Social & Environmental Responsibility is one of 9 topics in the Grade 12 Life Orientation 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. Climate change is caused primarily by:
The build-up of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide in the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels
A natural, unavoidable process with no human contribution
A decrease in the world's population
Increased recycling rates worldwide
Answer: The build-up of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide in the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels — Climate change is caused primarily by the build-up of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels, which leads to rising global temperatures and more extreme weather.
Easy
2. Which of the following is described as a pressing environmental concern for South Africa specifically?
Freshwater scarcity, since South Africa is a relatively water-scarce country
A surplus of freshwater with no supply concerns
Excessive rainfall in all regions year-round
A complete absence of any environmental challenges
Answer: Freshwater scarcity, since South Africa is a relatively water-scarce country — South Africa faces water scarcity and drought as pressing environmental challenges, given its status as a relatively water-scarce country, particularly affecting agriculture and municipal supply.
Medium
3. What term describes meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs?
Answer: Sustainability — Sustainability balances environmental protection, social equity and economic development so that present needs are met without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs.
