Answer the following questions by selecting the correct/most appropriate option.


Consider the following assessment questions:
‘What is the difference between weekly markets and shopping malls?’
Below are some answers written by students. In which answer does the student fail to display ability of comparing/contrasting?

Correct option is B

“Weekly markets are markets which are held on a specific day of the week whereas shopping malls are multi-storeyed buildings with shops on different floors” fails to display the ability to compare or contrast effectively. The student provides factual descriptions of weekly markets and shopping malls but does not highlight key differences between the two. There is no direct comparison or contrast in terms of aspects such as pricing, location, types of goods sold, or accessibility.

In contrast:

Option (a) contrasts the location of weekly markets (rural and urban) with shopping malls (mostly urban).

Option (c) compares the temporary nature of weekly market shops with the permanence of mall shops.

Option (d) contrasts the pricing and affordability of products in weekly markets versus shopping malls.

Information Booster:

·       A comparison involves highlighting similarities or differences between two subjects based on specific criteria.

·       Contrasting emphasizes differences by pointing out how one entity is different from another.

·       Effective answers should focus on specific points of comparison, such as affordability, convenience, location, and variety of goods.

·       A detailed comparison helps in better understanding the distinct characteristics of two different concepts or entities.

·       Merely providing descriptions without linking them through comparative language (like "whereas," "unlike," or "on the other hand") may lead to a lack of clarity in contrasts.

Additional Knowledge:

·       Weekly markets are temporary setups, typically organized on a specific day in both rural and urban areas. They usually offer basic products at affordable prices, catering to lower and middle-income groups.

·       Shopping malls, on the other hand, are permanent establishments with advanced infrastructure, typically located in urban areas, offering a wide range of branded and luxury products. They often cater to higher-income groups due to their pricing structure.

·       Weekly markets provide a more informal shopping environment with fewer amenities, while shopping malls offer a luxurious experience with facilities like air conditioning, food courts, and entertainment options.

·       In terms of accessibility, weekly markets are more accessible to the general public, especially in rural areas, while shopping malls are more exclusive to urban dwellers and often less accessible to the lower-income population.