ENG1514 January/February Supplementary Portfolio (DETAILED ANSWERS) 2026 - DISTINCTION GUARANTEED

ENG1514 January/February Supplementary Portfolio (DETAILED ANSWERS) 2026 - DISTINCTION GUARANTEED - DISTINCTION GUARANTEED - DISTINCTION GUARANTEED Answers, guidelines, workings and references , January/February 2026 Supplementary Examination ENG1514 Applied English Language for Foundation and Intermediate Phase: First Additional Language 100 marks 48 hours First Examiner: Ms. S Gani, Second Examiners: Mr P Magwele, Prof P Pillay Moderator: Prof J. Alexander This paper consists of 10 pages. Please do not password protect your document Convert all pages into ONE single PDF document. Do not load the pages one by one. Your answer file must not be more than 20mb in size. Submissions will only be accepted from registered student accounts. Do not submit answer files that are illegible or unclear. Please preview your script before uploading and ensure that the correct script is uploaded. You are allowed to access your prescribed works and the study material. You should write answers in your OWN words and any sources consulted should be cited according to the Harvard referencing method. Incorrect answer scripts and/or submissions made on unofficial examination platforms (including email) will not be marked and no opportunity will be granted for resubmission. The mark awarded for an incomplete submission will be the final mark. No opportunity for resubmission will be granted. In the case of plagiarism or cheating of any kind, you will be reported to the University’s Student Disciplinary Section. The answered exam script must be uploaded as a PDF electronic document. ENG1514 January/February 2026 2 If you are submitting a typed response • Use the Arial font. • Use size 14 for any headings and size 12 for the body of your answer. • Use double-spacing for your paragraphs. • From the options available to format your work on the Home tab of the ribbon on your computer, please click on JUSTIFY to format your work. Presentation: • Include a cover page with your name, student number and, module code • All subsequent pages must have your name, and student number. • If you are submitting a typed response - Use the prescribed font sizes, line spacing and justify paragraphs. • If you are submitting a handwritten response – Try to ensure that your handwriting is neat and legible. Your answers must be written in black pen and not pencil as this affects the quality of the scanned paper. • Number your answers correctly and clearly as per each question in the question paper. • Please do not write in the margin/s. The exam can be downloaded from 10:00 on the morning of 28 January 2026 and must be uploaded by 10:00 on the morning of 30 January 2026. Answer both Section A and Section B – both sections are compulsory Section A has 12 short questions and is worth 60 marks and Section B has one essay question and is worth 40 Marks This exam is not proctored NO LATE EXAMS WILL BE ACCEPTED. MANAGE YOUR TIME AND DO NOT LEAVE SUBMISSION TO THE LAST MINUTE ENG1514 January/February 2026 3 The Rise of AI and the Fight Against Misinformation: Navigating the Digital Landscape Paragraph 1 In an era of readily accessible information, the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in both exciting possibilities and concerning challenges. While AI holds the promise of revolutionizing various aspects of our lives, its potential for misuse, particularly in generating deceptive content, has become a pressing issue. From fabricated images and videos to manipulated voice recordings, the ability of AI to create convincing "deepfakes" poses a significant threat to truth and trust in the digital age. This rise of AI-generated misinformation requires us to develop critical thinking skills and adopt strategies to discern fact from fiction. Paragraph 2 One of the most alarming manifestations of AI misuse is its role in exacerbating existing societal problems like bullying and harassment. The creation and dissemination of deepfakes can be weaponized to inflict emotional distress, damage reputations, and spread false narratives. The case of revenge porn, where manipulated images and videos are used to humiliate and exploit individuals, highlights the devastating consequences of this technology in the wrong hands. Law enforcement officials, like Britton Foreman, a digital forensics expert with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, are witnessing a surge in cases involving AI-generated content used for malicious purposes. The ease with which such content can be created and shared presents a formidable challenge for authorities and victims alike. Paragraph 3 Despite the difficulty in identifying AI-generated content, experts offer some guidance on spotting these digital fabrications. Foreman suggests scrutinizing images and videos for subtle inconsistencies. Unnaturally perfect skin, distorted fingers, and unrealistic backgrounds can be telltale signs of manipulation. However, as AI technology advances, these imperfections become increasingly difficult to detect, blurring the lines between reality and fabrication. This blurring effect is particularly evident to younger generations who are constantly immersed in the digital world. ENG1514 January/February 2026 4 Paragraph 4 Teenagers, like Ariana Rogers and her classmates at Farmington High School, are acutely aware of AI’s pervasive presence in their lives. They encounter AI-generated content regularly, often noticing the subtle glitches and inconsistencies that betray its artificial origin. From mismatched hair textures to impossible body postures, these digital artifacts serve as reminders of the technology’s limitations. However, rather than shying away from this rapidly evolving technology, many students are eager to understand and utilize its potential. Karthik Velvadapu, a student who advocated for greater AI integration in his school’s curriculum, recognizes AI’s transformative power and believes it’s essential for students to develop proficiency in this area. Paragraph 5 Educators, too, are grappling with the implications of AI in the classroom. Mr. Franks, an English teacher at Farmington High School, sees AI as a tool that requires careful consideration and integration. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students critical thinking skills, particularly in evaluating the reliability of information sources, including AI-generated content. This involves moving beyond simplistic notions of right and wrong and engaging in nuanced discussions about the gray areas of information credibility. Just as the internet initially faced skepticism and concerns, AI’s emergence demands a thoughtful approach to harness its benefits while mitigating its risks. Paragraph 6 In a world increasingly saturated with information, both real and fabricated, developing a discerning eye and cultivating healthy digital habits are crucial. Foreman advises stepping away from social media and engaging in real-world interactions to maintain perspective and combat the overwhelming influx of digital content. This advice is particularly relevant for teenagers who are often deeply immersed in the online world. By fostering critical thinking skills, promoting media literacy, and encouraging balanced digital consumption, we can empower ourselves and future generations to navigate the complex digital landscape and discern truth from the growing tide of AI-generated misinformation.1. a) Use two words to explain the relationship between English sounds (phonemes) and alphabets (graphemes) in relation to spelling. 4 Marks (2 marks for two correct words and 2 marks for plausible explanation.) b) Explain how phonemic awareness influences the pronunciation of words in English. 2 Marks c) From your knowledge of phonemic awareness after reading Chapter 12 of any edition of the prescribed text above and pages 96 to 98 of 2025 Study Guide, give two words that you have learned to spell correctly and two words that you have been mispronouncing. 4 Marks 2. a) Explain your understanding of critical language awareness 2 Marks b) How does your understanding of the concept critical language awareness help you to interpret the possible meaning that can be derived in the KFC popular catch phrase “Finger Licking Good” 3 Marks 3 | P a g e 3. Genre is a formal concept in language that refers to a particular type or style of literature, art, film, or music, recognisable because of its special features and specific language characteristics. Give three music genres that are popularly known in your indigenous socio-cultural context. 3 Marks 4. Access this link 5. Explain the difference between the following sentences: a) The Vice Chancellor declared the graduation ceremony closed. b) The graduation ceremony was declared closed by the Vice Chancellor 2 Marks 6. Identify the type of verb underlined in the following sentences: a) The Springbok players appear happy. b) Closing the classroom, the teacher went home. 2 Marks Total 25 marks Section B TEXT The Rise of Podcasting: How Digital Audio Is Revolutionising Journalism Suvrat. A. (2024). Al Jazeera Journalism Review. Available at: What is the type of phrase that is underlined in the title above? Categorise the phrase The Fight Against Misinformation into its three constituent parts. Your categorisation must indicate the word or words that constitute the three parts. What type of phrase is of AI? Explain why the prepositional phrase In an era of readily accessible information in the first sentence of paragraph one can be described as an optional element in the sentence. Write out the word that its refers to in sentence two of paragraph one. What feature of human language best describes the word deepfakes? What type of verb is the verb is in the sentence One of the most alarming manifestations of AI misuse is its role in exacerbating existing societal problems like bullying and harassment? Explain how the use of this verb points to the relationship between the subject of the sentence and the subject complement. When and How Did Podcasts become Popular? Podcasting has its roots in the early 2000s, with the term "podcast" being coined in 2004, combining "iPod" and "broadcast." However, it wasn't until technology became more accessible, with the rapid spread of smartphones and affordable recording equipment, that podcasting started to gain significant attention. Now, almost anyone can create a podcast. 4 | P a g e Paragraph 2 But the trend experienced a major surge in the mid-2010s, especially with the success of "Serial" in 2014, an investigative journalism podcast, hosted by journalist Sarah Koenig. The podcast captivated millions of listeners with its real-time investigation and gripping storytelling about the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee and the subsequent conviction of Adnan Syed. Not only did this podcast bring international attention to the case through merely audio, ultimately leading to Syed's release from prison, but it also pioneered a new genre of journalism and entertainment, sparking renewed interest in cold cases and criminal justice reform. Since then, podcasting has rapidly gained popularity, becoming a mainstream audio medium for news, entertainment, and education. What is the type of phrase that is underlined in the title above? Categorise the phrase The Fight Against Misinformation into its three constituent parts. Your categorisation must indicate the word or words that constitute the three parts. What type of phrase is of AI? Explain why the prepositional phrase In an era of readily accessible information in the first sentence of paragraph one can be described as an optional element in the sentence. Write out the word that its refers to in sentence two of paragraph one. What feature of human language best describes the word deepfakes? What type of verb is the verb is in the sentence One of the most alarming manifestations of AI misuse is its role in exacerbating existing societal problems like bullying and harassment? Explain how the use of this verb points to the relationship between the subject of the sentence and the subject complement. Who is Listening in? According to YouGov, an international online research data and analytics technology group, they analysed 47 global markets to demonstrate where people around the world regularly listen to podcasts. It was found that, South Africa is home to the highest proportion of regular podcast listeners of any market surveyed, at 68%. Saudi Arabia is second overall at 59%, marking a significant increase from previous years. Of all consumers polled, 40% say they listen to podcasts for more than an hour per week, with 10% listening for more than 10 hours per week. Paragraph 4 This growing medium has changed how audiences consume content and how journalists create and share their stories. In a landscape dominated by visual media, podcasts stand out as a compelling alternative, prioritising in-depth storytelling and analysis. With no visuals to distract, listeners engage their imaginations, fostering a deeper connection to the content. Moreover, in an age where trust in traditional media is often questioned, podcasts offer a sense of authenticity and transparency, allowing listeners to hear directly from journalists and experts. Read paragraph two and paragraph four carefully. Write out in full the proper nouns in the two paragraphs. List ten nouns in the plural form found in paragraph three. In what tense is the first sentence of paragraph five written? Read the third sentence of paragraph six and write out two adverbs. Read the title of the article very carefully. In your own words, state three things you expect the article to discuss about AI after reading the title. What reading strategy did you use to answer the above? Which reading activity does this identified strategy form part of? If you were going to attend a lecture where this paper was being presented, what activity could you engage in prior to attending the lecture? Refer specifically to the article in your answer. If you were to tell a friend about a lecture where the article had been discussed, what stage of the listening process would that be? Read paragraph two and paragraph four carefully. Write out in full the proper nouns in the two paragraphs. List ten nouns in the plural form found in paragraph three. In what tense is the first sentence of paragraph five written? Read the third sentence of paragraph six and write out two adverbs. Read the title of the article very carefully. In your own words, state three things you expect the article to discuss about AI after reading the title. What reading strategy did you use to answer the above? Which reading activity does this identified strategy form part of? If you were going to attend a lecture where this paper was being presented, what activity could you engage in prior to attending the lecture? Refer specifically to the article in your answer. If you were to tell a friend about a lecture where the article had been discussed, what stage of the listening process would that be? Adoption by Major Media Outlets Major publications such as The Guardian, The New York Times, the BBC, and the Financial Times, have all embraced podcasting, bringing listeners closer to their unique journalistic styles. Featuring journalists as hosts and guests, the podcasts combine the personal storytelling of each journalist with insightful analysis, providing an intimate glimpse into the minds of those who shape our understanding of the world. 5 | P a g e Paragraph 6 6.The Guardian’s "Today in Focus" is a prime example of this trend. Hosted by journalists Michael Safi and Helen Pidd, the podcast offers a deep dive into a single story each weekday. Recent episodes have covered topics ranging from climate change to political scandals. Section B Text-Based Questions Question 1 a) Read the first sentence of the first paragraph and identify two obvious features of human language. 2 Marks b) Justify how you arrived at each one of the two features identified in 1a) by referring to the text in your answer. 4 Marks Question 2 a) Quote the sentence in paragraph 1 that the phrase “the trend” in the first sentence of Paragraph 2 refers back to. 2 Marks b) What type of conjunction in the first sentence of paragraph 2 links the first paragraph to the second paragraph. 2 Marks c) What word in paragraph 2 is in the possessive case. 1 Mark If you were going to attend a lecture where this paper was being presented, what activity could you engage in prior to attending the lecture? Refer specifically to the article in your answer. If you were to tell a friend about a lecture where the article had been discussed, what stage of the listening process would that be? Identify the one word in the first sentence of paragraph one that expresses the extensive nature of AI. What does the author’s choice of vocabulary suggest about the expected audience of the text? Quote the definition for the term revenge porn provided in paragraph two of the article. Provide one reason why you believe the author chose to include a definition for the term in the article. What is the full name of the digital forensics expert that was referenced in the article? Provide a brief one sentence explanation for why scanning was the correct reading strategy to use to answer the question above. Quote the sentence from paragraph three that suggests that the older generation is at a disadvantage in today’s information age. Give two reasons why you think it is rather the youth who are at a disadvantage because of their experience and relationship with technology. The Noun Phrase “an international online research data and analytics technology group” is a good example of a complex noun phrase that can take several modifiers. a) Identify the head noun in this Noun Phrase. 1 Mark b) What is the article in the Noun Phrase? 1 Mark c) List the words that have been used to modify the Head Noun, 6 Marks d) What function are the words identified in c) performing in the noun phrase? 1 Mark e) What part of speech do the words listed in 1c) belong to? 1 Mark If you were going to attend a lecture where this paper was being presented, what activity could you engage in prior to attending the lecture? Refer specifically to the article in your answer. If you were to tell a friend about a lecture where the article had been discussed, what stage of the listening process would that be? Identify the one word in the first sentence of paragraph one that expresses the extensive nature of AI. What does the author’s choice of vocabulary suggest about the expected audience of the text? Quote the definition for the term revenge porn provided in paragraph two of the article. Provide one reason why you believe the author chose to include a definition for the term in the article. What is the full name of the digital forensics expert that was referenced in the article? Provide a brief one sentence explanation for why scanning was the correct reading strategy to use to answer the question above. Quote the sentence from paragraph three that suggests that the older generation is at a disadvantage in today’s information age. Give two reasons why you think it is rather the youth who are at a disadvantage because of their experience and relationship with technology. a) What type of sentence is the first sentence of paragraph 4? 1 Mark b) Explain your answer in 4a). 2 Marks 6 | P a g e Question 5 What type of Noun is the major publications mentioned in the first sentence of paragraph 5? 1 MarkJanuary/February 2026 Supplementary Examination ENG1514 Applied English Language for Foundation and Intermediate Phase: First Additional Language 100 marks 48 hours First Examiner: Ms. S Gani, Second Examiners: Mr P Magwele, Prof P Pillay Moderator: Prof J. Alexander This paper consists of 10 pages. Please do not password protect your document Convert all pages into ONE single PDF document. Do not load the pages one by one. Your answer file must not be more than 20mb in size. Submissions will only be accepted from registered student accounts. Do not submit answer files that are illegible or unclear. Please preview your script before uploading and ensure that the correct script is uploaded. You are allowed to access your prescribed works and the study material. You should write answers in your OWN words and any sources consulted should be cited according to the Harvard referencing method. Incorrect answer scripts and/or submissions made on unofficial examination platforms (including email) will not be marked and no opportunity will be granted for resubmission. The mark awarded for an incomplete submission will be the final mark. No opportunity for resubmission will be granted. In the case of plagiarism or cheating of any kind, you will be reported to the University’s Student Disciplinary Section. The answered exam script must be uploaded as a PDF electronic document. ENG1514 January/February 2026 Read the following sentences from paragraph five very carefully. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students critical thinking skills, particularly in evaluating the reliability of information sources, including AI generated content. This involves moving beyond simplistic notions of right and wrong and engaging in nuanced discussions about the gray areas of information credibility. In your own words, discuss in two sentences what you think the author is trying to highlight in these sentences. If you were to read these sentences aloud, what tone of voice would you use? Explain why. If you are submitting a typed response • Use the Arial font. • Use size 14 for any headings and size 12 for the body of your answer. • Use double-spacing for your paragraphs. • From the options available to format your work on the Home tab of the ribbon on your computer, please click on JUSTIFY to format your work. Presentation: • Include a cover page with your name, student number and, module code • All subsequent pages must have your name, and student number. • If you are submitting a typed response - Use the prescribed font sizes, line spacing and justify paragraphs. • If you are submitting a handwritten response – Try to ensure that your handwriting is neat and legible. Your answers must be written in black pen and not pencil as this affects the quality of the scanned paper. • Number your answers correctly and clearly as per each question in the question paper. • Please do not write in the margin/s. The exam can be downloaded from 10:00 on the morning of 28 January 2026 and must be uploaded by 10:00 on the morning of 30 January 2026. Answer both Section A and Section B – both sections are compulsory Section A has 12 short questions and is worth 60 marks and Section B has one essay question and is worth 40 Marks This exam is not proctored NO LATE EXAMS WILL BE ACCEPTED. MANAGE YOUR TIME AND DO NOT LEAVE SUBMISSION TO THE LAST MINUTE Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems performing tasks that would normally require human. AI has the potential to transform healthcare and many other important services, but it also raises important considerations about human rights, fairness and ethical considerations. It is a very powerful tool which has the potential for both benefits and serious risks making it neither good nor bad but rather dependent on how it is used. Since AI is fast becoming an integral part of our lives, it is important that we as individuals assess our relationship with AI so that we do not misuse it. TOPIC FOR THE ESSAY You are required to write a self-reflective essay of 1000 (2 typed pages) in which you examine the benefits and risks associated with using AI and whether you are using it in a responsible manner. If, however, you do not use AI, write a self-reflective essay of 1000 (2 typed pages) in which you discuss your choice not to use AI in assisting with daily or academic related tasks and the benefits and risks of this choice. Your essay should consider, but not be limited, to the following: 1. Your definition/understanding of AI. 2. Your views on students, including yourself, using or choosing not to use AI to complete assignments. 3. Discuss how AI can affect Higher Learning. 4. What you consider the benefits of using or not using AI in daily global activities are. 5. AI raises complex ethical questions such as the potential for AI to be used for harmful purposes. Discuss some of the risks and challenges of AI from your personal observations. GENERAL GUIDELINES 1. This is an essay type question that accounts for 40 marks. 2. Ensure that your essay is correctly structured and does not include sub-headings. 3. In structuring your essay, the introduction should comprise one paragraph; conclusion one paragraph and four paragraphs for your main content. 4. Ensure that your essay is coherent and that you write grammatically correct sentences. 5. Your essay must be interesting, original and relevant to the topic. Ensure that your own voice comes through. 6. Try to keep to the prescribed word count. ENG1514 January/February 2026 10 7. It is important that you check your work carefully before you make your final submission. 8. Do not include any drafts or mind maps in your submission. Content – 25 marks Structure, Logical Presentation and Language- 15 marks Sub-Total – 40 marks January/February 2026 3 The Rise of AI and the Fight Against Misinformation: Navigating the Digital Landscape Paragraph 1 In an era of readily accessible information, the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in both exciting possibilities and concerning challenges. While AI holds the promise of revolutionizing various aspects of our lives, its potential for misuse, particularly in generating deceptive content, has become a pressing issue. From fabricated images and videos to manipulated voice recordings, the ability of AI to create convincing "deepfakes" poses a significant threat to truth and trust in the digital age. This rise of AI-generated misinformation requires us to develop critical thinking skills and adopt strategies to discern fact from fiction. Paragraph 2 One of the most alarming manifestations of AI misuse is its role in exacerbating existing societal problems like bullying and harassment. The creation and dissemination of deepfakes can be weaponized to inflict emotional distress, damage reputations, and spread false narratives. The case of revenge porn, where manipulated images and videos are used to humiliate and exploit individuals, highlights the devastating consequences of this technology in the wrong hands. Law enforcement officials, like Britton Foreman, a digital forensics expert with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, are witnessing a surge in cases involving AI-generated content used for malicious purposes. The ease with which such content can be created and shared presents a formidable challenge for authorities and victims alike. Paragraph 3 Despite the difficulty in identifying AI-generated content, experts offer some guidance on spotting these digital fabrications. Foreman suggests scrutinizing images and videos for subtle inconsistencies. Unnaturally perfect skin, distorted fingers, and unrealistic backgrounds can be telltale signs of manipulation. However, as AI technology advances, these imperfections become increasingly difficult to detect, blurring the lines between reality and fabrication. This blurring effect is particularly evident to younger generations who are constantly immersed in the digital world. ENG1514 January/February 2026 4 Paragraph 4 Teenagers, like Ariana Rogers and her classmates at Farmington High School, are acutely aware of AI’s pervasive presence in their lives. They encounter AI-generated content regularly, often noticing the subtle glitches and inconsistencies that betray its artificial origin. From mismatched hair textures to impossible body postures, these digital artifacts serve as reminders of the technology’s limitations. However, rather than shying away from this rapidly evolving technology, many students are eager to understand and utilize its potential. Karthik Velvadapu, a student who advocated for greater AI integration in his school’s curriculum, recognizes AI’s transformative power and believes it’s essential for students to develop proficiency in this area. Paragraph 5 Educators, too, are grappling with the implications of AI in the classroom. Mr. Franks, an English teacher at Farmington High School, sees AI as a tool that requires careful consideration and integration. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students critical thinking skills, particularly in evaluating the reliability of information sources, including AI-generated content. This involves moving beyond simplistic notions of right and wrong and engaging in nuanced discussions about the gray areas of information credibility. Just as the internet initially faced skepticism and concerns, AI’s emergence demands a thoughtful approach to harness its benefits while mitigating its risks. Paragraph 6 In a world increasingly saturated with information, both real and fabricated, developing a discerning eye and cultivating healthy digital habits are crucial. Foreman advises stepping away from social media and engaging in real-world interactions to maintain perspective and combat the overwhelming influx of digital content. This advice is particularly relevant for teenagers who are often deeply immersed in the online world. By fostering critical thinking skills, promoting media literacy, and encouraging balanced digital consumption, we can empower ourselves and future generations to navigate the complex digital landscape and discern truth from the growing tide of AI-generated misinformation. 1. a) Use two words to explain the relationship between English sounds (phonemes) and alphabets (graphemes) in relation to spelling. 4 Marks (2 marks for two correct words and 2 marks for plausible explanation.) b) Explain how phonemic awareness influences the pronunciation of words in English. 2 Marks c) From your knowledge of phonemic awareness after reading Chapter 12 of any edition of the prescribed text above and pages 96 to 98 of 2025 Study Guide, give two words that you have learned to spell correctly and two words that you have been mispronouncing. 4 Marks 2. a) Explain your understanding of critical language awareness 2 Marks b) How does your understanding of the concept critical language awareness help you to interpret the possible meaning that can be derived in the KFC popular catch phrase “Finger Licking Good” 3 Marks 3 | P a g e 3. Genre is a formal concept in language that refers to a particular type or style of literature, art, film, or music, recognisable because of its special features and specific language characteristics. Give three music genres that are popularly known in your indigenous socio-cultural context. 3 Marks 4. Access this link 5. Explain the difference between the following sentences: a) The Vice Chancellor declared the graduation ceremony closed. b) The graduation ceremony was declared closed by the Vice Chancellor 2 Marks 6. Identify the type of verb underlined in the following sentences: a) The Springbok players appear happy. b) Closing the classroom, the teacher went home. 2 Marks Total 25 marks Section B TEXT The Rise of Podcasting: How Digital Audio Is Revolutionising Journalism Suvrat. A. (2024). Al Jazeera Journalism Review. Available at: Paragraph 1 When and How Did Podcasts become Popular? Podcasting has its roots in the early 2000s, with the term "podcast" being coined in 2004, combining "iPod" and "broadcast." However, it wasn't until technology became more accessible, with the rapid spread of smartphones and affordable recording equipment, that podcasting started to gain significant attention. Now, almost anyone can create a podcast. 4 | P a g e Paragraph 2 But the trend experienced a major surge in the mid-2010s, especially with the success of "Serial" in 2014, an investigative journalism podcast, hosted by journalist Sarah Koenig. The podcast captivated millions of listeners with its real-time investigation and gripping storytelling about the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee and the subsequent conviction of Adnan Syed. Not only did this podcast bring international attention to the case through merely audio, ultimately leading to Syed's release from prison, but it also pioneered a new genre of journalism and entertainment, sparking renewed interest in cold cases and criminal justice reform. Since then, podcasting has rapidly gained popularity, becoming a mainstream audio medium for news, entertainment, and education. Paragraph 3 Who is Listening in? According to YouGov, an international online research data and analytics technology group, they analysed 47 global markets to demonstrate where people around the world regularly listen to podcasts. It was found that, South Africa is home to the highest proportion of regular podcast listeners of any market surveyed, at 68%. Saudi Arabia is second overall at 59%, marking a significant increase from previous years. Of all consumers polled, 40% say they listen to podcasts for more than an hour per week, with 10% listening for more than 10 hours per week. Paragraph 4 This growing medium has changed how audiences consume content and how journalists create and share their stories. In a landscape dominated by visual media, podcasts stand out as a compelling alternative, prioritising in-depth storytelling and analysis. With no visuals to distract, listeners engage their imaginations, fostering a deeper connection to the content. Moreover, in an age where trust in traditional media is often questioned, podcasts offer a sense of authenticity and transparency, allowing listeners to hear directly from journalists and experts. Paragraph 5 Adoption by Major Media Outlets Major publications such as The Guardian, The New York Times, the BBC, and the Financial Times, have all embraced podcasting, bringing listeners closer to their unique journalistic styles. Featuring journalists as hosts and guests, the podcasts combine the personal storytelling of each journalist with insightful analysis, providing an intimate glimpse into the minds of those who shape our understanding of the world. Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems performing tasks that would normally require human. AI has the potential to transform healthcare and many other important services, but it also raises important considerations about human rights, fairness and ethical considerations. It is a very powerful tool which has the potential for both benefits and serious risks making it neither good nor bad but rather dependent on how it is used. Since AI is fast becoming an integral part of our lives, it is important that we as individuals assess our relationship with AI so that we do not misuse it. TOPIC FOR THE ESSAY You are required to write a self-reflective essay of 1000 (2 typed pages) in which you examine the benefits and risks associated with using AI and whether you are using it in a responsible manner. If, however, you do not use AI, write a self-reflective essay of 1000 (2 typed pages) in which you discuss your choice not to use AI in assisting with daily or academic related tasks and the benefits and risks of this choice. Your essay should consider, but not be limited, to the following: 1. Your definition/understanding of AI. 2. Your views on students, including yourself, using or choosing not to use AI to complete assignments. 3. Discuss how AI can affect Higher Learning. 4. What you consider the benefits of using or not using AI in daily global activities are. 5. AI raises complex ethical questions such as the potential for AI to be used for harmful purposes. Discuss some of the risks and challenges of AI from your personal observations. GENERAL GUIDELINES 1. This is an essay type question that accounts for 40 marks. 2. Ensure that your essay is correctly structured and does not include sub-headings. 3. In structuring your essay, the introduction should comprise one paragraph; conclusion one paragraph and four paragraphs for your main content. 4. Ensure that your essay is coherent and that you write grammatically correct sentences. 5. Your essay must be interesting, original and relevant to the topic. Ensure that your own voice comes through. 6. Try to keep to the prescribed word count. ENG1514 January/February 2026 10 7. It is important that you check your work carefully before you make your final submission. 8. Do not include any drafts or mind maps in your submission. Content – 25 marks Structure, Logical Presentation and Language- 15 marks Sub-Total – 40 marks Paragraph 6 6.The Guardian’s "Today in Focus" is a prime example of this trend. Hosted by journalists Michael Safi and Helen Pidd, the podcast offers a deep dive into a single story each weekday. Recent episodes have covered topics ranging from climate change to political scandals. Section B Text-Based Questions Question 1 a) Read the first sentence of the first paragraph and identify two obvious features of human language. 2 Marks b) Justify how you arrived at each one of the two features identified in 1a) by referring to the text in your answer. 4 Marks Question 2 a) Quote the sentence in paragraph 1 that the phrase “the trend” in the first sentence of Paragraph 2 refers back to. 2 Marks b) What type of conjunction in the first sentence of paragraph 2 links the first paragraph to the second paragraph. 2 Marks c) What word in paragraph 2 is in the possessive case. 1 Mark Question 3 The Noun Phrase “an international online research data and analytics technology group” is a good example of a complex noun phrase that can take several modifiers. a) Identify the head noun in this Noun Phrase. 1 Mark b) What is the article in the Noun Phrase? 1 Mark c) List the words that have been used to modify the Head Noun, 6 Marks d) What function are the words identified in c) performing in the noun phrase? 1 Mark e) What part of speech do the words listed in 1c) belong to? 1 Mark Question 4 a) What type of sentence is the first sentence of paragraph 4? 1 Mark b) Explain your answer in 4a). 2 Marks 6 | P a g e Question 5 What type of Noun is the major publications mentioned in the first sentence of paragraph 5? 1 Mark