2017 SHORT STORIES AND POETRY QUESTION BANK
RANSFORMING MOMENTS'
SFORMI
5.1
Read the following extract and
answer questions which follow:
5
My essays were the epitome of good work and they would be read to the
whole class. I was probably proud of myself, even though I didn't really give it
any serious thought. Somehow, my academic success did not do much for my
confidence or give me any self love. I thought I was very ugly and the fact
that my hair was so hard to manage did not make things easier. I used to
describe it as dry grass in winter. After a while, I even stopped combing it. I'd
wash it and dry it, get dressed in my black skirt and white shirt, which were
not as nice as those of the other girls, and off I'd go to school. To top it all,
had knock-knees and big feetil I was just so ugly and awkward I hated
myself. And, my God - I sat in the front desk! Miss-ugly-top-of-the-class.
Our school was one of the blggest high schools in the Eastern Cape and
we had a great school choir that simply collected trophies. I remember
Bulelwa's voice every time I think of our choir. I used to close my eyes and
enjoy listening to her sing. I don't know how many times I wished I had a tape
recorder so that I could tape her voice and have the pleasure of listening to
her for the rest of my life. I must say, I felt great on those rare afternoons
when Bulelwa would come and study with me under the black wattle tree near
the teachers' cottages. I loved that spot. And I also remember that Bulelwa
would stand by me when some of the girls in dormitory teased me about boys.
10
15
6.
21
5.1.1
What is the setting of the story?
(1)
5.1.2
(1)
In which area of her school work does the narrator'show a particular talent?
Explain why the following statement is FALSE:
5.1.3
The narrator's academic success results in a fulfilling life for her,
(2)
1
5.1.4
Refer to line 6 (describe it as...stopped combing it.)
Identify a figure of speech in this line. L
(2)
(6) Explain the comparison in this figure of speech.
!
What do the words, 'that simply collected trophies'imply about the school
choin?
5.1.5
(2)
5.1.6
Discuss the protagonist's opinion about 'Bulelwa?
5.1.7
Refer to the story as a whole:
Do you think the narrator admires the boy from Port Elizabeth"?
Give a reason for your answer.
(2)
35 Page​