1
The extract begins with the mother's advice, "By all means follow that dream." What kind of field does she suggest Ming could pursue her dream in? 2marks
2
According to the mother, what is the primary differentiator between greatness and ordinariness in achieving dreams? 3marks
3
Explain the significance of the phrase "count the cost" in the context of pursuing a dream, as mentioned in the letter. 3marks
4
The mother mentions that the road to achieving a dream can be "uphill most of the way." What does she suggest can keep one "buoyed up" during such difficult times? 2marks
5
Why does the mother state that "for one winner, there is a group of people who stood by him/her"? 2marks
6
What reasons does the mother give for why dreams might remain just dreams for many people? 3marks
7
The mother writes about her own experience of publishing a book. How does this personal example illustrate the evolution of dreams over time? 3marks
8
Analyze the analogy: enthusiasm: passion :: belief: ___. Choose the most appropriate word from the extract to complete it. 2marks
9
The author warns that a realistic assessment of effort and sacrifice is crucial for preventing what? 1mark
10
The word ‘plunge’ as used in the extract indicates a ___ involvement in a task. (Choose from: complete/gradual) 1mark
11
Explain why the author's emphasis on "doing what you love best and are doing the right thing" acts as intrinsic motivation. 2marks
12
Besides the "prospect of success," mention one other factor that might keep a person on track when their stamina is running out. 1mark
13
The phrase "life itself may change a person’s dreams" suggests that dreams are not static. Complete the sentence: Dreams are not static but rather ___. (evolving/dynamic) 1mark
14
What does the author mean by the statement, "hopes and aspirations are no less than the original dream of younger days"? 2marks
15
Identify the phrase from the extract that indicates a complex and challenging journey. 1mark
16
Why would the people who are participants in one's "dreamscape" be many more when dreams evolve over time? 2marks
17
What is the tone of the author in the extract from Irene Chua's letter? (Choose from: appreciative and celebratory / excited and cheerful / optimistic and encouraging / eager and inquisitive) 1mark
18
How does Ming's mother use personal anecdotes to convey her message effectively? 3marks
19
Ming's mother balances encouragement with caution in her advice by acknowledging the passion for dreams while also emphasizing the practical realities of effort and sacrifice. Explain this balance with reference to the text. 3marks
20
The letter advises Ming to pursue her dreams. Do you think this advice is still relevant in today's society? Justify your answer with examples. 3marks
Answers
1
She suggests that Ming could pursue her dream in fields like sports, science, arts, business, or design.
2
The primary differentiator is "how much effort and sacrifice people invest to realise their dream."
3
"Count the cost" means to realistically assess the time, financial investment, and personal sacrifices required to achieve the dream. This evaluation helps in making a committed decision.
4
The knowledge that one is "doing what you love best and are doing the right thing" can keep one buoyed up.
5
The mother states this because achieving a significant dream often involves a support network of people who have helped and stood by the individual.
6
Dreams might remain just dreams because people have "never got beyond just wishful thinking," or they "preferred to trade their dream for security," or "circumstances changed their lives."
7
The mother's own dream of publishing a book took ten years and was not her original youthful dream. This illustrates that dreams can change, and fulfilling them may take longer and involve different paths than initially envisioned.
8
belief: conviction
9
The author warns that a realistic assessment of effort and sacrifice is crucial for preventing an early abandonment of the dream.
10
complete
11
The author emphasizes that doing what you love best and what is right provides an inner sense of satisfaction and purpose, which serves as a powerful intrinsic motivator, independent of external rewards.
12
The "prospect of success" can keep a person on track.
13
evolving
14
The mother means that the dreams and aspirations that a person develops later in life are just as valid and important as the dreams they had in their youth. They represent a person's current desires and ambitions.
15
The phrase "a maze of hurdles" indicates a complex and challenging journey.
16
As dreams evolve, they often become more complex, involving more people in different capacities (e.g., collaborators, partners, broader audiences) to bring them to fruition.
17
optimistic and encouraging
18
The mother uses her own experience of publishing a book, which was a ten-year dream and not her original youthful aspiration, to show how dreams can change and evolve. She also mentions people whose dreams were altered by historical events like WWII or personal responsibilities, making her advice relatable and grounded.
19
The mother encourages Ming by saying, "By all means follow that dream" and assuring her that "Great men and women become great because they have a dream." However, she balances this with caution by advising her to "count the cost" and acknowledge that "the road may be uphill most of the way." This shows she supports the dream but wants Ming to be prepared for the effort and challenges involved.
20
Yes, the advice is still relevant. In today's competitive world, the importance of having dreams, passion, and perseverance is paramount. For example, aspiring entrepreneurs need to be willing to invest significant time and effort (count the cost) to build a successful business, facing numerous hurdles. Similarly, artists or athletes must dedicate years of practice and sacrifice to reach international standards. The mother's advice about being prepared for the challenges and the long journey is crucial for anyone aiming for significant achievement.
