Summary Writing is one of 9 topics in the Grade 11 English First Additional Language CAPS syllabus, covered across 3 lessons on Study Vault. Below are real practice questions from this topic with full worked answers.
Sample practice questions
Easy
1. The first step in summary writing should be to:
Read the summary instruction closely to know exactly what focus is required
Immediately start writing without reading the instruction
Copy the entire passage word for word
Count the total number of words in the passage
Answer: Read the summary instruction closely to know exactly what focus is required — Reading the instruction closely first ensures the learner knows the specific focus required, since instructions often restrict the summary to a particular aspect of the passage.
Easy
2. What is the recommended FIRST stage before writing a summary as full, connected prose?
Extracting the relevant points in point form (short notes or phrases)
Writing the full summary immediately in complete sentences
Memorising the entire passage word for word
Translating the passage into another language first
Answer: Extracting the relevant points in point form (short notes or phrases) — A useful two-stage approach is to first extract relevant points in point form, then extend those notes into full, connected prose afterward.
Medium
3. What should a learner distinguish a main point from, when identifying relevant summary content?
Answer: An example or illustration used only to support the idea — Learners must distinguish a main point from an example or illustration used only to support it, since typically only the main point itself needs recording.
