ENG1503
ASSIGNMENT 3
SEMESTER 2
2024
, Q1 What is the writer’s purpose with this text? Support the answer by
referring closely to the text. (10 marks)
The writer’s primary purpose is to inform and alarm the readers about the critical water crisis
in South Africa, highlighting the deteriorating state of water quality and infrastructure. The
text achieves this through the presentation of alarming statistics and findings from the Blue
Drop Audit Report. For instance, the writer states, “Nearly half (46%) of all water supply
systems pose acute human health risks because of bacteria or other pathogens in the drinking
water supply.” This statistic underscores the immediate threat to public health. Additionally,
the text reveals that “more than two-thirds (67.6%) of all wastewater treatment works are
close to failure,” indicating severe infrastructural deficiencies.
The writer also aims to hold water service authorities accountable and call for urgent action.
This is evident from the purpose of the Blue Drop Audit Report, which is “meant to ensure
that water service authorities are held accountable for providing safe drinking water.” By
emphasizing the failure of many water systems to meet required standards and the lack of
effective monitoring, the writer seeks to spur both public and governmental response. The
text mentions that “monitoring and compliance were severely deficient,” which highlights the
need for systematic improvements.
2. Who are the potential audience of the text? Explain and support your answer by
referring to the text. (10 marks)
The potential audience of this text includes:
South African Citizens: The public needs to be aware of the quality of their drinking
water and the associated health risks. This is supported by statements like “Nearly
half (46%) of all water supply systems pose acute human health risks,” which directly
affects their daily lives and health.
Government Officials and Policymakers: They are targeted to take necessary
actions to improve water infrastructure and management. The text’s call for
accountability and improvement in water services is directed at these groups, as seen
in “The Blue Drop Audit Report is meant to ensure that water service authorities are
held accountable for providing safe drinking water.”
ASSIGNMENT 3
SEMESTER 2
2024
, Q1 What is the writer’s purpose with this text? Support the answer by
referring closely to the text. (10 marks)
The writer’s primary purpose is to inform and alarm the readers about the critical water crisis
in South Africa, highlighting the deteriorating state of water quality and infrastructure. The
text achieves this through the presentation of alarming statistics and findings from the Blue
Drop Audit Report. For instance, the writer states, “Nearly half (46%) of all water supply
systems pose acute human health risks because of bacteria or other pathogens in the drinking
water supply.” This statistic underscores the immediate threat to public health. Additionally,
the text reveals that “more than two-thirds (67.6%) of all wastewater treatment works are
close to failure,” indicating severe infrastructural deficiencies.
The writer also aims to hold water service authorities accountable and call for urgent action.
This is evident from the purpose of the Blue Drop Audit Report, which is “meant to ensure
that water service authorities are held accountable for providing safe drinking water.” By
emphasizing the failure of many water systems to meet required standards and the lack of
effective monitoring, the writer seeks to spur both public and governmental response. The
text mentions that “monitoring and compliance were severely deficient,” which highlights the
need for systematic improvements.
2. Who are the potential audience of the text? Explain and support your answer by
referring to the text. (10 marks)
The potential audience of this text includes:
South African Citizens: The public needs to be aware of the quality of their drinking
water and the associated health risks. This is supported by statements like “Nearly
half (46%) of all water supply systems pose acute human health risks,” which directly
affects their daily lives and health.
Government Officials and Policymakers: They are targeted to take necessary
actions to improve water infrastructure and management. The text’s call for
accountability and improvement in water services is directed at these groups, as seen
in “The Blue Drop Audit Report is meant to ensure that water service authorities are
held accountable for providing safe drinking water.”
