112/1
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.

Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right, but millions around the world continue to suffer due to inadequate medical services. In many developing countries, healthcare systems are underfunded, poorly managed, and unable to meet the needs of growing populations. Patients often face long waiting times, high costs, and limited access to essential medicines. Rural areas are particularly disadvantaged, with few medical facilities and a severe shortage of trained healthcare professionals.

The rise of infectious diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS, further strains these fragile healthcare systems. Outbreaks of new diseases, like COVID-19, have exposed the weaknesses in global health preparedness, highlighting the urgent need for investment in healthcare infrastructure and training. Governments struggle to provide universal health coverage, leaving many without access to basic medical care.

Moreover, there is a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which require long-term care and management. These conditions are often linked to lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking, but healthcare systems are not equipped to address preventive measures effectively. The focus remains on treating illnesses rather than preventing them, which only increases the healthcare burden.

Telemedicine and mobile health technologies are emerging as potential solutions, offering remote consultations and digital health records that can improve efficiency and accessibility. However, technological adoption is uneven, and many healthcare providers lack the necessary infrastructure or skills to implement these innovations. There is also the challenge of ensuring data security and patient confidentiality in the digital age.

To address these challenges, governments, international organizations, and private sectors must collaborate to reform healthcare systems. Investing in primary healthcare, training healthcare workers, and expanding access to affordable medicines are crucial steps. Community health education programs can also play a significant role in promoting preventive health measures, encouraging people to lead healthier lifestyles, and reducing the overall healthcare burden.

Task:

As a health advocate, write a report highlighting the challenges facing healthcare systems and suggest ways to improve access to quality healthcare. Use about 120 words.

Rough Copy

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fair Copy

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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

Peter, a young entrepreneur, started his business with just a small loan from his family. Inspired by the lack of employment opportunities in his town, he decided to open a small grocery store to serve the local community. At first, business was slow, and Peter struggled to keep up with expenses. He faced numerous challenges, including unreliable suppliers, stiff competition, and fluctuating market prices. Despite these obstacles, Peter was determined to succeed.

Peter realized that his business needed a unique selling point to attract customers. He decided to offer home delivery services, which was a first in his area. This innovation quickly caught on, and his customer base grew. He also focused on sourcing fresh produce directly from local farmers, ensuring quality and supporting local agriculture. Peter’s business thrived, and he expanded to include a small restaurant serving organic meals.

As his business grew, Peter made a conscious effort to give back to his community. He started a youth mentorship program, teaching young people entrepreneurial skills and providing internships at his store. He also launched community clean-up initiatives and sponsored local events. Peter’s business became a pillar of the community, known not just for its products but for its commitment to social responsibility.

However, Peter continues to face challenges, such as managing cash flow, scaling operations, and maintaining quality as his business expands. He often reflects on the lessons he has learned about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of giving back. Peter’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is not just about profit but also about making a positive impact on society.

Task:

(a). Describe the challenges Peter faced in establishing his business and how he addressed them.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

(b). What does Peter’s approach to business teach us about innovation and community engagement?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

(c). How does Peter’s story highlight the role of entrepreneurship in community development?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

SECTION B

Either: Item 3

Social media influencers are becoming more popular among young people, shaping opinions, trends, and purchasing decisions. While some see this as a powerful marketing tool, others argue it sets unrealistic standards and promotes materialism. Write a discussion on the influence of social media influencers, focusing on their impact on youth.

Or: Item 4

You have recently attended a workshop on climate change and its impact on agriculture. Write a letter to your local government proposing initiatives that can help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions.

                                                                                  END

MARKING GUIDE TO THE ABOVE TASKS

Section A

Item 1: Write a report highlighting the challenges facing healthcare systems and suggest ways to improve access to quality healthcare.

Fair Copy:

Healthcare systems face numerous challenges, including underfunding, long waiting times, and limited access to essential medicines, particularly in rural areas. The rise of both infectious and non-communicable diseases adds further strain. To improve healthcare, governments must invest in primary care, train more healthcare workers, and expand access to affordable medicines. Telemedicine and community health education programs can also promote preventive care and reduce the overall healthcare burden.

Item 2

(a). Describe the challenges Peter faced in establishing his business and how he addressed them.

Peter struggled with unreliable suppliers, stiff competition, and fluctuating market prices. He addressed these issues by offering home delivery services and sourcing produce directly from local farmers. This approach helped him secure loyal customers and support the local community, allowing his business to thrive.

(b). What does Peter’s approach to business teach us about innovation and community engagement?

Peter’s approach highlights the importance of innovation in creating a competitive edge and the value of community engagement. By offering unique services like home delivery and supporting local agriculture, Peter demonstrated that businesses can succeed by addressing community needs and building strong relationships.

(c). How does Peter’s story highlight the role of entrepreneurship in community development?

Peter’s story illustrates that entrepreneurship can drive community development by creating jobs, supporting local industries, and giving back through mentorship and social initiatives. His business became a pillar of the community, showing how successful entrepreneurs can have a positive social impact beyond profit.

Section B

Item 3: Write a discussion on the influence of social media influencers focusing on their impact on youth.

Social media influencers have a profound impact on youth by shaping opinions, trends, and purchasing decisions. While influencers can inspire positive behavior and promote important causes, they also set unrealistic standards and fuel materialism. Constant exposure to curated lives can lead to self-esteem issues and unrealistic comparisons. However, when used responsibly, influencers can encourage youth to engage with social causes, learn new skills, and make informed decisions. Balance is key to harnessing the positive influence of social media.