1. Write an expository essay on the impact of COVID -19 on your life as a student.

(10

marks)

The Impact of COVID-19 on My Life as a Student

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in late 2019, has had a profound impact on

people's lives worldwide. As a student, my life has been significantly affected by this global

health crisis. In this essay, I will explore the various ways in which COVID-19 has influenced

my life as a student, from disruptions in education to changes in daily routines and emotional

well-being.

Disruptions in Education

One of the most immediate and significant impacts of COVID-19 on my life as a student was the

disruption of my education. Schools and universities around the world were forced to close their

doors temporarily to curb the spread of the virus. This sudden transition to online learning was a

major adjustment for me and many other students. The challenges included adapting to new

technology, managing self-discipline, and dealing with the loss of face-to-face interactions with

teachers and classmates.

Online classes, while necessary for safety, have their limitations. The quality of education was

compromised to some extent, as not all subjects or teaching methods translated well to the virtual

environment. The lack of in-person feedback and the sense of camaraderie in the classroom

made it harder to stay motivated and engaged.

Daily Routine and Social Isolation

COVID-19 also disrupted my daily routine and led to a sense of social isolation. The lockdowns

and restrictions meant that I spent more time at home, and extracurricular activities, social

gatherings, and part-time jobs were put on hold. The loss of these activities not only impacted

my personal development but also led to a feeling of isolation from peers and friends.

The abrupt change in daily routine, with limited social interaction, created challenges for my

mental health. Loneliness, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future became prominent concerns.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance became more difficult, as the boundaries between

school, personal life, and leisure time blurred.

Adaptation and Resilience

Despite the many challenges, the COVID-19 pandemic also prompted me to adapt and develop

resilience. I had to become more self-reliant in my studies and time management. I learned to use

various online resources and tools effectively and found innovative ways to collaborate with

classmates remotely.

The pandemic also made me more aware of the importance of public health and the value of

science in addressing global crises. I became more conscious of the need for collective

responsibility and preventive measures to protect public health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on my life as a

student. The disruptions in education, changes in daily routines, and the sense of social isolation

have presented challenges. However, it has also been a period of adaptation and resilience-

building. The experience has highlighted the importance of flexible learning, mental well-being,

and the need for global cooperation in the face of crises. As a student, I have been shaped by this
extraordinary period in history, and I am better prepared to face future challenges with resilience

and adaptability.

2. Explain any two cohesive devices used in your essay above (5 marks)

Cohesive devices are words or phrases that help connect and link ideas within a text, creating a

sense of flow and coherence. In the essay above, two cohesive devices that have been used are:

1. Transitional Phrases. Transitional phrases are words or phrases that help guide the reader

through the text and indicate the relationships between ideas. For example, in the essay, phrases

like "In conclusion," "However," and "Despite" are used to signal transitions between different

sections or ideas. These transitional phrases serve to connect and organize the various points

made throughout the essay, helping to maintain a logical flow.

2. Pronouns. Pronouns are words that replace nouns, and they play a crucial role in maintaining

cohesion by referring back to previously mentioned subjects. In the essay, pronouns such as "this

global health crisis," "my life as a student," and "the pandemic" are used to avoid unnecessary

repetition of specific nouns. They help clarify and maintain continuity by ensuring that the reader

can easily understand which subjects or ideas are being referred to in different parts of the essay.