FINAL

NATIONAL
SENIOR CERTIFICATE

GRADE 12

ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE P1

MARKING GUIDELINES

COMMON TEST

JUNE 2024

MARKS: 70

These marking guidelines consist of 14 pages.

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English Home Language P1 2 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

NOTE:

 These marking guidelines are intended as a guide for markers.

 It is by no means prescriptive or exhaustive.
 Candidates' responses should be considered on merit.
 Answers should be assessed holistically and points awarded where
applicable in terms of decisions taken at the standardisation meeting.
 The marking guidelines MUST be discussed before the commencement of
marking.

INSTRUCTIONS TO MARKERS

Marking the comprehension:

 Because the focus is on understanding, incorrect spelling and language errors in longer
responses should not be penalised unless such errors change the meaning/understanding.
(Errors must still be indicated.)

 If a candidate uses words from a language other than the one being examined, disregard
those words, and if the answer still makes sense, do not penalise. However, if a word
from another language is used in a text and required in an answer, this will be acceptable.

 For open-ended questions, no marks should be awarded for YES/NO or

I AGREE/I DISAGREE. The reason/substantiation/motivation is what should be
considered.

 No marks should be awarded for TRUE/FALSE or FACT/OPINION. The

reason/substantiation/motivation is what should be considered.

 When one-word answers are required and the candidate gives a whole sentence, mark
correct provided that the correct word is underlined/highlighted.

 When two/three facts/points are required and a range is given, mark only the first
two/three.

 Accept dialectal variations.

 For multiple-choice questions, accept BOTH the letter corresponding to the correct
answer AND/OR the answer written out in full.

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English Home Language P1 3 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

SECTION A: COMPREHENSION

QUESTION 1: READING FOR MEANING AND UNDERSTANDING

1.1 Refer to paragraph 1.

What is the intention of the writer in quoting studies conducted by university

researchers?

The writer’s intention is to lend credibility and empirical support to the assertion that
humans engage in self-deception. /By referencing these studies, the writer seeks to
establish a foundation of scientific evidence for the prevalence of self-deception in
human behaviour. / This adds to the argument being presented in the paragraph
regarding the tendency of individuals to deceive themselves and distort critical
information.

[Award 1 mark for intention and 1 mark for the explanation] (2)

1.2 Refer to paragraph 1.

Explain the expression, ‘they bury their heads in the sand’ in the context
of the passage.

In the context of the passage, ‘bury their heads in the sand’ refers to the act of
deliberately avoiding or ignoring uncomfortable truths or realities/ people who refuse
to confront difficult situations or acknowledge unpleasant truths/ individuals may
prefer to maintain a false sense of reality.

[Award 1 mark for the explanation of the expression and award 1 mark for the (2)
context]

1.3 Account for the use of rhetorical questions in paragraph 2.

Rhetorical questions are used in paragraph 2 to engage the reader and prompt
them to reflect on their own experiences or observations. / By asking why smokers
choose not to hear about the dangers of smoking and why people believe they are
better than average, the writer encourages readers to consider instances of self-
deception in their own lives or in society.

[Award 1 for the explanation of the use of the rhetorical question, award 1 for (2)
explanation in context]

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English Home Language P1 4 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

1.4 1. Refer to paragraph 3 (lines 12 – 13).

2.
What does the writer mean by, ‘We have a habit of repressing painful
thoughts?

The writer means that individuals tend to suppress or ignore thoughts and
information that cause discomfort or threaten their self-esteem. /This repression
serves as a coping mechanism to protect the ego from negative emotions or
consequences.

[Award 2 marks for a well-expressed response/ or award 2 marks for 2 ideas well (2)
expressed]

1.5 Refer to paragraph 4 (lines 19 – 20).

Comment on the effectiveness of, ‘information is the lifeblood of the human

brain’.

The statement, ‘information is the lifeblood of the human brain’ emphasizes

the fundamental importance of information processing for human cognition and
decision-making. Just as lifeblood is of vital importance to sustain life, so too is data
and information important to the brain for understanding and to think rationally. /
The effectiveness of this statement is debatable, as it does not fully account for the
cognitive biases and mechanisms, such as self-deception, that can distort or
ignore valuable information.

[Award 1 mark for an explanation of the line and 2 marks for a valid discussion of the
effectiveness]
[Accept a valid alternative.] (3)

1.6 3. Refer to Paragraph 6.

Explain the writer’s reference to, ‘mixed-motive games.

In paragraph 6, the writer references ‘mixed-motive games’ as situations where

individuals have both co-operative and competitive motives. These games involve a
balance or juxtaposition between co-operation and competition, where players must
navigate conflicting interests to achieve their goals. Examples could include
negotiations, where parties must work together to reach a deal while also seeking to
maximize their own benefits.

[Award 3 marks for a well-developed explanation or 3 distinct points that explains the (3)
conflict]

1.7 Refer to paragraph 7.

The word ‘bravado’ in line 41, refers to …

C - boldness (1)

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English Home Language P1 5 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

1.8 Refer to paragraph 8 (line 43), ‘But what could be more stupid than agreeing
to play such a game in the first place?’

1.8.1 Identify the tone used in this line

admonishing/reprimanding/sarcastic/annoyance/disbelief/mocking/harsh (1)

[Credit a valid explanation of tone]

1.8.2 Comment on the suitability of the tone.

The tone is suitable as it emphasizes the irrationality of engaging in risky or

self-destructive behaviour, such as playing a dangerous game like chicken./
It effectively communicates the writer's disapproval or incredulity towards
such actions.
(2)
[Award 2 marks for a full explanation of the suitability of the tone.]

1.9 Discuss how the diction in paragraph 9 reveals the writer’s message about
mixed-motive games. Provide TWO examples in your response.

The diction in paragraph 9 conveys the writer's message about mixed-motive

games by highlighting the concept of self-sabotage and strategic deception. For
example, the use of phrases like ‘limiting or appearing to sabotage ourselves’ and
‘convincing the other player that he/she has sabotaged himself/herself’ illustrates
how individuals may manipulate perceptions to gain an advantage in competitive
situations. Also, the use of the words ‘winning move’ further emphasizes the
strategic and manipulative nature of mixed-motive games because it serves to
convince the reader that it is the right choice.

[Award 3 marks for a full discussion of 2 examples of diction that conveys the
writer’s message.] (3)

1.10 In your view, is the final paragraph an appropriate conclusion to the article
as a whole? Justify your response.

Yes, as it encapsulates the main arguments presented throughout the text. By

affirming the necessity of self-deception in human behaviour and highlighting its
evolutionary advantages, the writer reinforces the central argument of the article.
The conclusion effectively ties together the discussion on the strategic use of self-
deception in mixed-motive games and its broader implications for human
interaction, providing closure to the argument.

[A ‘No’ answer is unlikely, however, credit valid responses on their merits.]

[Award 3 marks for a well-discussed response.] (3)

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English Home Language P1 6 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

1.11 How do the visuals in Text B reinforce the stereotype of the psychiatrist?
Motivate your answer.

The visuals in Text B reinforce the stereotype of the psychiatrist in several ways:

1. Positioning: The psychiatrist is depicted with his back turned to the patient in
the second frame. This positioning suggests a sense of detachment or
disinterest on the part of the psychiatrist, reinforcing the stereotype of
psychiatrists as emotionally distant or uninvolved in their patients' concerns.

2. Expression: Although the psychiatrist's face is not shown, the dialogue

implies a dismissive or cynical response to the patient's confession. The
psychiatrist seems to have an emotionless expression which aligns with the
stereotype of psychiatrists as being analytical or sceptical, potentially lacking
empathy or understanding towards their patients' issues.

3. Authority: The psychiatrist is portrayed as the one who delivers the final
judgment or assessment of the patient's behaviour. This reinforces the
stereotype of psychiatrists as figures of authority who hold power over their
patients' diagnoses and treatment plans.

4. Other considerations: Candidates may respond to the psychiatrist’s

appearance: wears glasses, has a beard, looks aged, bald- this appearance
conveys an idea of his age and wisdom.

Overall, the visuals in Text B contribute to the portrayal of the psychiatrist in a

manner consistent with common stereotypes associated with the profession. (2)

[Award 2 marks for a well-motivated response, reference must be made to the

stereotype]

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English Home Language P1 7 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

1.12 To what extent does TEXT B support the views expressed in paragraph 10
of TEXT A.

Refer to both TEXT A and TEXT B to substantiate your response.

TEXT B supports the views expressed in paragraph 10 of TEXT A to a significant

extent. In paragraph 10 of TEXT A, it is stated that, ‘The best way to convince
others that we believe something, is to appear to believe it ourselves,’ and it uses
politicians as examples, suggesting that successful politicians often believe their
own self-deceptions rather than outright lying.

Similarly, in TEXT B, the dialogue between the psychiatrist and the patient reflects
a scenario where the patient's lies are transparent to the psychiatrist, but the
patient is still convinced of his own deception. The patient's response, ‘there goes
my political career,’ implies that he has been engaging in self-deception to maintain
a certain image or career trajectory, even though the psychiatrist sees through it.

Both texts highlight the concept that individuals often engage in self-deception to
achieve certain ends, whether it be maintaining self-esteem or advancing a career.
They suggest that believing in one's own falsehoods can be more effective in
convincing others than outright lying. Therefore, TEXT B supports the idea
expressed in paragraph 10 of TEXT A that successful deception often involves
genuinely believing in one's own deceptions.

[Award 4 marks only if the candidate has referred to TEXT B and paragraph 10 of
TEXT A in a well-substantiated response.] (4)
Award 1 mark for reference to Text A, 1 mark for reference to Text B and 2 marks
for the link]
30

TOTAL:

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English Home Language P1 8 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

SECTION B: SUMMARY

QUESTION 2: SUMMARISING IN YOUR OWN WORDS

Use the following main points that the candidate should include in the summary as a
guideline.

Any 7 valid points are to be credited in paragraph-form.

(Sentences and/or sentence fragments must be coherent.)

NO QUOTATIONS NO POINTS

1. ‘Looking the part boosts how credible and 1. Presenting yourself well enhances
professional you seem.’ your credibility and professionalism.

2. ‘… a sharp look suggests you're capable and 2. When you dress smartly, it implies
dependable.’ reliability and competence.

3. ‘Feeling good about how you look translates 3. Feeling confident in your appearance
to feeling good overall.’ positively impacts your overall
‘Choosing the right attire can give you a confidence.
confidence boost’

4. ‘The appropriate outfit can act as a mental 4. Choosing the right outfit can mentally
signal to approach tasks with confidence prepare you to tackle tasks with
and resolve.’ assurance.
‘…clothing choices can affect your mental
processes and actions’

5. ‘A polished appearance signals 5. A polished look reflects your

professionalism and meticulousness ...’ professionalism and attention to detail.

6. ‘Dressing in a professional manner is a sign 6. Your attire showcases respect for the
Of respect for the event and the individuals occasion and the people involved.
concerned’

‘… dressing fittingly indicates your

appreciation for the occasion and the
people you'll be engaging with.’

7. ‘Your clothing choices contribute to this 7. Your clothing selections contribute to

personal brand, sending subtle messages the image you project, reflecting your
about your style, professionalism, and style, professionalism, and character.
personality.’

8. ‘… individuals who dress professionally tend 8. Those who dress professionally often
to earn higher salaries and are more likely enjoy higher earnings and more
to be promoted ...’ opportunities for advancement.

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English Home Language P1 9 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline
9. ‘…your attire can influence those around you’ 9. By dressing professionally, one can
‘Also, you can inspire others to take pride in inspire others to take pride in their
their appearance and strive for success in all appearance and pursue success in
aspects of their lives.’ all areas of life.

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English Home Language P1 10 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

PARAGRAPH-FORM

NOTE: What follows is merely an example. It is not prescriptive and must be used very
carefully.

Dressing for success is not just about style; it is about presenting yourself in a way that enhances
your credibility and professionalism. When you dress sharply, you convey reliability and
competence, boosting your confidence and readiness to tackle tasks. Your attire reflects respect
for the occasion and the individuals involved, while also shaping the image you project to others.
Studies show that dressing professionally correlates with higher earnings and career
advancement. By setting an example of professional attire, you can inspire others to take pride
in their appearance and strive for success. [92 words]

Marking the summary:

Marking is on the basis of the inclusion of valid material and the exclusion of invalid
material.

The summary should be marked as follows:

 Mark allocation:

o 7 marks for 7 points (1 mark per main point)

o 3 marks for language
o Total marks: 10

 Distribution of language marks when candidate has not quoted verbatim:

o 1–3 points correct: award 1 mark

o 4–5 points correct: award 2 marks
o 6–7 points correct: award 3 marks

 Distribution of language marks when candidate has quoted verbatim:

o 6–7 quotations: award no language mark

o 4–5 quotations: award 1 language mark
o 2–3 quotations: award 2 language marks

NOTE:

 Word Count:

o Markers are required to verify the number of words used.

o Do not deduct any marks if the candidate fails to indicate the number of words
used or if the number of words used is indicated incorrectly. If the word limit is
exceeded, read up to the last sentence above the stipulated upper limit and
ignore the rest of the summary.

TOTAL SECTION B: 10

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English Home Language P1 11 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

SECTION C: LANGUAGE STRUCTURES AND CONVENTIONS

Marking SECTION C:

 Spelling:

One-word answers must be marked correct even if the spelling is incorrect,

unless the error changes the meaning of the word.
In full-sentence answers, incorrect spelling should be penalised if the error is
in the language structure being tested.
Where an abbreviation is tested, the answer must be punctuated correctly.
 Sentence structures must be grammatically correct and given in full sentences/as
per instruction.
 For multiple-choice questions, accept BOTH the letter corresponding to the
correct answer AND/OR the answer written out in full as correct.

QUESTION 3: ANALYSING ADVERTISING

3.1 How does the advertiser’s choice of image link to the headline?

In the image, the man stands firm amidst the tumultuous waters, representing the
challenges and uncertainties that individuals face when navigating the legal system.
His outstretched hands suggest readiness to face the obstacles ahead because
of his confidence in Legal Odyssey./ Navigating through difficult circumstances
with confidence and resolve aligns with the theme of the headline, emphasizing
the journey through legal complexities as an Odyssey - a long and challenging
voyage where individuals, like the man with outstretched hands, remain
steadfast in their pursuit of justice if they choose Legal Odyssey.

[Award 2 marks if the candidate shows a clear link between the image and
the headline.] (2)

3.2 Explain the persuasive appeal of ONE stylistic technique used by the
advertiser to influence the reader.

Metaphorical Language: The advertiser uses vivid imagery to create a sense

of grandeur and adventure, comparing the legal journey to an epic odyssey.
The metaphorical approach aims to captivate the reader's imagination and
evoke emotions associated with heroic quests and triumph over adversity.

Appeal to Authority: By presenting their team of legal scholars as seasoned

experts ‘forged in the fires of perseverance and wisdom,’ the advertiser seeks
to establish credibility and trustworthiness. This appeal to authority implies
that the reader can rely on their expertise to navigate the complexities of the
legal system successfully.

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 English Home Language P1 12 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

Visual Representation: The use of a visual representation of the message or

theme conveyed in the text. In this case, the image of a man standing firm in
the ocean, visually represents the idea of navigating through legal challenges/
An eye-catching image like the one described immediately grabs the audience's
attention, drawing them into the advertisement.

Emotional Appeal: Images can evoke emotions and resonate with the audience
on a deeper level. The image of a person facing the vast ocean may evoke feelings
of determination, resilience, and the desire for guidance - emotions that align with
the legal journey described in the advertisement.

Big Bold print to attract the readers’ attention.

Repetition of Legal Odyssey emphasizes / reinforces the service offered / creates

a sense of familiarity with the brand or service offered / keeps the brand in the
forefront of the consumers’ mind.

[Award 1 mark for the identification of any one technique and 2 marks for an
explanation of the persuasive appeal of the technique.]
[Credit valid alternatives] (3)

3.3 Critically evaluate the impact of any TWO claims made by the advertiser.

While the metaphorical language and appeal to authority may be persuasive

in capturing the reader's attention and fostering a sense of trust, it is essential
to approach the claims critically. Phrases like ‘each case is an epic tale waiting
to unfold’ and ‘the pen is mightier than the sword’ may create unrealistic
expectations about the outcomes of legal matters. Legal proceedings often
involve nuanced complexities and uncertainties, and not every case will have
a dramatic or victorious resolution. Therefore, while the advertisement may
inspire confidence and instil a sense of reassurance, readers should temper
their expectations and seek realistic advice when facing legal challenges.

[Award full marks only if there is a full commentary on the evaluation of the
claims. Accept valid alternatives and other relevant quotations.]
(3)

3.4 Provide the antonym for the word ‘embark’.

disembark (1)
[Accept synonyms for disembark]

3.5 In the expression, ‘mightier than the sword’, the underlined word is in
the … form.

A - Comparative (1)
[10]

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English Home Language P1 13 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

QUESTION 4: UNDERSTANDING OTHER ASPECTS OF THE MEDIA

4.1 Refer to Frame 3.

Discuss TWO techniques used by the cartoonist to show Curtis’ excitement?

Facial Expression: In Frame 3, Curtis' facial expression depicts his excitement.

Curtis’ big smile and wide eyes indicate his enthusiasm for discussing summer
movies with his dad.

Body Language: Curtis is depicted walking with big strides into the lounge. He
points his finger to the list and this action suggests his eagerness and excitement.

Verbal: Curtis uses a metaphor to express his excitement. The exclamation

mark reinforces his delight/enthusiasm.

[Award 2 marks for the identification and explanation of any TWO techniques.] (2)

4.2 Refer to frames 9 and 10.

Comment on the reactions of both characters in these frames.

In Frame 9 Curtis’ facial expression indicates that he is shocked and perplexed

with his father who turns his back and walks away. This suggests that the earlier
excitement that Curtis felt while sharing his movie plans with his dad was not
reciprocated . It indicates a sense of disappointment that his father is not as
interested or engaged as he (Curtis) had hoped.
In Frame 10, the exclamation mark above Curtis’ head reveals his disillusionment,
shock or dissatisfaction with his father’s reaction. The ‘z’ sign above the father’s
head indicates that he is in a deep sleep because he is unaffected by Curtis’
earlier comments.

[Award 3 marks for a substantial comment on the reactions of both characters’

in frames 9 and 10.] (3)

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English Home Language P1 14 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

4.3 Account for Curtis’ reference to ‘sarcasm’ in the context of the cartoon.

Curtis acknowledges that he failed to recognize his father's sarcasm until after
the conversation had ended. This implies that Curtis initially took his father's
enthusiastic responses at face value, only realizing later that his father was
being sarcastic . Curtis' statement highlights his naivety or gullibility
in interpreting his father's reactions. The father uses colloquial language (teen-
speak) to poke fun at Curtis’ excitement which Curtis misinterprets as a positive
response from his father.

[Award 1 mark for the identification of the sarcasm and 2 marks for the (3)
explanation]

4.4 In the sentence, ‘YOU CAN CHARGE MY TICKET WITH THE CREDIT
CARD OVER THE PHONE’, ‘charge’ is used as a verb

In a sentence of your choice, use the word ‘charge’ as a noun.

[Credit an appropriate response] (1)

For example: A charge of misconduct was laid.

4.5

The word ‘vibey’ is an example of … (1)

B – colloquialism
[10]

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English Home Language P1 15 June 2024 Common Test
NSC – Marking Guideline

QUESTION 5: USING LANGUAGE CORRECTLY

5.1 tales/stories /logs/diaries/journals/accounts (1)

[Credit acceptable synonyms]
5.2 (1)
exists

5.3 (1)
elusiveness

5.4 (1)
brackets ( ) or dashes

5.5 (1)
‘ you’ … yourself
(Accept the response: one finds ‘oneself’)
5.6 (1)
collective noun
5.7 (1)
‘with’- in / of
5.8.1 (1)
resilient / hardy (either one)
5.8.2
(1)
In pursuit of that elusive shopping high, the treacherous terrain of escalators is
braved by them.
(1)
5.8.3
pandering - pondering
[10]
Incorrect spelling must be marked wrong.

TOTAL SECTION C: 30

GRAND TOTAL: 70

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