you are well. I am writing to tell you about our school's Science Carnival. Correct answer.
  4. Respected Principal, I would like to report on the success of our Science Carnival.

Explanation

Directed writing requires you to match the register and format to the stated audience. A letter to a friend uses an informal greeting, a friendly opening and a chatty tone. Formal salutations such as 'To Whom It May Concern' or 'Dear Sir or Madam' signal an official reader, not a peer.

Question 2Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In the SPM English 1119 summary task, which of the following best describes what you must do with the original passage?

  1. Include every point in the passage to ensure full coverage.
  2. Copy the most important sentences word for word to keep accuracy.
  3. Add your own opinions about the passage's arguments.
  4. Select relevant points and rewrite them in your own words within the word limit. Correct answer.

Explanation

A summary must capture the relevant content concisely and express it in your own words, staying within the prescribed word limit. Lifting whole sentences is penalised because it shows no paraphrasing skill. Personal opinion and exhaustive coverage are outside the task.

Question 3Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Read this sentence from a Paper 1 comprehension passage: 'The villagers had barely recovered from the flood when the second storm struck.' What does the sentence most strongly suggest about the villagers?

  1. They had forgotten the earlier flood entirely.
  2. They faced the second storm while still recovering from the first. Correct answer.
  3. They were enjoying a long period of calm weather.
  4. They had fully rebuilt their homes before the storm.

Explanation

The structure 'had barely recovered ... when' shows that the second event happened almost immediately, before recovery was complete. The word 'barely' signals that recovery was hardly achieved. Therefore the villagers met the new storm while still vulnerable.

Question 4Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence in a Paper 1 continuous-writing essay uses a correctly formed complex sentence?

  1. Although the rain was heavy, so the match continued without interruption.
  2. Although the rain was heavy, but the match continued without interruption.
  3. Although the rain was heavy, and the match continued without interruption.
  4. Although the rain was heavy, the match continued without interruption. Correct answer.

Explanation

A subordinate clause beginning with 'although' is joined to a main clause without adding another conjunction. Adding 'but', 'so' or 'and' after 'although' creates a double connector, which is a common SPM writing error. Only the first option links the clauses cleanly.

Question 5Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In the SPM English 1119 Paper 1 directed writing task, you are given a scenario and several notes. What is the best way to use the notes?

  1. Reproduce each note exactly as a separate sentence.
  2. List the notes as bullet points at the end of the letter.
  3. Develop the notes into connected paragraphs with elaboration. Correct answer.
  4. Ignore the notes and write freely on the topic.

Explanation

The notes are prompts, not sentences to be copied. Candidates are expected to expand each point with relevant detail and link the ideas into coherent paragraphs suited to the required format. Copying notes verbatim or dumping them as a list loses marks for development and organisation.

Question 6Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A comprehension passage states: 'The council's decision was met with muted approval.' Which option best explains 'muted approval'?

  1. Confusion about what was decided
  2. Total rejection of the decision
  3. Quiet acceptance without strong enthusiasm Correct answer.
  4. Loud and enthusiastic support

Explanation

'Muted' means restrained or subdued, so 'muted approval' describes agreement expressed without much enthusiasm. It is acceptance rather than outright rejection or noisy support. Recognising the connotation of the modifier is the key skill here.

Question 7Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 essay, which sentence uses the colon correctly?

  1. She packed three things for the trip: and left early.
  2. She packed: three things for the trip a torch.
  3. She packed three things: for the trip, a torch and a map.
  4. She packed three things for the trip: a torch, a raincoat and a map. Correct answer.

Explanation

A colon introduces a list or explanation that follows a complete main clause. In the correct option, the clause 'She packed three things for the trip' is complete and the colon introduces the list of items. The other options place the colon where the clause is broken or incomplete.

Question 8Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence best demonstrates an appropriate topic sentence for a body paragraph in a Paper 1 argumentative essay?

  1. For example, many students cycle to school every day.
  2. School uniforms should be compulsory because they reduce social pressure. Correct answer.
  3. Therefore, I conclude my argument here.
  4. In conclusion, uniforms are a topic people discuss a lot.

Explanation

A topic sentence states the paragraph's main claim and often signals the reason that will be developed. The correct option makes a clear assertion with a supporting reason, which the rest of the paragraph can then explain. Examples, conclusions and vague statements do not open a body paragraph effectively.

Question 9Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Read the sentence: 'The old bridge, which had stood for a century, collapsed during the storm.' Which statement about the underlined relative clause is correct?

  1. It adds extra information about an already identified bridge. Correct answer.
  2. It changes the sentence into a question.
  3. It is the main clause of the sentence.
  4. It is essential to identify which bridge collapsed.

Explanation

A relative clause set off by commas is non-defining: it supplies extra detail about something already identified. Here 'the old bridge' is already specific, so the clause merely adds information. Without commas, the same clause could be defining, but the commas here make it non-essential.

Question 10Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In the SPM English 1119 summary task, you are told to write the summary in not more than 130 words. Which practice best helps you stay within the limit?

  1. Include direct quotations to save time.
  2. Write as much as possible and hope the examiner overlooks extra words.
  3. Draft freely, then count and trim unnecessary words. Correct answer.
  4. Count only the words in the final sentence.

Explanation

Drafting first and then editing down lets you keep the key points while removing redundant words. Careful counting at the end ensures you respect the limit, since exceeding it can cost marks. Quoting and last-minute guessing do not control length reliably.

Question 11Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which option correctly rewrites the direct speech as reported speech? Direct speech: 'I will finish the report tomorrow,' said Aina.

  1. Aina says that she would finish the report tomorrow.
  2. Aina said that she will finish the report tomorrow.
  3. Aina said that I will finish the report the next day.
  4. Aina said that she would finish the report the next day. Correct answer.

Explanation

When the reporting verb is in the past ('said'), the modal 'will' shifts to 'would' and 'tomorrow' shifts to 'the next day'. The pronoun 'I' also changes to 'she' to match the speaker. Only the second option applies all these backshift rules correctly.

Question 12Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A Paper 1 comprehension question asks: 'What was the writer's main purpose in describing the market?' Which approach is most effective?

  1. Quote the first sentence of the paragraph as the answer.
  2. List every detail mentioned about the market.
  3. State whether you personally enjoyed the description.
  4. Consider the overall impression created and its link to the passage's theme. Correct answer.

Explanation

Questions about the writer's purpose require you to look beyond single details to the effect and intent of the description. Linking the description to the wider theme or message of the passage shows understanding. Quoting, listing details or giving personal reactions does not address purpose.

Question 13Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

  1. Walking along the beach, the children collected shells.
  2. The children collected shells while walking along the beach.
  3. While the children walked along the beach, they collected shells.
  4. Walking along the beach, the shells were collected by the children. Correct answer.

Explanation

A dangling modifier occurs when the introductory phrase does not logically describe the subject of the main clause. In the second option, 'Walking along the beach' appears to describe 'the shells', which cannot walk. The other sentences attach the modifier to a subject that can perform the action.

Question 14Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In directed writing for Paper 1, a task asks you to write an article for the school magazine about healthy eating. Which feature is most important to include?

  1. A closing 'Yours faithfully'
  2. A formal salutation such as 'Dear Editor'
  3. A reference list of sources at the end
  4. A headline and an engaging introduction addressed to student readers Correct answer.

Explanation

An article for a school magazine needs an appropriate headline and an introduction that draws in the student audience. The register is semi-formal and lively rather than like a formal letter. Salutations, sign-offs and reference lists belong to other formats.

Question 15Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Read this line from a passage: 'Her laughter was a beacon in the gloom of the ward.' Which literary device is used, and what does it suggest?

  1. Hyperbole; it exaggerates the loudness of her laughter.
  2. Simile; it compares her laughter to a light using 'like'.
  3. Personification; it gives laughter human qualities.
  4. Metaphor; it suggests her laughter brought hope and cheer to a sad place. Correct answer.

Explanation

The line states that her laughter 'was a beacon', making a direct comparison without 'like' or 'as', which is a metaphor. The image of a beacon in gloom suggests hope and comfort in a depressing setting. Recognising the device and interpreting its effect are both needed.

Question 16Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence uses the apostrophe correctly for possession in a Paper 1 essay?

  1. The student's council organised the event's.
  2. The students council organised the event.
  3. The students' council organised the event. Correct answer.
  4. The students council's organised the event.

Explanation

For a plural noun ending in -s, the possessive is formed by adding an apostrophe after the s. 'Students' council' therefore correctly shows a council belonging to the students. The other options misplace the apostrophe or omit it entirely.

Question 17Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A comprehension passage says: 'Critics argue that the policy is a band-aid solution.' What does the writer imply about the policy?

  1. It provides a permanent cure for the problem.
  2. It is too expensive to implement.
  3. It has been rejected by all critics.
  4. It offers temporary relief without solving the underlying issue. Correct answer.

Explanation

A 'band-aid solution' is an idiom for a quick fix that covers a problem without addressing its cause. The phrase implies temporary relief rather than a lasting remedy. Recognising idiomatic expressions is essential for inference questions.

Question 18Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence best uses a semicolon to link two related independent clauses?

  1. The exam was difficult; and most students finished on time.
  2. The exam was difficult; because most students finished on time.
  3. The exam was difficult; however, most students finished on time. Correct answer.
  4. The exam was; difficult, most students finished on time.

Explanation

A semicolon can join two independent clauses, often with a conjunctive adverb such as 'however' followed by a comma. The first option contains two complete clauses correctly linked. The others create fragments or misuse the semicolon with a coordinating conjunction or mid-clause.

Question 19Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In the SPM English 1119 Paper 1 continuous writing section, what does 'continuous writing' require of candidates?

  1. Summarising a passage in a fixed number of words
  2. Completing grammar exercises with single words
  3. Answering short comprehension questions in full sentences
  4. Writing one extended composition on a chosen topic Correct answer.

Explanation

Continuous writing is the composition section where candidates choose a topic and write an extended essay with a clear introduction, body and conclusion. It is distinct from comprehension, summary and grammar tasks. Understanding each section's requirements helps candidates allocate time correctly.

Question 20Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence correctly uses a conditional structure to express an unreal situation in the past?

  1. If I studied harder, I would have passed the test.
  2. If I had studied harder, I would pass the test.
  3. If I study harder, I would have passed the test.
  4. If I had studied harder, I would have passed the test. Correct answer.

Explanation

The third conditional describes an unreal past situation using 'if + past perfect' in the condition and 'would have + past participle' in the result. Only the first option matches both parts correctly. The others mix tenses from different conditional types.

Question 21Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A passage states: 'The scheme was rolled out in stages, allowing officials to iron out problems before the next phase.' What does 'iron out' mean here?

  1. To resolve or remove difficulties Correct answer.
  2. To increase the cost of the scheme
  3. To delay the project deliberately
  4. To press clothes neatly

Explanation

'Iron out' is a phrasal verb meaning to resolve or smooth away problems. In context, officials used the staged roll-out to fix issues before continuing. Recognising phrasal verbs in context is a common Paper 1 vocabulary skill.

Question 22Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which option best describes the function of a thesis statement in a Paper 1 argumentative essay?

  1. It states the writer's main position and guides the essay's structure. Correct answer.
  2. It lists every example the essay will use.
  3. It repeats the essay question word for word.
  4. It provides a vivid description of the setting.

Explanation

A thesis statement expresses the central claim of an argumentative essay and signals the direction the body paragraphs will take. It is not a description, an exhaustive list, or a restatement of the prompt. A clear thesis helps the examiner follow the argument.

Question 23Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Read: 'Not only did the team lose the final, but they also lost their captain to injury.' Which grammatical feature does this sentence illustrate?

  1. A dangling participle
  2. A defining relative clause
  3. Inversion after a negative adverbial Correct answer.
  4. Passive voice

Explanation

When a sentence begins with a negative adverbial such as 'not only', the subject and auxiliary verb are inverted: 'did the team lose'. This is a common structure for emphasis in formal writing. The other labels describe different grammatical patterns not present here.

Question 24Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In directed writing, you must write a report to the principal about a school clean-up campaign. Which tone and format best suit the task?

  1. A narrative story describing your feelings during the event
  2. A formal, objective report with headings and a clear conclusion Correct answer.
  3. A persuasive letter using emotional appeals to students
  4. A chatty, humorous style with slang and emojis

Explanation

A report to the principal is an official document, so it needs a formal, objective tone and a clear structure, often with headings and a conclusion. Slang, emotional appeals and personal narrative are inappropriate for this audience and purpose. Matching tone and format to the audience is central to directed writing.

Question 25Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence uses the passive voice most appropriately for a formal Paper 1 report?

  1. Yesterday the committee was approving new rules.
  2. The committee approved the new rules yesterday.
  3. The committee is going to approve new rules.
  4. The new rules were approved by the committee yesterday. Correct answer.

Explanation

The passive voice places focus on the action and its recipient rather than the doer, which suits formal reports where the process matters more than who performed it. The second option correctly forms the passive with 'were approved by'. The others are active or awkwardly progressive.

Question 26Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 directed writing task, you must write a letter to a friend describing a school trip. Which opening salutation and register would be most appropriate?

  1. To Whom It May Concern, please find enclosed details of the trip.
  2. Dear Editor, I wish to comment on the recent school excursion.
  3. Dear Aina, I hope you are well - you'll never guess what happened on our trip! Correct answer.
  4. Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to inform you of the recent excursion.

Explanation

A letter to a friend is informal, so it needs a friendly salutation using the friend's name and a relaxed, personal tone. Formal openings such as 'Dear Sir or Madam' or 'To Whom It May Concern' belong to official correspondence, not personal letters.

Question 27Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A Paper 1 comprehension passage reads: 'The volunteers worked tirelessly, yet the floodwaters kept rising.' Which relationship between the two clauses does 'yet' signal?

  1. Sequence in time
  2. Contrast Correct answer.
  3. Addition
  4. Cause and effect

Explanation

'Yet' is a coordinating conjunction that introduces a contrast or surprising turn, here setting the volunteers' effort against the continuing rise of the water. It does not show cause, addition, or a time sequence.

Question 28Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In the summary-writing task of Paper 1, which sentence is the best example of a concise summary point that avoids lifting the original wording?

  1. Students said the timetable meant lunch was rushed and not very nice at all.
  2. The new timetable was, in the opinion of many students, quite bad for lunch.
  3. The revised schedule left pupils with insufficient time for a proper midday meal. Correct answer.
  4. Many students felt that the new timetable gave them too little time to eat lunch properly.

Explanation

An effective summary point is brief, keeps the key idea, and is reworded in the candidate's own language. Option 1 compresses the idea into one tight clause using original phrasing, while the others are wordy, vague, or copy the source loosely.

Question 29Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 argumentative essay, which sentence functions best as a counter-argument before the writer's rebuttal?

  1. Some parents argue that uniforms are costly, but the savings from reduced clothing purchases outweigh this. Correct answer.
  2. Therefore, school uniforms should be made compulsory for all students.
  3. In conclusion, uniforms are clearly the best choice for every school.
  4. Uniforms are blue and grey and are worn by every student in the school.

Explanation

A counter-argument acknowledges the opposing view before the writer answers it, and option 1 does exactly this by conceding the cost concern and then rebutting it. The other options are a conclusion, a description, and a closing statement, none of which concede an opposing position.

Question 30Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Read this sentence from a Paper 1 passage: 'The manager's explanation only muddied the waters.' What does the idiom 'muddied the waters' mean here?

  1. Made the situation clearer
  2. Delayed a decision indefinitely
  3. Made the issue more confused Correct answer.
  4. Cleaned up a messy problem

Explanation

To 'muddy the waters' means to make a matter more confused or unclear rather than to clarify it. The adverb 'only' reinforces that the explanation failed to help.

Question 31Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 directed writing task you must write a formal report to the principal about a recycling campaign. Which sentence best maintains the required impersonal, formal tone?

  1. You won't believe how much stuff we recycled, Principal!
  2. Honestly, everyone did a great job and I'm so proud of us.
  3. The campaign achieved its targets, and participation exceeded expectations. Correct answer.
  4. We totally smashed our recycling targets, which was awesome!

Explanation

A formal report uses impersonal, factual language and avoids exclamation, slang, and direct address. Option 1 reports the outcome in measured, neutral phrasing appropriate to an official audience.

Question 32Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence correctly uses a relative clause to add essential identifying information in a Paper 1 essay?

  1. The teacher who had taught for twenty years retired last term. Correct answer.
  2. The teacher, who had taught for twenty years, retired.
  3. The teacher, that had taught for twenty years, retired.
  4. The teacher who had taught for twenty years, retired last term.

Explanation

A defining relative clause identifies which teacher is meant and takes no commas; 'who' is the correct relative pronoun for a person. Option 1 uses commas, making the clause non-defining and merely extra information.

Question 33Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A Paper 1 comprehension question asks why the writer repeats the word 'dust' throughout a passage about a neglected town. Which answer best addresses the question?

  1. The repetition creates a mood of neglect and decay that supports the writer's critical view of the town. Correct answer.
  2. The word dust is a noun that describes small particles of dirt.
  3. Because the writer likes the word dust and uses it often.
  4. Because dust is mentioned several times in the passage.

Explanation

Questions about repetition ask for its effect, so the answer must link the device to mood and the writer's purpose. Option 1 explains how the repetition shapes the reader's impression and reinforces the critical tone.

Question 34Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence uses a modal verb to express strong obligation in a set of school rules for a Paper 1 essay?

  1. Students must wear safety goggles in the laboratory. Correct answer.
  2. Students might join the science club.
  3. Students could try the new canteen.
  4. Students may bring their own lunch.

Explanation

'Must' expresses strong obligation or necessity, which suits a firm rule about safety equipment. The other modals express permission, possibility, or suggestion, which are weaker than obligation.

Question 35Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 continuous writing task, a candidate writes a story. Which sentence best creates suspense at the end of a paragraph?

  1. The door creaked open, and the room beyond was completely dark. Correct answer.
  2. She walked into the room and sat down on a chair.
  3. The room was quite dark and she felt a little nervous about it.
  4. Then she did several things and the day went on as usual.

Explanation

Suspense is built by leaving a threat or mystery unresolved, and option 2 ends on an ominous image that invites the reader forward. The other sentences are flat, vague, or too comfortably resolved to create tension.

Question 36Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Read: 'Had the committee acted sooner, the losses would have been smaller.' Which statement about this sentence is correct?

  1. It states a general truth that is always true.
  2. It expresses a past condition that was not fulfilled and its imagined result. Correct answer.
  3. It gives a direct instruction for future action.
  4. It describes a real past event that actually happened.

Explanation

This is a third conditional with inversion ('Had the committee acted'), used for an unreal past situation and its imagined consequence. It implies the committee did not act sooner, so the smaller losses did not occur.

Question 37Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 passage, the writer describes a character as 'a walking calculator'. Which technique is used and what does it suggest?

  1. Metaphor, suggesting the character is highly calculating or numerate. Correct answer.
  2. Hyperbole, suggesting the character is very old.
  3. Personification, suggesting the character is a machine.
  4. Simile, suggesting the character is slow.

Explanation

Calling a person 'a walking calculator' is a metaphor because it states an identity without 'like' or 'as'. It suggests the character is extremely good with numbers or coldly calculating in manner.

Question 38Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence correctly uses a dash to add an emphatic aside in a Paper 1 essay?

  1. The final decision; and it surprised everyone; was to cancel the event.
  2. The final decision, and it surprised everyone, was to cancel the event.
  3. The final decision - and it surprised everyone - was to cancel the event. Correct answer.
  4. The final decision and it surprised everyone was to cancel the event.

Explanation

A pair of dashes can enclose a parenthetical aside for emphasis, and option 1 does this cleanly while the main clause stays intact. The other options either omit punctuation or use marks that break the sentence structure.

Question 39Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A Paper 1 comprehension passage states: 'The new library is a welcome addition, although its opening hours leave much to be desired.' What is the writer's attitude?

  1. Completely enthusiastic about the library.
  2. Largely positive but critical of one aspect. Correct answer.
  3. Neutral and unwilling to judge.
  4. Entirely negative about the library.

Explanation

The writer approves of the library ('a welcome addition') but criticises the opening hours ('leave much to be desired'), so the attitude is mixed but broadly positive. The concessive 'although' signals the shift to criticism.

Question 40Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In directed writing, you are asked to write a speech for a school assembly persuading students to reduce food waste. Which sentence uses the most effective persuasive device for this audience?

  1. It is generally agreed that reducing waste is a good idea for everyone.
  2. Imagine throwing away a full meal every day while a classmate goes hungry - can we really accept that? Correct answer.
  3. Food waste is a problem that exists in many countries around the world.
  4. Statistics show that food waste occurs at various stages of the supply chain.

Explanation

A rhetorical question paired with vivid imagery appeals directly to the audience's values and emotions, which is effective in a persuasive speech to peers. The other options are flat, abstract, or weakly hedged.

Question 41Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence correctly uses the present perfect tense to describe an action with relevance to the present in a Paper 1 essay?

  1. The council introduced a recycling scheme in 2019 and it served every household.
  2. The council introduces a recycling scheme that served every household.
  3. The council was introducing a recycling scheme that serves every household.
  4. The council has recently introduced a recycling scheme that now serves every household. Correct answer.

Explanation

The present perfect ('has introduced') links a past action to the present, which fits the 'recently' and the continuing result 'now serves'. The other options mix tenses in ways that break the time relationship.

Question 42Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 comprehension passage, the phrase 'the government's promise proved to be pie in the sky' appears. What does the writer suggest about the promise?

  1. It was made secretly.
  2. It was generous and well funded.
  3. It was unrealistic and unlikely to be fulfilled. Correct answer.
  4. It was kept exactly as stated.

Explanation

'Pie in the sky' is an idiom for an appealing but unrealistic hope that is unlikely to be achieved. The writer therefore doubts the promise will be kept.

Question 43Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 essay, which sentence best uses a participle phrase to combine ideas smoothly?

  1. The students collected the data, they analysed it carefully.
  2. Having collected the data, the students analysed it carefully. Correct answer.
  3. The students collected the data. And then the students analysed it carefully.
  4. The students collected the data and the data was analysed by them carefully.

Explanation

A perfect participle phrase ('Having collected the data') shows that one action finished before the next, giving a smooth, well-connected sentence. The other options are choppy, run together, or needlessly passive.

Question 44Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A Paper 1 passage uses the sentence: 'The rain did not stop the fans; it seemed only to fuel their excitement.' Which feature makes this sentence effective?

  1. It uses a semicolon to balance two contrasting clauses. Correct answer.
  2. It uses a dash to interrupt the main clause.
  3. It uses a colon to introduce a list.
  4. It uses a comma splice to link the clauses.

Explanation

The semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses that stand in contrast, creating a balanced, emphatic effect. There is no list, comma splice, or interrupting dash in the sentence.

Question 45Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 directed writing task, you must write a letter of complaint to a shop manager about a faulty item. Which sentence best states the purpose politely and clearly?

  1. I am writing to request a refund for a faulty item purchased on 3 May. Correct answer.
  2. I am writing to complain, and you had better fix this immediately.
  3. Your product is rubbish and I want my money back right now.
  4. I am writing about a thing I bought that does not work properly.

Explanation

A letter of complaint should state the purpose and the specific request politely and precisely, which option 1 does with a date and a clear remedy. The others are rude, aggressive, or too vague to be effective.

Question 46Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence correctly uses the past perfect to show which of two past events happened first?

  1. When we arrived, the film starts.
  2. When we arrived, the film had already started. Correct answer.
  3. When we arrived, the film was starting.
  4. When we arrived, the film started.

Explanation

The past perfect ('had already started') shows that the film began before the arrival, clarifying the order of past events. The other options make the sequence unclear or mix in the present tense.

Question 47Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In a Paper 1 comprehension passage, the writer states: 'Few would deny that the scheme has merit.' What is the effect of this phrasing?

  1. It proves the scheme has failed.
  2. It invites the reader to agree by presenting the view as widely shared. Correct answer.
  3. It suggests the writer is unsure of the facts.
  4. It shows the writer strongly disagrees with the scheme.

Explanation

'Few would deny' is a rhetorical way of presenting a claim as common sense, drawing the reader into agreement. It concedes that the scheme has value rather than attacking it.

Question 48Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

In the summary task, a candidate writes: 'The writer says that pollution is bad and that we should do something about it.' Why is this a weak summary point?

  1. It is too short to be a summary point.
  2. It is vague and omits the specific ideas the passage actually presents. Correct answer.
  3. It uses the writer's name, which summaries must never do.
  4. It contains a direct quotation.

Explanation

A summary point must capture the specific key ideas of the passage in condensed form. Saying 'pollution is bad' is too general and drops the particular causes or solutions the passage discusses.

Question 49Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

Which sentence correctly uses 'whom' in a formal Paper 1 essay?

  1. The candidate whom won the prize thanked her teachers.
  2. The candidate whom the judges praised thanked them warmly. Correct answer.
  3. The candidate who the judges praised won the prize.
  4. The candidate whom was praised thanked the judges.

Explanation

'Whom' is the object of the verb 'praised', so it is correct in 'whom the judges praised'. In the other options the pronoun is used as a subject where 'who' is required, or the form is inconsistent.

Question 50Reading and Writing (Paper 1)

A Paper 1 passage ends: 'The town had changed, but the river ran on as it always had.' What is the main effect of this closing sentence?

  1. It introduces a new character.
  2. It suggests the river has dried up.
  3. It shows the town has not changed at all.
  4. It emphasises continuity amid change. Correct answer.

Explanation

The contrast between the changed town and the unchanging river highlights continuity persisting through change. The river 'ran on as it always had', so it is not drying up and the town has clearly changed.