Englisch Abitur Bayern Aufgabe 1

Text comprehension and analysis "Why Strangers Are Good for Us"

35 %

1. Outline how and why direct communication with strangers has changed. (15%)
2. Analyse the writer's line of argumentation and its intended effects, as well as three different types of stylistic devices he uses to get his message across. (20%)

Composition "Why Strangers Are Good for Us"

Choose one of the following topics and write a coherent text laying out your ideas.

20 %

1. People love being asked questions about themselves. Discuss.
2. "I've found that luck is quite predictable. If you want more luck, take more chances." (Brian Tracy, born 1944, Canadian-American motivational speaker and author) Comment on this statement.
3. Describe briefly, analyse and comment on the cartoon. Please use the colour version of the cartoon on the separate piece of paper.

From: http://chappatte.com/en/images/smoke-free-public-spaces

(last visited: December 21, 2022)

Mediation "Why Strangers Are Good for Us"

You are going to take part in an international youth conference about sustainable business ideas. To prepare for the discussions, participants share an example from their own country on the conference website.

25 %

Write an article for this website in which you present "Lieferrad DA".

M1: David Sax – "Why Strangers Are Good for Us"

(https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/12/opinion/strangers-talking-benefits.html – abridged and adapted for exam purposes)

One Saturday nnorning, I took my 5-year-old son to the playground. A few minutes into his "ninja training" regimen, he attracted a fan. The other boy was younger, but the plastic glint of my son's dollar-store sword slicing evil from the air proved irresistible. He edged closer and mimicked his moves, until they began to play together, shouting "Ya!" in unison, kicking with the verve of

Rockettesl.

I smiled at the child's father on the next bench and made an effort at playground banter, asking the boy's age and whether they lived nearby. But after a few half-answers he pointed to the [earbuds] in his ears. What could I do? I picked up my phone and scrolled through the news. A fast-casual restaurant chain was experimenting with replacing its cashiers with "virtual cashiers" connected by video link from Nicaragua and paid around $3 an hour. As I sat there, willingly ignoring and being ignored by the only other adult nearby, the story struck me as just another example of how modern life keeps us insulated from strangers.

Not so long ago, it was impossible to go through life without speaking, in some way, to a variety of strangers in your life: The bus driver, barista, security guard, receptionist, butcher, government clerk, store cashier and restaurant server were all humans who required at least the bare minimum of conversation. If you were at a playground a generation ago, halfheartedly watching some swing-set drama, ignoring the casual greetings of another parent would be extremely rude.

When I lived in New York City a decade ago, I couldn't spend 10 minutes outside without speaking to someone. That's the thing I loved about the place: how New Yorkers will kibitz and comment and carry on a conversation in line for pizza, on the sidewalk or in the subway; ask for directions or complinnent a particularly awesome hat of someone they have never met, without any awkwardness. Today, you can spend a week in New York, shopping, traveling, eating and working, and never utter a sound to another human being, or even take your headphones off.

lt shouldn't be this way. Engagement with strangers is at the core of our social contract. Most religious faiths instruct us to welcome the strangers we encounter, and there's good reason for this. If we engaged only with the people we knew, our world would be small. That leap of faith toward the unknown other is what allows us to grow beyond the family unit, tribe or nation. Everyone you converse with who is not a biological relative — your best friend, neighbor, lover, spouse or even that chatty taxi driver from last weekend — was a stranger before you spoke to that person. Anytime we ignore strangers in our vicinity, whether because of fear, bigotry or the everyday convenience and efficiency of digital technology, we weaken that contract.

[...] [S]trangers are actually one of the richest and most important resources we have. They connect us to the community, teach us empathy, build civility and are full of surprise and potentially wonder. "I've spent many years studying the people who are the furthest out of our social networks, and they really do add a richness to our life that we miss when we're not there," said Gillian Sandstrom, a senior lecturer at the University of Essex, whose research has demonstrated how the small, transactional relationships we create by talking to strangers are important pillars of our social and emotional well-being.

[...] Sandstrom [...] forces herself to speak to strangers every day, despite identifying as an introvert. "But they form this tapestry that when we're not there, our life feels kind of empty." A study published last fall showed that despite our fears of awkwardness, deep, meaningful conversations with strangers are not only easier than expected but also left participants feeling better about themselves.

In some ways, our recent aversion to strangers is a byproduct of technological evolution. Sure, newspapers and magazines, cassette players and televisions were all potential distractions, but none of them fully normalized ignoring other people in the way that smartphones have.

E-commerce sites and third-party restaurant delivery apps incentivize us against entering stores and restaurants filled with strangers. Some digital technology goes further, like the [taxi-app] feature that allows you to preemptively mute a driver's attempt at friendly conversation. Then came the pandemic, and suddenly, each physical encounter with a stranger carried the potential of death. We were ordered to stay home, avoid public spaces and speak only within our trusted bubbles. We sought refuge in the distance that digital technology allowed us, watching movies, attending exercise classes and having meetings all without entering a theater, gym or office.

[...] Our world grew inward and suspicious, our fears exacerbated by 70 the latest news about fresh variants and rising crime rates not seen in decades. "Stranger danger," that discredited catchphrase of the milk-carton/unmarked-van kidnapping past, seemed to creep back into our present. Strangers are intimidating for a reason. Even when they are not physically threatening, they can make us feel uneasy, inhabiting awkward silences. Digital technology promises to fill those silences with more hardware and software to insulate us from those we do not know, like the robo-barista vending machine that opened near me last year, which serves lattes through a little window with nary a syllable of chit or chat.

But a future where coffee is served by robots is not an improvement on the coffee shop. lt ignores a central purpose of the neighborhood cafe, a place for hot drinks and human interaction. At the playground, I glanced up from my phone and saw my son and the other boy yammering away4 as if they'd known each other for years. The other father looked up too and seemed genuinely surprised at this instant relationship. He walked over, knelt and asked his son who he was playing with. "I don't know his name," the boy said, as his tiny fingers clutched one of my son's [toy] figures, "but he's my friend."

Annotations

Rockettes: American dance company, known for their synchronised movements

to kibitz: here: to ehof or joke with sb

milk-carton: reference to the 1980s, when US milk cartons often had photos of missing children on them

to yammer away: here: to talk non-stop

M2: Astrid Ludwig – "Der Spargel kommt per Lastenrad"

(https://www.faz.net/aktuell/rhein-main/hochschule-darmstadt-der-spargel-kommt-per-lastenrad-17258331.html)

Lange schon hegte das Professoren-Trio die Idee für einen Lieferservice der anderen Art. Einen, der die Umwelt schont, den örtlichen Handel stärkt, Mitarbeiter fair bezahlt und trotzdem rentabel ist. Doch die Wirtschafts- und Logistikexperten Johanna Bucerius und Axel Wolfermann von der Hochschule Darmstadt und Kai-Oliver Schocke von der Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences fanden niemanden, der bereit war, das auch auszuprobieren.

Dann aber kam Corona. „Als wir gesehen haben, wie schlecht es dem Einzelhandel geht, haben wir den Lieferservice selbst gestartet", berichtet Bucerius. Beim hessischen Wirtschaftsministerium beantragten die drei Forscher Fördergeld. Sie bekamen rund 100.000 Euro, mit denen E-Lastenräder angeschafft und Gehälter für das studentische Team aus Hilfskräften und Kurierfahrern gezahlt werden konnten.

Seit dem Sommer rollen die schwarzen Lasten-Bikes mit dem gelbblauen Aufdruck „Lieferrad DA1" durch Darmstadt. Sie bringen Blumen, Bücher, Wein, Lebensmittel, die nicht gekühlt werden müssen, Kleidung, Kosmetik oder auch Medikamente von den Einzelhändlern direkt nach Hause zu den Kunden. „Es lief gut an", sagt Axel Wolfermann — dank Werbung über soziale Medien sowie Kontakten zur Stadt und örtlichen Wirtschaft. Ein Spargelbauer im Stadtteil Arheilgen machte den Anfang. Bei manchem Geschäft fragten die Studenten auch persönlich an.

Mittlerweile nutzen rund 50 Einzelhändler in Darmstadt den unentgeltlichen Lieferservice. Darunter auch große Händler wie das Modekaufhaus Henschel und die Buchladen-Kette Thalia. Armin Pourhosseini, Mitbegründer des Naturkosmetik-Shops „Woodberg", hat sich nach eigenen Worten bewusst für den klimaschonenden Raddienst entschieden. [...] Umweltschutz gehört für ihn zum Geschäftsmodell. Für seine Naturprodukte nutzt er recyceltes Verpackungsmaterial, bei Versand und Bezahlung bietet er Kunden Modelle an, die Ökoprojekte unterstützen. Rund vier von zehn Bestellungen aus Darmstadt lässt er von Lieferrad DA zustellen.

Die studentischen Radkuriere haben gut zu tun. Wöchentlich fahren sie zwischen 100 und 150 Pakete aus. „Weihnachten ging es deutlich nach oben, da waren es rund 300 Pakete pro Woche. Das war Rekord", so Wolfermann. Am Valentinstag nahmen die Ausfahrten ebenfalls zu, und Ostern werde sicherlich eine weitere Herausforderung, vermutet Bucerius. Bis Ende 2020 brachte „Lieferrad DA" montags bis freitags insgesamt 1068 Pakete an die Haustüren. Die zwei studentischen Kuriere radelten mehr als 3000 Kilometer durch die Straßen Darmstadts.

Die Kunden bestellen bei den Händlern, die die Aufträge an das Studententeam weiterleiten. „Wird bis 12 Uhr bestellt, liefern wir am selben Tag aus", sagt Florian Treiber. Der Dreiundzwanzigjährige, der Logistikmanagement an der Hochschule Darmstadt studiert, ist für die Tourenplanung zuständig. Er pflegt die Bestellungen in die Tourensoftware ein, prüft, ob Händler wegen vieler oder schwerer Pakete mehrfach angefahren werden müssen, checkt Öffnungszeiten, rechnet Pufferzeiten ein und übernimmt die Datenanalyse. Weil Kundendaten sensibel sind, stellt die Hochschule dafür einen gesicherten Laptop zur Verfügung.

Treiber ist für die Kuriere erreichbar, „falls ein Kunde nicht da, die Adresse falsch oder der Akku leer ist". Vor Weihnachten ist er sogar selbst als Fahrer eingesprungen — ein lehrreicher Blick auf die andere Seite. „Das Projekt ist ohnehin eine super Einstiegsmöglichkeit in die Logistikbranche", findet der Student. Und das ohne Druck und schlechte Bezahlung, über die Paketzusteller immer wieder klagen. Die Lieferrad-Kuriere und Hiwis werden pro Stunde honoriert, nach den Sätzen der Hochschule. Studenten mit Bachelorabschluss erhalten rund 15 Euro. „Sie werden zudem in das Forschungsprojekt einbezogen, bringen ihre Erfahrungen ein", ergänzt Bucerius. Der Lieferdienst ist auch Gegenstand mehrerer Bachelorarbeiten.

Das Professoren-Trio ist zufrieden mit dem Projekt. Zum Jahresende ist zwar die Förderung ausgelaufen, doch eine Fortsetzung ist in Sicht. Noch ist die Hochschule Darmstadt Betreiberin und der Lieferdienst gebührenfrei. Doch es soll eine neue Rechtsform gefunden werden, damit Lieferrad DA als Verein oder GmbH Gewinne generieren kann. Denn die Forscher wollen auch herausfinden, unter welchen Bedingungen ein derartiger Lieferservice rentabel bestehen kann. Bei voller Auslastung betragen die Kosten je Lieferung derzeit rund vier Euro. Der Einzelhandel, sagt Wolfermann, habe Interesse an dem Lieferdienst, aber angewiesen ist das Projekt auf zusätzliche Kunden wie die Stadt, kommunale Betriebe, Unternehmen oder Wochenmarkt-Beschicker. Andere Kommunen haben schon Interesse am Aufbau eines ähnlichen Lieferdienstes bekundet.

Annotationen

DA: Autokennzeichen Darmstadts

Hiwi: studentische wissenschaftliche Hilfskraft

Lösung Teilaufgabe Text comprehension and analysis: "Why Strangers Are Good for Us"

Over time, direct communication with strangers has undergone significant changes. The text highlights these transformations:

Technological Evolution: The advent of smartphones and digital technology has normalized ignoring strangers. These devices, with their constant connectivity and entertainment options, create barriers to interpersonal communication. People can now engage with screens rather than fellow humans, leading to a decline in spontaneous interactions.

Economic Incentives: E-commerce and food delivery apps discourage people from entering physical stores and restaurants filled with strangers. The convenience of ordering from the comfort of one's home diminishes the need for face-to-face interactions with strangers in commercial settings.

Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the aversion to strangers. Health concerns made each encounter carry the potential risk of infection, prompting orders to stay home and avoid public spaces. This exacerbated the fear of strangers and further distanced people from direct social interactions.

Digital Insulation: Digital technology promises to fill awkward silences with more hardware and software to insulate individuals from those they do not know. For instance, there are features like muting taxi drivers in ride-sharing apps and the rise of automated, human-free service options like robo-baristas, which prioritize efficiency over human interaction.

Analysis of Writer's Argumentation and Stylistic Devices:

The writer argues that the decline in direct communication with strangers is detrimental to society and individuals. They employ several persuasive techniques and stylistic devices to make their point:

Appeal to Emotion: The writer uses emotional language and anecdotes to evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing for the past when strangers played a more significant role in daily life. Phrases like "our world grew inward and suspicious" and "Stranger danger" tap into readers' emotions, emphasizing the negative consequences of reduced social interaction.

Credibility through Expertise: The writer cites experts, such as Gillian Sandstrom, a senior lecturer at the University of Essex, to lend credibility to their argument. This appeals to the authority of experts to support the idea that interactions with strangers are essential for well-being.

Contrast and Comparison: The writer employs contrast and comparison to underscore their point. They contrast the past, where interacting with strangers was the norm, with the present, where technology and the pandemic have distanced people. This comparison highlights the negative impact of these changes.

Anecdotes and Examples: The writer uses personal anecdotes and real-world examples, such as the interaction between their son and another child at the playground, to illustrate the importance of spontaneous connections with strangers. These relatable stories make the argument more convincing.

Rhetorical Questions: The writer uses rhetorical questions, such as "What could I do?" and "It shouldn't be this way," to engage readers and prompt them to reflect on the current state of society. These questions invite readers to agree with the writer's perspective.

Metaphor: The writer uses metaphors like "Stranger danger" and "our life feels kind of empty" to create vivid imagery and emphasize the consequences of avoiding strangers. These metaphors make the argument more engaging and memorable.

Hyperbole: The writer employs hyperbole when they claim that a future with coffee-serving robots is not an improvement on the traditional coffee shop. This exaggeration underscores the importance of human interaction and adds a persuasive element to the argument.

In summary, the writer employs emotional appeal, expert testimony, vivid language, anecdotes, and rhetorical devices to argue that the decline in direct communication with strangers has negative societal and personal consequences. They aim to persuade readers of the importance of reconnecting with strangers for the sake of human interaction, community, and well-being.

Lösung Teilaufgabe Composition: "Why Strangers Are Good for Us"

Lösung der ersten Teilaufgabe

People indeed love being asked questions about themselves, and this phenomenon can be attributed to several psychological, social, and emotional factors:

Self-Centrality: Human beings naturally prioritize themselves and their experiences. When someone asks them questions about their lives, thoughts, and feelings, it validates their sense of self-importance. This self-centricity is a fundamental aspect of human nature, driving the desire to share and be heard.

Validation and Recognition: When someone shows genuine interest in another person by asking questions, it communicates that they matter. People seek validation and recognition of their thoughts and experiences, and questions about themselves fulfill this need. It makes individuals feel valued and acknowledged.

Affirmation of Identity: Questions about one's life and experiences help reinforce their identity. By sharing personal stories and perspectives, individuals are reminded of who they are and what makes them unique. This affirmation contributes to a sense of self-worth and identity validation.

Connection and Bonding: Engaging in conversations about oneself fosters connections with others. Sharing personal details helps build rapport and trust. When people feel that others are genuinely interested in getting to know them, it strengthens social bonds and relationships.

Emotional Catharsis: Sharing one's thoughts and feelings through conversation can be emotionally cathartic. It provides an outlet for individuals to express their joys, concerns, and frustrations. The act of talking about oneself can be therapeutic and relieve stress.

Opportunity for Self-Reflection: When people are asked questions about themselves, it prompts self-reflection. They may think deeply about their experiences, values, and beliefs, which can lead to personal growth and self-awareness. This introspection can be both fulfilling and enlightening.

Storytelling and Narration: Human beings are natural storytellers. When asked questions, individuals often frame their responses as narratives, sharing anecdotes and experiences. This storytelling aspect is enjoyable for both the speaker and the listener, making conversations engaging and memorable.

Enhancement of Social Skills: Encouraging people to talk about themselves also fosters the development of their social skills. It creates a space for active listening and empathetic responses, which are crucial components of effective communication.

Reciprocity: People are more inclined to share when they perceive that others are willing to reciprocate by sharing about themselves. Thus, asking questions can initiate a back-and-forth exchange that deepens the conversation and mutual understanding.

Curiosity and Learning: Humans are naturally curious creatures. Asking questions about others allows individuals to satisfy their curiosity and learn about different perspectives, cultures, and experiences. This curiosity-driven exploration can be intellectually stimulating and enriching.

In summary, the desire to be asked questions about oneself is deeply rooted in human psychology. It fulfills needs for validation, connection, self-expression, and personal growth. Engaging in conversations that focus on individuals and their experiences is a fundamental aspect of human interaction and plays a vital role in building and maintaining relationships.

Lösung der zweiten Teilaufgabe

Brian Tracy's statement, "I've found that luck is quite predictable. If you want more luck, take more chances," offers an interesting perspective on luck and its relationship with risk-taking and opportunity. Let's break down and comment on this statement:

Luck as a Result of Action: Tracy's statement suggests that luck is not purely random but, to some extent, a product of one's actions. In other words, he implies that individuals can influence their luck through their choices and behaviors. This aligns with the idea that luck often favors those who are proactive and open to new opportunities.

Taking Chances: The key idea here is that taking chances, or risks, can create more opportunities for positive outcomes. When individuals step out of their comfort zones and embrace uncertainty, they expose themselves to a broader range of experiences and possibilities. Some of these may lead to fortunate outcomes, which may be perceived as luck.

Probability and Frequency: Tracy's statement implies that increasing the frequency of taking chances can increase the likelihood of experiencing positive outcomes. This is akin to the concept of the law of averages, where the more attempts or risks one makes, the higher the probability of success.

Preparation and Readiness: While taking chances is essential, it's also crucial to note that being prepared and ready to seize opportunities is a significant factor in determining the outcome. Luck may favor those who are well-prepared and capable of capitalizing on the chances they encounter.

Mindset and Attitude: Tracy's statement indirectly highlights the importance of a positive mindset and an optimistic attitude. Those who believe in their ability to create luck through taking chances are more likely to embrace opportunities and make the most of them.

Variability of Luck: It's essential to acknowledge that luck is a multifaceted concept. While taking chances may increase the probability of positive outcomes, luck also encompasses factors beyond one's control, such as external circumstances and timing. Not all chances taken will lead to luck, but over time, a willingness to take chances can tilt the odds in one's favor.

Balancing Caution and Risk: While taking chances can lead to more luck, it's vital to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and reckless behavior. Blindly taking risks without thoughtful consideration can lead to negative consequences. Successful individuals often assess the potential risks and rewards before making decisions.

In conclusion, Brian Tracy's statement suggests that luck is not purely a matter of chance but can be influenced by one's actions, particularly the willingness to take chances and seize opportunities. While this perspective holds merit, it's important to remember that luck is a complex and multifaceted concept influenced by a combination of factors. Striking a balance between taking calculated risks and being prepared for opportunities is a prudent approach to increasing the likelihood of favorable outcomes.

Lösung der dritten Teilaufgabe

Description:

The cartoon depicts a scene at a metro station with several people waiting on the platform near the train tracks. In the foreground, there is a woman who appears to be the only one not engrossed in her smartphone. She is looking at the people around her and commenting, "unhealthy addictions must be banned...right?" There is a sign next to her that reads "Smoke Free Space."

Analysis:

The cartoon highlights the prevalence of smartphone addiction in contemporary society. Almost everyone on the platform is absorbed in their smartphones, emphasizing the pervasive nature of this behavior.

The woman's comment about banning unhealthy addictions is ironic because she is pointing out smartphone addiction while standing next to a sign promoting a smoke-free environment. The cartoon suggests that people may be quick to identify and criticize certain addictions while overlooking others.

The woman appears to be the only one who has noticed the addictive behavior of her fellow commuters. This highlights the idea that people often fail to recognize their own addictions or are quick to judge others while being unaware of their own habits.

The cartoon provides a thought-provoking commentary on addiction and society's selective awareness of different types of addictive behaviors. It draws attention to the irony of people criticizing one form of addiction (smartphones) while possibly ignoring others (like smoking).

It encourages viewers to reflect on their own behaviors and consider whether they, too, might have "unhealthy addictions" that they haven't recognized. Additionally, it suggests the importance of balance and self-awareness in our increasingly digital and connected world. While smartphones offer numerous benefits, it's essential to use them mindfully and be aware of when they might be detracting from our real-world interactions and experiences.

Lösung Teilaufgabe Mediation: "Why Strangers Are Good for Us"

"Lieferrad DA: A Sustainable Delivery Solution Transforming Darmstadt"

In the heart of Darmstadt, Germany, an innovative and sustainable delivery service has been making waves, transforming the way residents receive their goods while championing environmental consciousness and community support. "Lieferrad DA," the brainchild of a trio of professors from local universities, is not just a delivery service; it's a testament to the power of sustainable business ideas and community-driven initiatives.

A Vision for Sustainable Delivery

For years, the trio of professors envisioned a delivery service that would not only be environmentally friendly but also support local businesses, provide fair wages to employees, and remain financially viable. Their vision remained unrealized until the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought the struggles of local retailers into sharp focus. Seeing the dire situation faced by the retail sector, the professors decided it was time to turn their vision into reality.

A Pandemic-Inspired Initiative

With determination and support from the Hessian Ministry of Economic Affairs, the team secured approximately €100,000 in funding. This financial boost enabled them to purchase a fleet of electric cargo bikes and pay fair wages to a student team of helpers and couriers. The wheels of "Lieferrad DA1" started rolling through Darmstadt, ushering in a new era of sustainable and community-focused delivery services.

Connecting Communities and Retailers

Lieferrad DA operates as a bridge between consumers and local retailers. Over 50 retailers in Darmstadt, including both small businesses and larger stores like Henschel Department Store and Thalia Bookstore, have embraced this eco-conscious delivery solution. Customers can order a wide range of products, from books to fresh produce, and have them delivered to their doorstep.

Sustainability as a Business Model

For some retailers, like Armin Pourhosseini, co-founder of the "Woodberg" natural cosmetics store, choosing Lieferrad DA was a conscious decision aligned with their commitment to environmental sustainability. Pourhosseini's business not only uses recycled packaging materials but also offers customers options that support eco-projects. Nearly 40% of their Darmstadt orders are now delivered by Lieferrad DA.

Students Driving Success

The backbone of Lieferrad DA is a team of dedicated student couriers and logistics experts. They coordinate deliveries, manage orders, and ensure a smooth operation. Students receive fair compensation based on the university's wage structure, providing them with valuable experience and financial support without the issues often associated with traditional delivery work.

The Road Ahead

Lieferrad DA's success has not gone unnoticed. While the initial funding has ended, the project's future remains bright. The team is exploring new legal structures, such as forming a nonprofit organization or GmbH, to ensure sustainability both environmentally and financially. Their goal is to investigate the conditions under which such a service can be economically viable.

Interest Beyond Darmstadt

The impact of Lieferrad DA extends beyond the city limits of Darmstadt. Other communities have expressed interest in replicating this sustainable delivery model, demonstrating its potential to transform how goods are delivered across regions.

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and sustainability, "Lieferrad DA" stands as an inspiring example of how a sustainable business idea, driven by the desire to support local businesses and reduce environmental impact, can become a reality. It's a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the role of academia in shaping innovative solutions for a better future.