Photo AI
What impression of Kate Thompson’s parents do you form from reading this passage? Support your answer with reference to the text - Junior Cycle English - Question 1 - 2005
Question 1
What impression of Kate Thompson’s parents do you form from reading this passage? Support your answer with reference to the text. I have always hankered after luxur... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What impression of Kate Thompson’s parents do you form from reading this passage? Support your answer with reference to the text - Junior Cycle English - Question 1 - 2005
Step 1
What impression of Kate Thompson’s parents do you form from reading this passage? Support your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
Kate Thompson's parents are portrayed as adventurous and resourceful, yet somewhat unconventional in their approach to holidays. Her mother, for instance, exhibits a rugged practicality by preparing meals over a Primus stove and foraging for mushrooms and berries, demonstrating a self-sufficient spirit. This aligns with her father's character, who is depicted as a staunch advocate of self-sufficiency and environmental awareness. His humor adds a layer of complexity, as evidenced when he humorously instructs his children to chase lambs for dinner.
Thompson’s recollections suggest that her parents relished the wild and rough aspects of camping, contrasting sharply with modern holiday expectations. This is emphasized by her remark that their camping trips would make the Royal Marines look like 'My Little Pony Camp,' illustrating the rigorous nature of their outings.
Overall, the impression is that Kate Thompson's parents, while capable and independent, perhaps lacked the comforts and luxuries typically associated with family holidays.
Step 2
Explain what the writer means when she says, "Our camping holidays would have made the Royal Marines look like My Little Pony Camp!"
Answer
The writer uses this comparison to highlight the stark contrast between her family’s camping experiences and more luxurious holiday options. By suggesting that their camping holidays were so rugged and austere that they could be likened to the rigorous training of the Royal Marines, she emphasizes the toughness and discomfort of their adventures. In contrast, referring to 'My Little Pony Camp' invokes images of innocence, fun, and comfort typically associated with children's activities. This exaggeration reinforces the notion that while her experiences were characterized by hardship and a lack of modern conveniences, those on more commercial holidays were enjoying far greater luxury and comfort.
Step 3
Thompson refers to the 'so-called' holidays of her childhood. Based on your reading of the passage, briefly describe the kind of holiday you think she would have liked.
Answer
Based on the passage, it can be inferred that Kate Thompson would have preferred a holiday that provided both comfort and leisure. She seems to long for the modern luxury of holiday resorts that offer amenities like well-equipped accommodations, dining options, and recreational activities. A vacation where relaxation is prioritized, perhaps at a tropical beach or a luxurious retreat, would likely appeal to her. Such an experience would contrast sharply with her childhood trips, allowing her to indulge in the pleasures of travel and leisure without the hardships she commonly faced.
Step 4
Despite its lack of luxuries, the author appears to remember her holidays in her 1970s mobile home fondly. Why do you think this might be so? Give reasons for your answer based on your reading of the text.
Answer
The fondness with which the author recalls her 1970s holidays likely stems from several factors. Firstly, the memories evoke a sense of nostalgia associated with family bonding and shared experiences. Despite the lack of comfort, the trips represented adventure and exploration, which may hold sentimental value. Additionally, the contrast between her rough childhood holidays and contemporary luxurious options fills her past with a certain charm and authenticity that she may yearn for. These experiences, marked by simplicity and resilience, may have created lasting impressions that, despite their hardships, are appreciated for their unique character.