Question 1: Describe two main differences between natural fabrics and synthetic fabrics in terms of their origin and environmental impact.

Answer: Natural fabrics are derived from plants or animals, such as cotton or wool, and are biodegradable. Synthetic fabrics are man-made from chemical compounds, like polyester, and typically have a higher environmental impact due to production and non-biodegradability.

Question 2: List three common types of natural fabrics and one key characteristic of each.

Answer: Cotton: breathable and soft; Wool: insulates well and is elastic; Silk: smooth, shiny, and luxurious.

Question 3: Explain why polyester is a popular choice for clothing manufacture despite being a synthetic fabric.

Answer: Polyester is durable, resistant to shrinking and wrinkling, inexpensive to produce, and easy to care for, making it popular for clothing.

Question 4: Identify and describe two uses of linen fabric in the textiles industry.

Answer: Linen is used for making tablecloths and napkins due to its strength and absorbency, and also for summer clothing because it is lightweight and breathable.

Question 5: Sketch a simple fabric pattern that could be used for a casual shirt. Label the main features of your design.

Answer: A correct sketch would include a basic shirt outline with a repeating pattern such as stripes or checks, clearly labeled with features like 'striped pattern' or 'checked pattern'.

Question 6: Compare the properties of velvet and corduroy fabrics, focusing on texture and typical uses.

Answer: Velvet has a soft, smooth, and luxurious surface with a plush pile, often used for evening wear or upholstery. Corduroy has a ridged, ribbed texture with raised cords, commonly used for casual trousers and jackets.

Question 7: Explain how the weave of a fabric affects its texture and strength. Give an example of a woven fabric and its typical use.

Answer: The weave determines how tightly fibers are interlaced, affecting texture and durability. A tight weave produces a stronger, smoother fabric, like denim, which is used for jeans due to its strength.

Question 8: Identify a fabric suitable for making sportswear and justify your choice based on its properties.

Answer: Polyester or nylon are suitable for sportswear because they are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, which helps keep the wearer comfortable during physical activity.

Question 9: List two disadvantages of using synthetic fabrics instead of natural fabrics.

Answer: Synthetic fabrics are less biodegradable, contributing to environmental pollution; they can also cause skin irritation for some people.

Question 10: Design a fabric pattern suitable for a children's bedroom curtain. Sketch your pattern in the space provided and describe the elements you included.

Answer: A suitable pattern might include bright colors with playful motifs such as stars, animals, or geometric shapes. The sketch should show a repeating pattern with clear, bold elements, and the description should mention the use of vibrant colors and fun shapes.