1

What does the word “epic” (line 2) tell you about the Southeast Asian tsunami?

[1]

ANS

It was a major disaster[1]. / The damage was huge[1]. Many countries were affected. [1]

2

What does ‘makeshift nation’ (line 26) reveal about the extent of damage after the tsunami?

[2]

ANS

There was a large number of casualties[1] and homeless.[1]

3

What was the belief of the author when he used the word “unholy” (line 30) to describe the waves?

[1]

ANS

He believed that the natural disaster was not an act of god. [1]

4

What information does the word “undocumented” (line 35) give you about the Burmese labourers?

[1]

ANS

The Burmese labourers were illegal[1]. / working there illegally[1].

5

In your own words, what are two obstacles to keeping Baan Nam Kem alive?

[2]

ANS

The two obstacles are the quarrels between the villagers[1] and the poor hygiene conditions[1].

6

In your own words, explain the difference between the stress faced by volunteers in Khao Lak and the stress faced at work?

[1]

ANS

The stress faced by volunteers in Khao Lak is more of an emotional one whereas the stress at work is more mental [1].

7

What is implied by the word “unscheduled” (line 9)?

[1]

ANS

The train was not supposed to make the stop.[1]

8

“…five minutes later a more massive wall of water, this one 12 metres high, blotted out the horizon and barrelled over the train.” (lines 24 – 25). Explain the meaning of the expression, paying close attention to the underlined words.

[2]

ANS

The wall of water was so high that it blocked out the sea and the sky[1] and fell over the train like a blanket.[1]

9

What does “as if they were no heavier than a child’s toy” (lines 26 – 27) say about the impact of the wave?

[1]

ANS

The wave’s destructive force was so great that it was able to move a heavy train so easily.[1]

10

Explain why the author mentioned that “Not even the temple was safe from another wave” (line 41).

[1]

ANS

The temple, being a sacred place of worship, was not spared from the effects of the tsunami.[1]

11

Identify an act of improvisation by Luke Simmonds and CC in order to help the injured.

[1]

ANS

They used doors as stretchers to carry the injured.[1]

OR

They used hotel bedsheets as bandage.[1]

12

State a word that illustrates the courage of the young Japanese woman who had her left leg broken, yet bore it bravely.

[1]

ANS

Stoically [1]

13

For each of the following words, give one word or short phrase (of not more than seven words) which has the same meaning that the word has in the passage.

From Passage A From Passage B

1. hardy (line 41) 3. urged (line 40)

2. flocked (line 45) 4. rubble (line 59)

5. excruciating (line 68)

[5]