HCI 2023 Prelim P2 Answer Key

2023 C2 Preliminary Examination Paper 2 “The value of Serendipity” Answer Key Passage 1 1. In Paragraph 1, what distinction does the writer make between modern researchers and s cientists like Newton and Archimedes? Use your own words as far as possible. [2] Text Sir Isaac Newton, blessed by an apple when formulating his laws of gravity, enjoys a reputation as one of mankind’s greatest minds but was one of the most difficult to work with. In the same vein, Greek polymath Archimedes figured out his principle of buoyancy in a ‘Eureka!’ moment. Indeed, the list of serendipitous discoveries in science is long, but modern scientists researchers used to precise methods and collaborating, look at serendipity with jaundiced eyes. In their experience, those who spot an abnormality under controlled conditions are the ones who make meaningful revelations. Unlike modern researchers who made discoveries in a systematic manner, the discoveries made were done in an unstructured manner. Modern researchers prefer to work in partnership/together but scientists like Newton and Archimedes were not team players The discoveries that modern researchers make are done through design/are intentional whereas the discoveries of Newton and Archimedes were a result of serendipity/were unplanned. Any 1 set for 2 marks Note: 2 marks or 0 mark 2. Explain what ‘with jaundiced eyes’ (line 5) reveals about modern researchers’ opinion of serendipity’s impact on ‘meaningful revelations’ (line 6). Use your own words as far as possible [2] Text … modern researchers used to precise methods and collaborating, look at serendipity with jaundiced eyes. In their experience, those who spot an abnormality under controlled conditions are the ones who make meaningful revelations. . a) Modern researchers are sceptical/ cynical of serendipity [1] b) This means the scientific discoveries made may not be deemed as useful / valuable. 3. How does the use of language in lines 7-9 paint those who do not leverage serendipity in a negativ e light? [2] Text Fervent supporters of serendipity dismiss those who mistrust serendipity as incapable of latching onto the opportunities serendipity offers in the achievement of their goals and claim flagging faith in serendipity has blunted the competitive edge which helped mankind survive crises. a) Those who do not leverage on serendipity are termed ‘incapable’ – implying that they are incompetent / inept and b) Those who do not leverage serendipity “have blunted the competitive edge that helped mankind survive crises” implies they have dulled the ability to overcome calamities / catastrophes

4. In paragraph 3, how does our routine use of search engines substantiate the writer ’s belief that serendipity no longer plays any real part in our lives? Use your own words as far as possible. [2] Text Thankfully, we have replaced unproductive chance with purposeful design.Take for example our use of search engines where we can locate whatever we want in minutes. We do not want to waste time trawling through the internet to discover what else we could be interested in, not when artificial intelligence allows us to delight in tailored experiences all of the time. Utilising search engines , a) we live efficiently/we can engage in labour saving activities [1] yet c) continue to have customised/ personalised events [1] 5. Explain how lines 19-21 support the writer ’s assertion in the first sentence of paragraph 4. Use own words as far as possible. [2] Text There are other reasons why a reliance on serendipitous encounters is no longer popular. …. Our desire for immediate gratification has dampened our willingness to engage in chance- taking in our relationships since digital tools enable us to acquire social circles with little effort We no longer feel that serendipity has relevance as a) serendipity cannot satisfy our want for instant answers/ solutions [1] and b) technology has offered us the ability to make friends without much struggle/ work [1] 6. From paragraph 5, explain three criticisms the writer has of ‘those who place their faith in serendipity ’ (line 26). Use your own words as far as possible [3] Text Furthermore, those who place their faith in serendipity are not as cheery as they make themselves out to be. Participants in a research project ‘Do the Happy Go Lucky?’ who profess a belief in serendipity indulged in habits like ‘awfulising’ - a tendency to overestimate the seriousness of events. Encouraged by TikTok videos like the ‘Lucky Girl Syndrome’ which promote the life-changing power of projecting positive thought, they also dodge stressful situations. They believe that with serendipity by their side, everything will turn out well. Yet, which major global problems have ever been solved so simplistically? The writer criticises those who place their faith in serendipity as a) not as upbeat/ optimistic OR are gloomy/ pessimistic. She claims they b) tend to be fearful/ overly anxious c) tend to avoid/evade obstacles/difficulties d) are too optimistic/hopeful Any 3 points out of 4 7. Identify one way in which the final paragraph provides an effective ending to the writer’s argument. [1] Text While there is something attractive about depending on serendipity, we would be exaggerating the merits of the Eureka moment and over-estimating the frequency of bungling discovery. Though the thought of being rewarded The final paragraph refers back to the opening hook about the advantages/usefulness of that Eureka moment which helped us to solve problems/ make helpful discoveries quickly.

for unintentional discoveries is alluring, to leave life solely to serendipity is inadvisable in an ambiguous world. Passage 2 8. How does the writer support his assertion that ‘serendipity is the provider of opportunities to achieve greatness’ (line 1)? [2] Text Billionaire Bill Gates might well have led a very different life had the Mother’s Club in his primary school not furnished a rudimentary processor or paid for expensive computer time using garage sale proceeds before computers became commonplace. Gates was introduced to the micro-computer, wrote his first software program on that basic terminal and the rest, as they say, is history. a) He cites the example of Bill Gates who was able to achieve great success as b) he was just in the right place at the right time OR c) he was fortunately/providentially given the means for success 9. According to the writer in lines 7-10, how does the Ovarian Lottery demonstrate that serendi pity should not be underestimated? Use your own words as far as possible [1] Text The disproportionate numbers of the world’s wealthiest people comprising those born in affluent nations vis-à-vis developing ones, lend credence to the Ovarian Lottery, a concept financial wizard Warren Buffett alluded to when asked for his thoughts on success. There is an unequal /uneven population of richer people begin their lives / are found in wealthier / more prosperous countries/states compared with less well-off ones. [1] Summary Question 10. From paragraphs 3-5 only, summarise what the author offers as reasons for the decline in the belief in serendipity and what the negative consequences are. [8] Write your summary in no more than 120 words, not counting the opening words which are printed below. Use your own words as far as possible. Fewer people believe in serendipity as … 1) Unfortunately, society appears intent on downplaying the value of serendipitous encounters. the importance of serendipity has been disparaged/decried. 2) Instead, diligence has taken centre-stage. Our focus is on being industrious/ assiduousness.