SECTION B: SUMMARY – Practice Set (10 Questions with Answers)

Each of the following activities includes a comprehension passage, summary instruction, and a model answer. These are aligned with CAPS and designed to help Grade 11 learners master summary writing skills. None of these passages repeat Section A content.

Summary Question 1

Passage:

Load shedding in South Africa continues to disrupt economic and social activities. Small businesses are particularly affected due to their reliance on consistent electricity. Some companies have invested in generators and solar panels, but many cannot afford these alternatives. The government has promised infrastructure upgrades, yet delays persist. Citizens are encouraged to reduce power usage, but lasting solutions are needed to restore trust and productivity.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize the impact of load shedding on small businesses and possible solutions.

✅ Sample Summary (78 words):

Load shedding harms small businesses in South Africa by interrupting operations and limiting productivity. While some businesses invest in generators or solar panels, many lack the financial means to do so. Government promises of infrastructure improvement are often delayed, leaving companies frustrated. Reducing electricity consumption is recommended, but not enough to solve the crisis. A sustainable, long-term energy solution is necessary to help small businesses thrive and to regain public confidence.

Summary Question 2

Passage:

Social media has transformed the way young people communicate and learn. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok offer both educational content and distractions. While some students use these tools to learn new skills or stay informed, others fall into patterns of procrastination. Experts suggest balancing screen time and using digital tools wisely. Schools are encouraged to include digital literacy in their curriculum to help students navigate online spaces responsibly.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize how social media affects student learning and the importance of digital literacy.

✅ Sample Summary (75 words):

Social media influences student learning by offering both educational content and distractions. While some students benefit from using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to gain skills or stay updated, others become distracted and procrastinate. To address this, experts recommend managing screen time and promoting digital literacy. Schools are urged to teach students how to use online tools responsibly, helping them avoid negative habits and benefit from the internet’s educational potential.

Summary Question 3

Passage:

Climate change is causing severe droughts in many parts of Southern Africa. Crops fail, water sources dry up, and rural communities struggle to survive. The agricultural sector is hit hardest, threatening food security. Governments are investing in drought-resistant crops and water management systems. NGOs are also supporting farmers with training and technology. However, without global cooperation and reduced carbon emissions, the crisis may deepen.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize the effects of climate change on agriculture and the measures taken to address them.

✅ Sample Summary (76 words):

Climate change has led to intense droughts in Southern Africa, harming agriculture and endangering food security. Rural communities suffer from crop failure and water shortages. In response, governments promote drought-resistant crops and improved water systems. NGOs also assist farmers through training and technology. However, without international efforts to reduce carbon emissions, these interventions may not prevent long-term damage, making global cooperation vital to address the root causes of the climate crisis.

Summary Question 4

Passage:

Reading habits among youth are declining due to the rise of digital entertainment. Libraries are underutilized, and physical books are seen as outdated. Educators stress that reading improves vocabulary, critical thinking, and academic performance. Initiatives like mobile libraries, book clubs, and school reading competitions are being introduced to reignite interest in reading.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize why reading habits are declining and how educators are responding.

✅ Sample Summary (78 words):

Youth reading habits are declining as digital entertainment replaces books. Libraries remain empty, and many view traditional reading as old-fashioned. Educators emphasize reading’s role in developing vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking. To counteract this trend, they are launching mobile libraries, book clubs, and reading competitions in schools. These initiatives aim to revive a culture of reading and improve academic performance among learners by making reading more engaging and accessible.

Summary Question 5

Passage:

Plastic pollution is threatening marine life and ecosystems. Tons of plastic waste enter the oceans annually, harming fish, seabirds, and coral reefs. Countries are banning single-use plastics and promoting biodegradable alternatives. Environmental groups are organizing clean-up campaigns and public education drives. However, recycling systems remain inefficient, and consumer behavior is slow to change.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize the effects of plastic pollution and the global response to it.

✅ Sample Summary (79 words):

Plastic waste in oceans harms marine life and damages ecosystems. Fish, seabirds, and reefs suffer as plastic accumulates. Governments are banning single-use plastics and promoting eco-friendly alternatives, while environmental groups run clean-up efforts and awareness programs. Despite these actions, ineffective recycling systems and slow changes in consumer habits hinder progress. A stronger global response is needed to reduce plastic pollution and protect marine biodiversity.

Summary Question 6

Passage:

Mental health awareness is growing in schools due to rising anxiety and depression among teenagers. Teachers and counselors are being trained to recognize warning signs. Campaigns aim to reduce stigma and encourage students to seek help. Peer support programs are also being introduced. However, some schools still lack mental health resources or trained staff.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize how schools are addressing mental health and the challenges they face.

✅ Sample Summary (74 words):

To address teen anxiety and depression, schools are increasing mental health awareness. Teachers and counselors receive training, and campaigns promote open conversations. Peer support programs provide additional help. However, many schools still lack the staff and resources needed to manage mental health effectively. Despite growing efforts, the shortage of qualified personnel and limited funding remain major challenges in providing consistent mental health support for learners.

Summary Question 7

Passage:

Entrepreneurship is being promoted among South African youth as a solution to high unemployment. Workshops, mentorship programs, and startup funding are provided by both public and private sectors. Schools are integrating entrepreneurship education into their curricula. Challenges include limited access to capital, business networks, and practical experience.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize how youth entrepreneurship is being supported and the obstacles it faces.

✅ Sample Summary (77 words):

To combat youth unemployment, South Africa encourages entrepreneurship through workshops, mentorships, and funding initiatives. Schools are also teaching entrepreneurial skills to learners. Despite these efforts, young entrepreneurs face challenges such as lack of funding, limited access to business networks, and insufficient real-world experience. Addressing these obstacles is crucial to ensure that entrepreneurship becomes a viable and sustainable solution for reducing youth unemployment across the country.

Summary Question 8

Passage:

Fast food consumption is on the rise due to its convenience and affordability. However, excessive intake leads to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Health professionals recommend home-cooked meals, balanced diets, and regular exercise. Some schools have banned junk food and are offering healthier meals in canteens to promote wellness.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize the health risks of fast food and how schools are encouraging better nutrition.

✅ Sample Summary (76 words):

Frequent fast food consumption is linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. While fast food is convenient and cheap, health professionals advise eating balanced meals and exercising regularly. To support healthier lifestyles, some schools have banned junk food and introduced nutritious options in canteens. These changes aim to encourage better eating habits among learners and reduce long-term health risks associated with unhealthy diets.

Summary Question 9

Passage:

Mobile phones have become essential tools for communication, education, and entertainment. However, their overuse can affect academic performance and mental focus. Many students check social media during class, which distracts them from learning. Educators are setting clear rules for phone use and integrating phones positively through apps and digital learning tools.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize the pros and cons of mobile phone use in schools and how educators are managing it.

✅ Sample Summary (75 words):

Mobile phones help students learn and communicate, but overuse harms academic focus. Many learners are distracted by social media during lessons. To manage this, schools are setting usage rules and incorporating educational apps to enhance learning. By balancing restrictions with purposeful use, educators aim to reduce distraction while leveraging mobile technology’s benefits for classroom engagement and knowledge-building.

Summary Question 10

Passage:

Water scarcity is a major issue in South Africa due to drought and poor infrastructure. Cities like Cape Town have faced severe restrictions. Households are urged to conserve water, and municipalities invest in recycling plants and desalination. Climate change worsens the problem, requiring urgent, sustainable solutions.

✍️ Summary Instruction:

Summarize the causes of water scarcity and how South Africa is responding.

✅ Sample Summary (78 words):

South Africa faces water scarcity caused by drought, infrastructure problems, and climate change. Cities like Cape Town have imposed water restrictions to manage shortages. In response, households are encouraged to save water, and municipalities are building recycling and desalination plants. Long-term solutions are needed to address the ongoing effects of climate change and ensure reliable access to water for all communities.