BRIDGE HOUSE

November 2011

Advanced Programme English

Examiner: Mr S. Kirk
Time: 1 Hour Marks: 100

INSTRUCTIONS

1. This paper consists of 2 pages (including this cover). Please check that your question
paper is complete.

2. Answer ONE of the two questions which have been provided.

4. It is in your own interest to write legibly and to present your work neatly.

5. Do not write in the right hand margin of your answer sheets.

ADVANCED PROGRAMME ENGLISH Page 2 of 2

Option One:

“We disliked the rigours of existence, the unfulfilled longings, the enshrined injustices of the
world, the labyrinths of love, the ignorance of parents, the fact of dying, and the amazing
indifference of the Living in the midst of the simple beauties of the universe. We feared the
heartlessness of human beings, all of whom were born blind, few of whom ever learn to see.”
- Ben Okri – The Famished Road pg. 3

Write an essay in which you discuss how the above quotation relates to works you have
studied by focusing specifically on the theme of Power and Powerlessness.

(100 Marks)

OR

Option Two:

“A voice is a human gift; it should be cherished and used, to utter as fully human speech as
possible. Powerlessness and silence go together.”
- Margaret Atwood

Write an essay in which you agree or disagree with the above statement. Substantiate your
answer by making reference both to the quotation and to any relevant works you have
studied.

(100 Marks)

Bridge House School, Advanced Programme English Examination, November 2011 2