Life orientation
Aisha, I’ve examined your June 2025 Grade 11 Life Orientation examination paper. I’m going to use its actual examination structure and mark allocations to build you a possible October/November revision paper based on the topics you listed.
The 2025 paper follows this structure:
* Section A: 20 marks — multiple choice, terminology, short answers and an application question.
* Section B: 40 marks — compulsory source-based questions, with definitions, explanations and longer responses.
* Section C: 40 marks — paragraph-based questions; answer any TWO questions, worth 20 marks each.
Your new questions will be predictions for revision, not confirmed examination questions. I’ll include model answers with the fact, qualifier and outcome clearly identified, and I’ll highlight joining words in bold so you can learn how to develop answers that earn the marks.
### How to write a full-mark answer
FACT
State the relevant point or idea.
QUALIFIER
Explain how, why, or under what circumstances the fact applies.
OUTCOME
State the result or consequence.
Example question: Explain how physical activity can improve psychological health. (1 × 3 = 3)
Model answer:
Regular physical activity improves psychological health (FACT) because it can reduce stress and improve mood (QUALIFIER), therefore helping a person cope better with everyday challenges (OUTCOME).
The joining words are in bold. Notice that the answer explains the point instead of merely listing three unrelated statements.
### Grade 11 Life Orientation — Predicted Examination Practice Paper
PRACTICE EXAMINATION • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026
### Life Orientation (PLC)
Grade
11
Total
100 marks
Suggested time
2 hours
Section A: 20 marks · Section B: 40 marks · Section C: 40 marks
This is an original practice paper modelled on the structure of your uploaded June 2025 paper, using the topics you supplied.
### SECTION A — 20 marks
Answer ALL questions.
### Question 1
1.1 Multiple-choice questions
Choose the correct answer. Write only the letter next to the question number. (5 × 1 = 5)
1.1.1 Which of the following is an example of a healthy lifestyle choice?
A. Skipping meals to save time.
B. Exercising regularly and eating balanced meals.
C. Ignoring emotional difficulties.
D. Giving in to negative peer pressure.
1.1.2 Which factor is most likely to negatively influence a person's lifestyle choices?
A. Positive role models.
B. Effective decision-making skills.
C. Peer pressure to participate in unsafe behaviour.
D. Supportive family relationships.
1.1.3 Which of the following best describes risky behaviour?
A. Behaviour that always leads to positive results.
B. Behaviour that has the potential to cause harm to oneself or others.
C. Behaviour that improves social relationships.
D. Behaviour that demonstrates responsible decision-making.
1.1.4 Which document summarises a person's qualifications, skills and work experience?
A. Application letter.
B. Curriculum vitae (CV).
C. Job advertisement.
D. Testimonial.
1.1.5 Which study strategy is most suitable for preparing for an examination?
A. Studying every subject on the night before the examination.
B. Ignoring difficult topics.
C. Following a study timetable with regular revision.
D. Memorising answers without understanding them.
1.2 Give ONE word or term for each description. (5 × 1 = 5)
1.2.1 The ability to distinguish between right and wrong and make morally responsible decisions.
1.2.2 A written document in which a previous employer, teacher or other appropriate person describes an individual's character or abilities.
1.2.3 The process of observing a person at work to gain insight into a particular career.
1.2.4 A formal document summarising an applicant's education, qualifications, skills and experience.
1.2.5 A qualification generally undertaken after completing an honours degree or an equivalent qualification, at a higher level of study.
1.3 Answer the following questions in full sentences.
1.3.1 State TWO benefits of maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. (2 × 1 = 2)
1.3.2 Identify TWO factors that may negatively affect lifestyle choices. (2 × 1 = 2)
1.3.3 State TWO ways in which a learner can prepare for a job interview. (2 × 1 = 2)
1.4 Answer the following application question.
1.4.1 Explain how setting realistic study goals could improve a learner's academic performance. (1 × 2 = 2)
1.4.2 State TWO ways in which religious or cultural beliefs may contribute to a harmonious society. (2 × 1 = 2)
TOTAL SECTION A: 20 MARKS
### SECTION B — 40 marks
Answer ALL questions. Write in full sentences.
### Question 2: Healthy lifestyle choices and risky behaviour (20 marks)
Read the source below and answer the questions that follow.
Source A: Making healthier choices
Lerato is a Grade 11 learner who often skips breakfast and spends most of her free time sitting and using her phone. She sometimes feels stressed about schoolwork but does not discuss her feelings with anyone. Her friends occasionally pressure her to participate in activities that conflict with her personal values. Lerato comes from a low-income household, and access to affordable nutritious food and safe recreational facilities is limited.
Recently, Lerato's older cousin encouraged her to plan balanced meals, take walks with a trusted friend and seek help from a school counsellor when she feels overwhelmed. Her family also encourages her to maintain her religious beliefs and treat others respectfully.
2.1 Define the concept risky behaviour. (1 × 2 = 2)
2.2 Identify TWO factors in the source that could negatively affect Lerato's lifestyle choices. (2 × 1 = 2)
2.3 Explain TWO ways in which physical activity could benefit Lerato's health. (2 × 2 = 4)
2.4 Discuss TWO possible consequences of giving in to negative peer pressure. Your answer must consider the impact on the individual. (2 × 2 = 4)
2.5 Explain how Lerato's cousin could act as a positive role model in encouraging healthier lifestyle choices. (1 × 3 = 3)
2.6 Recommend ONE practical strategy Lerato could use to resist peer pressure and make informed decisions. (1 × 3 = 3)
2.7 Explain why seeking support and advice is important when attempting to change risky behaviour. (1 × 2 = 2)
### Question 3: Careers, employment and further education (20 marks)
Read the source below and answer the questions that follow.
Source B: Preparing for employment
Thabo is a Grade 11 learner who is interested in working in business after completing school. He finds a job advertisement for a part-time administrative assistant. The advertisement asks applicants to demonstrate communication, organisation and computer skills. Thabo has never attended a job interview, so he decides to prepare a CV, write an application letter and ask a teacher for a testimonial. He also plans to arrange job shadowing at a local business to learn more about the working environment.
Thabo is considering several career paths and wants to understand which qualifications may be required. He knows that different jobs require different levels of training, ranging from practical experience and workplace training to certificates, diplomas and university degrees.
3.1 Define the term job shadowing. (1 × 2 = 2)
3.2 State TWO administrative skills that may help Thabo perform well in the advertised position. (2 × 1 = 2)
3.3 Explain TWO reasons why a well-prepared CV is important when applying for a job. (2 × 2 = 4)
3.4 Discuss TWO ways in which preparing for typical interview questions could improve Thabo's interview performance. (2 × 2 = 4)
3.5 Explain the difference between skilled and unskilled work. (1 × 2 = 2)
3.6 Explain how job shadowing could help Thabo make an informed career choice. (1 × 3 = 3)
3.7 State THREE examples of qualifications or levels of further education that may be pursued after school. (3 × 1 = 3)
TOTAL SECTION B: 40 MARKS
### SECTION C — 40 marks
Answer ANY TWO questions. Each question is worth 20 marks. Your responses must consist of paragraphs written in full sentences.
### Question 4: Healthy lifestyle choices and social influences (20 marks)
Write paragraphs on maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Use the following guidelines:
* State FOUR healthy lifestyle choices that promote physical, psychological, social or spiritual health. (4 × 1 = 4)
* Analyse how negative lifestyle choices and risky behaviour can affect individuals and others physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. (2 × 4 = 8)
* Evaluate how positive role models, personal values, religion and social support can encourage responsible lifestyle choices. (2 × 4 = 8)
### Question 5: Career planning and further education (20 marks)
Write paragraphs on preparing for employment and further education.
Use the following guidelines:
* State FOUR important components of an effective job application or interview preparation process. (4 × 1 = 4)
* Analyse how job shadowing, career research and appropriate qualifications can assist learners in choosing a suitable career. (2 × 4 = 8)
* Evaluate how developing administrative, communication and interview skills can improve a learner's future employment opportunities. (2 × 4 = 8)
### Question 6: Study skills, values and personal development (20 marks)
Write paragraphs on study skills, moral values and personal development.
Use the following guidelines:
* State FOUR effective study strategies that learners can use to prepare for examinations. (4 × 1 = 4)
* Analyse how time management, goal setting and reflection on learning can improve academic performance and personal development. (2 × 4 = 8)
* Critically discuss how respecting different religious and cultural beliefs, while considering moral dilemmas such as euthanasia and telling a white lie, can contribute to a harmonious society. (2 × 4 = 8)
TOTAL SECTION C: 40 MARKS
GRAND TOTAL: 100 MARKS
### MEMORANDUM — Model answers and marking guide
Use this to mark yourself. The answers are written to show how to earn marks, rather than just memorise definitions.
### SECTION A memo (20 marks)
### 1.1 Multiple choice (5)
| Question | Answer |
| -------- | ------ |
| 1.1.1 | B |
| 1.1.2 | C |
| 1.1.3 | B |
| 1.1.4 | B |
| 1.1.5 | C |
### 1.2 Terminology (5)
1.2.1 Ethics — principles of right and wrong that guide behaviour and decisions.
1.2.2 Testimonial — a written statement from an appropriate person describing someone's character, abilities or performance.
1.2.3 Job shadowing — observing someone in their workplace to learn about their job and responsibilities.
1.2.4 Curriculum vitae (CV) — a document summarising a person's education, qualifications, skills and experience.
1.2.5 Master's degree — a postgraduate qualification generally undertaken after an honours degree or an equivalent qualification, subject to the institution's admission requirements.
### 1.3 Short answers (6)
1.3.1 State TWO benefits of a healthy lifestyle. (2)
* It improves physical health because regular activity and balanced nutrition support the body's functioning.
* It improves psychological health because healthy habits can help manage stress and improve mood.
1.3.2 Identify TWO negative lifestyle factors. (2)
* Negative peer pressure.
* Low income or poverty.
Other valid examples include poor decision-making, unsafe attitudes, emotional difficulties and poor literacy.
1.3.3 State TWO ways to prepare for an interview. (2)
* Research the organisation and the advertised position.
* Practise answering typical interview questions.
### 1.4 Application (4)
1.4.1 Explain how realistic study goals improve academic performance. (2)
Setting realistic study goals gives learners a clear direction (FACT) because they can divide their work into manageable tasks (QUALIFIER), therefore improving their preparation and academic performance (OUTCOME).
1.4.2 State TWO ways religion or culture can promote harmony. (2)
* They may encourage compassion, tolerance and respect for others.
* They may promote community support and cooperation through shared values and traditions.
### SECTION B memo (40 marks)
### Question 2: Healthy lifestyle choices and risky behaviour (20)
2.1 Define risky behaviour. (2)
Risky behaviour refers to actions or decisions that have the potential to cause harm to oneself or others, because they expose people to danger or negative consequences.
Mark allocation: 1 mark for the concept of potentially harmful behaviour; 1 mark for the risk of harm to oneself or others.
2.2 Identify TWO negative lifestyle factors. (2)
* Peer pressure.
* Low income or limited access to affordable nutritious food and safe facilities.
2.3 Explain TWO benefits of physical activity. (4)
1\. Physical activity improves physical health (FACT) because it strengthens muscles and supports cardiovascular fitness (QUALIFIER), therefore helping reduce the risk of certain lifestyle-related diseases (OUTCOME).
2\. Physical activity improves psychological health (FACT) because it can reduce stress and improve mood (QUALIFIER), therefore helping a person manage daily challenges more effectively (OUTCOME).
Each developed point: 1 mark for the benefit and 1 mark for the explanation.
2.4 Discuss TWO consequences of negative peer pressure. (4)
1\. Negative peer pressure may lead to unsafe decisions (FACT) when a person participates in harmful activities to gain acceptance (QUALIFIER), resulting in possible injury, health problems or other negative consequences (OUTCOME).
2\. Negative peer pressure may affect psychological well-being (FACT) because a person may feel guilty or anxious after acting against their values (QUALIFIER), which can lead to reduced self-confidence and emotional distress (OUTCOME).
Each point: 2 marks for a relevant consequence and its explanation.
2.5 Explain how Lerato's cousin can be a positive role model. (3)
Lerato's cousin can demonstrate healthy behaviour (FACT) by encouraging balanced meals, physical activity and responsible decisions (QUALIFIER), therefore helping Lerato develop healthier habits and make informed choices (OUTCOME).
2.6 Recommend ONE strategy to resist peer pressure. (3)
Lerato should practise assertiveness (FACT) by confidently refusing activities that conflict with her values and suggesting a safer alternative (QUALIFIER), therefore reducing her likelihood of participating in risky behaviour (OUTCOME).
Other valid strategies include leaving an unsafe situation, seeking advice from a trusted adult and choosing supportive friends.
2.7 Explain why seeking support is important. (2)
Seeking support helps a person identify the causes of risky behaviour (FACT) because a trusted adult or counsellor can provide guidance and practical coping strategies (QUALIFIER), therefore making positive behaviour change more achievable (OUTCOME).
### Question 3: Careers, employment and further education (20)
3.1 Define job shadowing. (2)
Job shadowing is a career-exploration activity in which a person observes an employee at work in order to learn about the employee's duties, skills and working environment.
3.2 State TWO administrative skills. (2)
* Organisation and time management.
* Record-keeping and filing.
Other valid examples: scheduling, data entry, handling documents and basic computer skills.
3.3 Explain TWO reasons a CV is important. (4)
1\. A CV presents an applicant's qualifications and skills (FACT) because it gives an employer a summary of the applicant's suitability for the position (QUALIFIER), therefore increasing the possibility of being shortlisted for an interview (OUTCOME).
2\. A CV records relevant education and experience (FACT) so that employers can compare applicants against the job requirements (QUALIFIER), therefore helping them make informed recruitment decisions (OUTCOME).
3.4 Discuss TWO benefits of interview preparation. (4)
1\. Interview preparation improves confidence (FACT) because practising typical questions helps applicants organise their responses (QUALIFIER), therefore allowing them to communicate their abilities more clearly (OUTCOME).
2\. Interview preparation improves performance (FACT) because researching the organisation helps applicants understand the position and its requirements (QUALIFIER), therefore enabling them to give relevant and informed answers (OUTCOME).
3.5 Explain the difference between skilled and unskilled work. (2)
Skilled work generally requires specialised training, knowledge or qualifications (FACT), whereas unskilled work generally requires less specialised formal training for entry-level tasks (QUALIFIER). Both types of work may require practical abilities and workplace instruction.
3.6 Explain how job shadowing helps career choice. (3)
Job shadowing provides practical insight into a career (FACT) because learners observe the daily duties, demands and working conditions of a particular job (QUALIFIER), therefore helping them decide whether the career suits their interests and abilities (OUTCOME).
3.7 State THREE qualifications or levels of further education. (3)
Any THREE of the following:
* Certificate.
* Diploma.
* Bachelor's degree.
* Honours degree.
* Master's degree.
* Doctoral degree.
Important: These qualifications do not all have identical entry requirements or progression routes. Requirements vary by institution and programme.
### SECTION C memo — Paragraphs and extended answers
For Section C, you must answer any TWO questions in the actual examination. Each question is worth 20 marks, so practise writing developed paragraphs rather than isolated points.
### Question 4: Healthy lifestyle choices and social influences (20)
### 4.1 State FOUR healthy lifestyle choices. (4)
* Eating balanced and nutritious meals.
* Participating in regular physical activity.
* Getting adequate sleep and managing stress.
* Maintaining positive relationships and practising spiritual or religious values.
### 4.2 Analyse how negative lifestyle choices and risky behaviour affect individuals and others. (8)
1\. Risky behaviour can affect physical health (FACT) because unsafe practices may expose individuals to injury or illness (QUALIFIER), therefore causing physical difficulties that may also affect their families and communities (OUTCOME).
2\. Risky behaviour can damage psychological well-being (FACT) when individuals experience stress, guilt or anxiety because of their decisions (QUALIFIER), which may result in emotional difficulties and strained relationships (OUTCOME).
3\. Unsafe behaviour may harm social relationships (FACT) because dishonesty or irresponsible decisions can weaken trust between people (QUALIFIER), therefore leading to conflict, isolation or damaged friendships (OUTCOME).
4\. Risky behaviour may conflict with spiritual or personal values (FACT) when a person acts against their beliefs and principles (QUALIFIER), resulting in guilt or conflict with their sense of right and wrong (OUTCOME).
### 4.3 Evaluate how positive role models, personal values, religion and social support encourage responsible lifestyle choices. (8)
1\. Positive role models encourage healthy decisions (FACT) because parents, teachers and supportive peers demonstrate responsible behaviour (QUALIFIER), therefore helping young people develop positive habits and make informed choices (OUTCOME).
2\. Personal values and religious beliefs can guide behaviour (FACT) because they may teach principles such as compassion, responsibility and respect (QUALIFIER), therefore encouraging people to avoid harmful behaviour and contribute to a harmonious society (OUTCOME).
3\. Social support promotes healthy lifestyle choices (FACT) because supportive friends and family can offer advice and encouragement during difficult situations (QUALIFIER), therefore helping individuals cope with pressure and maintain positive habits (OUTCOME).
4\. Economic conditions influence