MARKING GUIDELINES

ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE

GRADE 10

PAPER 2

TERM 2

TIME: 2 ½ hours
TOTAL: 80
DATE: 5 June 2024
Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

SECTION A: POETRY

QUESTION 1: And Death Shall Have No Dominion

Read the following poem and answer the questions below.

And Death Shall Have No Dominion

BY DYLAN THOMAS

And death shall have no dominion.

Dead men naked they shall be one
With the man in the wind and the west moon;
When their bones are picked clean and the clean bones gone,
5 They shall have stars at elbow and foot;
Though they go mad they shall be sane,
Though they sink through the sea they shall rise again;
Though lovers be lost love shall not;
And death shall have no dominion.

10 And death shall have no dominion.

Under the windings of the sea
They lying long shall not die windily;
Twisting on racks when sinews give way,
Strapped to a wheel, yet they shall not break;
15 Faith in their hands shall snap in two,
And the unicorn evils run them through;
Split all ends up they shan't crack;
And death shall have no dominion.

And death shall have no dominion.

20 No more may gulls cry at their ears
Or waves break loud on the seashores;
Where blew a flower may a flower no more
Lift its head to the blows of the rain;
Though they be mad and dead as nails,
25 Heads of the characters hammer through daisies;
Break in the sun till the sun breaks down,
And death shall have no dominion.

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

1.1. By making careful consideration of the title of this poem, explain the
speaker’s tone. Quote from the poem to prove your viewpoint. (2)

Learner should indicate that from the outset the speaker expresses that death will
have “no dominion” over us. Dominion implies control (✓). So, the speaker is
expressly stating that they feel defiant/triumphant/assertive (✓) regarding the thought
of death because, according to him, death cannot govern us. Answers receiving full
marks should quote specific words from the text, not the entire title.

1.2. Given the topic of the poem, discuss the speaker’s reason for stating
that dead men “shall be one” (line 2). (2)
The speaker is intending to disarm death. He wishes to make death seem less
threatening (✓) and he does this by trying to indicate that instead of separation death
brings about union (✓).

1.3. Identify THREE lines from stanza one that embody a wave-like effect. (1)

Lines 6-8.
Though they go mad they shall be sane,
Though they sink through the sea they shall rise again;
Though lovers be lost love shall not

1.4. List ONE example of each of the following figures of speech: (2)
a) Oxymoron
b) Chiasmus

a) “Unicorn evils” (line16)

b) “break in the sun till the sun breaks down” (line 26)

1.5. Name TWO things that are personified in lines 22-23. (1)

A flower (½ mark) and rain (½ mark) are personified. Both answers must be supplied
by the Learner.

1.6. Wilfred Owen, a poet from the generation just before Dylan Thomas, coined
the phrase “pushing up daisies” which alludes to the flowers which grow
over graves. Dylan Thomas extends the euphemism here in line 25.
Explain whether, in your opinion, you find the use of this analogy suitable
in this poem. (2)

Learners may respond either yes or no, but should provide substantial evidence to
support their point of view. For example: Yes, the term “pushing up daisies” is made

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

in reference to people who are dead and this poem is discussing death. So, it is
perfectly suited. Also Thomas has changed the term so that the daisies are not gently
pushed up but rather they “hammer through” which makes them sound quite defiant
indeed.

Or no, the term “pushing up daisies” is a slang way of referring to death and in this
poem Dylan Thomas intends to disarm death. So, the reference does not generally
make death seem less powerful but rather more friendly.
[10]
QUESTION 2: The Visiting Room

Read the following poem and answer the questions below.

The Visiting Room

BY JEREMY CRONIN

To admit light,
that’s a window’s vocation,
or a man to a wife
at this very place
5 where the wall
for the briefest moments – a window,
shadowed by warders.
A glass plate, its sheer
quiddity, its coldness
10 forever between our hands.

2.1. Consider the setting of the poem before answering the following questions.

2.1.1. Where is the poem set? (1)

The visiting room of a prison/jail. Simply, prison/jail is acceptable too.

2.1.2. How do we know? Quote ONE word that gives a clue to the setting
described above. (1)

“warders”

2.2. A poetry study usually includes some background of the poet. How does
knowing about Jeremy Cronin’s background enhance our understanding
of this poem? (2)

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

1 relevant biographical fact about Jeremy Cronin ✓:

• The poet, Jeremy Cronin, actually spent time in prison.
• He was actively involved in the anti-apartheid movement and was imprisoned
for his political activities during the apartheid era.
• In 1976, he was charged under the Terrorism Act and sentenced to seven years
in prison.
PLUS

A valid comment on how knowing a bit more about the poet helps us to understand
the poem better ✓

E.g. Understanding a bit about the poet, Jeremy Cronin, can help us grasp the
meaning of ‘The Visiting Room’ more deeply. Jeremy Cronin actually spent time in
prison himself, which gives us insight into why he wrote this poem. His personal
experiences add a lot to the poem's emotions and make it feel real. So when we
read the poem, we're not just seeing words on a page; we're getting a glimpse into
what it feels like to be locked away and separated from loved ones. It's like we're
seeing the world through Cronin's eyes, and that helps us understand the poem
better.

2.3. What imagery does the poet use to evoke the experience of imprisonment?
Draw on TWO examples from the poem in your answer. (2)

Multiple answers accepted. Imagery example plus explanation required for a full mark
x2

• The opening line "To admit light, that’s a window’s vocation" uses the
metaphor of a window's duty to let in light, symbolising the longing for freedom
and connection amidst the darkness of incarceration.
• The poet describes the momentary glimpse of intimacy between a man and
his wife, juxtaposed against the oppressive presence of warders casting
shadows.
• The image of "a glass plate, its sheer quiddity, its coldness forever between
our hands" further underscores the emotional distance and physical barriers
that define the experience of imprisonment.

2.4. Comment on the use of short sentences and enjambment in the poem.
Why has the poet made this structural decision for the poem? (3)

1 mark for the effect of the short sentences ✓

1 mark for the effect of enjambment (the meaning of enjambment should be clear from
the Learner’s answer) ✓
1 valid comment on why the poet chose to use these structural devices ✓
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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

E.g. The short sentences help to create a feeling of tightness and little space, just like
it must feel to be in a prison cell. They make us feel cramped and confined, like there's
no space to breathe (✓). Enjambment, where sentences run on from one line to the
next, adds pressure, making us feel like we're stuck and can't escape (✓). These
choices by the poet help us understand the feelings of confinement and pressure that
the poem is trying to convey (✓).

2.5. What does the glass plate symbolise in the visiting room? (1)

The glass plate symbolises the barrier between the prisoner and their loved ones,
representing the physical and emotional distance of incarceration.

[10]

QUESTION 3: UNSEEN POEM (COMPULSORY)

Read the following poem and answer the questions below.

Death be not proud

BY JOHN DONNE

Death, be not proud, though some have called thee

Mighty and dreadful, for thou are not so;
For those whom thou think'st thou dost overthrow
Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me.
5 From rest and sleep, which but thy pictures be,
Much pleasure; then from thee much more must flow,
And soonest our best men with thee do go,
Rest of their bones, and soul's delivery.
Thou art slave to fate, chance, kings, and desperate men,
10 And dost with poison, war, and sickness dwell,
And poppy or charms can make us sleep as well
And better than thy stroke; why swell'st thou then?
One short sleep past, we wake eternally,
And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die.

3.1 Identify who is personified in the poem and provide an example to prove
this. (2)

Death is personified (✓). It is spoken to as if it were a person and told not to be

proud (line 1). (✓) Other explanations for the personification may be provided. For
example, it is capitalised as though it were the name of a person.

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

3.2 Quote ONE word that shows us the speaker feels sorry for Death. (1)

“poor” (line 4)

3.3 Explain how “rest and sleep” (line 5) are pictures of death. (2)

When we rest or sleep we close our eyes (✓) and we go into a subconscious state
(✓). This is similar to what death looks like or how we imagine it. In fact, some even
call it “the big sleep”.

3.4 Suggest why death is described as being friends with “poison, war, and
sickness” (line 10). Consider each of these elements individually. (3)

Poison can cause the end of someone’s life as it erodes the natural function of our
bodies. War costs many lives as men kill each other on the battlefield. And
sickness may lead to death as well as we know there are many diseases that can
be fatal.
[Learner should consider each item individually for full marks.]

3.5 Consider the term “stroke” in line 12 and list the double meanings that exist
for it. (2)

‘Stroke’ may refer to any TWO of the following:

• a gentle touch such as when we pet an animal
• one may also consider clocks that strike on the hour
• “stroke” may also refer to the style of something (such as in
swimming)
• additionally, someone who suffers from a stroke would have
experienced a shortage of blood supply to the brain

[10]

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

SECTION B: NOVEL – The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

by Rachel Joyce

QUESTION 4

4.1. Answer the following multiple choice questions. Number the question
correctly and write your answer alongside it. (4)

4.1.1. What does Harold wear on his feet during his pilgrimage?
a. Sneakers
b. Boots
c. Flip-flops
d. Yacht shoes

4.1.2. Which of the following items is not in Harold’s backpack?

a. A compass
b. A cell phone
c. Pack of plasters
d. Biscuits

4.1.3. What does Maureen do to help Harold when he calls from Wooler, saying he
cannot finish the trip?
a. Offers to drive up and join him in walking the final stretch
b. Buys him a bus ticket
c. Rents him a hotel room and tells him it is only 16 more miles
d. Agrees that it is time to give up and come home

4.1.4. What is Harold’s ultimate destination?

a. Kingsbridge
b. Southampton
c. Berwick-upon-Tweed
d. The Cotswolds

4.2. What does Harold decide to name the dog that accompanies him for some
of the journey, and what is his reason for choosing this particular name? (2)

Dog ✓
He believes the dog is a free spirit and doesn’t feel that he has the right to name or
claim ownership over him ✓

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

4.3. Discuss the theme of faith and hope in Harold's pilgrimage. How do these
elements sustain him during difficult times? Provide ONE act of faith from
the novel to support your answer. (3)

Multiple answers accepted. Learner must clearly explain the role of faith and hope in
the journey (✓) and how faith/hope helped him through challenges along the way
(✓). The third mark is for a specific act of faith mentioned from the novel (✓).

Faith and hope serve as guiding forces throughout Harold's journey, providing him
with the strength and resilience to persevere during challenging times (✓). Harold's
decision to embark on his pilgrimage is initially driven by a leap of faith, spurred by
the belief that walking to see his dying friend, Queenie, will somehow save her (✓).
This act of faith sets the stage for Harold's transformative journey, where faith and
hope sustain him through various trials and tribulations. For instance, when Harold
encounters obstacles on the road or moments of doubt about the validity of his
mission, he draws strength from his belief in the significance of each step he takes.
Despite physical pain or emotional setbacks, Harold maintains his conviction that his
pilgrimage has a greater purpose, fuelling his determination to continue (✓).

4.4. Analyse the narrative structure of the novel. How does Rachel Joyce use
flashback and foreshadowing to enhance the story? Provide an example
of EACH technique from the novel to support your answer. (4)

1 comment about the use of flashback in enhancing the story ✓ plus example ✓
1 comment about the use of foreshadowing to enhance the story ✓ plus example ✓
[It should be clear from Learner’s answer that they understand the purpose of both
flashback and foreshadowing techniques in literature and the novel specifically].

Interwoven with the central narrative of Harold’s journey to visit Queenie are
poignant flashbacks that delve into Harold's past experiences, such as his troubled
childhood, strained relationship with his son, and the gradual breakdown of his
marriage to Maureen (✓). These flashbacks serve to deepen our understanding of
Harold's character and motivations, providing crucial context for his present actions
and decisions (✓).

Furthermore, Joyce skilfully employs foreshadowing throughout the novel, subtly

hinting at future events and developments. From the outset, there are clues and
suggestions about the challenges and revelations that Harold will encounter on his
journey. This strategic use of foreshadowing creates a sense of anticipation and
tension, propelling the narrative forward and keeping readers captivated (✓).
Examples of foreshadowing from the novel include Maureen’s first visit to David’s
room (Chapter 1), Maureen’s memory about Queenie’s visit (Chapter 3), Harold’s

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guilt about a lie he told to Queenie (Chapter 5), and the reason for Queenie’s
disappearance (Chapter 12) (✓). We only learn the details of each of these events
much later on in the novel.

4.5. Explore the theme of healing in Harold's pilgrimage. In what ways does
his journey serve as a form of healing, both physically and emotionally? (2)

Harold's pilgrimage serves as a form of healing both physically and emotionally.

Physically, the act of walking for long distances helps Harold regain his physical
strength and vitality, providing him with a sense of rejuvenation and well-being (✓).
Emotionally, the journey allows Harold to confront unresolved issues from his past,
such as guilt, regret, and grief. Through encounters with strangers along the way and
moments of introspection, Harold is able to process his emotions and find closure,
ultimately experiencing a profound sense of healing and inner peace (✓).

[15]

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

QUESTION 5

Read the extract from Chapter 30 of the novel and answer the questions that follow.

1 When she met his gaze, it was naked. He held her eye, and she held his, and
the years fell away. Maureen saw again the wild young man who had danced
like a demon all those years ago, and filled every vein of her with the chaos of
love. She blinked hard, and wiped her eyes. The waves kept throwing
themselves further and further up the shoreline. All that energy, all that power,
crossing oceans, carrying ships and liners, and ending just a short distance
from her feet, in a last flume of spray.

8 She considered all the things that must happen from here. There would be
regular visits to the GP. There might be colds that turned to pneumonia. There
would be blood tests, hearing tests, eye tests. Maybe, God help them, there
would be operations, and periods of convalescence. And then, of course, there
must also follow a day when one of them was alone for good. She shivered.
Harold was right; it was too much to bear. To have come all this way and
discovered what it was you wanted, only to know that you must lose it again.
She wondered if they should drive home via the Cotswolds, and stop a few
days; or maybe take a detour and go to Norfolk. She’d love to return to Holt. But
maybe they wouldn’t. It was all too big to contemplate, and she didn’t know.
The waves fell over, and over, and over.
19 ‘One day at a time,’ she murmured. She moved close to Harold and lifted her
arms.
‘Oh Maw,’ he cried quietly.
Maureen held him tight until the grief passed. He was tall, and stiff, and her
own. ‘You dear man’. She groped for his face with her mouth and kissed his
salty wet cheeks. ‘You got up, and you did something. And if trying to find a way
when you don’t even know you can get there isn’t a small miracle, then I don’t
know what is.’
27 Her mouth trembled. She cupped his face in her palms; they were so close
now that his features lost distinction and all she could see was the feeling she
had for him.
‘I love you, Harold Fry,’ she whispered. ‘That is what you did’.

5.1. Explain the figurative meaning of a ‘naked gaze’, as mentioned in line 1

of the extract. (1)

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The figurative meaning of "naked gaze" refers to a direct, unguarded, and intensely
sincere way of looking at someone or something. It suggests a gaze that is without
pretence, barriers, or hidden intentions, revealing the true emotions, thoughts, or
vulnerabilities of the person doing the looking.

5.2. How does the beach setting contribute to the mood and atmosphere of
the scene? Make a clear reference to the extract in your answer. (2)

1 comment about mood and atmosphere ✓

1 clear reference to the text (in/direct quote) ✓

E.g.
• Maureen’s anxiety about the future is echoed by the sound of waves crashing
“over, and over, and over” symbolising the passage of time and life's
uncertainties.
• Melancholy as Maureen confronts her emotions – “The waves kept throwing
themselves further and further up the shoreline”
• Calm amidst chaos. The unstoppable force of nature – and time – is
emphasised by the strength of the waves “crossing oceans, carrying ships
and liners” and brings to mind the idea of holding onto something safe and
secure, like a loving relationship or marriage.
• Some may even say that that “last flume of spray” is symbolic of Maureen’s
decision to make the most of the time they have left together.
• Overall, the shoreline backdrop intensifies the emotional depth of Maureen
and Harold's conversation, emphasising themes of time's fleeting nature and
the need for connection amidst uncertainty.

Relevant quotes from the extract:

• “The waves kept throwing themselves further and further up the shoreline. All
that energy, all that power, crossing oceans, carrying ships and liners.”
• “ending just a short distance from her feet, in a last flume of spray.”
• The waves fell over, and over, and over.”

5.3. How does Maureen cope with the overwhelming thoughts of the future?
Quote to support your answer. (2)

1 comment on how she chooses to cope ✓

PLUS 1 supporting quote ✓

Maureen chooses to cope with the overwhelming thoughts of the future by reminding
herself to take it “one day at a time”. She also remembered to shift her gaze from the
future to the present: “she moved close to Harold and lifted her arms”.
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5.4. Analyse the significance of Maureen's physical gestures towards Harold in

this extract. In your response, compare these gestures with her general
demeanour towards Harold at the start of the novel and comment on the
shift in behaviour. (3)

The three marks are to be awarded as follows:

• A description of Maureen’s physical gestures towards Harold as mentioned in
the extract ✓
• A description of her distance and seeming indifference to Harold at the start of
the novel ✓
• Plus an explanation of the shift in behaviour ✓

E.g. In this extract, Maureen's physical gestures towards Harold, such as holding him
tight, kissing his cheeks, and cupping his face in her palms (✓), serve as powerful
expressions of her love and support for her husband.

Looking back to the start of the novel, Maureen was cold and distant towards Harold.
There was very limited interaction between the two and Maureen seemed to be short
and snappy with her remarks, for example, getting irritated when he tried to pass her
the marmalade instead of the jam at the breakfast table (✓).

This shift in Maureen's behaviour highlights the transformative effect of Harold's

pilgrimage on their relationship dynamics. Through her physical gestures, Maureen
demonstrates her growing emotional connection to Harold and her willingness to
overcome past grievances in favour of a deeper, more meaningful connection.
Ultimately, these gestures symbolise the healing and renewal of their relationship
(✓).

5.5. Consider the quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson below. How does it relate
to Harold’s pilgrimage? (2)

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A considered response, with a clear link between the quote and the story of Harold’s
pilgrimage for the full marks ✓✓

The saying "Life is a journey, not a destination" connects deeply with Harold's
adventure in "The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry." At first, Harold sets out on his
walk with one big goal: to reach his friend Queenie before she passes away. He
believes that getting to Queenie is the most important thing.

But as Harold travels, he learns that the journey itself is what matters most. Along
the way, he meets different people and goes through experiences that change him.
These experiences make him think about his past and help him grow as a person.
Harold realises that life is not just about reaching one specific goal but about all the
things he learns and feels during the journey.

In simple words, the journey of life is like a long trip. It's not just about getting to the
end, but about all the adventures, people, and lessons we encounter along the way.
Harold's journey teaches us that every step we take in life is important, no matter
where we're headed.
[10]

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Grade 10 English HL Term 2 2024 Exam Paper 2 Think Digital Academy

QUESTION 6: Essay

Read the following quote and answer the question below in the form of a well-
constructed essay. Your essay should be 250-300 words in length.

The author Mark Twain once famously stated that, “The two most important days
of your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”

Discuss what Harold Fry in The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry discovers
about the purpose of his existence through his pilgrimage. In your response
refer to at least THREE characters (including Harold Fry).
[25]

Use the literary essay rubric for marking, with up to 15 marks awarded for
CONTENT and up to 10 marks awarded for STRUCTURE AND LANGUAGE.

NOTE: If the essay is shorter than the required word count, do not penalise,
because the Learner has already penalised himself / herself. If the essay is too
long, consider and assess a maximum of 50 words beyond the required word count
and ignore the rest of the essay. However, the conclusion must be considered.

An example response:

In The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce, Harold Fry embarks on a
journey of self-discovery that leads him to encounter various characters who help
him understand the purpose of his existence.

Harold learns from Queenie about the power of forgiveness and redemption.
Queenie teaches him that it is never too late to make amends and find peace with
oneself. Through his interactions with Queenie, Harold realises that his pilgrimage is
not just about reaching her before she dies, but it is also about confronting his own
past mistakes and regrets. Queenie's forgiveness and acceptance of Harold despite
their troubled history help him to see the importance of letting go of guilt and
embracing the present moment.

Harold's wife, Maureen, serves as a mirror reflecting Harold's own insecurities and
vulnerabilities. Through Maureen's perspective, Harold comes to understand the
impact of his emotional distance and detachment in his relationships. He learns that
his journey isn't just about seeking redemption externally but also about reconnecting
with the people he loves on a deeper level. Maureen's steadfastness and
unwavering support, despite their strained relationship, show Harold the value of

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genuine human connection and the significance of being present for those who
matter most.

Throughout his journey, Harold meets a diverse array of strangers who each impart
valuable lessons about life and purpose. From a fellow pilgrim to random individuals
he encounters along the way, such as the Slovak doctor Martina who nursed his leg
and offered him a room for the night, Harold learns about the interconnectedness of
humanity and the importance of empathy and compassion. These chance
encounters remind Harold that everyone has their own struggles and burdens to
bear, and by reaching out and offering kindness, he can make a positive difference
in the lives of others. Through these interactions, Harold gains a deeper appreciation
for the richness of human experience and the inherent worth of every individual,
including himself.

Through the guidance and insights provided by Queenie, Maureen, and the
strangers like Martina he meets on his journey, Harold Fry gradually discovers that
the purpose of his existence extends beyond his own personal regrets and desires.
He learns the importance of forgiveness, connection, and empathy, ultimately
finding meaning in the simple act of walking and engaging with the world around
him.

[GRAND TOTAL: 80]

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