Consumer Studies Grade 12 | Study guide | Revision | Past Paper Questions and Answers SECTION A
Consumer Studies Grade 12
SECTION A: SHORT QUESTIONS
Question
Interest rates in South Africa are based on the … rate.
A: Bank
B: Fixed
C: Prime
D: Repo
The correct answer is C: Prime
The prime rate is the benchmark interest rate that banks in South Africa use to set rates on various loan products. This rate typically fluctuates based on the repo rate set by the South African Reserve Bank, which influences overall lending rates in the economy.
Question
The largest source of income for the municipality:
A: Fund raising
B: Government funding
C: Provincial funding
D: Property rates
The correct answer is D: Property rates
Property rates are a primary income source for municipalities, as they charge residents and businesses based on property values. This revenue helps fund essential services like water, waste management, and infrastructure maintenance.
Question
The best way to save energy when baking food:
A: Use a conventional oven rather than a microwave.
B: Keep the stovetop in its highest position to ensure that the food is cooked quickly.
C: Make one-pot meals on the stove or in the oven.
D: Cook food during off-peak times and keep it warm in the warmer.
The correct answer is C: Make one-pot meals on the stove or in the oven
One-pot meals save energy by reducing cooking time and requiring only one appliance, whether an oven or stovetop. It’s more efficient than using multiple appliances or heating equipment.
Question
Grey water’s best description:
A: Water that is dirty and coloured grey, is undrinkable
B: Water full of microorganisms that can make people sick
C: Toilet/sewage water
D: Water recycled from washing machines, sinks, basins, showers and baths
The correct answer is D: Water recycled from washing machines, sinks, basins, showers and baths
Grey water refers to gently used water from these household sources, which can be recycled for irrigation or other non-drinking purposes, helping conserve water.
Question
Product specification includes:
A: Size of the product
B: Target market
C: Human skills
D: Time of production
The correct answer is A: Size of the product
Product specifications define measurable characteristics, such as size, that describe the physical properties and features of a product.
Question
The factor which will increase productivity in a business:
A: Consumer relations
B: Delivery strategies
C: Safety procedures
D: Training of staff
The correct answer is D: Training of staff
Well-trained employees are more efficient, reducing errors and improving productivity by equipping them with the skills needed to perform their roles effectively.
Question
Identify the entrepreneur who made a poor choice regarding the availability of raw materials.
A: Bonita buys all her raw materials at a nearby town.
B: Lindiwe’s raw materials are delivered every month from the city.
C: Sihle’s raw materials are manufactured locally.
D: Peer imports high-quality raw materials from Somalia.
The correct answer is D: Peer imports high-quality raw materials from Somalia
Importing raw materials from distant locations can lead to high costs, long delivery times, and risks associated with delays or shortages, making it less reliable.
Question
The food-related health condition that could be managed by choosing carbohydrate-rich food with a low glycaemic index:
A: Anaemia
B: Diabetes
C: Hypertension
D: Osteoporosis
The correct answer is B: Diabetes
Low glycaemic index foods help manage diabetes by releasing glucose slowly into the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
Question
Which of the following nutrients will raise the blood glucose levels the most?
A: Protein
B: Carbohydrates
C: Fibre
D: Fat
The correct answer is B: Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates break down into glucose quickly, making them the primary nutrient affecting blood sugar levels, especially simple carbohydrates.
Question
A/An … is the food additive that prevents the ingredients in ice cream from separating:
A: Emulsifier
B: Bleaching agent
C: Gelatinisation agent
D: Preservative
The correct answer is A: Emulsifier
Emulsifiers help blend ingredients that usually separate, like fats and water, giving ice cream its smooth and uniform texture.
Question
An advantage of organic foods:
A: Greater crop yields
B: Lower production cost
C: Pest resistance
D: Healthier products
The correct answer is D: Healthier products
Organic foods are often seen as healthier because they are produced without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other additives, reducing potential exposure to harmful chemicals.
Question
Gastro-enteritis will …
A: Lead to inflammation of the bones.
B: Infect the liver.
C: Affect the digestive system.
D: Affect the heart.
The correct answer is C: Affect the digestive system
Gastro-enteritis is an inflammation of the digestive system, typically caused by infections that lead to stomach and intestinal distress.
Question
The picture below shows:
A: Food irradiation
B: Food security
C: Genetic manipulation
D: Organic food
The correct answer is C: Genetic manipulation
Genetic manipulation involves altering an organism’s genes to achieve desired traits, commonly seen in agricultural production.
Question
Identify the symbol that indicates to the consumer that the product was irradiated.
The correct answer is B: Radiation warning symbol
This symbol indicates that the product has undergone irradiation, a process that uses radiation to reduce spoilage and eliminate pathogens in food.
Question
Food security means that:
A: South African farmers produce their own food
B: South African goods are sent for sale or exchange to other countries
C: People eat enough safe food for an active healthy life
D: Everyone can afford to buy food
The correct answer is C: People eat enough safe food for an active healthy life
Food security is the assurance that people have consistent access to safe, nutritious food necessary for a healthy, active life.
Question
A fad/fads:
A: What is currently popular and worn by the masses
B: An expensive and outrageous style
C: Last for many seasons
D: Often seen in many accessories
The correct answer is D: Often seen in many accessories
Fads are often trendy accessories or items that gain quick popularity but may not have lasting appeal.
Question
A person with a triangular body shape should wear a …
A: Pants with detail on the pockets.
B: Blouse that ends on the hips.
C: Brightly, coloured shirt with detail in the shoulder area.
D: Dress with a belt in a contrasting colour around the hips.
The correct answer is C: Brightly, coloured shirt with detail in the shoulder area
Accentuating the shoulders balances a triangular body shape, drawing attention away from the hips.
Question
Tax paid on the profit after selling a property is known as …
A: Property tax
B: Capital gains tax
C: Estate duty
D: Transfer tax
The correct answer is B: Capital gains tax
Capital gains tax is a tax on the profit realized from the sale of a property or investment, calculated on the increased value from the time of purchase.
Question
A consumer will qualify for a government housing subsidy provided that he/she …
A: Has four financial dependents plus earns R3 300 per month.
B: Has no financial dependents and has not owned a house before.
C: Is older than 21 and has owned a property before.
D: Earns R3 000 per month and wants to buy a second house.
The correct answer is A: Has four financial dependents plus earns R3 300 per month
This qualification criterion is based on financial need and dependents, prioritizing those with low income and higher family responsibilities.
Question
The cost that is usually payable when buying or renting a house:
A: Deposit
B: Monthly instalments
C: Registration fees
D: Estate agent commission
The correct answer is A: Deposit
A deposit is often required upfront to secure the purchase or rental, serving as a form of commitment from the buyer or renter.
Question
… collect(s) taxes on behalf of the government.
A The Reserve Bank
B Commercial banks
C Parliament
D The South African Revenue Service (SARS)
The correct answer is D, The South African Revenue Service (SARS). SARS is the government agency responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the South African government.
Question
Sugar tax is charged on …
A milkshakes
B coffee
C soft drinks
D rooibos tea
The correct answer is C, soft drinks. Sugar tax is levied on sugary drinks like soft drinks to reduce sugar consumption.
Question
The cooling-off period for cancelling a contract is … working days.
A 3
B 5
C 8
D 14
The correct answer is B, 5. South African consumer law allows a 5-day cooling-off period for contract cancellations.
Question
… interest is charged on the original amount only.
A Compound
B Fixed
C Simple
D Variable
The correct answer is C, Simple. Simple interest is calculated only on the original principal amount, without compounding.
Question
A community-based savings club with economic and social benefits for all its members:
A Scam
B Stokvel
C Community club
D Multilevel scheme
The correct answer is B, Stokvel. A stokvel is a community-based savings scheme that provides financial and social benefits to its members.
Question
… is the food additive most likely to have a negative effect on someone’s health.
A Pectin
B Lecithin
C Gelatine
D Benzoate
The correct answer is D, Benzoate. Benzoate is a preservative that may have adverse health effects, especially with long-term consumption.
Question
… prevent foods from turning brown.
A Emulsifiers
B Antioxidants
C Stabilisers
D Bleaches
The correct answer is B, Antioxidants. Antioxidants help prevent oxidation, which can cause browning in foods.
Question
The best food source of iron:
A Ripe bananas
B Ox liver
C Pickled beetroot
D Whole-wheat bread
The correct answer is B, Ox liver. Ox liver is rich in iron, making it one of the best sources for boosting iron levels.
Question
The nutrient that assists with the absorption of iron:
A Vitamin A
B Vitamin B
C Vitamin B12
D Vitamin C
The correct answer is D, Vitamin C. Vitamin C enhances the body’s ability to absorb iron.
Question
DNA molecules are used in … to alter the characteristics of food.
A processed food
B organically grown food
C genetically modified food
D irradiated food
The correct answer is C, genetically modified food. Genetically modified foods use DNA technology to modify their properties.
Question
The denim jacket above can be classified as …
A traditional fashion
B vintage fashion
C a fad
D classic fashion
The correct answer is D, classic fashion. The denim jacket’s timeless style and popularity make it a classic fashion item.
Question
The length of the jacket will make the wearer appear …
A shorter and wider
B bigger and taller
C taller and thinner
D smaller and shorter
The correct answer is A, shorter and wider. Waist-length jackets can visually shorten the body’s appearance.
Question
An advantage of buying household appliances on an instalment sale transaction:
A No interest is added to the outstanding amount.
B It remains in the shop until the last payment is made.
C It can be used while still paying it off.
D It is cheaper than a credit card transaction.
The correct answer is C, It can be used while still paying it off. Instalment plans allow immediate use of the appliance despite ongoing payments.
Question
| The cash price of an appliance is R6 499,95. The instalment price is R400 per month for 30 months and the deposit is R650,00. |
The cost of purchasing the appliance on an instalment sale transaction:
A R6 499,95
B R7 149,95
C R12 000,00
D R12 650,00
The correct answer is D, R12 650,00. The instalment price totals this amount when all monthly payments and the deposit are considered.
Question
The type of housing where an agreement is signed for a specific period of time:
A Renting
B Buying
C Building
D Full title
The correct answer is A, Renting. Renting involves a lease agreement signed for a set period.
Question
… ensures that the required set standards of a product are met.
A Stock control
B Time management
C Quality control
D Financial control
The correct answer is C, Quality control. Quality control verifies that products meet specific standards before reaching the consumer.
Question
Value for money/competition-based pricing …
A adds all the costs, including mark-up.
B prices products according to demand.
C is used to price unique products.
D is set similar to other products.
The correct answer is D, is set similar to other products. Competition-based pricing aligns product prices with those of similar items on the market.
Question
Production will be most efficient when …
A a good marketing strategy is used.
B financial resources are available.
C workers are regularly trained.
D staff is well paid.
The correct answer is C, workers are regularly trained. Regular training improves skill levels, enhancing productivity.
Question
A feasibility study is conducted to … of a business.
A check the movement of money
B identify strengths and weaknesses
C meet the targets
D evaluate the sales scenario
The correct answer is B, identify strengths and weaknesses. Feasibility studies assess a business’s viability, pinpointing strengths and weaknesses.
Question
It is advisable for businesses to use local raw materials because they …
A offer good value for money.
B have no delivery charge.
C are easy to obtain.
D are easy to manage.
The correct answer is C, are easy to obtain. Local raw materials are readily accessible, reducing logistical issues and costs.
Question
The percentage at which the price of goods and services increases:
A Interest rate
B Inflation rate
C Prime interest rate
D Repo rate
The correct answer is B, Inflation rate. The inflation rate represents the percentage change in the price level of goods and services over a period of time, which is a measure of inflation.
Question
The body that collects taxes on behalf of the government:
A SARS
B SABC
C SABS
D SARB
The correct answer is A, SARS (South African Revenue Service). SARS is responsible for collecting taxes and ensuring compliance with South African tax laws.
Question
An example of non-renewable energy:
A Wind power
B Hydro power
C Fossil fuels
D Solar power
The correct answer is C, Fossil fuels. Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, are non-renewable energy sources because they cannot be replenished on a human timescale.
Question
An illegal pyramid scheme:
A Pays out equal amounts of money to all members.
B Sells goods or services to customers.
C Follows fair-trade practices in all dealings.
D Pays members’ compensation for recruiting new members.
The correct answer is D, Pays members’ compensation for recruiting new members. Pyramid schemes are illegal because they rely on continuous recruitment rather than legitimate business activity, and compensation is paid to those who recruit new members.
Question
The type of bread that is exempted from VAT:
A Brown bread
B White bread
C Rye bread
D Whole-wheat bread
The correct answer is A, Brown bread. In South Africa, brown bread is exempt from VAT, which is not the case for other types of bread.
Question
… has an incubation period of 28 days or three to five weeks:
A E. coli
B Dysentery
C Gastro-enteritis
D Hepatitis A
The correct answer is D, Hepatitis A. Hepatitis A has an incubation period that typically ranges from 28 days to about five weeks.
Question
This information found on a food label will assist in making healthier food choices:
A Country of origin
B Manufacturer’s details
C Serving suggestions
D Nutritional information
The correct answer is D, Nutritional information. Nutritional information on food labels provides key details like calorie content, fat, sugar, and protein content, helping consumers make informed choices about their food.
Question
… adds to the colour of some potato crisps:
A Lecithin
B MSG (monosodium glutamate)
C Tartrazine
D Aspartame
The correct answer is C, Tartrazine. Tartrazine is a yellow food dye used in many processed foods, including potato crisps, to enhance their colour.
Question
A serious gluten intolerance may lead to:
A Celiac/coeliac disease
B Hypertension
C Anaemia
D Hyperglycaemia
The correct answer is A, Celiac/coeliac disease. This is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, which leads to inflammation in the small intestine and malabsorption of nutrients.
Question
… are irradiated because of their high bacterial load:
A Yoghurt and cheese
B Herbs and spices
C Apple and orange juice
D Bread and flour
The correct answer is B, Herbs and spices. Herbs and spices are often irradiated to kill bacteria and pathogens, ensuring their safety for consumption.
Question
The vertical white pin stripes on the jacket will make the wearer appear:
A Narrower and taller.
B Broader and taller.
C Smaller and shorter.
D Shorter and narrower.
The correct answer is A, Narrower and taller. Vertical stripes give the illusion of height and slenderness, making the wearer appear taller and thinner.
Question
… is/are the illegal copying of an original clothing item:
A Parallel imports
B Black goods
C Brand piracy
D Grey goods
The correct answer is C, Brand piracy. Brand piracy involves the illegal reproduction of branded clothing or products, often for resale without the brand owner’s consent.
Question
Computerised pattern design methods and the development of new textiles is a result of … factors influencing fashion changes:
A Political
B Technological
C Economical
D Social
The correct answer is B, Technological. Advances in technology, such as computerised pattern design and textile innovations, have a significant impact on fashion and its evolution.
Question
In a … transaction the appliance stays with the seller until it is fully paid:
A Lay-by
B Credit card
C Instalment sale
D Store card
The correct answer is A, Lay-by. In a lay-by transaction, the buyer pays in instalments, but the product remains with the seller until full payment is made.
Question
Buying a sectional title property automatically makes one a member of a/an …
A Home builder’s council
B Estate agent association
C Rental tribunal
D Body corporate
The correct answer is D, Body corporate. When you buy a sectional title property, you automatically become a member of the body corporate, which is responsible for the management of the building or complex.
Question
The purpose of good stock control in a business is to ensure that …
A The cheapest stock is bought.
B It is not necessary to organise stock.
C Time and money is not wasted.
D Extra stock is always bought.
The correct answer is C, Time and money is not wasted. Effective stock control helps ensure that stock is available when needed without overstocking, preventing waste and loss of resources.
Question
| Read the scenario below and use it to answer the following John sells a variety of sandwiches at a school’s tuck shop and he also makes sandwiches for school functions when requested. He buys bread from the local bakery who gives him a discount. He advertises his services on the school’s website. |
John’s business will get a lot of exposure because he uses … to promote his business:
A Electronic media
B Print media
C Direct mail
D Outdoor media
The correct answer is A, Electronic media. John promotes his business via the school’s website, which is an example of using electronic media to reach a large audience.
Question
John’s business has consumer appeal because he …
A Has a business at a school.
B Makes various sandwiches.
C Caters for school functions.
D Advertises on the school’s website.
The correct answer is B, Makes various sandwiches. John’s diverse offerings cater to different tastes and needs, making his business more appealing to a wide range of consumers.
Question
Select a reason that may negatively affect the financial sustainability of John’s business:
A Advertising on social media
B Making sandwiches for social functions
C Using the local bakery
D Schools closing at certain times of the year
The correct answer is D, Schools closing at certain times of the year. School closures, such as during holidays, can negatively impact the business due to a reduced customer base.
Question
John is a responsible producer because he …
A Advertises on the school’s website.
B Produces a variety of sandwiches.
C Buys bread from the local bakery.
D Sells to both students and staff.
The correct answer is D, Sells to both students and staff. By catering to a broader customer base, John ensures his business meets the needs of both students and staff, promoting responsible production.