Practice Paper 1E

Read Text C, The Night Circus, in the insert and then answer Questions 2(a)–(d) on this question paper.(a) Identify a word or phrase from the text which suggests the same idea as the words underlined:(i)  There are no notifications beforehand.(ii)  It was all black and white, except for the trees nearby.(iii)  Endless tents of all configurations.(iv)  The news is remarkable and strange.

(b) Using your own words, explain what the writer means by each of the words underlined:Word of mouth is a more effective method of advertisement than typeset words and exclamation points on paper pamphlets or posters. It is impressive and unusual news, the sudden appearance of a mysterious circus. People marvel at the staggering height of the tallest tents.(i) effective(ii) mysterious(iii) marvel

(c) Use one example from the text below to explain how the writer suggests your thoughts and feelings as you stand outside the gates.Use your own words in your explanation.Your curiosity got the better of you, as curiosity is wont to do. You stand in the fading light, the scarf around your neck pulled up against the chilly evening breeze, waiting to see for yourself exactly what kind of circus only opens once the sun sets.

(d) Re-read paragraphs 13 and 17.

• Paragraph 13 begins ‘First there is a popping sound …’ and is about the moment when the circus lights come on.
• Paragraph 17 begins ‘Some in the crowd smile knowingly …’ and gives the crowd’s reaction to the light display.

Explain how the writer uses language to convey meaning and to create effect in these paragraphs. Choose three examples of words or phrases from each paragraph to support your answer. Your choices should include the use of imagery.

Write about 200 to 300 words.

Up to 15 marks are available for the content of your answer.

Re-read Text C, The Night Circus, in the insert and then answer Question 3 on this question paper.You are a journalist working for an online newspaper. While you are standing in the crowd outside the gates, you write an article which you post online before entering the circus. You decide to write about:

• What you see and feel from your position outside the gates
• What you think about the crowd’s reactions and behaviour
• What your reasons were for going to the circus gates and what you think the people in the crowd will experience that evening