Sample

Answers
miss Jay

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Red = Evaluation
1123/02 Cambridge O Level – Mark Scheme For examination
SPECIMEN from 2024

Question Answer Marks

1 Write a magazine article for young people about the advantages and 25
disadvantages of travelling to other countries.

In your article you should:

• evaluate the ideas and opinions in both texts

• give your own views, based on what you have read in the texts
about the advantages and disadvantages of travelling to other
countries.

Base your article on what you have read in both texts but be careful to
use your own words.

Address both of the bullet points.

Begin your article with a suitable headline.

Write about 250 to 350 words.

Up to 10 marks are available for the content of your answer, and up to 15

marks for the quality of your writing.

Notes on task

Responses might use the following ideas:

Text 1

• ‘so much to see in their native lands’ – lots of people don’t get to know
their own countries.
• ‘fuel-guzzling aeroplane’ / ‘eco-friendly’, ‘carbon footprint’ – it’s much
better for the environment to take vacations in your own country
• ‘ridiculously high prices ... crowded tourist attractions ... ripped off’ –
holidays in other countries are often disappointing
• getting to know and understand/appreciate your own country/culture is
important and rewarding
• spend holidays seeing family and friends

Text 2

• it is human nature to want to travel / see new things

• travel is educational and offers many opportunities to learn new things
• travel can be life-changing and can have positive impacts on people in
terms of personality and values
• meeting friends from other cultures helps us realise that the world is
smaller than we think
• travel can make people less focused on material possessions and
appreciate the beautiful things in the world that are free

© Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2021 Page 4 of 10

1123/02 Cambridge O Level – Mark Scheme For examination
SPECIMEN from 2024

Question Answer Marks

1 Possible evaluation of ideas:

Text 1

• whether people neglect their own country and what it has to offer due to
their desire to travel to other countries / people fail to appreciate what
they have
• whether travelling to other countries has an unacceptable impact on the
environment / whether we should be considering our carbon footprint
more carefully
• whether the tourist industry just exploits people financially and ruins
places of beauty and interest
• whether people appreciate and understand their own culture properly

Text 2

• whether travel is educational or just about holidays

• whether we are too materialistic or whether seeing the world is just part
of that materialism
• how important it is to experience different cultures and meet people from
different countries
• whether we need to travel to understand different cultures in the age of
the internet

Possible synthesis of ideas:

The voice in Text 1 is older whereas Text 2 is from the perspective of a young
person who travelled widely after A Levels. Both texts agree that travel has
some advantages, but Text 1 argues that people should spend more time
getting to know their own country rather than holidaying in other countries
whereas Text 2 focuses on the advantages young people get from travelling
to other countries. Text 1 also cites the impact of air travel on the environment
whereas Text 2 doesn’t acknowledge this at all – candidates may express
their own views on this. Text 2 seems more directed at young people whereas
Text 1 may focus more on older people. Text 2 seems more idealistic and just
focuses on the positives.

© Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2021 Page 5 of 10

#1 — SPECIMEN — TRAVELLING — ARTICLE

Hopping on a Plane — To Where? By Jaweria Amer

Is packing your bags for a foreign destination truly the adventure of a lifetime, or merely
a hole in your wallet? This article endeavours to examine domestic versus foreign travel
before arriving at a final verdict.

It is undeniable that young people have an innate desire to explore unfamiliar places,
and that these journeys expose them to different cultures and traditions. Personally,
the backpacking trip I took at eighteen was the most transformative experience of my
life. However, do you truly need a passport to learn, when the internet offers the same
exposure for free? Similarly, some people assert that travelling overseas forges
friendships across borders and strips away materialism. Hence, making you a better,
happier person, who is more in touch with reality. Yet such growth comes at a
significant financial burden. My last trip to Bali? Vendors tried selling me ordinary
trinkets for thrice the price. But is that all there is to the story?

Many argue that the desire to visit foreign locations is largely psychological — new
places only seem exciting because they are unfamiliar — yet once the novelty wears off,
you are left with an empty wallet and the same restless mind, which hardly makes the
arduous expense worthwhile. On the flip side, domestic travel encourages people to
appreciate their national heritage, something paramount for any nation to progress.
Furthermore, staying closer to home eliminates the carbon emissions of fuel-guzzling
aeroplanes. Most importantly, spending meaningful time with family on a local holiday
creates deeper memories than any solo trip overseas. To travel locally is to invest
wisely! To travel locally is to protect our planet! To travel locally is to rediscover home!
So, what is our final decision?

All in all, when all these aforementioned points coalesce, people who advocate for
international travel follow an idealistic, individualistic approach while completely
omitting the damage air travel inflicts on our planet. Is the answer not evident? We must
choose the path that is kinder to our wallets and our world.

After all, if you hop on that plane, don't forget — you always need to land back home!
Thank you for reading.
#2 — S24 QP21 — HOMEWORK — FORMAL LETTER

Dear Principal,

With the changing times, the proposed ban on homework has become a matter of
considerable debate; as per your request, the subsequent letter aims to meticulously
weigh both perspectives, and the points are laid out below for your esteemed
consideration.

It is undeniable that student life is arduous, with extensive hours in lessons each week,
and that the burden of assignments leaves little room for rest or leisure. Research
suggests that nearly sixty percent of students feel overwhelmed by after-school
workload. However, a counterargument is that the problem lies not with homework
itself but with the quantity — a structured limit would address exhaustion without
scrapping the system. Similarly, some people assert that not every student has a quiet
study space at home, and that some lack parental guidance or internet access. Thus,
leaving them at an unfair advantage to their peers. Yet, this perspective falls short
because we can simply introduce supervised study periods and free resources — an
alternative that would allow students to complete work before leaving the building.

Some people claim homework reinforces what is taught during lessons, allowing
students to identify gaps before they become permanent; yet it cannot be disavowed
that the quantity must be flexible to allow for efficient learning. Additionally, homework
does enable parents to stay involved in their children's education, strengthening the
bond between home and school. Moreover, completing assignments under time
pressure teaches students to balance priorities — a skill that is paramount for their
futures and something I utilize myself daily.

When all these aforementioned points coalesce, people who advocate for abolishing
homework follow a short-term, individualistic approach while the long-term benefits far
outweigh the temporary discomfort. Their argument, albeit popular, completely omits
the role homework plays in building discipline. Taking a pragmatic view, I recommend
retaining homework with structured guidelines.

I am honoured that you took the time to consider my suggestions; ultimately — given
your expertise and sound judgement — I trust you will undertake the decision that most
effectively supports our collective goals, and I eagerly await your response.

Yours sincerely, Jaweria Amer

#3 — S24 QP22 — ZOOS — SPEECH

Good morning, everyone! Have you ever wondered whether our entertainment is worth
an animal's entire life? I, Jaweria Amer, stand before you to share my views on whether
zoos should be banned.

My dear friends, it is undeniable that zoos offer families an affordable day out for all
ages, and that they serve as educational spaces where children witness animals from
their textbooks. For instance, on our last trip, both my grandfather baby cousin had a
splendid time — little Amelia couldn't believe her eyes! However, a brief moment of
wonder for us hardly justifies a lifetime of being caged, confined, and controlled for
them. Similarly, some people assert that zoos protect endangered species and allow
scientists to study animal behaviour. Thus, helping us progress and in turn help the
species in the long-term. Yet, you cannot overlook that most animals feel alienated in
artificial environments — meaning the very research these zoos claim to produce is
fundamentally flawed.

That being said, my classmates, zoos are frequently overcrowded, with creatures kept
in spaces far smaller than their natural habitats — and I know, I know, all institutes are
not the same; some such as the Danzoo are making changes. But overall, owing to the
lack of training of the employees, captive animals live significantly shorter lives than
their wild counterparts. Adding on, many animals are taken directly from the wild —
they know what freedom feels like and will never experience it again. This means that
they never experience the happiness they deserve in these cages. Most importantly,
zoos exist primarily to generate profit — the recent news report on BBC covered this
exact topic. So, what is our final decision?

My respected listeners, when all these aforementioned points coalesce, people who
advocate for zoos follow an idealistic, individualistic approach while the arduous reality
of animal suffering far outweighs any fleeting benefit. They completely omit the long-
term psychological damage on captive animals. No creature deserves a cage! No
creature deserves captivity! No creature deserves a life behind bars! We must ban zoos
— the evidence leaves no room for doubt.

My friends, it is time to STAND UP FOR THOSE WHO CANNOT SPEAK FOR

THEMSELVES! It is our duty — I repeat — it is our duty. Thank you!
#4 — W24 QP21 — SOCIAL MEDIA — ARTICLE

Scrolling Through the Truth: Is Social Media Really the Villain? By Jaweria Amer

Is social media truly a blessing, or has it quietly become our greatest curse? This article
endeavours to examine the merits and pitfalls of social media for young people before
arriving at a final verdict.

It is undeniable that these apps are time-consuming, draining hours that could be spent
on schoolwork, and that they weaken real-life social skills by replacing conversation
with screen time. Personally, I've witnessed classmates scroll through entire lunch
breaks without saying a word — it's honestly quite sad. However, a counter-argument is
that social media actually builds transferable communication skills — so the problem
lies with self-discipline, not the platforms. Similarly, some people assert that excessive
use damages mental health, and that children can stumble upon explicit content. For
instance: “The Blue Shark” game that surfaced a couple of years ago. Yet, you cannot
overlook that parental controls and screen-time limits already exist — blaming the app
is like blaming the fridge for your midnight snacking. But is that all there is to the story?

Many argue that social media provides a quick means of communication, allowing
families separated by oceans to connect with a single tap — yet it cannot be disavowed
that this connectivity has also become a lifeline for lonely teenagers, and removing it
would only exacerbate their isolation rather than solve it. On the flip side, these
platforms increase our understanding of how others live, fostering empathy no textbook
can replicate. Furthermore, social media has become a vehicle for spreading positivity
— the recent anti-racism campaign that triumphed through viral posts is proof of this.
To connect is to understand, to connect is to grow, and to connect is to build a better
world. So, what is our final decision?

All in all, when all these aforementioned points coalesce, people who oppose social
media follow a biased, short-term approach — driven by concerned parents with a
personal stake. Their argument, albeit understandable, completely omits the
communal benefits. Is the answer not evident? We must embrace social media
responsibly, not abandon it.

After all, if we refuse to scroll, we might just miss the message that changes everything
— and that would be a truly antisocial decision! Thank you for reading.
#5 — W24 QP22 — MOBILE PHONES — FORMAL EMAIL

Subject: Regarding the proposed ban on mobile phones

Dear Sir/Madam,

With the changing times, the debate surrounding mobile phones in school has become
a matter of considerable debate; the subsequent email aims to meticulously weigh
both perspectives, and the points are laid out below for your esteemed consideration.

It is undeniable that mobile phones allow students to contact their parents instantly,
providing safety, and that they serve as research tools that save arduous hours of
manual searching. Studies show that around seventy percent of students use phones
for schoolwork daily. However, we all know that mobile phones are rarely used for such
emergencies are instead just used for social media — and the distraction they cause
exacerbates the very problems they claim to solve. Similarly, some people assert that
smartphones help with organisation and that maintaining an expensive device teaches
responsibility. I, personally, have seen students care for their phones as if they were
their children. Yet, you cannot overlook that these gadgets create visible wealth gaps,
breeding envy among students who cannot afford the latest model.

On the contrary, some people claim banning phones would greatly reduce distractions,
allowing students to give their teachers undivided attention; come to think of it, you can
waste time whilst just fidgeting a pen as well, it is truly up to the student. Some
advantages of a mobile phone that cannot be disavowed are that teachers can
accurately gauge each student's progress — a benefit that is paramount for providing
tailored academic support. Furthermore, students would generate their own ideas
rather than copying from the internet, fostering genuine creativity. Moreover, removing
the addictive pull of notifications would encourage face-to-face conversation, building
real social skills no screen can replicate.

When all these aforementioned points coalesce, people who advocate for keeping
phones follow an individualistic, biased approach — backed by students personally
attached to their devices. Their argument, albeit popular, completely omits the link
between phone use and declining performance. Taking a pragmatic view, I recommend
banning phones during school hours.

I am honoured that you took the time to consider my suggestions; ultimately — given
your expertise and sound judgement — I trust you will undertake the decision that most
effectively supports our collective goals, and I eagerly await your response.

Regards,
Jaweria Amer
#6 — S25 QP21 — SCHOOL UNIFORM — FORMAL EMAIL

To: The Principal From: Jaweria Amer Subject: Regarding the school uniform policy

Dear Sir/Madam,

With the changing times, the question of whether students should wear their own
clothes has become a matter of considerable debate; as per your request, the
subsequent email aims to meticulously weigh both perspectives, and the points are
laid out below for your esteemed consideration.

It is undeniable that school uniform is expensive — particularly when purchased from

one shop — and that this financial strain leads to arduous quarrels between children
and their parents. Research indicates that families spend fifteen percent more on
mandatory uniform than regular clothing. However, a counterargument is that thrifting
and hand-me-downs exist, so why not go for that option? Similarly, some people assert
that uniform suppresses individuality, and that students learn better in their own
clothes. This might make them more comfortable, aiding learning. Yet, true individuality
is expressed through character — never fabric — and if casual clothes genuinely
improved focus, every workplace in the world would have abolished dress codes by
now.

On the contrary, having a uniform saves considerable time each morning, allowing
students to focus on what truly matters. Even though from what I have witnessed,
students find a way to spend thirty minutes there as well. Moreover, wearing the same
uniform cultivates a powerful sense of belonging and school pride. It creates a healthier
environment — one where academic performance takes priority over appearances.
Most importantly, a smart uniform projects a professional image that benefits the
school's reputation. It also eliminates the visible wealth gap, ensuring nobody is bullied
based on what they wear; and it cannot be disavowed that this equality fosters.

When all these aforementioned points coalesce, people who advocate against uniform
follow a biased, individualistic approach — driven by financial grievance rather than
objectivity. Their argument, albeit emotionally compelling, completely omits the long-
term benefits of equality. Taking a pragmatic view, I recommend retaining the uniform
policy.

I am honoured that you took the time to consider my suggestions; ultimately — given
your expertise and sound judgement — I trust you will undertake the decision that most
effectively supports our collective goals, and I eagerly await your response.

Regards,
Jaweria Amer
#7 — S25 QP22 — SUMMER BREAK — INFORMAL EMAIL

Subject: About your summer break plans!

Dear Cousin,

Hey! Just read your mail about this summer — and honestly, are you really considering
filing papers over the adventure of a lifetime?

Some claim that staying home and working is smarter because you earn your own
money and gain independence. Not only do you get to see breathtaking sights, but you
also make poignant memories with your friends. However, everything comes at a price.
They also argue that summer jobs teach life skills and that making contacts helps your
career. While that is important in its own regard, it is incontrovertible that contacts can
be made while travelling too. Plus, the argument that it's better to travel when older
ignores that adult life comes with mortgages and zero free time — so when exactly is
"older"?

Contrary to what some people may believe, although you do have your whole life ahead
of you, you will never be seventeen again, so make the most of it. Travelling doesn't
have to drain your wallet — backpacking on a budget teaches resourcefulness no office
job ever could. And here's the thing: it doesn't just save money, it genuinely changes
you — my trip to Northern Pakistan last summer completely shifted how I see the world,
and I'd never have grown that much sitting behind a desk. On the bright side, exploring
new places opens your eyes to cultures and traditions you'd never encounter at home.
Most importantly, the memories and friendships you create on those trips? Priceless —
they stay with you forever.

All in all, the stay-at-home argument focuses on short-term gains, takes a purely
individualistic view, and comes from people who've forgotten what it feels like to be
young and free. You should absolutely travel — pack your bags and go!

Kudos for reading my ramble — hope it helped! Gotta dash, Mum's calling. Take care!

Love,
Jaweria
#8 — W25 QP21 — SPORTS HALL VS LIBRARY — REPORT

To: The Principal Date: 15th November 2025

Heading: A report on the school funding allocation: findings and recommendations

Introduction

As per the Principal's instruction, this report aims to examine whether the school's
funds should be spent on improving the sports hall or the library; drawing upon student
perspectives and prevailing trends, the subsequent findings evaluate both approaches
to determine the most beneficial course of action.

Perceived Benefits of Improving the Library

Upgrading the library will provide every student with up-to-date resources in tandem
with equipping them with necessary expertise on relevant topics. This will aid them in
the long-term with their grades and careers. Yet it cannot be disavowed all this
information is already available for free on the internet. Furthermore, some people
assert that a library will allow students to broaden their horizons by hosting unique
academic events. For instance, the Karachi Literature Festival at the Jay Academy had
two thousand participants who were exposed to new branches of learning. However,
we must consider that the younger generation is considerably more interested in
recreational events like sports.

Merits of Improving the Sports Hall

It is undeniable that not only will improving the sports hall give students a safe venue,
but it is also good for students' mental health. Studies consistently show that regular
physical activity enhances both general wellbeing and academic performance
significantly. Although we cannot refute that most students only end up being
distracted by such extracurriculars. On the contrary, the most valid claim is that a
larger hall would boost the school's image in the entire region. This would allow the
pupils to explore opportunities in the sporting field, for instance: representing the
school on different platforms. A student from the senior batch reports, "I am now
aiming to apply to MIT in the hopes of the sports scholarship."

Final Evaluation:

When all these aforementioned points coalesce that people who advocate for the
sports hall are pupils in the school themselves, so they understand the situation better.
They also follow a more communal approach — backed by statistics, hence, siding with
them, I recommend allocating the funds to the sports hall.
Conclusion:

This report has achieved its aim to inform, influence and illuminate. I express my
gratitude you and entrust you — as more well versed on the matter — act on these
findings judiciously.

Reported by: Jaweria Amer

#9 — W25 QP22 — UNIVERSITY VS WORKING — SPEECH

Good morning, everyone! Have you ever stopped to wonder whether you truly need a
piece of paper to validate your potential? I, Jaweria Amer, stand before you to share my
views on whether all school leavers should go to university.

My dear friends, it is undeniable that higher education succours you in self-discovery, in

tandem with charting a course towards forming meaningful bonds. Personally, I used to
be an introverted kid; however, befriending people with similar mindsets in college
helped me get out of my comfort zone. Yet this is arduous for individuals with social
anxiety, so it only applies to some. Similarly, some people assert that university
broadens your horizons alongside teaching practical life skills, and that it allows you to
pursue complex professions like medicine. Yet, you cannot overlook that countless
careers require internships and hands-on training even after your degree — so a
certificate alone guarantees nothing. Yet is that all there is to the story?

My classmates, many argue that stepping directly into the workforce allows you to build
your finances from day one — and it cannot be disavowed that early earners
accumulate significantly less debt, which is precisely why they end up with a
considerable financial head start, but that is only true if you are smart with it. That being
said, it is undeniable that you avoid the unbearable strain tuition fees place upon your
family — the result being that young earners can support their kith and kin far sooner.
Take Mark Zuckerberg, who left Harvard and built one of the most powerful companies
in history — proof that raw ambition can outweigh any diploma. Most importantly,
entering the workforce means you learn the market's demands first-hand. To work is to
grow! To work is to learn! To work is to truly live! So, what is our final decision?

My respected listeners, when all these aforementioned points coalesce, people who
advocate for university follow an idealistic, individualistic approach — usually given by
students who haven't even entered the job market yet. Their argument, albeit
emotionally compelling, completely omits the financial burden of debt. As the common
phrase goes, "experience is the best teacher." We must recognise that success is built
through action, not certificates.

My friends, it is time to FORGE YOUR OWN PATH! Not all roads lead through a university
campus — I repeat — not all roads lead through a university campus. Thank you!