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ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Paper 1
TIME: 2 HOURS

                                       YAAKA EXAMINATIONS

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Paper 1

TIME: 2 HOURS

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES

This Paper consists of two Sections: A and B. It has four examination items. Section

A is Compulsory.

Answer One item in Section B. Answer three examination items in all.

Answers to Section A must be written in the spaces provided.

Answers to Section B must be written in the answer booklets/ answer sheets provided. Any additional items answered will not be scored.

SECTION A

Item 1: Read the text below.

In today’s digital age, the internet has revolutionized communication and access to information. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have become powerful tools that connect millions of people across the globe. They provide spaces for social interaction, marketing, entertainment, and information sharing. However, the rise of social media has brought with it several challenges, including cyberbullying, privacy concerns, and the spread of misinformation. Many users, particularly teenagers, struggle to differentiate between genuine and fake news, leading to confusion and potential harm.

Social media’s influence on mental health has been extensively studied, showing links to increased anxiety and depression due to the pressure of online appearances and constant comparisons. People often curate an idealized version of their lives online, making others feel inadequate. The addictive nature of these platforms can lead to excessive screen time, affecting sleep, productivity, and personal relationships.

Governments and organizations are taking steps to regulate content on these platforms to curb the negative impact. Internet users are encouraged to be mindful of the information they share and consume. Cyberbullying, one of the prevalent issues, affects mental health, causing victims to feel isolated and depressed. The anonymity of the internet emboldens individuals to make harmful comments they might not say in person, leading to emotional distress and, in severe cases, self-harm or suicide.

The spread of misinformation is another significant concern. False information can spread rapidly, causing panic, spreading fear, or misleading the public on critical issues such as health, politics, and finance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, misinformation about the virus, treatments, and vaccines led to confusion and resistance to health measures.

Many schools have started programs to educate students on safe internet usage and digital literacy to help them navigate the complex online world. These programs focus on teaching students how to identify credible sources, protect their privacy, and engage positively with others online. Parents also play a crucial role in guiding their children’s internet use, setting boundaries, and having open discussions about the potential dangers of social media.

By promoting responsible use and awareness, society can harness the positive aspects of social media while minimizing its risks. It is important to remember that while social media is a powerful tool, it should be used with caution, awareness, and respect for oneself and others.

Task

As the head of the student council, write a speech addressing your fellow students on the impact of social media and how they can use it responsibly. Use about 120 words.

Rough Copy

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Fair Copy

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Item 2: Read the following text and respond to the item.

Dr. Miriam Achieng, an experienced environmental activist, has spent her life fighting for climate justice. Growing up in a rural village that suffered from deforestation, she witnessed firsthand the impacts of environmental degradation. Forests were cleared for agriculture, causing soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and frequent droughts. These experiences shaped her resolve to protect the environment and educate others about the importance of sustainable practices.

After earning her degree in Environmental Science, Dr. Achieng dedicated her career to working with communities to restore degraded lands. She spearheaded reforestation projects, where locals were taught how to plant and care for trees, improving their environment and creating jobs. Her work brought visible change, with once barren lands now thriving with green cover, improved rainfall, and increased agricultural productivity.

However, her journey was not without challenges. Many villagers were initially resistant, fearing that forest conservation would limit their farming land. Dr. Achieng used these moments to educate the community on the long-term benefits of reforestation, emphasizing that sustainable practices could enhance, rather than hinder, their livelihoods. She also encountered political opposition, as some local leaders had vested interests in land exploitation.

Dr. Achieng’s persistence and dedication paid off when she successfully lobbied the government to establish protected forest reserves and implement stricter regulations against illegal logging. She believes that environmental conservation is not just about protecting trees but also about creating resilient communities that can adapt to climate change. Her work extends to schools, where she runs educational programs teaching young people the importance of environmental stewardship.

One notable story from her work involves a group of women farmers who were struggling with poor crop yields due to soil erosion. Dr. Achieng introduced them to agroforestry, integrating trees into their farming systems to stabilize the soil, provide shade, and enhance biodiversity. Over time, the women not only improved their crop yields but also started a small business selling tree seedlings, creating an additional income source.

Dr. Achieng’s story highlights the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation. She emphasizes that for conservation efforts to be sustainable, local people must be actively engaged and see the benefits of their participation. By building trust, offering education, and providing resources, she has empowered many to take charge of their environmental future.

Task

(a). Describe the challenges Dr. Achieng faces and how she responds to them.

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(b). What does Dr. Achieng’s approach teach us about handling conflict and promoting positive change?

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(c). How does the community’s response reflect the impact of Dr. Achieng’s work?

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SECTION B

Either: Item 3

A section of your school community believes that traditional classroom learning is more effective than online learning. However, many argue that online learning offers greater flexibility and access to resources. Write a presentation of the advantages and disadvantages of online learning to students, emphasizing its positive contribution.

Or: Item 4

You have read several articles about how students balance academic responsibilities and personal interests. Write a letter to your school administration suggesting how the school can better support students in managing their time effectively.

                                                                       END

Responses to the Tasks

Section A: Item 1

Task: As the head of the student council, write a speech addressing your fellow students on the impact of social media and how they can use it responsibly. Use about 120 words.

Fair Copy:

Dear Fellow Students,

Social media is a powerful tool that connects us, but it comes with challenges like misinformation, cyberbullying, and the pressure to compare ourselves to others. We must use these platforms wisely and responsibly. Verify information before sharing, respect others’ privacy, and be kind in your interactions. Remember, what we post can affect others deeply. Limit your screen time to ensure you maintain a healthy balance between online and offline life. Let us use social media to inspire, educate, and connect positively. By being mindful users, we can harness the best of social media and avoid its pitfalls. Let’s make the internet a safer, more respectful space for everyone.

Thank you.

Section A: Item 2

Task (a): Describe the challenges Dr. Achieng faces and how she responds to them.

Dr. Achieng faces several challenges, including resistance from villagers who fear that conservation efforts will limit their farming land, and political opposition from leaders with vested interests in land exploitation. She responds by educating the community on the long-term benefits of sustainable practices and advocating for stricter environmental protections. Through persistence and effective communication, she builds trust and encourages active community participation in conservation efforts.

Task (b): What does Dr. Achieng’s approach teach us about handling conflict and promoting positive change?

Dr. Achieng’s approach teaches us that handling conflict requires patience, education, and engagement. By involving the community in decision-making and demonstrating the tangible benefits of conservation, she turns resistance into support. Her strategy shows that fostering positive change involves not just imposing solutions but working collaboratively, listening to concerns, and providing practical alternatives that benefit all parties involved.

Task (c): How does the community’s response reflect the impact of Dr. Achieng’s work?

The community’s positive response reflects the significant impact of Dr. Achieng’s work. As villagers see the benefits of reforestation, such as improved crop yields and new income sources, they become active participants in conservation efforts. This shift in mindset highlights the importance of community involvement in sustainable initiatives and demonstrates how education and empowerment can lead to lasting environmental and economic improvements.

Section B

Either: Item 3

Write a presentation of the advantages and disadvantages of online learning to students, emphasizing its positive contribution.

Presentation:

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning

Online learning has transformed education by providing flexibility and access to a wealth of resources. It allows students to learn at their own pace, access courses from anywhere, and use multimedia tools that enhance understanding. Online platforms offer interactive lessons, recorded lectures, and personalized feedback, making learning more engaging.

However, online learning also has challenges. It requires self-discipline, reliable internet access, and can lack the personal interaction of traditional classrooms. Distractions at home can affect concentration, and some students may feel isolated without in-person peer support.

Despite these drawbacks, online learning’s positive contributions are undeniable. It democratizes education, allowing students to learn new skills, access global knowledge, and prepare for a digital future. By embracing technology responsibly, students can maximize the benefits of online learning.