Text A: Written Extract (Grade 12 NSC Matric English FAL): Revision Notes
Text A: Written Extract
Understanding comprehension questions
The comprehension section in Paper 1 presents you with a written extract - this is a passage of text followed by questions that test your understanding. To tackle these questions successfully, you need a systematic approach that helps you extract the right information and present clear answers.
A structured, methodical approach to comprehension questions will significantly improve your performance and help you work more efficiently under exam conditions.
The three-step reading strategy
Effective comprehension requires a structured approach. Follow this proven three-step method to maximise your performance:
Step 1: Skim and scan the text and questions
Skimming means reading quickly to get an overall understanding of the content. During this initial read-through, focus on these key elements:
- Count the paragraphs - this helps you navigate the text during questions
- Read the title carefully - it often reveals the main theme and purpose of the passage
- Notice headings and subheadings - these act as signposts to the text's structure
- Check the author and publication details - this context can be important for some questions
- Identify key vocabulary - look for important names, specialised terms, and topic sentences
- Spot unfamiliar words - mark these so you can work out their meaning from context
- Note the opening paragraph - this usually establishes the tone and introduces the main ideas
- Read the closing paragraph - this typically summarises or concludes the extract
Next, scan the questions to understand what information you'll need to find:
- Look for names of people or places mentioned in the questions
- Identify question words and instruction verbs (analyse, explain, discuss, etc.)
Exam tip: Spend approximately 5 minutes on this crucial first step - it will save you time later and help you answer more accurately.
Step 2: Read the text carefully
Now read the extract thoroughly, paying close attention to detail. As you read, consider the WH questions to ensure you understand all aspects of the text:
- WHO are the main characters (in fiction) or people discussed (in non-fiction)?
- WHAT is the central idea or main message of the passage?
- WHERE does the action or discussion take place?
- WHEN do the events occur or when was this written?
- WHY was this text written - what is the author's purpose?
- HOW does the writer express their ideas through tone, style, and language choices?
Important note on meaning: Always consider both literal and figurative meanings when reading. For example, if the text says "the story touched my soul," this is figurative language expressing that the story had an emotional impact, not that it physically touched anything.
Step 3: Answer the questions strategically
Before writing your answers, read through all questions carefully and make brief notes about your initial thoughts. Then apply these essential techniques:
Key strategies for answering comprehension questions
Mark allocation guidance
Match your response to the marks available - if a question is worth 2 marks, provide two distinct points or ideas. Don't waste time writing lengthy answers for low-mark questions.
Using key words and topic sentences
Topic sentences reveal the main idea of each paragraph and are your roadmap to understanding the text's structure.
Finding Information Efficiently:
- Use topic sentences to help you locate relevant information quickly
- They're particularly useful for questions about the writer's main arguments or themes
- Topic sentences typically appear at the beginning of paragraphs
Language and expression
Understanding how to express your answers clearly and appropriately is essential for maximum marks.
Language Guidelines:
- Use your own words unless the question specifically asks you to quote from the text
- When finding synonyms or antonyms, ensure you use the same part of speech as the original word
- Avoid starting answers with conjunctions like "but" or "because" - make your answers complete sentences
- For consecutive words questions, quote the exact phrase without adding or removing any words
True/false questions
Always provide justification for your answer unless the instructions state otherwise. Simply writing "True" or "False" will not earn you full marks.
Putting it all together
This systematic approach helps you work efficiently under exam conditions. By skimming first, you get your bearings; by reading carefully second, you understand the content deeply; and by following the strategic guidelines, you answer questions accurately and completely.
The key to success is practice - use this method consistently when working with comprehension texts, and it will become second nature during your exams.
Key Points to Remember:
- Follow the three-step process: skim and scan, read carefully, then answer strategically
- Spend about 5 minutes on the initial skim and scan - this investment saves time later
- Always consider both literal and figurative meanings in texts
- Match your answer length and detail to the mark allocation
- Use your own words unless specifically asked to quote
- For True/False questions, always justify your answer with evidence from the text