Global Connections
Read Text C, and then answer Questions 2(a)-(d) and Question 3 on the question paper.
Global Connections
1
As I stood in the bustling marketplace of Kuala Lumpur, I couldn't help but marvel at the vibrant tapestry of cultures around me. The air was thick with the scent of spices, and the sounds of vendors calling out their wares filled the atmosphere. cdfgd fgI had recently moved to Malaysia, and every day felt like an adventure waiting to unfold.
2
"Hey there! You should try the satay!" A friendly voice interrupted my thoughts. I turned to see a local man, his smile infectious. "It's the best in the city!" He gestured towards a stall adorned with sizzling skewers over an open flame.
3
"I'll take your word for it!" I replied, my stomach grumbling in agreement. As I savoured the delicious flavours, I realised how globalization had brought us together in such a unique way. Here I was, a newcomer, sharing a meal with someone from a different background, yet we connected over food.
4
Later that day, I attended a cultural festival where people from various backgrounds showcased their heritage. The rhythm of traditional dances echoed through the streets, and I found myself swept up in the excitement. "Join us!" a young woman called out, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
5
"I would love to!" I exclaimed, feeling a rush of joy as I attempted to mimic the dance moves. It was moments like these that made me appreciate the beauty of diversity. Globalization had not only introduced me to new experiences but had also created a sense of community among us.
6
However, not everything was perfect. I overheard a conversation between two locals discussing the impact of tourism on their neighbourhood. "It's getting harder to find authentic experiences," one lamented. "Everything is becoming commercialised."
7
"I know what you mean," the other replied. "Sometimes I feel like our culture is being diluted." Their words struck a chord with me. While globalization had its advantages, I could see how it also posed challenges to preserving local traditions.
8
As I reflected on these conversations, I understood that globalization was a double-edged sword. It opened doors to new opportunities and experiences, yet it also demanded a careful balance. I wanted to embrace the world around me while still honouring the roots of the culture I was now a part of.
9
One evening, I met a group of friends at a local café. "What do you think about the changes happening in the city?" one of them asked, stirring her drink thoughtfully.
10
"It's exciting, but I worry about losing the essence of what makes this place special," I admitted. "We need to find ways to celebrate our heritage while welcoming new influences."
11
"Exactly!" another chimed in. "It's all about finding that balance. We can learn from each other without losing ourselves."
12
As I navigated through this new life, I realised that my journey was not just about adapting to a new place; it was about understanding the intricate web of connections that globalization created. It was about learning to appreciate the differences while finding common ground.
13
In the months that followed, I became more involved in community events, volunteering to help preserve local traditions. I learned to cook traditional dishes, participated in cultural workshops, and even joined a local dance group. Each experience deepened my appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures that surrounded me.
14
In the end, I realised that globalization was not merely a force that changed the landscape of our world; it was a catalyst for connection. It encouraged us to share our stories, our food, and our traditions, creating a vibrant mosaic of human experience. And as I continued my journey in Malaysia, I felt grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it all.
Question 2(a)
Identify a word or phrase from the text which suggests the same idea as the words in bold.
Identify a word or phrase from the text which suggests the same idea as the words in bold.
(i) The aroma of spices filled the air as I walked through the market. [1 mark]
(ii) I was overwhelmed by the excitement of the festival. [1 mark]
(iii) The locals expressed their concerns about tourism affecting their culture. [1 mark]
(iv) I wanted to honour the local traditions while embracing new experiences. [1 mark]
Question 2(b)
Using your own words, explain what the writer means by the words in bold:
Using your own words, explain what the writer means by the words in bold:
Later that day, I attended a cultural festival where people from various backgrounds showcased their heritage. The rhythm of traditional dances echoed through the streets, and I found myself swept up in the excitement. "Join us!" a young woman called out, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
(i) heritage [1 mark]
(ii) swept up [1 mark]
(iii) excitement [1 mark]
Question 2(c)
Use one example from the text below to explain how the writer conveys the impact of globalization on local culture. [3 Marks]
Use one example from the text below to explain how the writer conveys the impact of globalization on local culture. [3 Marks]
However, not everything was perfect. I overheard a conversation between two locals discussing the impact of tourism on their neighbourhood. "It's getting harder to find authentic experiences," one lamented. "Everything is becoming commercialised."
"I know what you mean," the other replied. "Sometimes I feel like our culture is being diluted." Their words struck a chord with me. While globalization had its advantages, I could see how it also posed challenges to preserving local traditions.
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]
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 3: “Later that day, I attended a cultural festival…”
Paragraph 6: “As I reflected on these conversations, I understood…”
Paragraph 6: “As I reflected on these conversations, I understood…”
Question 3
You are a community leader in Kuala Lumpur, and you have been asked to give a speech at a local cultural festival to highlight the importance of embracing globalization while preserving local traditions. Your speech should encourage community members to appreciate the diversity around them and to find a balance between new influences and their cultural heritage.
- Emphasise the beauty of cultural diversity in our community.
- Discuss the challenges posed by globalization on local traditions.
- Encourage community involvement in preserving cultural heritage.
In your speech you should:
Write the words of your speech.
Write about 250 to 300 words. (15 Marks)