Question 2(b) : Model Answer (Cambridge International IGCSE English Language)

Paper 1: Reading is a compulsory exam in the Cambridge IGCSE First Language English exam and examiners recommend that you complete the questions in the order they are set.

For exams from 2027, Question 2 is split into two tasks:

• Question 2(a) — a summary task
• Question 2(b) — writer’s attitudes and opinions

The following guide will demonstrate how to answer an example of Question 2(b).

Question 2(b) model answer

The following question is taken from the 2027 specimen paper.

The question is based on Text B in the source insert.

Worked Example Question 2(b)

Assess the writer's attitude towards the cloning of endangered animals.

Use three details from Text B to support your answer.

[5]

Workings

To answer this question, you need to select the evidence that demonstrates the writer’s attitude towards the cloning of endangered animals.

This means looking for words or phrases that imply what the writer is feeling.

For example:

You might be surprised that cloned animals exist — they do, but disappointingly this amazing technology has rarely been considered for endangered animals. Before that phone call, cloning had only successfully produced a single animal of any such species alongside many failed attempts. Blake’s new horse, Ollie, is the second of his kind. He’s a genetic copy of the world’s first cloned Takhi, Kurt (born two years before). Both Kurt and Ollie were made using frozen cells originally taken from a male horse decades ago. The understandably expensive process involved scientists transferring DNA from a donor cell into a hollowed-out egg from the surrogate (a domestic horse). The embryo then grew in the laboratory before being transplanted. None of the animal’s genes changed in the process, so each foal is an identical twin of the original male horse — just born at a later time. The scientists behind this incredible effort say this second successful birth indicates cloning might someday become a viable strategy for saving endangered species, though not every species is suitable for cloning. The technology relies on having cell samples from animals — sometimes difficult to obtain.

Remember, this is a 5-mark question, and you are only required to include three details from Text B in your answer. Adding extra quotes will not get you more marks.

Answer

The writer firstly demonstrates excitement for the prospect of cloning endangered animals, describing it as “amazing technology”. However, they also express frustration that this solution is not utilised more often, noting that “disappointingly” it is rarely considered for endangered species. The writer also acknowledges the current limitations of the technology, saying that it is “understandably expensive” with cell samples “difficult to obtain”. This implies that the writer, while full of awe for what can be achieved, does accept that the technology still has some way to go.

Commentary

• The answer demonstrates clear understanding of the writer’s attitude
• Each point is supported with relevant, concise detail from the text
• The answer does not just quote from the text; it explains what the quote shows about the writer’s attitude