How to Answer Question 2: Short-Answer Questions

Paper 1: Reading is a compulsory exam in the CIE IGCSE, and CIE examiners advise completing the questions in the order they appear.

Question 2 is divided into two tasks: a short-answer task (2a-c) and a language analysis task (2d). Both tasks are based on Text C in your reading insert.

 

The following guide will provide you with the information you need to confidently answer Question 2: Short-answer questions.

 

Overview

For this task, you will answer a series of sub-questions based on Text C. These sub-questions will vary in length and will assess your understanding of the meaning of specific words and phrases used in the text, as well as the effect they have on the reader. The total marks available for these sub-questions is 10, broken down as follows:

 

Question	What you are asked to do	Marks
2(a)	Identify a word or phrase from the text that conveys the same idea as the underlined words in the sub-questions	4
2(b)	Explain, in your own words, the meaning of the underlined word or phrase	3
2(c)	Select one example from the section of text provided beneath the question, and use it to explain how the writer suggests something, using your own words	3

 

Breaking down the questions

 Short-answer questions will be divided into seven sub-questions. It is important that you read each question carefully and highlight:

• The command words in each question (what you have to do)
• The focus of each question (what you are looking for in the text)
• How many marks each question is worth (this indicates how much you need to write)

 

For example (taken from the June 2022 exam paper):

 

 

 

 

 

Steps to Success

 Following these steps will help you approach this question effectively:

1. Read the question carefully and highlight:
   • The command words (what you are instructed to do).
   • The focus of the question (the specific words or phrases you need to find or explain).
   • Note the marks allocated for each sub-question.
2. Scan Text C for evidence and highlight relevant examples or the words and phrases you need to analyse:
   • There may be more than one possible answer, so ensure your response meets the specific requirements of the question.
3. Write your answers following the instructions:
   • If the question requires you to explain multiple underlined words, address each one individually.
   • If asked to use your own words, avoid directly quoting or repeating language from the text.
   • Tailor your answers to the marks awarded:
     • For Question 2(c), where 3 marks are available, make three distinct points.
4. For Question 2(c), ensure your response is thorough, selecting an appropriate example and offering a detailed explanation and analyse how the writer conveys their message:
   • Consider the meaning behind specific words or phrases and why the writer has chosen them.
   • Reflect on how punctuation, structure, or stylistic choices contribute to the writer's point.
   • Read between the lines to uncover deeper meanings or implications.

 

Aim to spend no more than 15 minutes on this question, including reading time.