2025 ASRJC GP Prelim P2 Answer Key (for sharing)

Suggested answer scheme 1. Explain what the author means by "a relic of a bygone era today" (2m) [Phrase Qn] From Text Suggested answer Notes For a considerable portion of the twentieth century, the conventional nuclear family—comprising father, mother, and their offspring— functioned not only as a prevalent domestic arrangement but as a revered cultural paradigm, emblematic of societal stability, economic utility, and the unbroken transmission of values across generations. Yet, with the continual reshaping of social structures and cultural sensibilities, this appears to be a relic of a bygone era today. Necessary context = the conventional/nuclear/traditional family/family structure with mum, dad and child (a) relic (1m) Marking principle: this point requires reference to value important / dominant / prevalent / valuable / relevant Allow “lifts” of words from para 1: prevalent, revered (b) bygone era today (1m) Marking principle: this point requires comparison between past to present in the past…but now / has now lost / no longer / used to be Note: Outdated / outmoded / obsolete: award (a) +(b) as it conveys the idea of “relevance” + time comparison No context = 0m Close reading to find a clear subject. CAM Definition of “relic”: an object from the past especially one that has no modern value except for meaning or importance in history While “relic” may have multiple meanings, contextually, it hints to the definition above

2. Explain how the author uses language in lines 14-18 to convey their strong disapproval of marriage. (3m) From passage Suggested Answer Rising divorce rates, the prohibitive expense of matrimonial ceremonies, and the immense burden of lifelong commitment have engendered a growing and, perhaps, justified skepticism toward the institution itself. So why even bother? Being single is no longer viewed as a transitional state but as a legitimate life choice as people seek happiness outside the shackles of marriage. (a) “prohibitive” expense of marriage Context: expense/financial cost of marriage/weddings (a1: identification of language) The author uses (the word) “prohibitive” (a2: explanation of language use) to describe that the cost of marriage/weddings is so high / exorbitant / sky-high / excessive / unaffordable DNA: expensive / high cost / huge financial costs / is unnecessary / a luxury (b) “immense (burden)” DNA “burden” Context for this point: “commitment of marriage” must be seen (e.g. staying married / maintaining your marriage, for one’s whole life). It may be conveyed as the student is paraphrasing “burden” (e.g. responsibility) (b1: Identification of language) The author uses (the words/phrase) “immense burden” (b2: explanation of language use) to describe that the commitment of marriage is crushing / overwhelming / causes suffering / takes a toll / is draining OR enormous (degree) pressure (n