Examen de Inglés PAU Cantabria 2024 · Ordinaria

South African students using vaping to cope with exam stress

1 In South Africa, where academic success is highly valued, vaping (the use of electronic cigarettes) has gained popularity as a mechanism to deal with exam stress.

2 While the intentions behind turning to vaping might initially seem harmless, it's essential to understand the potential risks and consequences associated with it. Vaping involves inhaling vaporized liquids containing nicotine and other chemicals, which can negatively affect various cognitive functions, such as attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.

3 During exams, vaping may seem attractive due to the misconception that it offers a quick stress relief solution and is healthier than cigarettes. Dr Catherine Egbe of the South African Medical Research Council said there's no study available to prove the popular belief that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes and highlights healthier alternatives for stress management, such as mindfulness, getting adequate sleep, and a balanced diet.

4 Diverse studies have found that nicotine also predisposes teen brains to other kinds of addictions, meaning they are at a higher risk of developing an addiction to alcohol and other drugs. Recognizing the severity of this problem, the country has tried to reduce vaping among teenagers. For instance, there are strict rules against selling vaping products to minors, aiming to keep these products away from young people. Additionally, there have been efforts to limit advertising about vaping in places where teenagers often see them. Deborah Arnott, chief executive of the charity Action on Smoking and Health, has expressed her concern about the promotion of e-cigarettes to children on social media platforms including TikTok. Furthermore, some schools have implemented stress-reduction programs, providing students with effective tools to cope with academic pressures without turning to harmful habits.

5 The economic implications are vast, with substantial costs for the nation's healthcare system. Nicotine increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, heart attack, reproductive disorders, and many types of cancers. This results in higher healthcare spending, as treating health issues linked to vaping requires a significant amount of funds. Hospitals must invest in specialized treatments and medical professionals to address the diverse health consequences of vaping. As a result, the overall cost of healthcare rises. Furthermore, when people become unwell, it affects their ability to work effectively, impacting the country's economic productivity. Additionally, as health issues related to vaping become more widespread, the demand for disability benefits and rehabilitation programs rises, putting an extra financial burden on the social support system of the country.

6 Health experts are worried that e-cigarettes might lead young people to start smoking tobacco. A study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that young e-cigarette users were three times more likely to start smoking cigarettes. The association Cancer Research calls for strict rules to make sure e-cigarettes are only used by smokers trying to quit and emphasizes that non-smokers should never use them.

Adapted from IOL, 3 November 2023

Question 1: [2 POINTS] Indicate clearly by writing the words TRUE or FALSE whether the following statements are true or false according to the text and write down the sentence or the part of the text that you consider justifies your answer. The evidence must make sense and be grammatically and lexically coherent.

No points will be given if the evidence is not correct or if the handwriting is not sufficiently clear.

a)

There is a rising trend of using vaping as a way to manage stress during exams in South Africa.

TRUE

FALSE

b)

Nicotine is the only component in vaporized liquids used in vaping.

TRUE

FALSE

c)

Some studies have found evidence that vaping is less risky compared to smoking a cigarette.

TRUE

FALSE

d)

Nicotine increases the chances of teenagers developing other types of addictions.

TRUE

FALSE

South African students using vaping to cope with exam stress

1 In South Africa, where academic success is highly valued, vaping (the use of electronic cigarettes) has gained popularity as a mechanism to deal with exam stress.

2 While the intentions behind turning to vaping might initially seem harmless, it's essential to understand the potential risks and consequences associated with it. Vaping involves inhaling vaporized liquids containing nicotine and other chemicals, which can negatively affect various cognitive functions, such as attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.

3 During exams, vaping may seem attractive due to the misconception that it offers a quick stress relief solution and is healthier than cigarettes. Dr Catherine Egbe of the South African Medical Research Council said there's no study available to prove the popular belief that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes and highlights healthier alternatives for stress management, such as mindfulness, getting adequate sleep, and a balanced diet.

4 Diverse studies have found that nicotine also predisposes teen brains to other kinds of addictions, meaning they are at a higher risk of developing an addiction to alcohol and other drugs. Recognizing the severity of this problem, the country has tried to reduce vaping among teenagers. For instance, there are strict rules against selling vaping products to minors, aiming to keep these products away from young people. Additionally, there have been efforts to limit advertising about vaping in places where teenagers often see them. Deborah Arnott, chief executive of the charity Action on Smoking and Health, has expressed her concern about the promotion of e-cigarettes to children on social media platforms including TikTok. Furthermore, some schools have implemented stress-reduction programs, providing students with effective tools to cope with academic pressures without turning to harmful habits.

5 The economic implications are vast, with substantial costs for the nation's healthcare system. Nicotine increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, heart attack, reproductive disorders, and many types of cancers. This results in higher healthcare spending, as treating health issues linked to vaping requires a significant amount of funds. Hospitals must invest in specialized treatments and medical professionals to address the diverse health consequences of vaping. As a result, the overall cost of healthcare rises. Furthermore, when people become unwell, it affects their ability to work effectively, impacting the country's economic productivity. Additionally, as health issues related to vaping become more widespread, the demand for disability benefits and rehabilitation programs rises, putting an extra financial burden on the social support system of the country.

6 Health experts are worried that e-cigarettes might lead young people to start smoking tobacco. A study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that young e-cigarette users were three times more likely to start smoking cigarettes. The association Cancer Research calls for strict rules to make sure e-cigarettes are only used by smokers trying to quit and emphasizes that non-smokers should never use them.

Adapted from IOL, 3 November 2023

Question 2: [2 POINTS] Choose and answer only TWO of the following questions in your own words according to the text.

a)

What potential health risks associated with vaping are mentioned in the text?

b)

Describe two measures to reduce vaping that have been taken in South Africa.

c)

What are the potential economic implications mentioned in the text associated with vaping?

South African students using vaping to cope with exam stress

1 In South Africa, where academic success is highly valued, vaping (the use of electronic cigarettes) has gained popularity as a mechanism to deal with exam stress.

2 While the intentions behind turning to vaping might initially seem harmless, it's essential to understand the potential risks and consequences associated with it. Vaping involves inhaling vaporized liquids containing nicotine and other chemicals, which can negatively affect various cognitive functions, such as attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.

3 During exams, vaping may seem attractive due to the misconception that it offers a quick stress relief solution and is healthier than cigarettes. Dr Catherine Egbe of the South African Medical Research Council said there's no study available to prove the popular belief that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes and highlights healthier alternatives for stress management, such as mindfulness, getting adequate sleep, and a balanced diet.

4 Diverse studies have found that nicotine also predisposes teen brains to other kinds of addictions, meaning they are at a higher risk of developing an addiction to alcohol and other drugs. Recognizing the severity of this problem, the country has tried to reduce vaping among teenagers. For instance, there are strict rules against selling vaping products to minors, aiming to keep these products away from young people. Additionally, there have been efforts to limit advertising about vaping in places where teenagers often see them. Deborah Arnott, chief executive of the charity Action on Smoking and Health, has expressed her concern about the promotion of e-cigarettes to children on social media platforms including TikTok. Furthermore, some schools have implemented stress-reduction programs, providing students with effective tools to cope with academic pressures without turning to harmful habits.

5 The economic implications are vast, with substantial costs for the nation's healthcare system. Nicotine increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, heart attack, reproductive disorders, and many types of cancers. This results in higher healthcare spending, as treating health issues linked to vaping requires a significant amount of funds. Hospitals must invest in specialized treatments and medical professionals to address the diverse health consequences of vaping. As a result, the overall cost of healthcare rises. Furthermore, when people become unwell, it affects their ability to work effectively, impacting the country's economic productivity. Additionally, as health issues related to vaping become more widespread, the demand for disability benefits and rehabilitation programs rises, putting an extra financial burden on the social support system of the country.

6 Health experts are worried that e-cigarettes might lead young people to start smoking tobacco. A study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that young e-cigarette users were three times more likely to start smoking cigarettes. The association Cancer Research calls for strict rules to make sure e-cigarettes are only used by smokers trying to quit and emphasizes that non-smokers should never use them.

Adapted from IOL, 3 November 2023

Question 3: [1,5 POINTS] Find words or phrases in the text that correspond to the words given. You only need to have five correct answers to get 1.5 points.

a)

b)

c)

d)

e)

f)

South African students using vaping to cope with exam stress

1 In South Africa, where academic success is highly valued, vaping (the use of electronic cigarettes) has gained popularity as a mechanism to deal with exam stress.

2 While the intentions behind turning to vaping might initially seem harmless, it's essential to understand the potential risks and consequences associated with it. Vaping involves inhaling vaporized liquids containing nicotine and other chemicals, which can negatively affect various cognitive functions, such as attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.

3 During exams, vaping may seem attractive due to the misconception that it offers a quick stress relief solution and is healthier than cigarettes. Dr Catherine Egbe of the South African Medical Research Council said there's no study available to prove the popular belief that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes and highlights healthier alternatives for stress management, such as mindfulness, getting adequate sleep, and a balanced diet.

4 Diverse studies have found that nicotine also predisposes teen brains to other kinds of addictions, meaning they are at a higher risk of developing an addiction to alcohol and other drugs. Recognizing the severity of this problem, the country has tried to reduce vaping among teenagers. For instance, there are strict rules against selling vaping products to minors, aiming to keep these products away from young people. Additionally, there have been efforts to limit advertising about vaping in places where teenagers often see them. Deborah Arnott, chief executive of the charity Action on Smoking and Health, has expressed her concern about the promotion of e-cigarettes to children on social media platforms including TikTok. Furthermore, some schools have implemented stress-reduction programs, providing students with effective tools to cope with academic pressures without turning to harmful habits.

5 The economic implications are vast, with substantial costs for the nation's healthcare system. Nicotine increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, heart attack, reproductive disorders, and many types of cancers. This results in higher healthcare spending, as treating health issues linked to vaping requires a significant amount of funds. Hospitals must invest in specialized treatments and medical professionals to address the diverse health consequences of vaping. As a result, the overall cost of healthcare rises. Furthermore, when people become unwell, it affects their ability to work effectively, impacting the country's economic productivity. Additionally, as health issues related to vaping become more widespread, the demand for disability benefits and rehabilitation programs rises, putting an extra financial burden on the social support system of the country.

6 Health experts are worried that e-cigarettes might lead young people to start smoking tobacco. A study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that young e-cigarette users were three times more likely to start smoking cigarettes. The association Cancer Research calls for strict rules to make sure e-cigarettes are only used by smokers trying to quit and emphasizes that non-smokers should never use them.

Adapted from IOL, 3 November 2023

Question 4: [1,5 POINTS] Choose the correct option –A, B, C, or D– for each question. Indicate your choice clearly in your answer sheet, either by writing the letter A, B, C, or D or by copying the letter and the sentence that follows. No points will be given if the handwriting is not sufficiently clear.

1.

How does vaping impact cognitive functions, according to the text?

2.

According to the NIDA study, what does the relationship between young e-cigarette users and smoking cigarettes suggest?

3.

What does Cancer Research emphasize about e-cigarette usage?

The song that has made Bad Bunny angry

1 Last week, the anonymous artist FlowGPT surprised reggaeton enthusiasts after publishing “Nostalgia”, a song created with Artificial Intelligence (AI) that imitates the voices of Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, and Justin Bieber, introducing what many consider a potential new favorite “perreo” anthem.

2 The AI-created masterpiece rapidly gained popularity, captivating thousands of social media users who shared videos enthusiastically mimicking the verses of the virtual stars. “Nostalgia” turned into a viral phenomenon, even reaching the ears of Bad Bunny himself. However, the artist's reaction was unexpected and far from positive, as revealed in messages shared within his WhatsApp group. “If you guys are vibing with that viral song on TikTok, leave this group immediately. You don’t deserve to be my friends”, he wrote.

3 Bad Bunny's remarks caused a division among his followers, particularly those who had welcomed “Nostalgia.” Some disagreed with the artist, suggesting that if people preferred an AI-generated song over his original work, it might signal a need for reflection. Others defended Bad Bunny, urging those who liked the AI-generated track to seek medical attention for their “earwax”.

4 The controversy deepened as even Bad Gyal, another prominent artist, shared a TikTok video using the AI-generated song. Although at the beginning she showed excitement, when she found that the song had been created with AI, she expressed her disappointment.

5 In response to the escalating dispute, the AI-generated track, “Nostalgia,” has been removed from digital platforms, making fans wonder what might happen next. The controversy about this AI-generated reggaeton song shows how AI is used more in the music world. People are using AI to try and make songs that sound like famous singers. But it's not just this. AI helps in different ways too. For example, when you listen to music on some apps, they use AI to suggest songs you might like based on what you've listened to before. Moreover, AI can help musicians come up with new song ideas, serving more as an assistant by suggesting melodies or mixing audio, rather than being the sole creator of the whole composition. Some artists are even teaming up with AI to create special performances. This involves musicians playing along with AI-generated sounds to make unique concert experiences. It's like a new way for artists to use technology in their shows.

6 The evolving intersection of technology and music raises questions about copyright, ownership, and artistic integrity. While some argue that AI can be a valuable tool for music creation, others vehemently reject the notion of cloning voices and artistic expression through artificial means and debate about whether music created by AI can be considered the intellectual property of the machine or its human collaborators.

Adapted from BBC, 8 November 2023

Question 1

[2 POINTS] Indicate clearly by writing the words TRUE or FALSE whether the following statements are true or false according to the text and write down the sentence or the part of the text that you consider justifies your answer. The evidence must make sense and be grammatically and lexically coherent.

No points will be given if the evidence is not correct or if the handwriting is not sufficiently clear.

)

The song that has made Bad Bunny angry

1 Last week, the anonymous artist FlowGPT surprised reggaeton enthusiasts after publishing “Nostalgia”, a song created with Artificial Intelligence (AI) that imitates the voices of Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, and Justin Bieber, introducing what many consider a potential new favorite “perreo” anthem.

2 The AI-created masterpiece rapidly gained popularity, captivating thousands of social media users who shared videos enthusiastically mimicking the verses of the virtual stars. “Nostalgia” turned into a viral phenomenon, even reaching the ears of Bad Bunny himself. However, the artist's reaction was unexpected and far from positive, as revealed in messages shared within his WhatsApp group. “If you guys are vibing with that viral song on TikTok, leave this group immediately. You don’t deserve to be my friends”, he wrote.

3 Bad Bunny's remarks caused a division among his followers, particularly those who had welcomed “Nostalgia.” Some disagreed with the artist, suggesting that if people preferred an AI-generated song over his original work, it might signal a need for reflection. Others defended Bad Bunny, urging those who liked the AI-generated track to seek medical attention for their “earwax”.

4 The controversy deepened as even Bad Gyal, another prominent artist, shared a TikTok video using the AI-generated song. Although at the beginning she showed excitement, when she found that the song had been created with AI, she expressed her disappointment.

5 In response to the escalating dispute, the AI-generated track, “Nostalgia,” has been removed from digital platforms, making fans wonder what might happen next. The controversy about this AI-generated reggaeton song shows how AI is used more in the music world. People are using AI to try and make songs that sound like famous singers. But it's not just this. AI helps in different ways too. For example, when you listen to music on some apps, they use AI to suggest songs you might like based on what you've listened to before. Moreover, AI can help musicians come up with new song ideas, serving more as an assistant by suggesting melodies or mixing audio, rather than being the sole creator of the whole composition. Some artists are even teaming up with AI to create special performances. This involves musicians playing along with AI-generated sounds to make unique concert experiences. It's like a new way for artists to use technology in their shows.

6 The evolving intersection of technology and music raises questions about copyright, ownership, and artistic integrity. While some argue that AI can be a valuable tool for music creation, others vehemently reject the notion of cloning voices and artistic expression through artificial means and debate about whether music created by AI can be considered the intellectual property of the machine or its human collaborators.

Adapted from BBC, 8 November 2023

Question 2

[2 POINTS] Choose and answer only TWO of the following questions in your own words according to the text.

a)

How did social media users respond to the AI-generated song "Nostalgia" and what impact did it have on the song's popularity?

b)

How did Bad Bunny react to the popularity of "Nostalgia" and what did he say to those followers who liked the song?

c)

How is AI being used in the music industry?

The song that has made Bad Bunny angry

1 Last week, the anonymous artist FlowGPT surprised reggaeton enthusiasts after publishing “Nostalgia”, a song created with Artificial Intelligence (AI) that imitates the voices of Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, and Justin Bieber, introducing what many consider a potential new favorite “perreo” anthem.

2 The AI-created masterpiece rapidly gained popularity, captivating thousands of social media users who shared videos enthusiastically mimicking the verses of the virtual stars. “Nostalgia” turned into a viral phenomenon, even reaching the ears of Bad Bunny himself. However, the artist's reaction was unexpected and far from positive, as revealed in messages shared within his WhatsApp group. “If you guys are vibing with that viral song on TikTok, leave this group immediately. You don’t deserve to be my friends”, he wrote.

3 Bad Bunny's remarks caused a division among his followers, particularly those who had welcomed “Nostalgia.” Some disagreed with the artist, suggesting that if people preferred an AI-generated song over his original work, it might signal a need for reflection. Others defended Bad Bunny, urging those who liked the AI-generated track to seek medical attention for their “earwax”.

4 The controversy deepened as even Bad Gyal, another prominent artist, shared a TikTok video using the AI-generated song. Although at the beginning she showed excitement, when she found that the song had been created with AI, she expressed her disappointment.

5 In response to the escalating dispute, the AI-generated track, “Nostalgia,” has been removed from digital platforms, making fans wonder what might happen next. The controversy about this AI-generated reggaeton song shows how AI is used more in the music world. People are using AI to try and make songs that sound like famous singers. But it's not just this. AI helps in different ways too. For example, when you listen to music on some apps, they use AI to suggest songs you might like based on what you've listened to before. Moreover, AI can help musicians come up with new song ideas, serving more as an assistant by suggesting melodies or mixing audio, rather than being the sole creator of the whole composition. Some artists are even teaming up with AI to create special performances. This involves musicians playing along with AI-generated sounds to make unique concert experiences. It's like a new way for artists to use technology in their shows.

6 The evolving intersection of technology and music raises questions about copyright, ownership, and artistic integrity. While some argue that AI can be a valuable tool for music creation, others vehemently reject the notion of cloning voices and artistic expression through artificial means and debate about whether music created by AI can be considered the intellectual property of the machine or its human collaborators.

Adapted from BBC, 8 November 2023

Question 3: [1,5 POINTS] Find words or phrases in the text that correspond to the words given. You only need to have five correct answers to get 1.5 points.

a)

b)

c)

d)

e)

f)

The song that has made Bad Bunny angry

1 Last week, the anonymous artist FlowGPT surprised reggaeton enthusiasts after publishing “Nostalgia”, a song created with Artificial Intelligence (AI) that imitates the voices of Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, and Justin Bieber, introducing what many consider a potential new favorite “perreo” anthem.

2 The AI-created masterpiece rapidly gained popularity, captivating thousands of social media users who shared videos enthusiastically mimicking the verses of the virtual stars. “Nostalgia” turned into a viral phenomenon, even reaching the ears of Bad Bunny himself. However, the artist's reaction was unexpected and far from positive, as revealed in messages shared within his WhatsApp group. “If you guys are vibing with that viral song on TikTok, leave this group immediately. You don’t deserve to be my friends”, he wrote.

3 Bad Bunny's remarks caused a division among his followers, particularly those who had welcomed “Nostalgia.” Some disagreed with the artist, suggesting that if people preferred an AI-generated song over his original work, it might signal a need for reflection. Others defended Bad Bunny, urging those who liked the AI-generated track to seek medical attention for their “earwax”.

4 The controversy deepened as even Bad Gyal, another prominent artist, shared a TikTok video using the AI-generated song. Although at the beginning she showed excitement, when she found that the song had been created with AI, she expressed her disappointment.

5 In response to the escalating dispute, the AI-generated track, “Nostalgia,” has been removed from digital platforms, making fans wonder what might happen next. The controversy about this AI-generated reggaeton song shows how AI is used more in the music world. People are using AI to try and make songs that sound like famous singers. But it's not just this. AI helps in different ways too. For example, when you listen to music on some apps, they use AI to suggest songs you might like based on what you've listened to before. Moreover, AI can help musicians come up with new song ideas, serving more as an assistant by suggesting melodies or mixing audio, rather than being the sole creator of the whole composition. Some artists are even teaming up with AI to create special performances. This involves musicians playing along with AI-generated sounds to make unique concert experiences. It's like a new way for artists to use technology in their shows.

6 The evolving intersection of technology and music raises questions about copyright, ownership, and artistic integrity. While some argue that AI can be a valuable tool for music creation, others vehemently reject the notion of cloning voices and artistic expression through artificial means and debate about whether music created by AI can be considered the intellectual property of the machine or its human collaborators.

Adapted from BBC, 8 November 2023

Question 4: [1,5 POINTS] Choose the correct option –A, B, C, or D– for each question. Indicate your choice clearly in your answer sheet, either by writing the letter A, B, C, or D or by copying the letter and the sentence that follows. No points will be given if the handwriting is not sufficiently clear.

1.

What led to the removal of the AI-generated track, "Nostalgia," from digital platforms?

2.

According to the text, how do some artists integrate AI into their performances?

3.

What's a potential problem related to AI in the music industry according to the text?

PART 2. Written production

[3 POINTS] Choose ONE of the two options below and write a short essay (120-150 words). Essays up to 200 words won't be penalized.

Option 1

‘Teenagers are too young to teach other people about anything.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to justify your opinion.

PART 2. Written production

[3 POINTS] Choose ONE of the two options below and write a short essay (120-150 words). Essays up to 200 words won't be penalized.

Option 2

What are the advantages and disadvantages of social networks?