Cambridge A Level Thinking Skills 9694 — 2017 May/June Paper 2 · Variant 2

This document consists of 6 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 insert. DC (NF) 129857/2 © UCLES 2017 [Turn over Cambridge International Examinations Cambridge International Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Level * 4 2 7 5 0 6 0 7 7 2 * THINKING SKILLS 9694/22 Paper 2 Critical Thinking May/June 2017 1 hour 45 minutes No Additional Materials are required. READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST An answer booklet is provided inside this question paper. You should follow the instructions on the front cover of the answer booklet. If you need additional answer paper ask the invigilator for a continuation booklet. Answer all the questions. The number of marks is given in brackets [ ] at the end of each question.

2 9694/22/M/J/17 © UCLES 2017 1 Study the evidence and answer the questions that follow. Source A Letter of complaint Dear Mr Jones I am very disappointed that one of the walls of the garage you recently built for me has fallen down. In the past you have done a number of jobs for me and they have all been satisfactory. Something has clearly gone wrong this time. I would be grateful if you could visit me at the earliest opportunity to assess the situation and to see what has caused the wall to collapse. Mr Smith Acacia Cottage Milton Burwell County Source B Statement from Mr Jones I was not entirely happy with the quality of my work on the garage at Acacia Cottage. Mr Smith bought his teenage daughter a car, as she was just starting to learn to drive. He was pressing for the garage to be completed before the date when delivery of the car was expected. There were some ‘rough edges’ which I would have normally tidied up – as a matter of professional pride, I like a job to look as neat and tidy as possible. However, only the appearance of the completed job was affected; the walls of the garage were well constructed. Source C Newspaper report An earth tremor of considerable force was felt in Burwell County last Tuesday. Windows rattled and there was some damage to buildings. Such tremors are very rare in this area and buildings are not constructed to withstand them, as they would be in areas prone to frequent and more serious earth tremors. However, the County Inspector of Buildings reported that damage was confined to buildings which were already damaged or had been poorly maintained. He rejected claims that building regulations needed to be tightened in the light of this tremor. Source D Extract from internet forum Mortar comes in three different grades. Grade A is guaranteed for 50 years, Grade B is guaranteed for 25 years and Grade C for 10 years. Whilst Grade A and B are more expensive, the fact that they need renewing less often means they can prove more economical in the long run. However, most builders opt for Grade C because it means they can offer a more competitive price. Also, if walls built with Grade C need attention after 10 years this will provide more work for the builder. So builders have little incentive to use the more expensive grades of mortar.

3 9694/22/M/J/17 © UCLES 2017 [Turn over Source E Bricklaying tuition manual When constructing a wall, it is essential that the mortar is of a consistency to allow it to set sufficiently before laying another row of bricks on top. Failure to observe this rule is liable to lead to faulty construction and, in extreme cases, can result in the wall falling down. More usually, however, the wall will be of uneven construction because some bricks have sunk too far into the mortar. Mortar that is too thick will be unusable. Mortar that is too thin may be usable but progress will be slow as the worker will have to wait for it to set sufficiently before laying the next row of bricks. (a) How useful is the evidence from Mr Jones in Source B? [3] (b) What is the possible relevance of the information that Mr Smith’s daughter was just starting to learn to drive, in the light of information about damage to buildings from the County Building Inspector in Source C? [3] (c) Mr Jones used Grade C mortar. How significant is this additional information in assessing the reason why the garage wall fell down? [3] (d) How likely is it that the wall fell down as a result of Mr Jones’ poor workmanship? Write a short, reasoned argument to support your conclusion, with critical reference to the evidence provided and considering a plausible alternative conclusion. [6]

4 9694/22/M/J/17 © UCLES 2017 2 Study the evidence and answer the questions that follow. Source A Extract from record journal Many people argue that the purest way to hear a musical recording is to listen to a brand new analogue vinyl record. This is because the bumps and grooves in a vinyl record have a direct relation to the actual sounds being made when recording. In contrast, a digital recording is a reproduction of sound that has been turned into an electronic signal. So, it is only an estimate of the sounds the sound waves are producing, whereas a vinyl recording reproduces the exact sound. The main reason that digital recording now dominates is because it is the only method that can be used with computers. The shortcomings of digital recordings are particularly noticeable in lower-frequency bass notes, which have more impact if they have been recorded with an analogue method. However, great care is needed to preserve the sound quality of vinyl records. They require very careful handling and cleaning. Most people find it difficult to maintain these high standards of care. Source B Extract from Digital News Much of the bad reputation of digital recordings in comparison to analogue is because early digital record releases were often ‘digitally re-mastered’ versions of analogue recordings. These always failed to reproduce the quality of the original recording because something was inevitably lost in the transfer. Modern sound engineers in recording studios have adapted the music they are creating to digital techniques of recording and are able to replicate authentically sounds being produced in the studio. Source C Comment by popular culture commentator The problem with all this expert discussion about what produces the highest quality of sound is that it is based on the assumption that people are particularly concerned about sound quality anyway. Many people are quite happy watching a film on their phone or tablet even though this was intended to be seen in a big-screen cinema. They clearly do not think that the quality of the viewing experience matters. Source D Report from specialist journal In 2014, the Journal of the Audio Engineering Society published a study which sought to determine if listeners could tell the difference between an analogue and a digital recording of the same piece of music. The study involved 60 people and 554 listening trials. During the trials people were asked to identify if they were hearing an analogue or a digital recording. Listeners were able to identify the recording method only 49.82% of the time, suggesting they were effectively guessing rather than making an informed choice. This is probably because the recording method – analogue or digital – is only one factor determining the quality of sound.

5 9694/22/M/J/17 © UCLES 2017 [Turn over (a) (i) “The shortcomings of digital recordings are particularly noticeable in lower-frequency bass notes” (Source A). Why can we not draw the conclusion that this is always a problem when people listen to music on a digital recording? [1] (ii) “They require very careful handling and cleaning” (Source A). To what extent does this undermine the claim that vinyl records produce a purer musical sound? [2] (b) People are going to the cinema in increasing numbers. How effective is this as a reply to the argument in Source C? [3] (c) “This is probably because the recording method is only one factor determining the quality of sound” (Source D). Suggest three other factors that might influence the quality of recorded sound, as experienced by the listener. [3] (d) ‘Critics of digital recordings are old-fashioned and irrationally prejudiced against them.’ To what extent do you agree with this claim? Write a short, reasoned argument to support your conclusion, using and evaluating the information provided in Sources A–D. [6]

6 9694/22/M/J/17 © UCLES 2017 3 Read the passage and answer the questions below. 1 A key problem facing humanity is the issue of global warming. Many people advocate measures, such as reducing emissions from the burning of fossil fuel, to combat this threat. However, this is an unworkable strategy and we should not try to combat the effects of global warming. 2 Global warming is a well-established trend that cannot be reversed. The advocates of an international effort to combat global warming seem to have an over-optimistic view of the ability of humans to find solutions to problems. They seem to think that science will be able to create a paradise on earth for humanity. This is just a childish dream. 3 The negative effects of global warming have been exaggerated. Colder areas of the world will become warmer and this will cut down the consumption of fossil fuels by reducing heating bills. Whilst some areas of the world will become too hot to sustain the growing of crops, others at present too cold to grow crops will become warmer, meaning agriculture will simply shift in to different zones. 4 The drive to develop ‘green’ renewable energy as a way of combating global warming has been exploited for financial gain. For example, in the UK, wind turbines with a maximum output of less than 500 kW get a larger subsidy from the government than those with an output of more than 500 kW. This has resulted in many wind turbines being operated at below their true capacity, enabling their owners to get the larger subsidy. Supporting the efforts to tackle global warming simply encourages this sort of scam. 5 Humans have made such a mess of life on Earth that the planet is not worth saving anyway. The way forward for humanity is to colonise other planets. A one-way trip to Mars, known as Mars 1, is already being planned and it has attracted many volunteers who are keen to make the trip. The launch date has been set for as early as 2024. Pessimists have argued that lack of food and the production of too much oxygen by plants will mean that the colonists will start to die within 68 days. However, human ingenuity will find a solution to these problems. (a) Using the exact words from the passage as far as possible, identify the main conclusion. [2] (b) Using the exact words from the passage as far as possible, identify three intermediate conclusions. [3] (c) Evaluate the strength of the reasoning in the argument. In your answer you should consider any flaws, unstated assumptions and other weaknesses. [5] (d) ‘It is not possible to achieve global agreements to tackle climate change.’ Write your own short argument to support or challenge this claim. The conclusion of your argument must be stated. Credit will not be given for repeating ideas from the passage. [5]

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® IGCSE is a registered trademark. This document consists of 8 printed pages. © UCLES 2017 [Turn over Cambridge International Examinations Cambridge International Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Level THINKING SKILLS 9694/22 Paper 2 Critical Thinking May/June 2017 MARK SCHEME Maximum Mark: 45 Published This mark scheme is published as an aid to teachers and candidates, to indicate the requirements of the examination. It shows the basis on which Examiners were instructed to award marks. It does not indicate the details of the discussions that took place at an Examiners’ meeting before marking began, which would have considered the acceptability of alternative answers. Mark schemes should be read in conjunction with the question paper and the Principal Examiner Report for Teachers. Cambridge will not enter into discussions about these mark schemes. Cambridge is publishing the mark schemes for the May/June 2017 series for most Cambridge IGCSE®, Cambridge International A and AS Level and Cambridge Pre-U components, and some Cambridge O Level components.

9694/22 Cambridge International AS/A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2017 © UCLES 2017 Page 2 of 8 Question Answer Marks 1(a) It is reliable as it is a case of ‘reverse vested interest’ [1]. We would not expect Mr Jones to criticise his own work, but he does [1]. However, it is not significant as this criticism refers to cosmetic appearance rather than the quality of construction [1]. However, rushing to finish the job may have meant Jones ‘cut corners’ on the actual construction [1]; although he denies this, he has a vested interest to do so [1]. 3 1(b) As an inexperienced driver, she may have hit the garage wall when trying to get into the garage [1]. The building inspector says that buildings already damaged were likely to be affected by the earth tremor [1]. The wall being knocked by a car may have been sufficient damage for the wall to fall down as a result of the earth tremor [1]. Therefore it is possible that it is highly relevant in identifying an important contributory factor to the wall falling down [1]. 3 1(c) Not significant [1]. It merely means he is typical of most builders [1]. The Grade C mortar is guaranteed for 10 years so would not fail after a short time [1]. Therefore the use of this grade of building materials does not explain why the wall fell down [1]. 3

9694/22 Cambridge International AS/A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2017 © UCLES 2017 Page 3 of 8 Question Answer Marks 1(d) Level 3 5–6 marks A strong answer, which provides a reasoned argument including thorough evaluation of all or most of the evidence to support an acceptable conclusion in terms of probability and evaluates the plausibility of at least one alternative conclusion. Level 2 3–4 marks An answer which evaluates some of the evidence, draws an acceptable conclusion in terms of probability and may mention the plausibility of at least one alternative conclusion. Level 1 1–2 marks A weak answer, which refers to some of the evidence, possibly including a simple evaluative comment. The conclusion may be unstated or over-stated. Level 0 0 marks No credit-worthy material. Indicative content The possible conclusions are: • Jones’ ‘cut corners’ because he was rushing to complete the job • The earthquake caused the wall to collapse • The earthquake and previous damage to the wall caused it to collapse. Jones admits being pressured to finish the job and the work not being as good as he would have hoped. However, he is clearly an experienced builder and has done many jobs for Smith before. It seems unlikely that he mixed the mortar too thinly (Source E) and laid the bricks too quickly but it is possible. The earthquake was unusual but sound buildings seem not to have been damaged. This suggests the wall collapsed because it had been damaged and the inexperienced driving of the daughter would offer an explanation of how the damage occurred. Notes for the guidance of markers Simple supported conclusion 1 (if no conclusion cap at Level 2) + simple consideration of alternative +1 AND reasoned rejection of alternative +1 + explicit use of some (3 or fewer) sources of evidence +1 OR explicit use of all or most (4 or more) sources of evidence +2 + critical evaluation of evidence +1 or (more than one case) +2 + good inferential reasoning +1 or (more than one case) +2 Max 6 6

9694/22 Cambridge International AS/A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2017 © UCLES 2017 Page 4 of 8 Question Answer Marks 2(a)(i) If the music does not contain such notes this shortcoming will not be relevant [1]. 1 2(a)(ii) Not at all. This is a point about the care needed to maintain the sound quality [1], not about the capacity to produce a purer sound quality [1]. Alternatively Significantly. In practice, most records will not enjoy this degree of care [1] and so the sound quality they produce is likely to be poorer [1]. 2 2(b) Effective [1]. It does suggest that people still want to view films on a big screen [1]. This undermines the inference that people are not concerned with quality of film reproduction [1]. People are now more selective about watching films at the cinema; some prefer to go only to see those which make the most of the big-screen experience [1]. On the other hand, this increase in numbers going to the cinema may be for other reasons, e.g. meeting friends rather than the quality of the viewing experience [1]. 3 2(c) 1 mark for each plausible factor, for example: • The listener’s hearing may be impaired in some way • The acoustics of the room they were listening in • The quality of the equipment used to play the music • The quality of the equipment used to record the music • Whether there are other things distracting the listener’s concentration on the music • The quality of the performance recorded 3

9694/22 Cambridge International AS/A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2017 © UCLES 2017 Page 5 of 8 Question Answer Marks 2(d) Level 3 5–6 marks A reasoned argument, which uses and evaluates all or most of the evidence provided. Level 2 3–4 marks A simple argument, which uses and/or evaluates evidence. Level 1 1–2 marks A weak answer, which makes some correct reference to evidence but consists of opinion and/or assertion rather than argument or a weak argument which makes no reference to evidence. Level 0 0 marks No credit-worthy material. Indicative content • Source A offers an explanation of why analogue sound is superior • It also suggests digital recording has been adopted because of computers • However it also suggests the care needed to maintain analogue sound quality is difficult for people to sustain. • Source B strongly supports the claim suggesting these critics may be influenced by outdated evidence. • However, the title of publication suggests it may be biased/have a vested interest towards digital recordings. • Source C suggests these critics are over-bothered about sound quality anyway • but does not necessarily deny that analogue recordings are superior. • Source D offers survey evidence that suggests people cannot tell the difference. This would support the claim. • Source D suggests that digital/analogue is not the most important determinant of sound quality. This would also support the claim. Notes for the guidance of markers Simple supported conclusion 1 OR nuanced conclusion 2 + use of 1 or 2 sources +1 OR use of all or most (3 or more) sources of evidence +2 not just mentioning or summarising or comprehension + critical evaluation of evidence +1 or (more than one case) +2 + good inferential reasoning +1 or (more than one case) +2 not speculation + personal thinking +1 Max 6 6

9694/22 Cambridge International AS/A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2017 © UCLES 2017 Page 6 of 8 Question Answer Marks 3(a) 2 marks: We should not try to combat the effects of global warming. 1 mark: However, this is an unworkable strategy and we should not try to combat the effects of global warming. 2 3(b) 1 mark for each of the following, to a maximum of 3 marks: • (However,) this is an unworkable strategy • Global warming is a well-established trend that cannot be reversed. • The negative effects of global warming have been exaggerated. • Supporting the efforts to tackle global warming simply encourages this sort of scam. • The way forward for humanity is to colonise other planets. Allow one additional element or one significant omission in each case. If more than three answers are offered, mark the first four only. 3

9694/22 Cambridge International AS/A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2017 © UCLES 2017 Page 7 of 8 Question Answer Marks 3(c) Marks for each evaluative point as follows, up to a maximum of 5 marks: 2 marks: Valid evaluative point, clearly expressed. 1 mark: Weak attempt at a valid evaluative point. Paragraph 2 • Assumption (between IC of para 2 and MC) that nothing can be done to slow down or mitigate an irreversible trend. • Flaw: straw man. People who think humans can tackle global warming are not committed to the idea that science can create a paradise on earth. Paragraph 3 • Assumption: the new areas for agriculture will be at least the same size/productivity as those they are replacing. • Assumption: effects of global warming are consistent throughout world. Some areas may get colder. • Flaw: selective use of evidence. Air-conditioning homes in areas that have become hot may well outweigh reduced heating bills in presently cold areas that have become warmer. • Flaw: inconsistency between the reasoning in this paragraph and the idea in Paragraph 5 that the planet is not worth saving. Paragraph 4 • Irrelevance: exploitation of renewable energy schemes is not relevant to an assessment of the need to tackle global warming. • One can deal with negative side-effects, without rejecting the thing that produces them/negative side effects not a sufficient condition for rejecting something. Paragraph 5 • Assumption: support for something means it is worthwhile/feasible. • Assumption: 2024 is sufficiently early for this to be a viable strategy to respond to global warming. • Inconsistency: between sceptical view of science/ability of humans to solve problems in Para 2 with over-optimistic view here. • Inconsistency: if humans have made a mess of life on Earth, it seems unlikely that colonising other planets is the way forward without a change in human nature. 5

9694/22 Cambridge International AS/A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2017 © UCLES 2017 Page 8 of 8 Question Answer Marks 3(d) Level 3 4–5 marks Developed, coherent argument. Reasons strongly support conclusion. Development may include intermediate conclusion or apt examples. Simply structured argument – 4 marks. Effective use of IC etc. – 5 marks. Level 2 2–3 marks A simple argument. One reason + conclusion – 2 marks. Two or more separate reasons + conclusion – 3 marks. Level 1 1 mark Some relevant comment. Level 0 0 marks No relevant comment. Maximum 3 marks for wrong conclusion or if conclusion is implied but not stated. No credit for material merely reproduced from the passage. Specimen level 3 answers Support (141 words) Whilst nations pretend to be acting for the good of all at international conferences, such as those aiming to tackle climate change, in reality they are all looking to protect their own interests. Large industrial producers such as the United States are not likely to reduce their carbon emissions to the extent that they reduce their economic output or harm their economy. Newer industrial countries such as India, which are often the main contributors to global carbon emissions, resent being told to adopt costly ‘green’ technologies by older industrial nations. It is the legacy of 150–200 years of pollution by such nations that the newer industrial nations regard as at the root of the problem. So there are irreconcilable differences between the world’s nations on tackling climate change. Therefore it is not possible to achieve global agreements to tackle climate change. Challenge (132 words) Whilst it is difficult to get nations to agree on a common policy, the problem of global warming is an obvious threat to all. Global action on environmental issues has been achieved in the past. For example, the world-wide ban on the use of CFCs has reversed the threat to the ozone layer that they once posed. The effects of global warming are already obvious with low lying areas already threatened by rising sea levels. Some of the most famous cities, such as New York, are threatened in this way. This means that nations will no longer be able to ignore global warming and its effects. Equally, it will be obvious to them that only joint action will counteract these effects. Therefore it is possible to achieve global agreements on climate change. 5