IGCSE First Language English 0500, October-November 2023 Variant 2 – Paper 2, Question 3.

Prompt: Write a description with the title ‘A special building – inside and outside’.

Essay:

As the first rays of dawn touch the ancient stones, the grandeur of the cathedral awakens, each stained glass window illuminating like a mosaic of light. This is not just any building; it’s a sanctuary that has stood the test of time, witnessing centuries of human endeavor, hope, and faith. Its towering spires reach towards the heavens, as if in silent prayer, while the intricate carvings on its exterior walls tell tales of saints and sinners, of miracles and mundane lives intertwined.

Entering the cathedral, the outside world fades away, replaced by an air of solemnity and peace. The vastness of the nave, with its towering pillars and vaulted ceilings, evokes a sense of awe. Each step on the cold, stone floor echoes through the silence, leading the way to the heart of the cathedral. Here, the light filters through the stained glass, casting vibrant hues across the pews and marble altars, each color telling a story, each shadow playing its part in a divine play.