Essay Writing is one of 9 topics in the Grade 12 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. How many essay types can a learner choose from in Grade 12 FAL Paper 3?
Five
Two
Ten
Three
Answer: Five — Grade 12 FAL Paper 3 requires learners to write one essay chosen from five possible types: narrative, descriptive, discursive, argumentative and reflective.
Easy
2. Which essay type tells a story with a clear beginning, middle and end, built around characters and plot?
Narrative essay
Discursive essay
Reflective essay
Argumentative essay
Answer: Narrative essay — A narrative essay tells a story with a clear beginning, middle and end, built around a plot, characters, and often a central conflict.
Medium
3. Approximately how many words does the real FAL exam essay require, notably shorter than the Home Language essay?
Answer: 250 words — Real FAL exam guidelines specify an essay of roughly 250 words, noticeably shorter than the longer essay expected in Home Language, reflecting FAL's additional-language focus.
