Cambridge A Level English General Paper 8021 — 2024 Feb/March Paper 2 · Variant 2

1 (a) Considering the advantages and one disadvantage, explain why Francesca is most likely to choose the zoo trip. Do not refer to the other celebration ideas. Answer in continuous prose. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [10] (b) (i) Explain two reasons why Antony and Maria might like the luxury hotel weekend. Do not refer to the other celebration ideas. reason 1................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ reason 2................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ [4] (ii) Explain two reasons why Antony and Maria might not like the surprise party. Do not refer to the other celebration ideas. reason 1................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ reason 2................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ [4] (c) State the one piece of the Additional Information provided which is the least relevant when Francesca is deciding which celebration to organise. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [1] (d) Using only evidence from Katarina’s email: (i) justify James’s claim that Katarina likes to tell other people what to do ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ [2] (ii) justify James’s claim that Katarina is not telling the truth when saying she cannot contribute financially ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ [2] (iii) justify James’s claim that Katarina will not help with the organisation. ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................ [2] [Total: 25]

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a) Considering the advantages and one disadvantage, explain why 10 Francesca is most likely to choose the zoo trip. Do not refer to the other celebration ideas. Answer in continuous prose. Credit any of the following or any other valid points. It is almost certainly the cheapest option, so is least likely to cause stress and annoyance to get Katarina to contribute, putting least pressure on Francesca and James and on Katarina if her financial woes are genuine. It is the easiest to organise (with only four months to go), as it only involves them all arranging to visit on the same day / requires no advanced bookings beyond the immediate family. Francesca knows of her father’s interest in big cats, which the zoo’s specialism would satisfy, and he would enjoy seeing the lions in the enclosure, and the tigers and snow leopards. Katarina’s 16-year-old daughter, the animal rights enthusiast, would probably not find fault, given the zoo’s recognised welfare credentials and the fact that at least some of the animals are kept in large open spaces/not caged. A minibus trip around the enclosure is likely to keep all the children interested/enable them all to participate, including the boy who is shy and has a hearing impairment. There might be a number of baby animals (given the renowned breeding programme) which would probably appeal to the (younger) children. For Francesca’s parents, this day out gives them the most time with the grandchildren / the best opportunity to spoil the grandchildren, which is their priority. However, the zoo trip may not appeal equally to all the grandchildren, since they are of different ages and Katarina’s children might misbehave in public / be too loud and scare the animals. Katarina’s 16-year-old daughter, the animal rights enthusiast, might object on principle to visiting the zoo. The trip completely excludes the couple’s only close and long-standing friends, since only the immediate family is involved which might disappoint the Ackwoods / risk offending Jerzy and Susana. 1(a) In assessing the answer award marks for a coherent appraisal, clearly expressed, of three or more relevant considerations, including balance, that make use of analytical skills. Level Mark(s) Descriptors 4 9–10 • Capacity to interpret evidence and sustained ability to present relevant arguments, analysis and exemplification maintaining a strong focus on the main issues in the question. • Comprehensive approach demonstrating ability to identify and select relevant information, data, concepts and opinions and maintain a strong focus on the key issues. • Shows the ability to communicate clearly and accurately in a fluent and organised manner. 3 6–8 • Moderate range of arguments, analysis and exemplification covering some of the main issues in the question. • Demonstrating some grasp of the nature of key issues but with a restricted range or a loss of focus leading to the inclusion of some irrelevant material. • Shows the ability to communicate clearly and accurately in a fluent and organised manner. 2 3–5 • Limited analysis shown in a response consisting of mainly undeveloped material. • A modest range of selected points, perhaps some of which are irrelevant or incorrect. • Ability to convey meaning but with limited powers of expression with some errors in spelling, punctuation or grammar which impede the flow and hinder communication. 1(a) Level Mark(s) Descriptors 1 1–2 • Some simple, mainly unexplained or undeveloped points or perhaps a very narrow range – with little interpretation or analysis and little development or exemplification. • Limited range, dubious choice showing restricted appreciation of key issues. • Ability to convey meaning but with limited powers of expression with some errors in spelling, punctuation or grammar which impede the flow and hinder communication. 0 0 • A mark of zero should be awarded for no creditable content. 1(b)(i) Explain two reasons why Antony and Maria might like the luxury hotel 4 weekend. Do not refer to the other celebration ideas. Credit any two of the following or any other valid points. Maria and Antony don’t often treat themselves (1) so this is a rare chance to experience some luxury. (1) The heated pool would appeal to Maria (1) as she likes swimming, but not in cold water. (1) The woodland (walking) trails would appeal to them both (1) as they enjoy walking/cycling in their spare time. (1) They would relish the gourmet meals on offer (1) in contrast to the plain(er) food they usually eat at home / because they like more adventurous food when dining out. (1) 2  2 1(b)(ii) Explain two reasons why Antony and Maria might not like the surprise 4 party. Do not refer to the other celebration ideas. Credit any of the following or any other valid points. A large number of / around 120 people would be invited (beyond immediate family and close friends) (1) but Antony and Maria prefer quiet times together / don’t have a very active social life / enjoy holidays just with close friends / time with their grandchildren / may not wish to be the centre of so much attention. (1) They may feel Francesca would have to work too hard on all the preparations (1) as she would be organising the food, entertainment, invitations and speeches. (1) There is another big family occasion (wedding) coming up (1) and they may be concerned that theirs will steal the thunder of / be overshadowed by the other one. (1) They may be worried that the argument between Mr Ackwood’s cousins (at another family event last year) (1) could reoccur on this occasion/ spoil the event if it reoccurred. (1) 2  2 1(c) State the one piece of the Additional Information provided which is the 1 least relevant when Francesca is deciding which celebration to organise. Point 6. / Antony used to be a train driver – a job he loved – while Maria worked in a supermarket, once all her children had reached school age. 1(d)(i) Using only evidence from Katarina’s email, justify James’ claim that 2 Katarina likes to tell other people what to do. She instructs Francesca to organise a big cake and floral decorations. (1) She demands (via Francesca) James finds out what flowers their parents had at their wedding (1) rather than trying to find this out / reach out to James herself. (1) 2  1 or 1  2 1(d)(ii) Using only evidence from Katarina’s email, justify James’ claim that 2 Katarina is not telling the truth when saying she cannot contribute financially. Credit any two of the following. The house improvements do not sound like essential repairs (1) so could have been delayed if Katarina really wanted to help pay for the celebrations. (1) Katarina seems very excited about her three children dressing up / all of them being there dressed up in their finest (1) and the prospect of / having an excuse for getting her hair done, buying a new dress and new shoes for the party (1) which will all cost (a lot of) money / she seems able to afford / while pleading poverty / claiming that funds are ‘a bit limited’. (1) 2x1 or 1x2 1(d)(iii) Using only evidence from Katarina’s email, justify James’ claim that 2 Katarina will not help with the organisation. Credit any two of the following. She seems to be/want to stress being busy all the time (1), even taking three weeks to respond to the email from Francesca (about something quite important). (1) She will not be flying home until the Friday evening that weekend. (1) She flatters her older sister/praises Francesca’s organisational skills (1) to detract from her intention not to assist. (1) She refers to Francesca’s contacts, (1) making it sound as if it will be easy for her sister to do it all (instead). (1) 2  1 or 1  2

2 (a) Identify how American prisons have been portrayed in some films and on TV. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [2] (b) Identify Brian Roettinger’s goal in running art classes for prisoners in California. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [1] (c) Using only lines 1 to 18 of the material, identify the exact word which means the following: (i) to redefine ................................................................................................................................ [1] (ii) partnership ................................................................................................................................ [1] (iii) reflective self-awareness. ................................................................................................................................ [1] (d) Explain why Willo Perron believes ‘in the transformative power of art and the redemptive potential of self-expression’ for prisoners (lines 25 to 31). Answer using your own words as far as possible. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [5] (e) According to Perron, explain how the duo’s proposed arts programme demonstrates their views relating to prison reform (lines 32 to 44). Answer in about 50 words. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [5] (f) According to Annie Buckley, identify the ‘overwhelmingly positive’ features of the guest artist programme for prisoners (lines 45 to 55). Answer in about 30 words. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [3] (g) Suggest why Buckley might find the example of the prisoner’s daughter ‘powerful’. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [2] (h) Explain why the organisers of the arts programme do not ask prisoners ‘why they’re there or what they’ve done’ (lines 59 to 64). Answer in about 20 words. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [2] (i) In your opinion, explain why art therapy for prisoners might not be successful. ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... [2] [Total: 25]

Mark scheme: 2(a) Identify how American prisons have been portrayed in some films and 2 on TV. Credit any two of the following. They are harsh, dehumanising places (1) populated by hardened criminals and vicious guards. (1) It’s not an easy option / it’s a glorified TV version of what a prison is really like. (1) 2(b) Identify Brian Roettinger’s goal in running art classes for prisoners in 1 California. He sees it as an opportunity to humanise the prisoners / to help make the experience less frightening / intimidating. (1) 2(c)(i) Using only lines 1 to 18 of the material, identify the exact word which 1 means: to redefine. (to) demystify 2(c)(ii) Using only lines 1 to 18 of the material, identify the exact word which 1 means: partnership. (a) collaboration 2(c)(iii) Using only lines 1 to 18 of the material, identify the exact word which 1 means: reflective self-awareness. mindfulness 2(d) Explain why Willo Perron believes ‘in the transformative power of art 5 and the redemptive potential of self-expression’ for prisoners (lines 25 to 31). Answer using your own words as far as possible. Credit any five of the following. The arts are a method of directing (1) and managing feelings (1) such as sorrow, rage and delight (1) (and he believes) individuals finding themselves (1) in such challenging circumstances (1) simply lashed out (1) or had no way of expressing themselves. (1) Everyone requires various means of emotional release, (1) whether through therapy or (verbal) communication with others. (1) Art therapy offers prisoners an alternative strategy (1) to resorting to aggression. (1) 2(e) According to Perron, explain how the duo’s proposed arts programme 5 demonstrates their views relating to prison reform (lines 32 to 44). Answer in about 50 words. Credit any five of the following. As artists/designers (not politicians) they can use their skills to help / improve things. (1) They are personally involved / in direct contact with prisoners. (1) They feel responsibility for / want to change what happens in prisons. (1) Society / the government currently locks offenders up and isolates / forgets them, (1) treating prisoners as disposable / rubbish. (1) That approach really does not work and needs rethinking / a more realistic perspective. (1) Criminality is a whole-society problem / needs everyone’s help to solve. (1) While simple / obvious, locking people up is outdated (and barbaric). (1) Any content above 50 words will not be credited. 2(f) According to Annie Buckley, identify the ‘overwhelmingly positive’ 3 features of the guest artist programme for prisoners (lines 45 to 55). Answer in about 30 words. Credit any three of the following. The arts represent a safe space, offering respite / relaxation (1) which can be assumed outside but is rare / valued / effective in prison. (1) The prisoners connect / interact with people/students/teachers they would never usually meet. (1) Such communication about arts / in arts lessons / with artists becomes meaningful. (1) They can develop a sense of identity around creative pursuits / study. (1) Any content above 30 words will not be credited. 2(g) Suggest why Buckley might find the example of the prisoner’s daughter 2 ‘powerful’. Credit any two of the following, or any other valid point. (She likes the idea of) the girl being able to describe her father as ‘an artist’ when talking to her friends. (1) (She imagines) the daughter’s pride in (talking of) her father now. (1) Previously, the girl might have been ashamed to say her father was in prison. (1) 2(h) Explain why the organisers of the arts programme do not ask prisoners 2 ‘why they’re there or what they’ve done’ (lines 59 to 64). Answer in about 20 words. Credit any two of the following. The programme is concerned with changing the sense of self (1) rather than identifying people by their most wicked past actions. (1) Participants work with others in a welcoming atmosphere (1) feeling like / what it is to be artists, pupils / learners and colleagues / fellows. (1) Any content above 20 words will not be credited. 2(i) In your opinion, explain why art therapy for prisoners might not be 2 successful. Credit any two of the following or any other valid point. Prisoners may be unreceptive / intimidated by others (1) as arts may not be seen as something ‘tough’ people do. (1) The inmates may have no prior knowledge of the arts, (1) limiting their potential to engage with the ideas. (1) Prisoners may see no point in indulging in the arts / be unreceptive to the whole idea / think it is a waste of time, (1) perhaps preferring to learn more practical skills / something which they will be able to use after their release. (1) They may be unused to concentrating on tasks (1) and give up quickly if they are not making progress / find it difficult. (1) Other forms of therapy may be more effective, (1) such as counselling or anger management. (1) 2  1 or 1  2