The following are excerpts from paper 1 of the Higher level English Leaving Cert exam:

TEXT 1

QUESTION A

(ii)Join the debate.

Having considered the views expressed in the text, do you think zoos should be closed?

Give reasons for your decision. (15)

TEXT 2

QUESTION B

“You’re old enough, I reckon, to make your own decisions.”

Write a short speech in which you attempt to persuade a group of parents that older teenagers should be trusted to make their own decisions. (50)

TEXT 3

QUESTION B

“. . . photography’s unique ability to freeze time . . .”

Imagine your art teacher is compiling a photographic exhibition to reflect the lives of young people today.

She has asked students to suggest images they would like included.

Write a letter to your art teacher proposing five images that you believe should be included and give reasons for your decision in each case. (50)