Question 4 Model Answer: Letter (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Language): Revision Note

Imagine you are Helmuth from Text C. Straight after the evening that you and Max pitch camp, you write a letter to your mother.

In your letter you should comment on:

• the most enjoyable parts of your journey so far and why they were enjoyable

• the challenges you and Max faced and how you overcame these challenges

• the problems you foresee for the rest of the trip and how you might have been better prepared for them

Write the words of your letter.

Base your letter on what you have read in Text C, but be careful to use your own words. Address each of the three bullet points.

Write about 250 to 300 words.

Up to 10 marks are available for the content of your answer and up to 10 marks for the quality of your writing.

[20]

Answer

Dear Mother,

I am writing to you from my camp bed in the middle of the desert to share our news. There is a gentle breeze this evening, which is most welcome after the heat of the day.

Our journey began well. Gliding over the hot tarmac of the Judaean Desert, we experienced the exotic novelty of being 400 metres below sea level — strange to think we were travelling at the same depth as sea creatures! The Dead Sea lived up to expectations; Max floated on the surface like a cork. After a quick dip in the River Jordan to wash off the salt, he urged me to drive as fast as the car would go!

However, challenges soon arose. The ground became steep and the sun blazed, causing the car to overheat. I felt anxious about whether the engine could cope, especially given the heavy load we are carrying. I warned Max about the weight, though I know most of the luggage is mine — lovingly packed by you! With temperatures hitting 100 degrees and 23,000 km still to go, we stopped to consider our options. I reluctantly agreed we must shed weight, though I hope to reach Baghdad first to store my belongings rather than abandon them.

I fear we are ill-prepared for what lies ahead. My biggest worry is the car; in this intense heat and remote terrain, we are pushing the vehicle to its limits. Furthermore, if we cannot find storage in Baghdad, tensions will rise. Max is practical, but I cannot bear to part with my things. We can only hope the car holds together and we avoid getting lost in this vast wilderness.

With warm wishes,

Helmuth

[20]

Commentary

• The response sits comfortably within the 250-300 word limit, demonstrating the ability to select the most relevant details (R5)

• The response maintains the personal, slightly anxious but affectionate tone suitable for a letter to a parent

• The response contains the necessary development of ideas required for high reading marks:

  • For example, it doesn't just say "it was hot"; it explains the consequence of the heat

• The response moves logically using the three bullet points for guidance

• The response is clear and well-expressed