The Enchanted Journey

Read Text C, and then answer Questions 2(a)-(d) and Question 3 on the question paper.
The Enchanted Journey
1
As I stepped through the shimmering portal, the air around me crackled with magic. I could hardly believe my eyes; I had entered a world where the trees whispered secrets, and the skies danced with hues of violet and gold. My heart raced with excitement, for I was about to embark on an adventure unlike any other.
2
"Welcome, brave traveler!" a voice called out. I turned to see a tall figure cloaked in emerald robes. His eyes sparkled like the stars. "I am Eldrin, the Guardian of the Enchanted Forest. What brings you to our realm?"
3
"I seek the Crystal of Dreams," I replied, feeling a surge of determination. "It is said to grant the heart’s deepest desires." Eldrin nodded, his expression turning serious. "Many have tried to find it, but few have succeeded. The path is fraught with challenges."
4
"I am ready," I declared, my voice steady. With a wave of his hand, Eldrin conjured a map that glowed with ethereal light. "Follow this path, but beware of the Shadows of Doubt. They will try to lead you astray."
5
As I ventured deeper into the forest, the trees loomed high above me, their branches weaving a tapestry of leaves that filtered the sunlight. I could hear the distant sound of a waterfall, its melody inviting me closer. Suddenly, a rustling in the bushes caught my attention.
6
"Who goes there?" a gruff voice demanded. Out stepped a creature that resembled a cross between a lion and a dragon, its scales shimmering in the dappled light. "State your purpose!"
7
"I am on a quest to find the Crystal of Dreams," I said, trying to keep my voice calm. The creature narrowed its eyes, considering my words. "Many have sought it, but few are worthy. What makes you different?"
8
"I believe in the power of dreams," I replied earnestly. "I wish to inspire others to chase their hopes." The creature seemed to soften, its fierce demeanor fading. "Very well. You may pass, but remember, the journey tests not just your strength, but your heart."
9
With renewed courage, I continued along the path. The air grew cooler, and the sounds of the forest shifted. I could hear whispers, like echoes of my own thoughts. "You're not strong enough," a voice taunted. "You'll never find it." I shook my head, pushing the negativity away. "I can do this!"
10
Finally, I reached a clearing bathed in moonlight. In the centre stood a pedestal, and atop it, the Crystal of Dreams sparkled like a beacon. My heart raced as I approached, but the Shadows of Doubt emerged from the darkness, swirling around me.
11
"You cannot have it," they hissed, their voices a chorus of despair. "You are not worthy!"
12
"No!" I shouted, standing my ground. "I am worthy! I believe in myself!" With every ounce of strength, I pushed through the darkness, my belief shining brighter than their shadows. As I reached for the crystal, the darkness shattered like glass, revealing a brilliant light.
13
As I held the crystal in my hands, a warmth enveloped me. "You have proven your heart’s true desire," a voice echoed, and I knew this was just the beginning of my journey. I had not only found the Crystal of Dreams but had also discovered the power of believing in myself.
14
With the crystal glowing softly in my palm, I turned to Eldrin, who had appeared at the edge of the clearing. "You did it!" he exclaimed, pride shining in his eyes. "You have shown great courage and determination."
15
"Thank you, Eldrin," I replied, a smile spreading across my face. "This journey has changed me." And as I prepared to return to my world, I knew that the magic of this enchanted realm would always be with me, guiding me to chase my dreams.

Question 2(a)
Identify a word or phrase from the text which suggests the same idea as the words in bold.
(i) As I entered the magical realm, the atmosphere felt charged with energy. [1 mark]

(ii) The trees seemed to communicate their whispers to me as I walked by. [1 mark]

(iii) The creature I encountered looked both fierce and majestic. [1 mark]

(iv) I felt a strong resolve to continue my quest despite the challenges ahead. [1 mark]

PROMPT: I am a IGCSE student working on Comprehension. You are an English teacher. The text: {TEXT} Question 2a prompt: {QUESTION} My Answer 1 part (i) : {ANSWER1} My Answer 2 part (ii) : {ANSWER2} My Answer 3 part (iii) : {ANSWER3} My Answer 4 part (iv) : {ANSWER4} Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong> crackled with magic (Paragraph 1)
</div>Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong> whispered secrets (Paragraph 1)
</div>Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong> resembling a cross between a lion and a dragon (Paragraph 6)
</div>Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong> surge of determination (Paragraph 3)
</div>

You are marking an English comprehension question. Evaluate if I have answered the question. Accept answers that are relevant, paraphrased and is the same meaning and logic of the suggested answers.

First check the total marks for all the parts in the question.

The suggested answers has various points. Each point is equal to one mark.

Check for ‘My Answer against the marking scheme: ‘Suggested Answer’. Do not add on to my answers.

Give me one mark and a green coloured tick symbol for each point that I am correct. Give me no marks and a red coloured cross symbol if i have missed out a point from the suggested answers.

If i am wrong, provide useful guidance but do not show me the suggested answers or the marking scheme.

If I am correct congratulate me.

At the end of your Output, provide me with the total marks for all questions using this format: ‘Total Marks: (marks)’

Use very simple language and be concise.

Question 2(b)
Using your own words, explain what the writer means by the words in bold:

"I seek the Crystal of Dreams," I replied, feeling a surge of determination. "It is said to grant the heart’s deepest desires."

(i) Crystal [1 mark]

(ii) Determination [1 mark]

(iii) Desires [1 mark]

PROMPT: I am a IGCSE student working on Comprehension. You are an English teacher. The text: {TEXT} Question 2a prompt: {QUESTION} My Answer 1 part (i) : {ANSWER1} My Answer 2 part (ii) : {ANSWER2} My Answer 3 part (iii) : {ANSWER3} Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong> a precious stone with special powers <br>
</div>Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong> a strong will to achieve something <br>
</div>Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong> things you really want or wish for
</div>Evaluate if I answered the question correctly. Output a green tick if correct or a red cross if incorrect. Explain if I am correct or wrong, Do not give me the answer. Use Markdown

Question 2(c)
Use one example from the text below to explain how the writer conveys the theme of self-belief. [3 Marks]

"I can do this!" I shouted, standing my ground. "I am worthy! I believe in myself!" With every ounce of strength, I pushed through the darkness, my belief shining brighter than their shadows. As I reached for the crystal, the darkness shattered like glass, revealing a brilliant light.

As I held the crystal in my hands, a warmth enveloped me. "You have proven your heart’s true desire," a voice echoed, and I knew this was just the beginning of my journey. I had not only found the Crystal of Dreams but had also discovered the power of believing in myself.

PROMPT: I am a IGCSE student working on Comprehension. You are an English teacher. The text: {TEXT} Question 2b prompt: {QUESTION} My Answer 1 : {ANSWER1} Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong>
<ul>
<li>The phrase "I can do this!" demonstrates the protagonist's determination and confidence in overcoming challenges, which is essential for self-belief (1 mark).</li>
<li>The act of pushing through the darkness signifies that self-belief is not just a feeling but requires action and resilience in the face of doubt (1 mark).</li>
<li>Finally, the warmth that envelops the protagonist when holding the crystal suggests that self-belief not only leads to achieving goals but also brings a sense of fulfilment and transformation (1 mark).</li>
</ul>
</div>

You are marking an English comprehension question. Evaluate if I have answered the question. Accept answers that are relevant, paraphrased and is the same meaning and logic of the suggested answers.

First check the total marks for all the parts in the question.

The suggested answers has various points. Each point is equal to one mark.

Check for ‘My Answer against the marking scheme: ‘Suggested Answer’. Do not add on to my answers.

Give me one mark and a green coloured tick symbol for each point that I am correct. Give me no marks and a red coloured cross symbol if i have missed out a point from the suggested answers.

If i am wrong, provide useful guidance but do not show me the suggested answers or the marking scheme.

If I am correct congratulate me.

At the end of your Output, provide me with the total marks for all questions using this format: ‘Total Marks: (marks)’

Use very simple language and be concise.

Question 2(d)
Explain how the writer uses language to convey meaning and to create effect in the following 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. [15 Marks]
Paragraph 1: “As I stepped through the shimmering portal, the air around me crackled with magic.”

Paragraph 2: “"I seek the Crystal of Dreams," I replied, feeling a surge of determination.”

PROMPT: I am a IGCSE student working on Comprehension. You are an English teacher. The text: {TEXT} Question 2a prompt: {QUESTION} My Answer 1 : {ANSWER1} Suggested Answer: <div class="SuggestedAnswer">
<strong>Suggested answer:</strong>
<ul>
<li>In the first paragraph, the phrase "shimmering portal" evokes a vivid image of a magical entrance, suggesting a transition into a fantastical realm. The word "shimmering" implies beauty and allure, enhancing the reader's sense of wonder (Paragraph 1).</li>
<div> <br> </div>
<li>The description of the air "crackled with magic" uses auditory imagery to convey a sense of energy and excitement. This phrase suggests that the environment is alive with potential, setting an enchanting tone for the adventure that is about to unfold (Paragraph 1).</li>
<div> <br> </div>
<li>In the second paragraph, the phrase "surge of determination" conveys a powerful internal emotion. The word "surge" suggests an overwhelming and dynamic force, highlighting the protagonist's strong resolve to pursue their quest (Paragraph 2).</li>
<div> <br> </div>
<li>The phrase "Crystal of Dreams" itself is rich with connotation, suggesting not only a physical object but also the embodiment of hopes and aspirations. This imagery elevates the quest to a personal level, making it relatable to the reader's own desires (Paragraph 2).</li>
<div> <br> </div>
<li>Additionally, the use of direct speech, "I seek the Crystal of Dreams," creates immediacy and intimacy, inviting the reader to connect with the protagonist's mission. The straightforwardness of the statement contrasts with the mystical setting, grounding the narrative in a relatable goal (Paragraph 2).</li>
<div> <br> </div>
<li>Overall, the language in these paragraphs effectively combines vivid imagery and emotional depth, drawing the reader into the enchanting world while simultaneously establishing the protagonist's determination and purpose.</li>
</ul>
</div>Evaluate if I answered the question correctly. Output a green tick if correct or a red cross if incorrect. Explain if I am correct or wrong, Do not give me the answer. Use Markdown

Question 3

You are a student who has just returned from an inspiring adventure in an enchanted forest. You have been asked to give a speech to your classmates about your experience and the lessons you learned during your journey.

  • Describe the magical elements you encountered in the enchanted forest.
  • Explain the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
  • Share the key lesson about self-belief that you learned from your adventure.

Write the words of your speech.

Write about 250 to 300 words. (15 Marks)

PROMPT: I am a IGCSE student working on Comprehension. You are an English teacher. The text: {TEXT} Question 2a prompt: {QUESTION} My Answer 1 : {ANSWER1} Evaluate if I answered the question correctly. Output a green tick if correct or a red cross if incorrect. Explain if I am correct or wrong, Do not give me the answer. Use Markdown