Read the extracts carefully and then answer the questions which follow. The link sentence is always in bold.
Many people believe that social media has made communication easier than ever before. Messages can be sent instantly across the world, allowing friends and families to stay in touch regardless of distance. For businesses, social media provides a cheap and effective way to advertise to large audiences.
While these advantages show how useful social media can be, they also lead into a discussion of the negative effects that come with such constant connectivity.
Despite the benefits, social media has been blamed for increased anxiety and reduced face-to-face interaction. Studies suggest that people who spend long periods online may feel more isolated rather than more connected.
Explain how the link sentence connects the ideas of the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
Regular exercise is widely recognised as essential for maintaining good physical health. It strengthens the heart, improves muscle tone and helps to prevent serious illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.
Although these points focus on the physical benefits of exercise, attention must also be given to how it affects mental wellbeing.
In addition to bodily benefits, exercise can have a powerful impact on mental health. Many people report reduced stress levels and improved mood after even short periods of physical activity.
Explain how the link sentence acts as a link between the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
Public transport is often promoted as an environmentally friendly alternative to private cars. Buses and trains can reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, particularly in busy city centres.
Despite these apparent environmental advantages, the effectiveness of public transport varies greatly depending on location.
In rural areas, public transport services are often infrequent or unreliable, forcing residents to rely on cars. As a result, the environmental benefits seen in cities are not always experienced elsewhere.
Explain how the link sentence links the ideas in the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
Reading books from a young age can greatly improve a child’s vocabulary and imagination. Exposure to stories encourages creativity and helps children develop strong language skills.
While reading remains valuable for children’s development, changing lifestyles are affecting how often young people read.
With the rise of smartphones and tablets, many young people now spend more time on screens than with books. This shift has raised concerns among teachers and parents about declining literacy levels.
Explain how the sentence in bold acts as a link between the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
Tourism brings significant economic benefits to many countries. It creates jobs, supports local businesses and generates income that can be reinvested in public services.
Although these economic gains are important, tourism can also create serious problems for local communities.
Popular destinations often struggle with overcrowding, rising house prices and damage to the natural environment. Local residents may feel that their quality of life has been reduced.
Explain how the link sentence connects the points made in the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
Technology has transformed the modern workplace. Employees can now work remotely, collaborate online and access information instantly, increasing flexibility and efficiency.
While these technological developments have improved productivity, they have also introduced new challenges for workers.
Many employees feel pressure to be constantly available, leading to longer working hours and increased stress. Employers must now consider how to protect staff wellbeing in a digital age.
Explain how the link sentence acts as a link between the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
Extract
School uniforms are often said to promote equality among pupils. By wearing the same clothing, students may feel less pressure to compete over fashion and brand names.
Despite these arguments in favour of uniforms, the issue remains widely debated.
Some pupils argue that uniforms restrict individuality and self-expression. Others complain about the cost, particularly for families with several children.
Explain how the link sentence links the ideas of the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
Extract
Learning a second language can open up new opportunities. It can improve career prospects, enhance travel experiences and increase understanding of different cultures.
Although these benefits make language learning appealing, the process itself is not always straightforward.
Many learners struggle with grammar, pronunciation and confidence when speaking. Without regular practice, progress can be slow and frustrating.
Explain how the link sentence acts as a connection between the two paragraphs. (2 marks)
2 marks total:
Accept:
Link sentence:
“While these advantages show how useful social media can be, they also lead into a discussion of the negative effects…”
Link Back (1 mark):
Link Forward (1 mark):
Link sentence: “Although these points focus on the physical benefits… attention must also be given to… mental wellbeing.”
Link Back (1 mark):
Option B – Link Forward (1 mark):
Link sentence:
“Despite these apparent environmental advantages the effectiveness of public transport varies greatly depending on location.”
Link Back (1 mark):
Link Forward (1 mark):
Link sentence:
“While reading remains valuable… changing lifestyles are affecting…”
Link Back (1 mark):
Link Forward (1 mark):
Link sentence:
“Although these economic gains are important, tourism can also create serious problems for local communities.”
Link Back (1 mark):
Link Forward (1 mark):
Link sentence:
“While these technological developments have improved productivity, they have also introduced new challenges for workers.”
Link Back (1 mark):
Link Forward (1 mark):
Link sentence:
“Despite these arguments in favour of uniforms, the issue remains widely debated.”
Link Back (1 mark):
Link Forward (1 mark):
Link sentence:
Although these benefits make language learning appealing, the process itself is not always straightforward.
Link Back (1 mark):
Link Forward (1 mark):
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