LESS FAMILIAR TOPICS FOR SPM 1119/2: SHARING 2
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The topics tested in the writing paper can be familiar and less familiar to the candidates. Do you consider ‘an act of kindness’ (SPM 2021; Part 2) and ‘preserving cultural traditions’ (SPM 2022; Part 2) familiar to the candidates? Personally, I don’t think so. I would describe both topics above as something that many candidates are not familiar with. Even certain topics in Part 3 are less familiar among some candidates.
What am I trying to convey here? Based on my analysis of the limited data available (I only have SPM 2021 and 2022 questions to examine) I would say that there is a high possibility the topic for Part 2 could be less familiar to many candidates. Well, I am not from the Malaysian Examination Syndicate and yes, I could be wrong. Despite this fact, I still encourage my candidates to read on topics which are less familiar to them so that they are more prepared for content when they write their essays.
The following are five more topics which I am positive are common to many SPM 1119/2 candidates. I did share the first five topics in the previous posting. The contents (ideas and details) are not mine but ChatGPT’s. For certain reasons, I edited some parts of the answers offered by ChatGPT to suit SPM 1119/2. I would encourage English Language teachers to share these five additional selected questions and answers with their candidates. There are a few possible activities which can be carried out using the material:
Candidates read each question and answer on their own. OR
Candidates create a mind map based on the ideas shared by ChatGPT. OR
Teacher assigns a topic to each group. Group members read about the assigned topic and retell about the main content to the class. OR
Candidates read and select the best three or five content for each topic. OR
Candidates may write a complete sentence to form a topic sentence based on the idea offered by ChatGPT. OR
Candidates may practise paragraph writing. They can rewrite the details offered by ChatGPT using their own words and add relevant cohesive devices to form a short paragraph.
Notes:
I am not trying to forecast the topics that will be tested in SPM 1119/2. I am simply encouraging teachers to keep preparing their candidates for SPM 1119/2. I am very confident that teachers have been doing their best. However, sharing less familiar topics with their candidates could be another practical strategy that teachers can implement.
I purposely share this material in Microsoft Word so that you can download (if interested) and edit it as you wish.
Do refer to the previous posting for Questions 1 – 5.
Coming soon … Sharing 3.
(continuation from Sharing 1; Questions 1-5)
Question 6 (Theme: Science and technology)
Why should teens have their own blog?
Answers from ChatGPT
Having a blog can offer numerous benefits for teenagers, both personally and academically. Here are some compelling reasons why teens might consider starting their own blog:
Developing Writing Skills: Blogging provides an excellent platform for teens to enhance their writing skills. Regularly creating and publishing content helps improve grammar, vocabulary, and overall communication abilities.
Creativity and Expression: Blogging allows teens to express their creativity and share their unique perspectives with a global audience. They can explore various writing styles, experiment with multimedia content, and develop their own voice.
Building a Digital Portfolio: A blog serves as a personal portfolio that showcases a teen's skills, interests, and accomplishments. This can be valuable for college applications, job interviews, or other opportunities where a digital presence is beneficial.
Digital Literacy: Managing a blog helps teens develop digital literacy skills. They learn about web publishing, content creation, and basic HTML, gaining practical knowledge that is increasingly important in today's digital age.
Networking and Community Building: Blogging allows teens to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar interests. They can engage with readers, receive feedback, and build a supportive online community.
Learning Time Management: Maintaining a blog requires consistent effort and time management. Teens can learn to balance their academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and blog-related tasks, fostering organizational skills.
Exploring Interests and Passions: Blogging provides a platform for teens to explore and share their interests and passions. Whether it's literature, technology, photography, or any other topic, a blog allows them to delve deeper into subjects they are passionate about.
Developing Technical Skills: Operating a blog involves learning about various tools and platforms, including website hosting, content management systems, and multimedia editing. This exposure to technical aspects contributes to the development of valuable skills.
Enhancing Critical Thinking: Blogging encourages teens to think critically about the topics they write about. They learn to research, analyze information, and present well-reasoned arguments or opinions.
Documenting Personal Growth: Over time, a blog becomes a record of a teen's personal and intellectual growth. It allows them to reflect on their experiences, accomplishments, and challenges, providing a valuable record of their journey.
Potential for Monetization: While not the primary focus for many teens, successful blogs can offer opportunities for monetization through advertising, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing. This introduces them to basic concepts of entrepreneurship and financial management.
Improving Presentation Skills: Creating engaging and visually appealing blog content improves presentation skills. Teens can experiment with multimedia elements, such as images and videos, to enhance the overall appeal of their blog.
Boosting Confidence: Successfully managing a blog, receiving positive feedback, and building an audience can boost a teen's confidence. It provides a sense of accomplishment and recognition for their efforts.
Learning SEO and Online Marketing: Teens can gain an understanding of search engine optimization (SEO) and online marketing strategies as they aim to increase the visibility of their blog. These skills are valuable in the digital landscape.
Positive Digital Presence: By having a blog, teens can establish a positive and constructive digital presence. This can be an important aspect of their online identity as they navigate future educational and professional opportunities.
It's important for teens to approach blogging responsibly, considering online safety, privacy, and ethical considerations. With proper guidance and supervision, blogging can be a rewarding and educational experience for teenagers.
Question 7: (Theme: People and culture)
What are the pros and cons of having nursing homes / old folks’ home?
Answers from ChatGPT
Nursing homes, or long-term care facilities, provide residential care for individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living due to age, illness, or disability. Like any form of care, nursing homes have both advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of Nursing Homes / old folks’ home:
Professional Care: Nursing homes are staffed by trained healthcare professionals, including nurses and caregivers, who can provide round-the-clock medical care and support.
Specialized Care Services: Nursing homes can offer specialized care for individuals with specific health conditions or those requiring rehabilitation services.
Safety and Security: Nursing homes are designed to provide a safe and secure environment, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring that residents receive proper care and attention.
Social Opportunities: Residents have the opportunity to socialize with their peers, participate in group activities, and engage in a sense of community, which can contribute to their emotional well-being.
Respite for Caregivers: Nursing homes provide relief for family caregivers who may find it challenging to meet the intensive care needs of their loved ones. This allows caregivers to focus on their own well-being.
Access to Medical Resources: Nursing homes typically have access to medical resources, including physicians, therapists, and medical equipment, ensuring that residents receive comprehensive healthcare.
Structured Routine: Nursing homes provide a structured routine that includes meals, activities, and healthcare services. This predictability can be reassuring for individuals who thrive on routine.
Assistance with Activities of Daily Living: Residents receive assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, promoting independence and overall well-being.
Quality of Life Programs: Many nursing homes offer quality of life programs, including recreational activities, outings, and entertainment, to enhance the overall experience for residents.
Cons of Nursing Homes / old folks’ home:
Loss of Independence: Residents may experience a loss of independence, as they often have to adhere to the facility's schedule and regulations.
Limited Personal Space: Living spaces in nursing homes can be limited, and residents may have less personal space compared to living in their own homes.
Potential for Isolation: Despite efforts to promote socialization, some residents may experience feelings of isolation, especially if they do not participate in group activities or have family visits.
Quality of Care Concerns: Concerns about the quality of care may arise, particularly if a facility is understaffed or fails to meet regulatory standards. This can impact the overall well-being of residents.
Cost: Nursing home care can be expensive, and not all individuals may have the financial resources to afford long-term care in a facility.
Adjustment Challenges: Transitioning to a nursing home can be emotionally challenging for residents, leading to feelings of loss, depression, or anxiety.
Risk of Abuse or Neglect: In some cases, there may be a risk of abuse or neglect in nursing homes, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and oversight in choosing a facility.
Limited Personalized Care: Due to the number of residents and the need for efficiency, individualized and personalized care may be limited in some nursing homes.
Cultural and Lifestyle Differences: Residents may experience challenges if the nursing home's culture and lifestyle do not align with their preferences, values, or cultural background.
It's important for individuals and their families to carefully assess their needs, preferences, and financial considerations when considering nursing home care. Additionally, regulatory standards and reviews of potential facilities can provide valuable information to make informed decisions.
Question 8 (Theme: Health and environment / People and culture)
What lessons can be learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic?
Answers from ChatGPT
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a global crisis that has affected individuals, communities, and nations in profound ways. Here are some key lessons that can be learned from the pandemic:
Global Interconnectedness: The pandemic highlighted the interconnected nature of our world. The rapid spread of the virus demonstrated how events in one part of the globe can have far-reaching consequences for everyone.
Public Health Preparedness: The importance of strong public health systems and preparedness became evident. Investing in healthcare infrastructure, research, and disease surveillance is crucial for responding effectively to future health crises.
Adaptability and Resilience: Individuals and communities learned to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. The ability to be resilient and flexible in the face of uncertainty became a valuable skill.
Role of Science and Research: The pandemic underscored the critical role of science and research in understanding, combating, and preventing infectious diseases. Collaborative efforts in scientific research and vaccine development were essential.
Digital Transformation: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies in various aspects of life, including remote work, online education, telehealth, and digital communication. This highlighted the importance of technological resilience and preparedness.
Health Inequities: The pandemic brought attention to existing health inequities and disparities. Vulnerable populations faced higher risks, emphasizing the need for equitable access to healthcare and addressing social determinants of health.
International Cooperation: The global response to the pandemic required unprecedented levels of international cooperation. Collaborative efforts in vaccine distribution, information sharing, and resource allocation demonstrated the importance of working together on a global scale.
Communication and Transparency: Clear and transparent communication from authorities was crucial during the pandemic. Effective communication helped build trust, disseminate accurate information, and guide public behavior.
Importance of Community: Communities played a vital role in supporting each other during challenging times. Acts of kindness, mutual aid, and community resilience were evident, highlighting the strength of collective efforts.
Prevention and Early Intervention: The importance of early intervention and preventive measures, such as testing, contact tracing, and vaccination, became evident. Proactive measures can help mitigate the impact of infectious diseases.
Remote Work and Flexible Work Arrangements: The pandemic prompted a widespread shift toward remote work and flexible work arrangements. This experience has implications for future work models and the need for adaptable workplace policies.
Environmental Awareness: Lockdowns and travel restrictions led to a temporary reduction in pollution and environmental impact. This emphasized the interconnectedness of human health and the health of the planet, encouraging discussions on sustainable practices.
Supply Chain Resilience: Disruptions in supply chains highlighted the importance of building resilient and diversified supply chains. This lesson is relevant not only in healthcare but across various industries.
Mental Health Awareness: The pandemic brought attention to the mental health challenges associated with isolation, uncertainty, and stress. There is a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and the need for accessible mental health support.
Crisis Planning and Preparedness: Governments, organizations, and individuals learned the importance of robust crisis planning and preparedness. Having contingency plans in place for various scenarios is crucial for mitigating the impact of future crises.
These lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic provide valuable insights into areas of improvement, resilience, and the collective efforts needed to address global challenges effectively. Implementing these lessons can contribute to a more prepared and resilient world in the face of future uncertainties.
Question 9 (Health and environment / Consumerism and financial awareness / People and culture)
What are the pros and cons of paying sportsmen lucratively?
Answers from ChatGPT
Paying sportsmen lucratively, particularly in professional sports leagues, has both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons associated with high salaries for athletes:
Pros:
Talent Attraction and Retention: Lucrative salaries attract top talent to sports, ensuring that the best athletes are motivated to compete at the highest level. Competitive salaries also help retain experienced and successful players.
Economic Impact: Professional sports can have a significant economic impact on cities and regions. Lucrative contracts for athletes contribute to job creation, tourism, and revenue for local businesses associated with sports events.
Incentive for Excellence: High salaries serve as powerful incentives for athletes to excel in their respective sports. The promise of substantial financial rewards encourages dedication, hard work, and continuous improvement.
Entertainment Value: Well-paid athletes often deliver high-quality performances, enhancing the overall entertainment value of sports. Fans are more likely to watch and engage in sports when they witness exceptional skill and talent.
Role Models and Inspiration: Successful athletes who earn lucrative salaries can serve as positive role models for aspiring athletes. Their achievements inspire others to pursue excellence in sports and related fields.
Investment in Training and Facilities: Lucrative contracts enable athletes and sports organizations to invest in advanced training facilities, equipment, and coaching staff. This, in turn, contributes to the development and improvement of the sport.
Global Competitiveness: Competitive salaries help sports leagues attract top talent from around the world, elevating the level of competition and making the sports landscape more globally competitive.
Brand Endorsements: High-profile athletes with lucrative contracts often become marketable figures, attracting brand endorsements and sponsorships. This additional income can contribute to their financial stability and wealth.
Cons:
Salary Disparities: Lucrative salaries can lead to significant disparities between the highest-paid athletes and others in the same sport or league. This can create tension within teams and contribute to an uneven playing field.
Financial Pressure: The pressure to maintain high earnings and lucrative contracts can affect athletes mentally and emotionally. This pressure may lead to burnout, stress, and a focus on financial gains over the love of the sport.
Team Salary Caps: Salary caps are implemented in some sports leagues to promote competitive balance. Lucrative contracts can make it challenging for teams to stay within salary cap limits, potentially leading to imbalances in team competitiveness.
Public Perception and Criticism: Highly paid athletes may face public scrutiny and criticism, especially if their on-field performance does not match their salary. This can contribute to negative perceptions of professional sports.
Impact on Ticket Prices: High athlete salaries can contribute to increased operating costs for sports franchises, which may be passed on to fans through higher ticket prices and merchandise costs.
Financial Unsustainability: In some cases, the pursuit of lucrative contracts can lead to financial unsustainability for sports organizations. Teams may struggle with financial burdens, impacting their ability to invest in other critical aspects of the sport.
Shorter Careers: The pressure to perform at a high level to justify lucrative contracts can lead to shorter careers for athletes. Injuries, burnout, or declines in performance may result in early retirements.
Distorted Sporting Priorities: The pursuit of high salaries may shift priorities from the love of the sport to financial gains. This can impact the overall integrity and spirit of competition in sports.
While lucrative contracts for sportsmen can bring various benefits, it's essential for sports organizations, athletes, and governing bodies to carefully manage the financial aspects to ensure long-term sustainability and fairness within the sports industry.
Question 10 (Health and environment)
Why should new forest reserves be created?
Answers from ChatGPT
Creating new forest reserves is of great importance for several environmental, ecological, and societal reasons. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of establishing new forest reserves:
Biodiversity Conservation: Forest reserves provide critical habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. Creating new reserves helps protect biodiversity by preserving ecosystems that support various flora and fauna, including many endangered or threatened species.
Climate Change Mitigation: Forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing significant amounts of carbon dioxide through the process of photosynthesis. Establishing new forest reserves contributes to carbon sequestration, helping offset the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions.
Water Conservation: Forests play a vital role in regulating water cycles. They act as natural sponges, absorbing and gradually releasing water. By creating new forest reserves, water sources can be protected, ensuring a sustainable supply of freshwater for both ecosystems and human communities downstream.
Soil Protection: Forests help prevent soil erosion by providing ground cover and stabilizing the soil with their root systems. The establishment of new forest reserves can protect vulnerable areas from soil degradation, maintaining soil fertility and preventing the loss of valuable topsoil.
Air Quality Improvement: Trees in forests act as natural air filters, removing pollutants and particulate matter from the air. Increasing forest cover through new reserves contributes to improved air quality, positively impacting the health of both ecosystems and nearby human populations.
Recreation and Tourism: Forest reserves offer recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, bird watching, and eco-tourism. Creating new reserves provides additional spaces for people to connect with nature, fostering a sense of well-being and promoting eco-friendly tourism.
Cultural and Spiritual Values: Forests often hold cultural and spiritual significance for indigenous communities and local populations. Creating new forest reserves helps preserve these values and traditions, promoting a sense of connection to the land and its natural resources.
Research and Education: Forest reserves serve as living laboratories for scientific research and environmental education. They provide opportunities for studying ecosystems, biodiversity, and ecological processes, contributing valuable insights that can inform conservation strategies and sustainable land management practices.
Economic Benefits: Forests contribute to the economy through sustainable timber harvesting, non-timber forest products, and ecotourism. By creating new forest reserves with well-managed resources, it is possible to balance economic interests with conservation goals, supporting local livelihoods and industries.
Global Environmental Harmony: Forests are interconnected components of the global environment. Creating new forest reserves contributes to the overall health of the planet by preserving vital ecosystems, promoting biodiversity, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and habitat loss.
In summary, the establishment of new forest reserves is crucial for maintaining ecological balance, conserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and providing a range of social, economic, and environmental benefits for present and future generations.
You may download the material if interested.
