Fariha MODULE FOR FORM 4 2020

DIRECTED
WRITING
Informal Letter Formal Letter

Article Report
Speech Talk
Format: 3 marks
Contents: 12 marks
Language: 20 marks
Total: 35 marks
Time Allocated: 45 minutes

PRACTICE ON NOTES EXPANSION
PART 1
SET A – EVENT: ENGLISH CAMP AT GUNUNG LAMBAK RESORT
Write one sentence for each point.
1. Date of the camp

_______________________________________________________________
2. Venue and accommodation of the camp

_______________________________________________________________
3. Target group and number of participants

_______________________________________________________________
4. Organiser – English Language Panel

_______________________________________________________________
5. Facilitators who conducted the camp

_______________________________________________________________
6. Aims of the camp – Aim 1 [Give your own idea]
_______________________________________________________________
7. Aim 2 [Give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
8. Activities carried out – Activity 1 [Give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
9. Activity 2 [Give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
10. Activity 3 [Give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
11. Positive feedbacks from the camp participants

______________________________________________________________
12. Your opinion of the camp

______________________________________________________________
Combine the sentences into three paragraphs:
Paragraph 1: Point 1 – Point 5
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SET B – EVENT: STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMME IN SINGAPORE
 Organizer
 Duration of the programme
 Accommodation
 Activities :
- visit places of interest
- study in a local school
- join community service
- traditional dance
- [give own idea]
 Benefits :
- gain knowledge
- get new friends
- be independent
- [give own idea]
1. Organizer
_______________________________________________________________
2. Duration of the programme

_______________________________________________________________
3. Accommodation
_______________________________________________________________
4. Activities – visit places of interest

_______________________________________________________________
5. study in a local school
_______________________________________________________________
6. join community service

_______________________________________________________________
7. traditional dance
_______________________________________________________________
8. Activity [ Give own idea]

______________________________________________________________
9. Benefits – gain knowledge

______________________________________________________________
10. get new friends

______________________________________________________________
11. be independent
______________________________________________________________
12. Benefit [give own idea]

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SET C – EVENT: RECYCLING CAMPAIGN AT SCHOOL
Duration
- one week
Launching Ceremony
- State Education officer

- held at the school hall
Objectives
- to inculcate the importance of clean surroundings

- to encourage recycling
Activities
- gather old newspapers and bottles

- drawing posters
- quizzes
- exhibition on products from recycled materials
- [give your own idea]
Impact on the school
- clean school and beautiful garden

- [give your own idea]
1. Duration – one week

_______________________________________________________________
2. Launching ceremony – State Education officer

_______________________________________________________________
3. held at the school hall

_______________________________________________________________
4. Objectives – to inculcate the importance of clean surroundings

_______________________________________________________________
5. to encourage recycling
_______________________________________________________________
6. Activities – gather old newspapers and bottles

_______________________________________________________________
7. drawing posters
_______________________________________________________________
8. quizzes
______________________________________________________________
9. exhibitions on products from recycled materials

______________________________________________________________
10. Activity – [give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
11. Impact on the school – clean school and beautiful garden

______________________________________________________________
12. Impact on the school – [give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
PART 2
SET A – DESCRIBING PEOPLE: BEST STUDENT AWARD
1. Background - Name
_______________________________________________________________
2. post – Head Prefect

_______________________________________________________________
3. hobbies
_______________________________________________________________
4. Qualities - understanding
_______________________________________________________________
5. dedicated
_______________________________________________________________
6. sense of humour
_______________________________________________________________
7. quality – [your own point]

_______________________________________________________________
8. quality – [your own point]

______________________________________________________________
9. Academic achievement – top student – scored A+

______________________________________________________________
10. Academic achievement – [your own point]

______________________________________________________________
11. Co-curricular activities – school debater

______________________________________________________________
12. best actor – drama competition

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SET B – DESCRIBING PEOPLE:

FRIEND AS BEST GROUP LEADER OF A CAMP
1. Friend’s details - Name

_______________________________________________________________
2. age
_______________________________________________________________
3. family background
_______________________________________________________________
4. school attended
_______________________________________________________________
5. Reasons why he/she was chosen - responsible

_______________________________________________________________
6. caring
_______________________________________________________________
7. best speaker for camp debate

_______________________________________________________________
8. voted the most cooperative

______________________________________________________________
9. Award received – certificate of achievement

______________________________________________________________
10. RM500
______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
PART 3
SET A – ELABORATING FACTS: TIPS ON PREVENTING OBESITY
1. Do – drink water
_______________________________________________________________
2. eat frequently – every 2 to 3 hours

_______________________________________________________________
3. eat fruits and vegetables

_______________________________________________________________
4. cook your own meals

_______________________________________________________________
5. get proper sleep

_______________________________________________________________
6. take part in outdoor activities

_______________________________________________________________
7. seek help
_______________________________________________________________
8. Don’t – practising crush diet

______________________________________________________________
9. sleep or take a nap after meals

______________________________________________________________
10. smoking
______________________________________________________________
11. eating processed food

______________________________________________________________
12. taking stress

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SET B – ELABORATING FACTS: HEAT WAVE
1. What to do? – stay indoors

_______________________________________________________________
2. wear appropriate clothing

_______________________________________________________________
3. apply sunblock lotion

_______________________________________________________________
4. What to avoid? – outdoor activities

_______________________________________________________________
5. Common symptoms – heat exhaustion

_______________________________________________________________
6. dehydration
_______________________________________________________________
7. tiredness
_______________________________________________________________
8. symptom – [give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
9. Treatment – wet towels on the head
______________________________________________________________
10. lots of fluids

______________________________________________________________
11. lots of rest

______________________________________________________________
12. treatment [give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
PART 3
SET A – DISCUSSING ISSUES: ISSUES ON SCHOOL FACILITIES
1. Problems – Canteen
_______________________________________________________________
2. Lack of cleanliness
_______________________________________________________________
3. Toilets
_______________________________________________________________
4. Foul stench and dirty

_______________________________________________________________
5. Condition of classroom
_______________________________________________________________
6. Chairs and tables – scribbled and broken

_______________________________________________________________
7. School compound
_______________________________________________________________
8. dirty
______________________________________________________________
9. Suggestions – regular maintenance of school facilities

______________________________________________________________
10. provide more dustbins

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SET B – DISCUSSING ISSUES:
ISSUES ON PLAYING TRUANT AMONG STUDENTS
1. Reasons – peer pressure

_______________________________________________________________
2. strict school rules

_______________________________________________________________
3. boredom
_______________________________________________________________
4. financial problems
_______________________________________________________________
5. unconducive environment
_______________________________________________________________
6. reason – [give your own idea]

_______________________________________________________________
7. Suggestions – Students: choose good friends

_______________________________________________________________
8. Students: set goals

______________________________________________________________
9. Suggestions – Parents: quality time - children
______________________________________________________________
10. Parents: know their friends

______________________________________________________________
11. Suggestions – School: dialogue session - parents

______________________________________________________________
12. School: [give your own idea]

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SET C – DISCUSSING ISSUES: RISE IN CRIME RATE AT HOUSING AREA
1. Complaints – many cases of burglary

_______________________________________________________________
2. a few cases every night

_______________________________________________________________
3. drug activities at night

_______________________________________________________________
4. outsiders sold drugs

_______________________________________________________________
5. wild parties at night

_______________________________________________________________
6. very noisy
_______________________________________________________________
7. illegal motorcycle races

_______________________________________________________________
8. especially on weekends
______________________________________________________________
9. Suggestion – need for more police patrols

______________________________________________________________
10. send mobile police vehicles to monitor the area

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SET D – DISCUSSING ISSUES: COMPLAINT ON FOOD COURT
1. Food not properly cooked

_______________________________________________________________
2. not fresh
_______________________________________________________________
3. Food sold high in calorie

_______________________________________________________________
4. no variety
_______________________________________________________________
5. Poor maintenance of cleanliness

_______________________________________________________________
6. wet and dirty floor

_______________________________________________________________
7. dirty utensils
_______________________________________________________________
8. Poor handling of food
______________________________________________________________
9. lack of personal hygiene

______________________________________________________________
10. dirty and long fingernails

______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
SENTENCE CONNECTORS are used to link the points and sentences in your writing.
1. Similarity
likewise similarly correspondingly by the same token in the

same way
 Men must wear a jacket and a tie; similarly, women must wear a skirt or a dress,
not trousers.
 She was late and I similarly was delayed.
 You can't teach navigation in the middle of a storm. Likewise, you can't build a
system of values in the current educational climate.
2. Contrast
a. Direct Opposition
 Ali worked hard. On the other hand/In contrast/ However, Okan hardly did
any work at all.
 Metin is lazy. However, his brother is quite diligent (=hard working).
 George is an optimist. In contrast/However/, Bill is a pessimist.
 Extroverts love crowds. In contrast, introverts prefer solitude.
 Six is more than five; conversely, five is less than six.
b. Denial of Expectation (Unexpected result)
 She studied diligently for several months.

Nevertheless/However/Yet/Nonetheless, she failed.
 George is very handsome. Yet, he is not popular with girls.
 My uncle is 70 years old now. Nonetheless, he maintains his interest in legal
matters.
 It's raining. Even so, we must go out.
3. Result
 He passed his exams. Therefore/Thus/Hence/Accordingly/Consequently, he

had some good news to tell his parents.
 Professor Brown is an outstanding scientist. Hence, he is highly respected.
 He has been studying hard for a long time. Thus, he has made considerable
progress.
 He lacks self-confidence. As a consequence, he is unlikely to be successful.
 The demand has increased sharply. Accordingly, the prices are higher now.
4. Addition and Listing

ADDITION AND LISTING
also besides furthermore moreover furthermore in

addition
first (firstly, first of all, to begin with, in the first place, for one thing )






 Aykut plays football. Moreover/ Besides/ Also, he runs a restaurant.
 Necla writes short stories, in addition, she writes articles for a newspaper.
 To prepare his homework, Jack went through various history books.
Furthermore, he took notes from several encyclopedias.
 During her spare time, Ayla practices the piano; in addition, she plays the vio-
lin.
 I prefer to buy fruits and vegetables in the open market because they are
quite cheap there. Besides, they are much fresher than fruits and vegetables
sold at the greengrocers'.
 Living in a big city offers good job opportunities. Also, it provides good educa-
tional opportunities.
 All docs not have a gift for music. Moreover, he lacks motivation to practice
music. Therefore, he can't become a good musician.
 Owning a car has some advantages. First (First of all/Firstly/ To begin with),
it gives you comfort. Secondly, it saves you a lot of time. Thirdly, it gives you
great freedom of movement.
5. Time
 I read the morning papers for a while. Afterwards, I took a shower.

 First pick up the receiver and then insert a coin into the coin-box.
 At first, I had great difficulty with grammar Later, however , I was able to
overcome these difficulties by studying hard.
 The party is Tuesday, but in the meantime I have to shop and prepare the food.
 They'll be here soon. Meanwhile, let's have coffee.
6. Exemplification
 Women generally live longer than men. For instance, in the United States life
expectancy for women is 75, while it is 73 for men.
 Earthquakes can be highly destructive. To illustrate, the earthquake which
occurred in Erzincan in 1939 devastated the whole town, killing more than 35,000
people.
7. Particularization
in particular particularly specifically
 Shopping in small markets is quite advantageous. In particular, one can find

specialty items that larger stores do not contain.
 We still needed to arrange several details for the trip. Specifically, we had to
make plane and train reservations as well as decide on the final itinerary.
8. Explanation
that is namely in other words that is to say
 The brochure dealt with travelling in Morocco. That is/In other words/ Namely,
it discussed transportation, currency, and language.
 The machinery was not impaired; that is, it wasn't damaged.
 Good readers should be able to read between the lines; that is, they should be
able to make inferences (=to draw conclusions) about information that is
conveyed indirectly or given only partially.
 There is only one topic to discuss, namely, the question of discipline.
 As a child grows up, he learns how to behave in ways which are appropriate to the
society into which he is born. That is to say, he acquires the patterns of behavior
which are accepted as normal in his society.
9. Emphasis
in fact indeed as a matter of fact actually
 He is quite wealthy. In fact, he is one of the richest men in Turkey.

 I like reading. As a matter of fact, it is my favorite pastime.
 Mural is a highly talented musician. Indeed, he has an extraordinary gift for
music.
10. Refutation
on the contrary
 She is not ugly. On the contrary, she is a good-looking girl.

 I don't hate classical music. On the contrary, I'm very fond of it.
11. Reformulation
in other words to put it in a different way, put differently
 He is a conservative. In other words, he favors the preservation of old institutions

in their original form.
 Is there a cheaper solution? In other words, can you make a cheaper device?
12. Correction
rather to be more precise
 He is enjoying himself. Rather, he seems to be enjoying himself.

 This system must be improved. Rather, it must be thoroughly changed.
 Her name is not Margeret. Rather, it is Margot.
13. Transition
as for as to with regard to

with respect to
as regards regarding as far as X is concerned
 Both Orkun and Ozkan are my friends. Orkun studies law at Ankara University. As
for Ozkan, he studies mechanical engineering at METU.
 As far as comfort is concerned, a car is definitely much better than a bicycle. On
the other hand, with respect to convenience, it is difficult to say the same thing.
 METU and ITU are similar in several respects (=ways). First, they are both
technical universities. Secondly, they are alike as regards the courses offered.
 Sony, which is $550, is much more expensive than Grundig, which is $440.
However, as far as quality is concerned (With regard to/ As regards quality), the
former is far better than the latter.
14. Alternative
 You're welcome to come with us now in our car. Alternatively, you could go later
with Mary.
15. Negative Condition
or else otherwise
 I must leave now, or else I'll be late.

 You must study hard. Otherwise, you may fail.
16. Summation/ Conclusion
in summary in brief in short in conclusion to be brief

to sum up
all in all
 This is our most disastrous and embarrassing defeat ever; in short, it is a fiasco.
 The system lacked originality, efficiency and ingenuity. In conclusion, it was a
complete failure.
17. Other Sentence Connectors
after all: considering all the factors in the situation

 I don't think he should be punished for breaking the window. After all, he's only
five years old.
incidentally/by the way (used to introduce an additional point that the speaker has just
thought of)
 Some people, and incidentally that includes Robert, just won't look after
themselves properly.
above all (=more than anything else)
 He misses all of us, but he longs above all to see his family again.
all the same: even so, nevertheless, in any case,
 I like him; all the same, I don't trust him
anyway, anyhow, in any case
 I wasn't asked; anyway/anyhow/in any case, I wasn't keen to go.
instead (used to indicate contrast)
 Mary did not answer. Instead she looked out of the taxi window.
Connectors Used with Complex Sentences
Complex Sentences
 Requires an independent clause (IC) and a dependent clause (DC)
 Both clauses will have a subject, a verb and an object
 The words that connect the dependent to the independent
clause are called connectors
 If the connector is at the beginning of the sentence, you must use
a comma after the dependent clause.
(connector + DC + , + IC)
 If the connector is used between the independent and
dependent clause, a comma is not required
(IC + connector + DC)
For example:
[After the storm arrived on the island], {the trees began to fall.}
connector dependent clause independent clause
{The trees began to fall} [after the storm arrived on the island.]
independent clause connector dependent clause
Common Connectors Used with Complex Sentences

after - After I graduate from school, I will work in a bank.
before - Before we finish this term, we’ll have a final test.
when – When Yuri goes back to the Ukraine, he will never come back to
Canada.
until - We are going to stay until the rain stops.
whenever – Whenever the sun goes down, the temperature drops to freezing.
if - If I have three children, I will be busy.
because – I couldn’t attend college yesterday because I was ill.
even if - Even if the weather is nice, I will not go shopping.
even though - Even though I go shopping in a large supermarket, I can’t find
my country’s food.
although - Although the weather is nice, they can’t go swimming.
unless - I can’t go to Africa unless I have enough money.
Directed Writing – Analysis of Past Year SPM Questions (2000 – 2019)
Year Format Purpose Theme/Topic

2000 Letter To inform mother of choice of present for your People - choice
(informal) brother and persuade mother to lend you some
money
2001 Article To inform students on ways of coping with Health - stress
stress
2002 Speech To inform students about road safety - causes Road Safety
of road accidents and suggestions to reduce
them
2003 Letter To inform/state the class teacher about the Class Trip - choice
(formal) choice of class trip and give reasons about for
the choice.
2004 Report To inform the school principal about the Condition –
conditions of the school canteen School Canteen
2005 Letter To describe your experiences at a three-day Camping Trip
(informal) outdoor camp.
2006 Letter To convince/give reason to a friend why People – Head
(informal) he/she should run for the post of head prefect Prefect
2007 Speech To tell students about a science reference book Science
Reference Book
2008 Article To inform/describe to the students about a Best Group
friend who has been chosen as the Best Group Leader
Leader
2009 A Report To inform the Principal of the reasons why Lack Interest in
students lack of interest in sports Sports
2010 A letter To tell a cousin the benefits of taking part in National Service
(Informal) National Service Program and encourage Program
him/her to join the program.
2011 Talk Upgrade skills in first aid treatment to Red Health – First Aid
Crescent members (inform) Treatment
2012 Informal To advise sister who is studying overseas on Spending Money
letter how to spend money wisely Wisely
2013 Formal To complaint to the town council on the poor Complaint- Poor
letter conditions of Bukit Indah recreational park Condition of
Recreational Park
2014 Article How to ensure safety in the neighbourhood Social Issue –
(inform) Neighboorhood
Safety
2015 Speech A farewell speech for an English teacher who is Describe – English
retiring (describe) Teacher
2016 Talk To persuade classmates to choose one either a Trip – Choice
visit to a television factory or a trip to a tea
plantation
2017 Report Report on a survey of students arriving late to Survey – Late to
school and suggest ways to solve the problem. School
(inform)
2018 Report Report to the Teacher Advisor on a week-long Event
visit for international students.
2019 Article Article on How to Save Environment Environmental
Issues
DIRECTED WRITING BAND DESCRIPTORS
MARK
DESCRIPTION OF CRITERIA
RANGE
 The language is entirely accurate apart from very occasional first draft
slips.
 Sentence structure is varied and shows that the candidate is able to
use various types of sentences to achieve a particular effect.
A  Vocabulary is wide and is used with precision.
 Punctuation is accurate and helpful to the reader.
19 – 20  Spelling is accurate across the full range of vocabulary used.
 Paragraphs are well-planned, have unity and are linked.
 The topic is addressed with consistent relevance.
 The interest of the reader is aroused and sustained throughout the
writing.
 The tone is appropriate for a report
 The language is accurate; occasional errors are either minor or first
draft slips.
 Vocabulary is wide enough to convey intended shades of meaning
with some precision.
 Sentences show some variation of length and type, including some
complex sentences.
B  Punctuation is almost always accurate and generally helpful.
 Spelling is nearly always accurate.
16 - 18
 Paragraphs show some evidence of planning, have unity and are
usually appropriately linked.
 The piece of writing is relevant to the topic and the interest of the
reader is aroused and sustained throughout most of the composition.
 The composition is written in paragraphs which show some unity and
are usually linked appropriately.
 The tone is appropriate for a report
C  The language is largely accurate.
 Simple structures are used without error; mistakes may occur when
13 - 15 more sophisticated structures are attempted.
 Vocabulary is wide enough to convey intended meaning but may lack
precision.
 Sentences may show some variety of structure and length but there is a
tendency to use one type of structure, giving it a monotonous effect.
 Punctuation of simple structures is accurate on the whole but errors
may occur in more complex uses.
 Simple words may be spelt correctly but errors may occur when more
sophisticated words are used.
 The composition is written in paragraphs which may show some
unity, although links may be absent or inappropriate.
 The writing is relevant but may lack originally and planning. Some
interest is aroused but not sustained.
 The composition is written in paragraphs which show some unity,
although links may be absent or inappropriate.
 The tone is mostly appropriate.
 The language is sufficiently accurate to communicate meaning clearly
to the reader.
 There will be patches of clear language, particularly when simple
vocabulary and structures are used.
 There is some variety of sentence type and length but the purpose is
not clearly seen.
 Punctuation is generally correct but does not clarify meaning.
D  Vocabulary is usually adequate to show intended meaning but this is
not developed to show precision.
10 - 12  Simple words will be spelt correctly but more spelling errors will
occur.
 Paragraphs are used but show lack of planning and unity.
 The topic is addressed with some relevance but the reader may find
composition at this level lacking in liveliness and interest value.
 The article is written in paragraphs which may show some unity in
topic.
 Lapses in tone may be a feature.
 Meaning is never in doubt, but single word errors are sufficiently
frequent and serious to hamper reading.
 Some simple structures may be accurate, but a script at this level is
unlikely to sustain accuracy for long.
 Vocabulary is limited–either too simple to convey precise meaning or
more ambitious but imperfectly understood.
E  Simple words will be spelt correctly but frequent mistakes in spelling
andpunctuation make reading the script difficult.
7-9  Paragraphs lack unity or are haphazardly arranged.
 The high incidence of linguistic errors is likely to distract the reader
from any merits of content that the composition may have.
 The article will have paragraphs but these lack unity and links are
incorrectly used or the article may not be paragraphed at all. There may be
errors of sentence separation and punctuation.
 The tonemay be inappropriate for a report.
U (i)  Meaning is fairly clear but high incidence of throughout the writing
 will definitely impede the reading.
4- 6  There will be many serious errors of various kinds throughout the
scriptbut they are mainly of the single word type, i.e. they could be
correctedwithout rewriting the whole sentence.
 A script at this level will have very few accurate sentences.
 Although communication is established, the frequent errors may cause
blurring.
 Sentences will be simple and very often repetitive.
 Punctuation will sometimes be used correctly but sentence
separationerrors may occur.
 Paragraphs lack unity or there may not be any paragraphs at all.
 There may be frequent spelling errors.
 The tone may not be appropriate for a talk or, if it is, may not show
understanding of the detailed requirements of the task.
 The reader is able to get some sense out of the script but errors are
 multiple in nature, requiring the reader to read and re-read before being
able to understand.
 At this level, there may be only a few accurate but simple sentences.
 The content may be comprehensible, but the incidence of linguistic
U (ii) error is so high as to make meaning blur.
 This type of script may also be far short of the required number of
2-3 words.
 Whole sections of the article may make little or no sense. There are
unlikely to be more than one or two accurate sentences.
 The content is comprehensible, but its tone is hidden by the density of

errors.
 Scripts in this category are almost entirely impossible to read.

U (iii)  Whole sections of the article may make little or no sense at all or are
copied from the task.
 Where occasional patches of clarity occur, marks should be awarded.

0-1  Award ‘1’ mark if some sense can be obtained.
 The mark ‘0’ should only be awarded if the report makes no sense at all
from beginning to end.
INFORMAL LETTER
FORMAT
_____(Our Address)__,
__________________,
__________________,
__________________.
_____(Date)________.
Dear ___(Nickname of Receiver)___,
____________(Intro: Ask about health) __________. ________

______________(Why you write this letter?) ___________________.
______________ (Introduce the topic) ________________________.
_________ (Sentence for Point 1) ___________ . ____________

______________ (Sentence for Point 2) ____ . ___________________
______________ (Sentence for Point 3) ______________ . _________
______________ (Sentence for Point 4) ________________________.
__________ (Sentence for Point 5) _______________. ________

_______________ (Sentence for Point 6) _____________. _________
_______________ (Sentence for Point 7) ________________. ______
_______________ (Sentence for Point 8) ______________________.
__________ (Sentence for Point 9) ___________. ____________

_______________ (Sentence for Point 10) ______________. _______
_______________ (Sentence for Point 11) _____________. ________
_______________ (Sentence for Point 12) ______________________.
That is all for now. I hope that _______ (Hope about the topic) __
____________________. Take care of yourself. Goodbye.
Yours sincerely,
Amanda
2019 SPM Trial Question from MELAKA
Your cousin has informed you that he was nominated by his friends to be the new
class monitor through a letter. He has decided to accept the post and has asked for
your tips on how to become a good class monitor. Write a letter advising him on
how to become one. Use all the information below.
Qualities of a good class monitor

- Be punctual
- Help others
- Be trustworthy
- Show respect to others
- Active
participation in
co-curricular
activities
- [Add one idea of your own]
Duties of a class monitor

- Lead to greet - teachers
- Class control - absence of the teacher -
- Duty roster supervisor
- Prepare chalks /marker pens
- Assist teachers - books, files etc.
- [Add one idea of your own]
When writing your letter, you must:

 Lay out your letter correctly (address, date, greeting, closing)
 Use all the points given
 Give your own ideas when
needed
Simple Sample of an Informal Letter
No. 28, Jalan Indah 5,

Taman Indah Saujana,
86000 Kluang,
Johor
20 January 2020.
Dear Robert,
How are you in Pahang? I hope you are in the pink as always. I am writing
this letter to advise you on how to become a good class monitor. A class monitor is
responsible for his classmates. He needs to help teachers too.
There are some qualities of a good class monitor. Firstly, you must be
punctual. Secondly, you need to help others all the time. Thirdly, you must be
trustworthy. Next, you should show respect to others.
Other than that, you also must have active participation in co-curricular
activities. You must be hardworking too. There are some duties of a class monitor.
Firstly, you must lead to greet the teachers. Secondly, you must do class control
during the absence of the teacher.
Then, you are the duty roster supervisor. You also need to prepare chalks or
marker pens. You must assist teachers for books, files, etc. Lastly, you should also
make sure your friends are not noisy during class.
That is all for now. I hope you will follow my advice. Take care of yourself.
Goodbye.
Yours sincerely,
Amanda
Better Sample of an Informal Letter
No. 28, Jalan Indah 5,

Taman Indah Saujana,
86000 Kluang,
Johor
20 January 2020.
Dear Robert,
How is your life in Pahang? I hope you are in the pink as always.
Congratulations for your nomination as a class monitor. I am sure they see some
great talent in you! So, as what you have asked me, I am writing this letter to advise
you on how to become a good class monitor. Being a class monitor is not easy
especially in term of responsibility. You must be ready mentally and physically for
this post.
There are some qualities of a good class monitor. Firstly, you must be
punctual. Punctuality is essential as you are bound to time range in any task
Secondly, you need to help others all the time. Since you are the leader of your
class, people need your help in finishing their work. Thirdly, you must be
trustworthy. You must be a person who is trusted by your classmates. Next, you
should show respect to others. Respect your teachers and friends as you need their
cooperation all the time.
Other than that, you also must have active participation in co-curricular
activities. For example, you can join marching platoon of Scouts. You must be
hardworking too. You will become a role model for your classmates so you need to
have this trait. There are some duties of a class monitor. Firstly, you must lead to
greet the teachers for every lesson. Secondly, you must do class control during the
absence of the teacher. This is one of your main responsibilities.
Then, you are the duty roster supervisor. You need to make sure your
classroom is in order every day. You also need to prepare chalks or marker pens for
your class. You must assist teachers for books, files, etc. Get ready as many
teachers will depend on you. Lastly, you should also make sure your friends are not
noisy during class. If you don’t, I am afraid the disciplinary teachers will be after you!
That is all for now. I hope you will follow my advice. I am sure you have the
talent to hold the post as the class monitor. Take care of yourself. Send my regards
to Uncle Bard and Aunt Lily. Goodbye!
Yours sincerely,
Amanda
Practice for Informal Letter 1
2019 SPM Trial Question from KUANTAN
Your cousin has written you a letter asking for your opinion in the qualities he/she
should look for in choosing a good friend. You have decided to write a letter to tell
him/her about the important qualities he/she should look for and suggest ways to
strengthen her relationship with her friends.
QUALITIES OF A GOOD FRIEND

- Loyal - stick with you
- accepting- don’t judge you
- honest – let you see reality
- caring– understands our problems
- Positive – help you during ups and downs
- Inspiring - teaches you to be better
- Patient – always supports you
- Comforting - make you feel safe
ACTIVITIES TO STRENGTHEN BONDS BETWEEN FRIENDS
- Watch movies
- Go shopping together
- [Own idea – one way to strengthen bond]
- [Own idea – one way to strengthen bond]
When writing your letter, you must:
 Lay out your letter correctly (address, greeting, closure)

 use all the notes given
 suggest TWO other ways to strengthen bond between friends
 Remember that your letter is to your cousin
Practice for Informal Letter 2
2019 SPM Trial Question from BATU PAHAT
Your cousin has been complaining about gaining weight after a year working at a
shopping mall. As a concerned cousin, write a letter to advise him or her on how to
lose weight.
Use the notes given below to write your letter.
WAYS ELABORATION
Balance energy and activity How does the body use energy?
Control food portions How does this relate to gaining weight?
Be media smart Aware of some tricks
Don’t skip meals How do you avoid skipping meals?
Physically active Give one example of an activity.
(own point) (own point)
When writing the letter, you must:
 lay out your letter correctly (address, date, salutation, closure)

 use all the notes gives
 give your own ideas where necessary
 remember that your letter is to your cousin
FORMAL LETTER
FORMAT
____(Our Address) ______,
______________________,
______________________.
_________________________________________________________
_____(Receiver’s Post)____,
_____(Receiver’s Address) _,
_______________________,
_______________________. ____(DATE)_____.
Dear Sir,
_______________(Title) _______________________.
______(Who are you?)_________ . _____ (Why you write this letter?)_

________________________________________________________ .
_______________ (Introduce the topic) ________________________ .
2. ______________ (Sentence for Point 1) ___________. ________
__________________ (Sentence for Point 2) ____________. _______
___________________(Sentence for Point 3) ______________. ____
__________________ (Sentence for Point 4) ____________________.
3. _____________ (Sentence for Point 5) _________. ___________
__________________ (Sentence for Point 6) _________. __________
__________________ (Sentence for Point 7) _________. __________
__________________ (Sentence for Point 8) ______________.
4. _____________ (Sentence for Point 9) _________. ___________
_________________ (Sentence for Point 10) _______. ____________
__________________ (Sentence for Point 11) ___________. _______
__________________(Sentence for Point 12) ______________.
It is hoped that ________ (Hope for the topic) __________________.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
Amanda
(AMANDA ROSALIND)
___(Your post)_____
2019 SPM Trial Question from SELANGOR A
Your classmates and you have decided to visit an old folks’ home. On behalf of
your classmates write a letter to the manager of Permata Old Folks Home to
ask for permission to go to their place.
Use the following notes to write your letter.
Details
Date and time of visit
Number of students and teachers
Club/Society
Transportation
Objectives
instill love
eye-opener
respect
give donations
Activities
gotong-royong
story telling
[own idea]
[own idea]
When writing the letter, you must
 address the right person

 use the correct format
Simple Sample for a Formal Letter
Class 4 Ideal,
SMK Tengku Aris Bendahara,
KM 5, Jalan Mersing,
86000 Kluang,
Johor.
__________________________________________________________________
The Manager,
Permata Old Folks Home,
58, Jalan Orked,
Taman Muhibbah,
86000 Kluang,
Johor. 20 JANUARY 2020.
Dear Sir,
Permission to Visit Permata Old Folks Home.
I am Amanda Rosalind, the Class Monitor of Class 4 Ideal of SMK Tengku Aris
Bendahara. I am writing this letter to ask your permission to visit Permata Old Folks
Home.
2. The visit will be on 5th of February 2020 from 10.00 a.m to 1.00 p.m . 30
students and two teachers will join this visit. We are from English Language Club.
The transportation is a bus.
3. The first objective is to instill love. Secondly, the objective is as an eye-

opener. The third objective is for respect. The last objective is to give donations.
4. There are many activities that we plan to do there. They are gotong-royong,
storytelling, playing chess and cooking.
It is hoped that you will give us the permission to visit Permata Old Folks Home.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
Amanda
(AMANDA ROSALIND)
Class Monitor of Class 4 Ideal
Better Sample for a Formal Letter
Class 4 Ideal,
SMK Tengku Aris Bendahara,
KM 5, Jalan Mersing,
86000 Kluang,
Johor.
__________________________________________________________________
The Manager,
Permata Old Folks Home,
58, Jalan Orked,
Taman Muhibbah,
86000 Kluang,
Johor. 20 JANUARY 2020.
Dear Sir,
Permission to Visit Permata Old Folks Home.
I am Amanda Rosalind, the Class Monitor of Class 4 Ideal of SMK Tengku Aris
Bendahara. On behalf of my classmates, I am writing this letter to ask for your
permission to visit Permata Old Folks Home. This visit is to fulfill our club
requirement for at least one charity work per year. This old folks home is chosen as
its location is just a ten-minute walk from our school.
2. The visit will be held on 5th of February 2020 from 10.00 a.m to 1.00 p.m . We
will gather at our school as early as 8.00 a.m to prepare our tools and equipment for
the visit. 30 students and two accompanying teachers will join this visit. We are from
English Language Club, one of the most active clubs in SMK Tengku Aris
Bendahara. Even though the location is very near, a bus will be chartered to ease
our journey to bring our stuff for the activities.
3. The visit is aimed for some important objectives. Firstly, it is to instill love
towards the elderly among our club members. The golden citizens should be taken
care of very well especially by the youngsters. Secondly, the objective of this visit is
to be an eye-opener for the students to experience on how to treat elderly people.
Thirdly, respect is the third aim. Even though old people are weak physically,
youngsters should never disrespect them. Last but not least, this visit is aimed to
give donations in term of fund, energy and clothes to Permata Old Folks Home.
4. There are many activities that we plan to do there. When we arrive, the first
activity that we are going to do is gotong-royong. This activity will focus on three
main places namely the dining hall, the hostels and toilets. After that, a storytelling
session will be held. Three students will share their stories to cheer the old folks up.
Thirdly, three rounds of chess will be played. Lastly, before the visit ends, we plan
to have some cooking sessions to cook dishes like chicken curry and spicy prawn
specially for them.
It is hoped that you will give us the permission to visit Permata Old Folks Home. I
am looking forward to receiving your reply. Thank you in advanced for your
cooperation.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
Amanda
(AMANDA ROSALIND)
Class Monitor of Class 4 Ideal
Practice for Formal Letter 1
2019 SPM Trial Question from SELANGOR B
You went to a restaurant and felt that the service was quite bad. You have decided
to write a letter to the manager of the restaurant to complain of the situation and
give some solutions to improve the situation.
DETAILS
 Date and time of visit

 Number of customers
PROBLEMS
 Limited menu
 Cold food
 Rude waiters
 Did not get what we ordered
 (own idea)
 (own idea)
SOLUTIONS
When writing the letter, you must
Variety of choices  address the right person
 Retrain waiters  use the correct format
 Better lightings
 give your own ideas when needed
 (own idea)
Practice for Formal Letter 2
2019 SPM Trial Question from PERLIS
You are concerned about the current trend of taking dangerous selfies among
teenagers. Write a letter to the editor of a newspaper on the reasons taking
dangerous selfies should be prohibited.
In your letter, you should also:

 give reasons why teenagers take dangerous selfies
 provide suggestions to solve the problem.
Write your letter based on the poster below.
Reasons: Suggestions:
DANGEROUS SELFIES
• attention •‘no selfie’ signage at dangerous locations
• low self-esteem
high rise building
• officials at strategic places oncoming train
wild animal boat
• [own idea] • [own idea]
• [own idea] • [own idea]
fall bitten drown hit
When writing the letter, remember to :

 lay out your letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 provide your own ideas when needed
ARTICLE
FORMAT
_____________ (Title)________________
Written By: ______(Your Full Name) _____
___________(Introduction of topic based on question)________.

_____________________________________________. _________
________________________________________________________.
____________ (Sentence for Point 1) ________ . ____________

_________________ (Sentence for Point 2) ______. ______________
_________________ (Sentence for Point 3) _____________. _______
_________________ (Sentence for Point 4) _____________________.


_________________ (Sentence for Point 10) _____. ______________
_________________ (Sentence for Point 11) ____________. _______
_________________ (Sentence for Point 12) _______________. ____
_________________ (Sentence for Point 13) ____________________.
In conclusion, _______ (give general opinion on the topic) ______

___________________. _________ (write more on that opinion) _____
________________________________________________________.
2019 SPM Trial Question from PULAU PINANG
Flood is one of the natural disasters in our country. Your teacher has asked you to
write an article for your school magazine on the matter. Use the information in the
poster below. In your article, include the following:
Causes
heavy downpour
rapid development
clogged drains
[give one more cause]
Suggestions to Overcome
Effects
Clean-up activities
damaged properties
campaigns
waterborne diseases
[give one more suggestion]
[give one more effect]
How to Help Victims Helpline
donation Civil Defence Force

[give one more
way]
When writing the article, you must:

 use the appropriate format (provide a title and give your name as the writer)
 develop all the points given
Simple Sample for an Article
Floods
Written By: Amanda Rosalind
Flood is one of the natural disasters in our country. My teacher has asked me
to write an article for our school magazine on the matter. Floods can happen
everywhere. We must be careful.
There are some causes of floods. Firstly, the cause is heavy downpour.
Secondly, the cause is rapid development. Then, the cause is clogged drains. The
fourth cause is the river.
Furthermore, the effects of floods are damaged properties, waterborne

diseases and death. Some suggestions to overcome are clean-up activities,
campaigns and recycling.
For how to help victims, we can give donations. For helpline, we can call the
Civil Defence.
In conclusion, flood is dangerous. We must take care of ourselves when it

happens.
Better Sample for an Article
Floods: What We Should Know?

Written By: Amanda Rosalind
Flood is a natural disaster that commonly happens in Malaysia. As the Editor

of The Oracle, I have been asked by Mdm Rose to write an article on the matter.
Even though flood is just water which is basically harmless, precaution should
always be taken to prevent any casualties. Flood-prone areas are usually the most
affected when this disaster takes place.
What are the causes of floods? Firstly, heavy downpour is the major cause.
Malaysia has twice monsoon-changing phases that take place in March and
November every year. These are the time when we experience heavy downpour
nearly every day. Secondly, the cause is rapid development that is not properly
managed. Lack of proper management will cause floods to happen as the soil faces
erosion and the flow of rainwater will be ruined. Then, floods can happen when
drains are clogged. In the city, flash floods usually occur when people throw away
rubbish into the drains causing them to become clogged. The fourth cause is the
river. In today’s life, living near a river may be risky and dangerous during floods
season. The riverbanks may erode and destroy the people’s houses.
Let’s take a look at the effects of floods. First of all, the effect is damaged
properties. Once floodwater enters our home, electrical appliances, furniture and
books will be damaged. Secondly, waterborne diseases such as typhoid and
diarrhea will be easily spread. That is why people are not encouraged to drink
floodwater. The third and the worst effect of flood is death. People can die of
drowning if they try to walk into fast flowing floodwater to move to higher areas.
There are some suggestions to overcome floods. Yes, some floods can be
prevented. Firstly, regular clean-up activities can be done. Everyone in the
neighbourhood should take part. Secondly, the government and other authorities
can organise campaigns such as “Flood Prevention Campaign” and “Stay Safe
Campaign”. Last but not least, recycling is another suggestion. Recycling can
reduce trash. Less trash means less drain clogging.
Giving donations such as money, clothing and food will ease the burden of
the flood victims. This natural disaster will cause them to lose much of their
belongings. Helping them will show that we care for them. If flood happens at your
place, you may call the Civil Defence for a helpline. Act quick to save your life.
In conclusion, floods are common in Malaysia. We must take care of

ourselves when it happens at our place. Safety measures must be taken
immediately. We must follow the instructions from the authorities if any evacuation
needs to be done. It is hoped that this natural disaster will not get any worse.
Practice for Article 1
2019 SPM Trial Question from MERSING
You are the editor of your school magazine. You want to write an article about
Muhammad Ilman bin Sabri, a student in your school, who has received the Excellent
Student Award recently during the Prize Giving Ceremony.
In your article, include:
 all the points given and four more points of your own
Background:
 Name
 post – Head Prefect
 hobbies
Qualities:
 understanding
 dedicated
 sense of humour
 [your own point]
Academic achievement: Co-curricular activities:
 top student – scored A+  School debater
 [your own point]  Best actor – drama competition
When writing the article, you must:

 provide a suitable title
 write your name as the author
Practice for Article 2
2019 SPM Trial Question from SELANGOR C
The Computer Club has to submit an article for the school magazine. You as the
president have to prepare the article and you decide to write on laptops and
desktop computers.
Use the notes give below to write the article.
Laptop Computer
portable
slim and light
expensive
harder to upgrade
costly spare parts
fragile
[own idea]
Desktop Computer
bulky
cheap
easy to upgrade
available spare parts
sturdy
[own idea]
When writing your article, you should remember:

 to give a suitable title to the article
 to elaborate on the information given
 to write in paragraph
 to include all the details
REPORT
FORMAT
To : ______(Receiver’s Post) _____

From : _________ (Your Full Name) ____
Title : Report on __________________________________
____________(Introduction of Topic) _______________. ______

_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________.



_________________ (Sentence for Point 10) _____. ______________
_________________ (Sentence for Point 11) ____________. _______
_________________ (Sentence for Point 12) _______________.
In conclusion, _______ (give general opinion on the topic) ______

___________________. _________ (write more on that opinion) _____
________________________________________________________.
Reported by,
Amanda
(AMANDA ROSALIND)
___(Your Post) _______
2016 SPM Trial Question from GOMBAK
The English Language Society of your school has recently made a trip to a hill
resort. The teacher advisor of the society has asked you to write a report on the trip
for the school magazine. As Secretary of the society, write out the report.
Write the report based on the information below.
 State the place

 Number of participants
 Objectives of the trip
- appreciate nature
- learn the importance of nature and environment
- get to know each other
 Places visited
- garden or park
- [own idea]
 Activities
- sightseeing
- nature walk
- [own idea]
 Successful trip
 One good memory of the trip
When writing the report, you must :

- address the report to the principal
- provide a title
- include your name
- use all the notes given
- give your own ideas when needed
Note:
For your report, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points,
and up to 20 marks for the quality of your writing.
Simple Sample for a Report
To : The Principal of SMK Tengku Aris Bendahara

From : Amanda Rosalind
Title : Report on a Trip to a Hill Resort
The English Language Society of my school has recently made a trip to a hill
resort. The teacher advisor of the society has asked me to write a report on the trip
for the school magazine. As the Secretary of the society, I am going to write the
report.
Firstly, the place was at Cameron Highlands. The number of participants was
35. The objectives of the trip were to appreciate nature, learn the importance of
nature and environment and get to know each other.
Furthermore, there were many places that we visited. The first place was a
Lavender Garden and the second place was Mossy Forest. We did many activities
such as sightseeing, nature walk and shopping.
This trip was successful. One good memory that I could share is when we
saw the beautiful scenery at Lavender Garden.
In conclusion, everyone was happy in this trip. We hope that this trip will be
organised again in the future.
Reported by,
Amanda
(AMANDA ROSALIND)
Secretary.
Better Sample for a Report
To : The Principal of SMK Tengku Aris Bendahara

From : Amanda Rosalind
Title : Report on a Trip to Greeny Resort, Cameron Highlands.
On 27th of February 2020, the English Language Society of SMK Tengku Aris
Bendahara had organised a trip to Greeny Resort, Cameron Highlands. As the
Secretary of the society, I was asked by the teacher advisor, Mdm. Liew Siew Choo
to prepare a report for our school magazine, “The Oracle”. Cameron Highlands was
chosen as the previous year, we had been to Desaru Tuna-Maya Beach Resort in
Kota Tinggi.
The number of participants in this trip was 35. All are Form 4 and Form 5
members of our society. Two accompanying teachers were Mr. Fakhrul Ikhwan and
Mdm. Guek Chiew Peng. This trip was aimed to meet two main objectives. Firstly, it
was for the members to appreciate nature. Cameron Highlands has different terrain
with Kluang. So, the students would get the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of
nature more. Secondly, the objective was to learn the importance of nature. Nature
is important in keeping the balance of natural diversity on Earth. Lastly, the aim was
for the members to know each other more.
Cameron Highlands has many interesting places. All participants enjoyed

themselves visiting the Lavender Garden. Variety of lavender products were sold
there such as lavender jam, juice and cake. The second place that we went was the
Mossy Forest. The place was like in a dream. It was too beautiful and amazing. We
did a lot of interesting activities too such as sightseeing, nature walk and shopping.
It was tiresome but the experience was worthwhile. A lot of photos were taken for
our memorabilia. The best part was when we took a photo at a lush purple sea of
lavender flower. It was so perfect like we had a holiday overseas.
This trip was very successful. Overall, the objectives were met. Most
participants agreed that they had a very good time along the trip. They enjoyed it so
much. One good memory that I could share is when we found a rare plant named
Venus Fly Trap at the Mossy Forest. Everyone was so excited at that time.
In conclusion, the trip to Greeny Resort, Cameron Highlands was enjoyable

but meaningful. This trip had become an eye-opener to every participant about our
nature. It is hoped that such trip will be organised again next year. On the way back
to Kluang, a simple discussion was done and it was planned that an island will be
our next destination for Year 2021.
Reported by,
Amanda
(AMANDA ROSALIND)
Secretary.
Practice for Report 1
The Charity Club organised a visit to Carnation Orphanage recently. As the

Secretary, you are asked by the teacher advisor to write a report of the event.
Use the following notes in your writing.
 Date of trip
 Venue of visit
 Number of students
 Teachers accompanying
 Stuffs brought
 Activities:
o cleaning
o chess competition
o [give your own idea]
 Souvenir for the orphans
 One unforgettable memory
 How the trip ended
When writing the report, you should remember to:

 put your name as the writer
Practice for Report 2
Your school recently organised a charity run. As the Secretary of the organising
committee, write a report to the Principal about the event.
Use the following notes in your writing.
PERIWINKLE CHARITY FUN RUN
 Date
 Time
 Starting Location
 Purpose – to raise fund for the local orphanage
 Length of run
 Number of participants
 Other Activities:
o Free medical checkup
o Food stalls
 Incidents:
o Some participants had minor injuries
o Heavy rain
When writing the report, you should remember to:

 put your name as the writer
CONTINUOUS
WRITING
Descriptive Argumentative
Opinion Narrative
Recount
Total: 50 marks
No. of Words: 350 words
Time Allocated: 1 hour

PRACTICE FOR CONTINUOUS WRITING
FROM 2019 SPM TRIAL EXAM QUESTIONS
NO. STATE QUESTIONS
1. MRSM 1 . Describe a neighbourhood activity that you have participated

in. Explain what you did and what you have learned from the
experience.
2 . Many people think that teenagers these days are not respectful
of others. Discuss the reasons and suggest ways to improve the
situation.
3 Write a story about a boy who experienced something
unexpected while staying home alone. Explain what happened and
how it affected him. Begin the story : “He would never have
imagined this to happen… “
4 It is considered a necessity for young people to own a social
media account. How far do you agree with this opinion? Explain
why.
5 What is your idea of a perfect idea? Describe how would you
spend the day.
2. Terengganu 1. Describe an adventure experienced by two friends and

explain how it made them closer.
2. Some teenager have poor eating habits.
Discuss why this happens and suggest how teenagers
should take care of their health.
3. Write a story about a responsible man. Explain how he was
being responsible and made a difference in other people’s
lives.
End the story with “He smiled and sighed in relief” .
4. Young people should appreciate family traditions.
How far do you agree with this opinion? Explain why.
5. Describe a favourite place that you frequently visit.
Explain what you do and how you feel every time you are
they?
3. Negeri 1. Your friend had thrown you a surprise birthday party.

Sembilan Describe the party, how you reacted and felt on that
day.
2. Social media is disrupting family ties. How far do you
agree with the statement? Explain why.
3. Write a story about Adam who had a dream of becoming
a singer. Explain why and how he had to sacrifice his
dream for his family.
Begin your story with : “The DJ played the familiar
song… “
4. Young people should learn how to cook. Discuss the
reasons to support your view.
5. Write a story about a teenager who had a problem
making friends. Describe how someone helped to solve
the problem.
4. Pulau 1. Describe an important decision that you once had to make.
Pinang Explain the decision you made and how it affected your life.
2. If you had the opportunity to make one important change about
your neighbourhood, what would it be? Give reasons to support
your choice.
3. Write a story about someone who had a narrow escape.
Describe how it happened and what has that person learned from
the experience.
Begin your story with: “Let me out of here at once! ...”
4. Examinations should be used to measure a student’s capability.
5. Imagine you participated in a competition organised by your
school. Describe what happened and how you felt on that day
5. Selangor 1. A holiday destination in Malaysia. In your essay, you should write

(A) about the holiday destination
and what you feel about it.
2. Online gaming brings more harm than good. In your essay write
about what you think of online
gaming and how it affects you.
3. Write about your experience meeting your new classmate. Begin
your story with:
“She looked so strange that I couldn’t take my eyes off her…”
4. Studying locally has more advantages than studying abroad. In
your essay, make a stand and
compare both elements.
5. ‘Blood is thicker than water’. Write on how this is true to you.
6. Selangor 1. Future homes. Write about how you think homes should be like
(B) in the next 50 years.
2. Local fruits should be our choice. Write about why you should
buy more local fruits.
3. A healthy lifestyle. Write about why its important to you and how
to keep yourself healthy.
4. Write about an experience that had changed Ahmad’s life.
End your story with, ‘… he never expected to be so handsomely
rewarded.’
5. Tablets should replace textbooks in school. Make a stand and
compare both the elements?
7. Selangor 1. Everyone needs a friend. Describe positive qualities that you

(C) would like in a friend.
2. Nowadays most teenagers misuse the freedom given to them.
Do you agree? Give reasons to
support your view
3. Having a pet brings great joy in your life. Write about the
responsibilities of keeping a pet.
4. Write about an unforgettable experience that had changed
someone you know.
End your story with, ‘… this will always be a story I tell over and
over again.’
5. “Time and tide waits for no man”. Discuss how this saying has
made someone successful.
8. Kelantan 1. Describe an incident which had happened to you and
made you learn the importance of being trustworthy.
2. Paper and books are outdated sources of information.
3. Write a story about a shy teenager who attended a
family gathering. Explain how it had changed him /her to
be a better person.
Begin your story with : “There was a loud knock on the
door…. “
4. Unity is important to our country. Discuss what you can
do to promote unity.
5. Imagine what you would like to have in 10 years’ time.
Give reasons for your choice.
9. Pahang 1. Describe two characteristics students should have in
(Kuantan) order to become successful in life.
2. Write a story about a strange encounter that left you
really spooked and frightened. Start your essay
with,
“ I was studying in my room late at night when
suddenly………………..
3. What can we do to make the world a better place to live
in? Discuss
4. What would you do if you could undo a mistake you
have done in the past. Describe the mistake and why it
is important you rectify it.
5. Write about your experience of being punished for your
mistake and how it has made you a better person
Marking Criteria for Band A & B
Mark Range Description of Criteria
 Language is entirely accurate. Very occasional first draft slips.

 Sentence structures are varied.
 Vocabulary is wide and used with precision.
A  Punctuation is accurate and helpful.
 Spelling is entirely accurate.
44 – 50
 Paragraphs are well-planned, have unity and are linked.
 Topic is addressed with consistent relevance.
 Interest of the reader is aroused and sustained throughout the
writing.
 Language is accurate. Occasional errors are minor or first draft slips.

 Vocabulary is wide enough with some precision.
 Sentences show some variation of length and type with some
complex sentences.
B  Punctuation is almost always accurate.
 Spelling is nearly always accurate.
38 – 43
 Paragraphs show some planning, have unity and are usually
appropriately linked.
 Writing is relevant to the topic.
 Interest of the reader is aroused and sustained through most of the
time.
iii) Tips For Scoring High Marks
Here are the tips on how to write a good essay, based on each criterion:
1) Hardly any mistakes in grammar (including spelling and punctuation)
Good essays should be without any major grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors. So,
focus on these key aspects. Make sure that you know the grammar rules well and apply
them when you write.
2) Effective use of varied sentence structures
Many students face problems with the sentence structure of the English language. The
problem can be solved through plenty of reading. When you read, your mind is fed with the
correct sentence structures over and over. In time, you will be able to write sentences with
the right structure. When you write an essay, use a variety of sentences - simple,
compound, complex sentences, in both the active voice and passive voice, etc. Thus, it is
advisable to make good use of as much variety of reading material as possible -
storybooks, magazines, newspapers, etc. to expose yourself to different types of sentence
structures.
3) Wide vocabulary used expressively/precisely
Reading helps to increase your vocabulary. When you see a new word, look it up in a
dictionary to learn its meaning. To score high marks, you need to show that you have a
wide vocabulary. For example, you can use 'delighted' or 'overjoyed' instead of 'happy'.
Instead of using 'sad', use 'upset' or 'downhearted'. Try not to use the same word
repeatedly. Use different words with the same meaning to impress the examiner. It is also
important that you use a word precisely or accurately. Wrong use of words will result in
mark deduction. So, make sure that a word is suitable to be used in a sentence or a
particular situation before using it. Reading helps you understand the meaning of a word
accurately. When you read extensively, you tend to be familiar with words and know when
to use them and when not to. Look it up in a dictionary again when you forget the meaning
of a particular word.
4) Good and relevant points
When writing an essay, it is important to write about relevant points, or write about what the
question ask for. For example, for the title 'Describe an outing with your friends', the whole
essay should be about the outing. If you write about other things such as your friends'
hobbies, that would be irrelevant. As long as you understand the title and write relevant
points, you will be safe. The lack of points or ideas is a common problem faced by students
when writing essays. Reading model essays helps a lot, since it gives you plenty of ideas.
5) Coherence in paragraphing & 6) Well-organised paragraphing
An Oxford dictionary defines 'coherence' as 'the situation in which all the parts of something
fit together well'. For instance, when writing an essay entitled 'My Hero', it is advisable to
write about things that are of the same nature in a paragraph. For example, after the
introduction, you can write about the childhood of your hero in the first paragraph. Then, in
the second, third, fourth and fifth paragraphs, you can write about his educational
background, occupation, personalities and accomplishments respectively. It is unwise to
mix them up as it lacks coherence and is not well-organised.
7) Essay is very interesting and shows originality
An interesting essay does not talk about the boring stuff. For example, you decide to write
an essay entitled 'Describe an enjoyable weekend you have experienced' or ‘Describe a
camping trip at the beach with your family.’ Avoid including stuff like:
"When I woke up that morning, I went to the toilet to brush my teeth and wash my face.
After that, I dressed up and went downstairs to have my breakfast. I had bread and butter
for breakfast..."
You can put it this way:
"When I woke up that morning, I was excited as my whole family would be going on a
camping trip at the beach. After getting everything ready, we set off for the beach in my
father's van..."
You can continue the essay by describing all the interesting things that you and your family
saw and did at the beach. It is a good idea to write about your own experience, since it
shows originality. When writing essays, it is also important to write about logical things.
Stated above are the important points to note. Apart from those based on the criteria, other
points to take note of include:
i) Practise writing essays, since 'practice makes perfect'. Besides school assignments, try to
write more essays and have someone qualified to correct them for you. When you make
mistakes, learn from them and make it a point not to repeat them , in order to improve your
writing skills effectively. When practising, learn to finish an essay within the time frame
given. For instance, in SPM, you have about an hour to complete an essay. Spend about
10 minutes, 35 minutes and 15 minutes on planning, writing and checking the essay
respectively.
ii) Remember, there are no short cuts to success. Essay writing skills take time to develop.
There goes the saying, 'Rome wasn't built in a day'. Diligence and perseverance are the
keys to success. Do not give up until you succeed.
iii) Look at the past year papers and study the examination format. Then, refer to the model
answers and familiarise yourself with the answering techniques in order to score high
marks.
In short:
1 Learn and know the grammar rules well.
2 Do more reading, as it helps in all aspects of writing good essays.

Good luck
3 Practise writing essays and learn from your mistakes. In your SPM!
-Module 5-Star JPNJ-

DESCRIPTIVE
ESSAY
DESCRIPTIVE ESSAYS
Topic 1: Describe a person whom you admire the most

SAMPLE 1(A) - GRADE A ANSWER
LANGUAGE
ESSAY
FEATURE
Teenage girls are often found to adore charming male celebrities Set the tone and idea
while their male counterparts are more likely to idolize strong, successful of what the essay will
athletes. More often than not, we admire someone because of a set of be about.
qualities that he or she has. For example, a girl might admire a Korean actor
because she finds him attractive whereas a boy might admire a football
player because he is captivated by the player’s excellent sportsmanship. As Does not tell who the
for me, the one person I admire the most is neither a famous celebrity nor a person directly. Keep
strong athlete. If truth be told, she is just an ordinary person. Nonetheless, the readers’ attention
the qualities that she has are absolutely extraordinary.
One of her best qualities is her cooking skills. She has the ability to Sentence structure
make even the most mundane dish taste incredibly delicious. The most varied and
memorable dish she has ever prepared was omelette. Whenever she sophisticated;
prepared this dish, I always made sure that I ate it as slowly as I could. It is different tenses and
because I wanted to enjoy it to the fullest. So far, I have never been dialogue.
disappointed. Her omelette has always been so tasty I could almost feel my
stomach jumping with joy whenever I ate it. I often wondered what she
added into the eggs to make them so tasty but whenever I asked her she
would always give me the same answer: “My unconditional love. That was
the secret ingredient.”
Another quality that she has is her problem-solving skills. She has Vocabulary-
never failed to find an answer to any of my problems. I once had an sophisticated and
argument with my best friends over a petty matter. I could not foresee that precise.
the argument would become so heated that, eventually, my best friend and I
began to freeze in each other. As a result, I became so emotionally unstable
I could hardly concentrate on my study. Fortunately, in the midst of all that,
one person came to my rescue. Having listened to my never-ending
problems, she encouraged me to reconcile with my best friend. She said
there was no point in dwelling on anger and self-righteousness. She was
absolutely right! I fell so much better after my best friend and I made peace
with each other.
It is also worth mentioning that this person has a good sense of The used of
humour. Because of this, I always feel happy being at her presence. She expression.
repeatedly says that laughter is the best medicine, which is why whenever
she notices I look a bit tense she always cracks a funny joke. I love it when
she does this because when I laugh, I feel extremely happy. It is when I am
happy I realised that I become more optimistic because I am able to adopt a
more positive outlook on life.
Vocabulary; the use
All in all, the most incredible quality this person has is her willingness to do of adjectives again.
anything for me. There are just too many things that she has done for me Use of dialogue.
but, suffice it to say that, if not for her, I would have not existed at all. “I
was in so much pain! But when I saw you, I just cried.” That was what she
would always tell me on my birthday. It is because she endured the
indescribable pain of giving birth to me 17 years ago. What is more, she has Only reveal the
sacrificed a lot just to make sure that I grow up as healthily and happily as person at the end.
possible. Come to think of it, all the qualities that I have mentioned earlier
are merely details. Even without those qualities, I will admire her all the
same because she is none other than my mother.
NOTE: Slips or mistakes maybe found in the sample answer. They are not corrected but
retained to show the candidate’s original language performance.
SAMPLE 1(B) - GRADE E ANSWER
LANGUAGE
CONTENT
FEATURE
Everyone in this world has someone they admire. Girls admire Short simple
handsome male celebrities while the boys are interested in athletes. For introduction. Direct
example, a girl admires a Korean actor because she he is handsome and the telling who is the
boys would admire a football player for his fame. As for me, the one person
person.
I admire the most is my mother.
She is the best cook in the world. Whenever she cooks, I made sure
that I enjoy it slowly. I often wondered what she use to make her cooking so Simple short
tasty. I asked her what was her secret, she would tell me: “My love for sentences and
you!” vocabulary.
She never fails to answer to any of my problems. Last week, I had Limited use of
an argument with my best friend. I did not think it will become so bad. My
adjectives or
best friend and I stopped talking to each other. I was so upset. My mom told
me to talk to my friend. She said it was no use to be angry. She was right! I connectors. Simple
felt better after my best friend and I spoke to each other. sentences.
My mother is also a funny person. She always tells me to be happy. Used of simple short
When she knows I am sad, she will always tell jokes. I love it when she tells sentences.
jokes because when I laugh, I feel happy
General conclusion
In a nutshell, my mother is a great person because she is willing to
Essay is shorter and
do anything for me. She has done so much for me. All the qualities that I
less descriptive of the
have mentioned earlier are just words. Even without those qualities, she is
topic.
still the best mom anyone can have.
DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY
Topic 2: Write a descriptive essay about the holiday that you remember the most.
LANGUAGE
ESSAY
FEATURE
Today is the best day of the week, at least I think it is. It is the day when Start as if telling a story
school was not in session. No waking up before the sun rising, no uncomfortable
school uniforms and the best part, no bossy teachers telling me what to do.
Ahh..bliss! I spend these kinds of days wandering about the pier, my favourite
place to be. I always wondered what it was like to get on a boat of my own and Used of adjectives and
taking it to wonderful places I’ve never been. “To go where no man have ever words that describe and
been! To infinity and beyond!” Ok maybe not exploring the vast and exciting gives a vivid and lively
universe. The pier, a place which always reminds me of the book ‘The Brighton idea.
Rock’ by Graham Greene. The pier, a place filled with fun and mysteries. A
place with interesting yet strange and weird characters and shows!
So here I am getting on to my old but trusty bicycle; Ol’ Faithful, that Precise vocabulary and
my father got me last year as I paddle my way to the ever-exciting pier by the adjective, adverbs and
clear blue sea. The beautiful-warm-morning sun is making its way up as I imagery used
maneuver my bike skillfully on the winding dirt road behind my neighbourhood. throughout the essay.
As I reached the pier, I can hear the screams of seagulls and the stinging of sea
salt welcome me to the seaside. Quickly I chain Ol’ Faithful to the nearest
available pole and run clumsily to my favourite place in the world.
I sit at the edge of the wooden planks, my legs dangle almost touching
the sea with the cool wind brushing against my face and the sun high upon me.
There are a few large fishing boats docked and the men who I call the sea
people, are busy unloading their catch of the day after a long morning of fishing
in the open seas. Most of them are dressed in faded t-shirts and their pants rolled Used a variety of
up to their knees, carrying weaved baskets of fish to the lorry nearby as beads of sentence type.
sweat forms on their heads and backs. There are a multitude of fish of different
colours and sizes. I can see the glimmer of their silver bodies catching light, Creates a vivid picture
their scaly wet bodies slide smoothly on each other like fluid as they are poured of the atmosphere at the
into the bigger plastic containers. The pier is getting noisy as more fishing boats pier.
arrive and the sea people hollers at each other from the distance of their boats
exchanging their news of the day. I ignore their loud conversations and kept still
among the chaos, drowning out their voices while I watch the boats bobbing to
the rhythm of the waves beneath them.
The slow humming of the motor boat engine fills the air, reminding me Gives readers some
of the soft purring of Kaka, the stray cat whom I have taken in unofficially since other ideas then bring
father was not fond of any animals wandering about our little wooden house. them back to the pier
My eyes follow the fairly sized motorboat as a young man steers his way out again. Shows good
from the masses of the bigger boats. White sea foam trails the motorboat as it writing convention and
heads to another island, moving closer to the horizon. I have never been there gives readers the feel of
before. I wonder if the place I am now looks almost the same, with a long reading a story.
boardwalk reaching out to sea and stilt houses and ships filling the seashore.
DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY
Maybe when I’m old enough I’ll get to ride on a boat and explore the
neighbouring island, perhaps maybe.
A croaking sound caught my attention as my arm instantly placed itself

on my rumbling tummy. If anyone could hear that it would be really
embarrassing. Mother would be furious if I come home late again. Last time, she Closing: the writer’s
gave me an earful after missing on lunch while I was out here watching boats. personal feelings and
Mother was bewildered at my reason and thought I was making up stories! She thoughts about the pier.
should come here sometimes and watch them with me. I look up at the sea one Ended with a promise
last time before I make my way back home, taking in the majestic scene before which kept the readers
me of endless water and possibilities far beyond the horizon. Nothing is as in a state of uncertainty.
peaceful and calming than being on the pier, with the waves crashing upon the
shore and boats swaying to the sea breeze. I’ll come back again another day, just
wait for me.
LANGUAGE
CONTENT
FEATURE
It was a beautiful day. An d I wanted to go down to watch the boats; my Simple and direct.
favourite place in the whole world. It was holiday and I did not have much to Simple words used.
do. I was free from all my teachers. I read a book ‘The Brighton Rock’ by
Graham Greene. It was a murder thriller that happened at the pier.
So here I am getting on to my bicycle that my father got me. As I paddle Simple, limited
my way to the pier by the sea. The sun was making its way up as I rode my bike vocabulary. Limited
behind my neighbourhood. As I reached the pier, I saw seagulls everywhere. used of adjectives.
Quickly I parked my bike and ran to the end of the pier.
I sat at the edge of the pier and enjoyed the cool sea breeze. There were
a few large fishing boats there. The pier was getting noisier as more fishing
boats arrive and the sea people shouting at each other.
I saw a motorboat moving among bigger boats. It was really fun just
sitting and watching boats. I wonder how it is to be on one of those boats.
Maybe when I’m older I’ll get to ride on a boat and explore the world.
Suddenly, my tummy was making funny noises. I was hungry. I better General conclusion
go home before I am late. Mom would not like it if I was late. Nothing is more
fun than just sitting here and watching the boats pass.
DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY
Topic 3: Malaysia is known for its multiracial society. Because of that, we celebrate
different types of festivals throughout the year.
Describe one of the most interesting festivals that you have experienced.
SAMPLE 3(A) – GRADE A ANSWER

CONTENT LANGUAGE
FEATURE
The majestic colours… the wonderful music… the smell of sweet Introduction tries to
scents… all these are part of a festival!! And one of the biggest festival capture readers’
celebrated in Sabah is the harvest festival or better known among locals ‘Pesta attention.
Kaamatan’.
Kaamatan is a unique festival celebrated by the KadazanDusun people Elaboration of the

of Sabah. The festival commemorates the sacrifice made by a woman named history using precise
Huminodun. Legend has it that, long time ago, she offered herself to be vocabulary
sacrificed because she knew that it was the only way to save the people from
starvation. Unlike other celebrations, Kaamatan is celebrated in a unique way. I
feel so lucky to have had witnessed the Kaamatan celebration first hand at the
KadazanDusun Cultural Association (KDCA) premise last year.
The first thing I noticed as I arrived at KDCA was the decoration. Even Use of adjectives
at the entrance, I could see make-do paddy plants and local musical instruments throughout essay.
such as gong and sompoton being erected and hung in various places. These
decorative items took my breath away as they were so beautiful and gigantic.
As I entered the premise, I noticed that all the stalls, booths and makeshift
traditional houses were decorated with the same items in addition to other
attractive elements such as exotic beads and ornaments. What made all these
decorative items so unique was the fact that their colours were mostly black,
silver and gold.
If I could sum up the whole ambience of KDCA during Kaamatan in Variety of sentence
three words, I would say crowded, eventful and loud. Simply exciting. It was patterns
not easy for me to visit all the booths and stalls without walking shoulder-to- Short sentence
shoulder with six other strangers on my right and left. There came a point when Complex sentence
I was enclosed by so many people I could hardly breathe. It could also be seen
that, at various spots, young children were crying while wandering around
searching for their parents. It certainly didn’t help that, amidst all their panic,
explosive music seemed to be blasting out from various directions. There was
nothing I could do other than pray really hard that, sooner or later, those
children got reunited with their parents.
Overall, the most memorable experience I had was witnessing the entire Proper use of linker or
4-hour long Kaamatan show in the KDCA hall. As with other formal events, the connectors.
show began with various V.I.Ps delivering their speeches. Not long after that,
cultural performances from multiple ethnic groups ensued. As I was casting my
gaze around the hall, I could see that the audience was typically composed of
three distinct groups: local Sabahan people, tourists from Peninsular Malaysia
and tourists from western countries. Everyone was clearly entertained by the
performances but it was not until the Unduk Ngadau started that the entire show
was heightened to a whole new level. I realised that everyone seemed glued to
their seats whenever one of the contestants walked around the stage like models
in a fashion show.
To sum it all up, the whole experience of attending the Kaamatan Closing: personal
festival at KDCA was truly a satisfying one. I am quite sure that I will be opinion
attending it once again this year. This is the celebration that must be experience
at least once in our lifetime.
SAMPLE 3(B) – GRADE E ANSWER

CONTENT LANGUAGE
FEATURE
Kaamatan is a unique festival celebrated by the Direct and simple
KadazanDusun people of Sabah. Legend has it that, long time ago, she offered introduction
herself to be sacrificed because she knew that it was the only way to save the
people from hunger. Kaamatan is celebrated in a unique way. I feel lucky to
be part of the the Kaamatan celebration first hand at the KadazanDusun
Cultural Association (KDCA) last year.
When I arrived at KDCA, I was taken by the decoration. Even at the

entrance, there was fake paddy plants and local musical instruments such as Simple vocabulary and
gong and sompoton being displayed. These decorative items took my breath simple direct sentences
away as they were so beautiful and gigantic. I noticed that all the stalls, used
booths and traditional houses were decorated. What made all these decorative
items so unique was the fact that their colours were mostly black, silver and
gold.
KDCA was crowded, eventful and loud. I didn’t visit all the stalls as Limited used of
it was crowded. I felt suffocated. The most memorable experience I had was sophisticated vocabulary
to watch the Kaamatan show. There were V. I. Ps and speeches. Then finally
the performance started. The highlight of all was the Unduk Ngadau.
Everyone was so focused and watching all the contestants on stage.
In short, the whole experience of attending the Kaamatan festival at

KDCA was truly a great one. I will be attending it once again next year. Short direct conclusion.
DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY
Descriptive Writing (Describing Event)
Describe the most enjoyable weekend you have experienced
SAMPLE ANSWER
Tina and I had a fabulous time in Terengganu last weekend. Accommodation was
free – we stayed in a relative’s house – and we had the sun, the sand and the sea.
Tina’s aunt’s house was a stone’s throw from the beach. The moment we reached the
house, we flung our bags down and headed for the beach.
It was spectacular. The sea seemed luminous. It was so early in the morning that
there was no one else there. The beach seemed to have been washed away clean by the tide
and no one had walked on it except the little crabs and the gulls.
After the incessant noise of the city and the overnight trip on the train, the silence
was utter bliss. Enjoying the warmth of the sun, both of us just sat on the sand and watched
the waves roll gently on the shore. Far out on the distant horizon were some waded into the
shimmering blue and green sea, jumping to avoid the foam breaking on to the shore. I ran
on the wet sand, enjoying the feel of it under my bare feet. ‘Coee!” I answered the gulls and
gave a cartwheel of sheer joy.
Auntie Lis was waiting for us with freshly cooked nasi dagang. The aroma welcomed
us as we stepped into the house. After the scrumptious brunch, Auntie Lis said it was time to
paint the town red. The first stop was the Kuala Terengganu market. It was fun exploring
floor after floor of local delicacies and crafts. There was keropok lekor that we sampled at
the food court. We drooled over the hand-painted batik fabric and bought colourful batik
pants and T-shirts. Of course Aunt Lis bought packets and packets of dried fish and keropok
for us to bring home with. The wet market on the ground floor had an intriguing array of
fruits and vegetables in all shapes and colours that we had never seen before. The best part
was the duku langsat. There were mountains of them and I had never tasted such big
succulent and sweet dukulangsat before. Auntie Lis had to put a stop to our fruit tasting.
‘Enough! Your stomachs will burst soon. Keep some place for other local delicacies.’
Our next stop was Kak Yah’s where we sat down for plates of their famous keropok
and tea. It was wonderful. Auntie Lis had to drag us out of the shop to a batik factory. There
we tried our hands at batik painting and created our own masterpieces. We also saw
songket weaving and appreciated the fine craftsmanship.
We went home for dinner after that. Aunty Lis reminded us we would celebrate Earth
Hour ’09 by having a barbeque dinner under the stars. It was truly a memorable experience
having dinner underneath thousands of stars, listening to the lapping of the waves and
Uncle Shah’s stories of old Terengganu.
He next morning we set off to the turtle hatchery near Kuantan. We were beside
ourselves with excitement when we were allowed to release little turtle hatchlings into the
sea. It was an incredible experience to watch the week-old hatchlings waddle into the sea. I
held my breath when a huge wave swept the little ones into the sea and whispered a prayer
for their safety.
All too soon it was time to take the train home. On the way home we talked and
talked of our unforgettable weekend in Kuala Terengganu. We had left for Kuala
Terengganu exhausted and burnt-out. Now, we left it refreshed and filled with a quiet joy.
DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY
Study the table below. Add further information to the basic sentences / ideas by
answering the wh-questions.
Paragraph Simple sentences Questions to help you add more
information to the story
1 I went jungle trekking with a
friend. 1. When did you go jungle trekking?
2. What is the name of your friend?
3. Where did you go?
4. Where is the place?
5. Why did you choose the place?
2 We were walking along the track.

1. What did you see along the track?
2. What did you hear?
3. How did you feel?
3 We heard a buzzing sound. 1. Can you add a word or phrase to show

It became louder and louder. sudden change of sound?
2. Did you wonder about the sound at first?
3. How did you feel when the sound became
louder?
A swarm of bees attacked us. 1. When did you realise that it was a swarm of
bees?
4 We ran as fast as we could. 1. How did you run?
2. Was it easy to run in the jungle?
3. Did you hit the branches?
4. Did you fall down?
The bees stung me. 1. Did the bees catch up with you?
2. Where did they sting you?
3. What did you do when they sting you?
5 We saw a lake and we jumped in. 1. How did you avoid the bees?
The bees left us. 2. What did you do next?
3. How long did you hide from the bees?
4. What did you do after that?
5. What did you see?
6 We came out of the water.
1. What did you do after the bees were gone?
2. How did you feel? Why?
7 We walked back to the ranger’s 1. How did you get help?

headquarters. 2. How long did it take to walk back?
3. What did you say to the rangers?
They took us to the hospital. 1. What did the doctor give you?
2. How did you feel about the outing?
FACTUAL ESSAY
What is factual composition?
Factual writing explains an event or a series of events in a chronological order that allows
readers to gain information.
(a) The main purpose of factual writing is to inform. You may have to:
1. give instructions or explain processes
2. analyse situations, trends or problems
3. propose solutions or remedies
The main question you have to ask yourself before you decide to tackle a factual topic is
“Do I have enough information on this topic?” You cannot get your facts wrong.
Make sure you read the question carefully so that you do not misinterpret the question.
This often happens in examinations.
(b) There are a few ways you could arrange your facts. Your main concern should be
that your arrangement is clear and logical. You could:
(i) Each paragraph must have a distinct topic with supporting details factually
relate directly to it.
(ii) When describing processes, progress logically, step by step, from the first
step to the last one;
(iii) When listing problems, state the most important problem first and then go on
to the less important ones.
Exam Tips: Steps to take when planning a factual composition
Before writing your composition, you should spend a few minutes planning it.
(a) Brainstorming
(i) Define the scope of your essay
(ii) Jot down all the relevant facts you can think of, in a mind map. Make use of
the thinking tools.
(b) Selecting and organising the points
(i) Select the relevant and most effective points.
(ii) Plan the sequence of the points.
Once you know what you are going to write about, you will be able to concentrate on how to
write it best. That is, you are free to focus on your writing style. You can pace yourself
according to the time and points. Imagine yourself in the examination hall. You are trying to
complete your composition when the invigilator says “Ten more minutes…” If you didn’t
have a plan, you might panic so much that all your ideas would fly out of your head! With a
plan, you can just calmly focus on the next point on your list.
FACTUAL ESSAY
Note the specific structure and language features of a factual composition.
Structure Title Language Features

Define the subject Introduction  Use specific vocabulary
Provide facts about the topic Body
and supporting details Fact 1  Use the present tense
Fact 2
Fact 3  Use logical connectors
Summarise the information Conclusion
given  Use vary sentence beginning
NOTES AND FURTHER PRACTICES
A Winning Beginning
There are many techniques of getting the attention of your audience. However, only
four of them will be discussed here:
1. Question the audience
“If you have a wonderful news and you want to share it with someone, to whom would
you tell first?”
Or, you may find a series of questions which enhances vitality in an introduction. Here
is an example:
Do you always surf the web for hours, nights and days? Do you spend more time reading
advertisement and stories in cyberspace that reading books, notes and reports for your
lectures and tutorials? Do you fell more connected emotionally with people you chat
with in chatting programmes like MIRC, ICQ, Schmooze than your family members and
friends? Do you feel uneasy any aimless when you are not logged on? If so, you may be
included as part of the growing numbers of people whom psychologist label as ‘internet
addicts’.
FACTUAL ESSAY
2. Shock the audience

Another interesting way to get your audience’s attention is by shocking them. It is our
nature that if we hear something shocking, we immediately want to hear more. Thus, this
type of attention getter can give you credits quickly and effectively. Here is an example:
We badly need nuclear power in our country. We need nuclear power in Malaysia.
Maybe most or maybe all of you don’t agree with my idea. To you, it may sound
disastrous or you prefer to put it catastrophic but to me it is ambitious and vital to
meet our growing energy needs.
The sample text 1, this technique is applied. The writer informs the readers of the
shocking condition of our once beautiful forest.
3. Begin with a quotation

You may obtain the quotes from Shakespeare, the Bible or from words of famous writers
or politicians.
“”Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.
By John F. Kennedy
“I have a dream” by Martin Luther King.
4. Tell stories
Another effective method to introduce your topic is by telling stories. This famous way
of beginning a writing will rouse the audience’s interest and get them emotionally
involved in the topic.
I still remember the first time I was asked to observe an English class a part of my
teaching practice fifteen years ago. I hated so much the idea of classroom
observation. To get to the school was another experience: air transportation is one
out of two gateways to the district. When I reached the classroom, I was welcomed
by shoeless pupils running in and out boisterously. I was introduced to the English
teacher, Mr. Rama. ………………. So, I would like to share with you four beneficial
aspects of classroom observation and how it would mould a better and more
resourceful teacher.
Let’s examine the grade A sample text below.

FACTUAL ESSAY
Topic 1: The Problem of Deforestation (Text is taken from Nexus Pro SPM 4.5)
Thousands and thousands of acres of lush rainforests are cleared each year MERITS
to make way for development. The once beautiful and spectacular√ forests
are reduced to barren landscapes. This is for the sake of development, for Words in italic – use
the advancement of man. of logical connectors
to link sentences
Yet, what happens when trees are felled? Firstly, the earth is left which follow a logical
vulnerable to soil erosion. The heavy tropical rains will carry away the rich order
topsoil, and the land without its topsoil will no longer be fertile. Slowly but
steadily, the lush vegetation will give way to wasteland.
√ Vocabulary is wide
Secondly, the flowing water will not only wash away the topsoil but will and used with
deposit it in the rivers. As a result, the rivers will become shallower. precision
Consequently, floods will become frequent in the area. Thousands of
people will suffer in these floods.
Another point to note is that forests are home to hundreds of species of

flora and fauna. Animals and plants live in symbiotic relationships in the Par 4: Sentence
balance of nature. Man destroys this balance when he flattens the forest to structure is varied and
the ground. Where do they go then, the great and tiny inhabitants√ of sophisticated.
these forests? Nowhere. They die. If this goes on, the food chain will be
disrupted. As creatures dependent on the flood chain, man is ultimately  Compound
destroying his own sources of food through the destruction of rainforests. sentence
 Complex
When forests are a distant memory√, a shocking fact will hit us full sentence
force. Mankind will be thrown into a state of unimaginable suffering  Short
√and agony√. What I am talking about is the lack of oxygen. While cutting sentences
down a tree to add yet another piece of luxurious furniture to man’s  Begin with a
already opulent√ lifestyle, people forget that they are also reducing our conjunction to
supply of oxygen. show emphasis
Trees absorb the carbon dioxide breathed out by living creatures, Note:
reprocess it and, in the end, produce the life-sustaining√ oxygen. Without
trees, where will this oxygen come from? Will we process it in factories?
Will a time come when man will be fighting for the very air he breathes? The writer shocks the
audience by painting a
Furthermore, the excessive carbon dioxide will also effect a change in disastrous picture of
the microclimate and raise the region’s temperature. There will be a what happens to our
greenhouse effect on earth; warm air and radiation will be trapped under planet earth today in
the earth’s atmosphere. Then, as the earth’s temperature rises, the ice in the the introduction.
polar caps will melt, raising the sea level. Great floods will hit the lower- Good attention
lying areas. getter.
As you can see, it is a vicious cycle. A change in our environment will The writer ends the
trigger off another change which will trigger off yet another. This is why writing with an
we should keep the balance of nature. This is why we ought to preserve our appeal, as one would
forests. This is why environmentalist groups are pressurising governments expect in a
to reduce the felling and the clearing of forests and to be serious about composition on this
replanting forests. topic.
With the support of ordinary citizens like you and me, they will get the
attention of the people in power. We can also help by planting trees.
Members of this beautiful planet√must be united. By preserving forests,
we are preserving ourselves.
FACTUAL ESSAY
Q1: The disadvantages of the internet
Introduction
• The Internet- global network connecting millions of computers
• enable us - access to information, connect to people around the world, fast updates to
developments across the world
• Although there are many advantages- some disadvantages of an internet
1st paragraph
• Waste time – hours on the Internet browsing or chatting
• Less time for studies
• Neglect homework, assignments and chores at home
• Students get addicted to playing online games
2nd paragraph
• Waste money – online shopping - so easy to search and purchase different items online-
end up becoming at-home shopaholics - may not need the product
3rd paragraph
• Easy access to websites not suitable for teenagers – pornographic materials or adult content
• Chatting with strangers can be dangerous – never give out personal details, addresses or
photographs
Conclusion
• The Internet can have negative influences if not used wisely by students
• Many benefits if used responsibly
More exercises for practice!
FACTUAL ESSAY
Q2: Road bullies
Introduction
Start with an account of an incident involving a road bully.

• Define “road bully“– give more examples.
1st paragraph
• Reasons e.g. stress/lack of self-control, anger, no patience, no conscience/violent nature.
2nd paragraph
• Effects on the victims e.g. fear/injuries/death.
3rd paragraph
• Suggestions e.g. jail offenders/ban them from driving/ police to take immediate action.
4th paragraph
• Educate/remind public not to become road bullies via the mass media such as radio and
television
• More emphasis on courtesy and safety on the roads.
Conclusion
• hope for co-operation/ responsibility of all road users.
Q3: How to protect ourselves during a heat wave
Introduction
• Define “heat wave” – a period of very hot weather
1st paragraph
• Reasons – no rain, change of weather
2nd paragraph
• Effects of heat wave: sweating, discomfort, fainting spells, dehydration, feeling sick, etc.
3rd paragraph
• Suggestions on what to do: e.g. drink more water, avoid strenuous exercise outdoors, stay
in the shade, take more baths, cool down, and eat fruit
Conclusion
• Conclusion: keep yourself cool, be practical
FACTUAL ESSAY
Q4: Robots
Introduction
• Define ‘robots’ – mechanical/automated machines
– can be programmed to obey certain commands.
1st paragraph
• Advantages – can do repetitive/dangerous/heavy work,
e.g. in radioactive areas
– can do the work of many human workers e.g. in factories
2nd paragraph
• Give examples – e.g. Japan’s robotic babysitter can laugh, crack jokes and dance
3rd paragraph
• Disadvantages – cannot respond to emergencies
– high maintenance
– expensive
Conclusion
• Conclusion – give your opinion about robots
Q5: Why and how should an obese person lose weight?
Introduction
• Define an ‘obese person’ e.g. overweight/fat.
1st paragraph & 2nd paragraph

• Give reasons why an obese person should lose weight:
– e.g. excess weight is bad for the heart/bad for health:
• cardiovascular problem
• heart disease
• high cholesterol
• diabetes
• sickness
3rd paragraph & 4th paragraph

• Give suggestions on proper weight control:
– eat a balanced diet/cut down intake of fried food, canned drinks, sugary food and drinks.
– Regular meals
– Regular exercise
– Enough rest
– Medical check-ups
– Change to a more active lifestyle
Conclusion
• Health is wealth/use a quotation/end by giving an advice.
ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
General Tips
When writing an argumentative essay:
 Your aim is to convince the reader of your viewpoint.
 Present strong and effective arguments which must be supported by elaboration and
details.
 Be sure whether you need to argue on both sides or make a stand to either or oppose
the given topic.
 In the SPM examination, you are asked to give your opinions on both sides. For
example, “Do you think …”, “Do you agree …” or “Discuss’. So you have to
explain both sides of the argument and make a stand at the end of the essay.
A. Sample Questions and Answers
Topic 1: Students should be encouraged to participate in sports. Do you agree?

LANGUAGE
CONTENT
FEATURES
‘Sports’ are activities carried out for pleasure or exercise. Playing games like MERITS
tennis and football or taking part in athletics are sports activities. I am of the Note the use of
strongest opinion that students should be encouraged to participate in sports. It transition markers
would allow students to maintain good health, instill good discipline as well as One of the main
providing an opportunity for them to release stress. reasons/advantage
s
One of the main reasons for encouraging students to take part in sports is
that it is good for health. In sports, especially outdoor activities, fresh air is
taken into the lungs, resulting in greater oxygen flow into the heart. It keeps Varied sentence
our heart healthy indeed! With improved blood circulation, other organs of the structure
body function well. Muscles get toned, excess fat is burnt and impurities are Simple sentence
excreted through the sweat glands. All this, together with good diet, makes a Complex sentence
healthy body. Compound
The second advantage is that sports participation instills discipline and sentence
develops leadership qualities among students. For example, students must
attend the various practices and training programmes punctually. If they are Impressive
late, they are usually reprimanded and soon they realise that obeying orders is words/phrases
important. In addition, students involved in sports activities are elected as
captains, secretaries and to other positions. Students holding these positions
usually develop leadership qualities.
Third, participation in sports also helps students to be ambitious and set Good use of
challenging goals for themselves. By persevering to achieve these goals, quotation by a
students are preparing themselves for adulthood where they will face every famous figure
more difficult challenges. As the late Bruce Lee said, “If you always put a
limit on everything you do, you cannot gor far. There are no limits. You must
go beyond to achieve.”
That aside, sports participation helps students to release stress and tension.
The increasing amount of homework and the fear of failure at examinations do
not allow students to relax. Taking part in sports allows them to unwind. After
a game or workout at the gymnasium, the students feel much better and are
ready to study after a good bath. This way of releasing stress is healthy unlike
some methods many students resort to, for examples smoking, loitering in
shopping complexes or taking drugs.
Counter argument
On the other hand, there are disadvantages of participating in sports. It often On the other hand
leads to students to neglect their homework, studies and even family. When
students are over- enthusiastic; driven by great interest or the desire to win at Punctuation have
competitions, they tend to spend more and more time away from home. unity and
Eventually, this eats into the students’ study time and time spent with the appropriately
family. This, in turn, may lead to poor academic performance and a linked
breakdown in family communication. This is certainly not to be encouraged. Intensifier
certainly not
Furthermore, exposure to sports means students are prone to injuries like
torn tendons, sore muscles, sprains and even fractures. Injured students have to
stay away from school for some time, causing them to miss lessons and,
consequently, fall behind in their studies.
Finally, it involves high expenses. Students need to spend money on

equipment like tennis rackets and track shoes. They may also want to wear
sports outfits which their friends have. In addition, transport to and fro for
practices and pocket-money for refreshments means money has to be spent.
This money can be put to better use by buying more books or food.
Proverb
In conclusion, we can say that moderation is the key to success in anything. “Moderation is the
Therefore, if participation in sports is kept in moderation, it should not pose a key to success”
danger or threat to students. However, if the student isARGUMENTATIVE
over-enthusiasms, then ESSAY
disadvantages could turn out to be very real.

CONTENT LANGUAGE
FEATURES
All students should participate in sports. Sports is good for students. A stand is given
First, sports is good for students to stay healthy. When students play
Inconsistency in
outdoor games, oksigen is take into their lungs and heart.
tenses
Secondly, sports make students more discipline. They learn to follow rules Spelling error
of many games. Students must come on time for training. Students must be ‘oksigen'
punctual.
Thirdly, sports help students to enjoy sports activities. Examples, playing
football and jogging. When they play, they feel happy and fun.
Conclusion is dull
Finally, there are many disadvantages to participate in sports. Students do and vague
not have time to study because spend too much time in training. They will fail
in their exams.
ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
Exercise 1
Complete the model essay below with transition markers from the list provided and
punctuate them correctly. Use each word or phrase more than once.
In conclusion , on the other hand , finally , secondly , however
In other words , apart from that , thirdly , the main reason
Where would you choose to study in: a boarding school or a day school?
Most students in Malaysia attend lessons in day schools. Students usually arrive for their
classes in school by 7.00 a.m. later during dismissal, at 1.30 p.m., it is a mad rush home for
them. ……………………, the situation is different in a boarding school. This is because a
boarding school provided food and lodging for its students. I have never attended a boarding
school but, given a choice, I would choose to study in one.
……………………….. Is that student learning to be independent. In a boarding school,
they have to make their own beds and wash and iron their own clothes. ……………………,
they have to look after their personal belongings such as their important documents and
money. They also learn to study on their own without their parents breathing down their
necks.
………………………..., students learn to manage their time wisely. They have to follow a
planned daily schedule which includes fixed hours for meals, studies, games and relaxation.
These planned activities help them to realise the importance of proper time management
under the close supervision of teachers-in-charge.
………………………, students in a boarding school have easy access to facilities after
school hours. A boarding school usually well-equipped with a library, good games facilities
and language and computer laboratories. A day school is also equipped with such facilities.
However, day school students may find it a hassle coming to school to use the facilities
because of problems with transportation.
………………………, staying in a boarding school enables a student to learn to tolerate
one another. Students learn to share their problems and to accept each other’s weaknesses.
………………………., students cannot expect to think only of themselves. Being away
from their families and loved ones, they have to rely on one another.
………………………, it can be said that staying in a boarding school has its pros and
cons. ………………………, if the students can effectively manage their time in a conducive
environment, then they will find that the pros will far outweigh the cons.
OTHER ESSAY
Topical / Thematic / Phrase / Proverb

“A friend in need is a friend indeed”
Describe how a friend helped you in a difficult time.

The Essay Language

Features
When I was little and I scraped my knee, my mother hugged me and offered a Good opening
band aid and a treat. I felt safe and cared for. I think everyone still craves for
that kind of attention even though we are all grown up. Getting a little mother
love from what we call a friend can help you get through a difficult time.
MERITS:
Whenever I have a bad hair day, I would call my best friend. Whenever The use of
an angry teacher just picked on me, I would send my best friend a text and her figurative
response would always make me laugh. Yes, my friend means a whole lot to language
me. Her name is Audrina. Whenever I am low or moody or upset, she is
always right there ready to hold my hand, offer the tissues and make me a Phrasal verb
mega margarita. She would always rush over if I have a fight with my Varied sentence
boyfriend and spend the night with me in couch potato land. She would turn structures
up to my place with a spare pretty dress when I spilt coffee all down my Simple sentence
elegant outfit for a friend’s birthday party. Not only does she come to my
rescue all the time but she picks me up, straightens me out and makes me feel Complex
strong enough to face the world again. sentence
She is indeed a friend in need. With her there, I always have emotional
support when something goes wrong- so 24/7 my best friend is my own
personal agony aunt. She gives me 100 percent attention when I need to
debrief about the subject I failed or the embarrassing thing I said on a date. Punctuations
But that’s not all – she nurtures me in other mother-style ways such as keeping are accurate and
my favourite 3-in-1 drink at her place or borrowing the Frozen DVD even helpful to the
though she has seen it because she knows that it will cheer me up. reader
Truth be told, I am actually suffering from Panic Disorder and Wide range of
Agoraphobia. There was once an incident where I thought that I was going to vocabulary
die of panic attack during a school project presentation. Many of my school
friends did not understand my psychological condition and so they thought
that I was just going through difficulties memorising my presentation script. Compound
They laughed at me not knowing that the fear an agoraphobic experiences is sentence
not just nervousness or feeling a little anxious. It is part of a biological and
psychological process that is far beyond these limits and is often life-changing.
OTHER ESSAY
Luckily, Audrina came to my rescue. She explained my condition to my Accurate tense

other classmates and urged them to help support me with my recovery. She used
wholeheartedly built an alliance with me and accommodated my limitations
without judgement. She is really the one true friend.
Now, If we are out with my friend or loved one in my fearful world, she
would always let me know that she will provide the assistance I need without Good closure
question. Living in a world of fear, day-in and day-out, is not an easy
proposition. Every time I venture past my safe zone, Audrina would signal
that I am showing my monumental strength. I am so blessed to have a friend
in need like her, who is a friend indeed.

1. Mostly SWE
2. Meaning fairly clear
3. Need to think to understand/require sentence by sentence reading
4. Partial treatment –partly addressing the topic
The Essay Language Features

All of us need someone to talk to. I like to talk to my friend. Everyone Opening too general
needs a friend in her lifetime. This is because a friend in need is a friend
indeed.
Simple sentence
I have a friend. My friend’s name is Audrina. She is always there for No connectors
me. She is always there when I am in trouble. She always makes me happy Repetition
when I feel down. She never fails to be my friend.
Inappropriate and limited
There was a happening I never forget in my life. I was at a canteen vocabulary
during recess to buy food. Someone pushed me. I fell on the floor. I was
panic. People are laughing at me. Tenses error
Luckily, Audrina was nearby. She come to help me. She help me to
get up. Then, she told everyone it is not nice to laugh. Then the person who
pushed me say sorry to me.
Audrina really made me feel safe. She knew that I have panic problem. I Shorter than the required
thank her very much. She is really a friend in need is a friend indeed. number of words
OTHER ESSAY
Question 5/3
“My Childhood Days”

5. Very figurative, descriptive and lots of language elements in it
6. Sophisticated
7. Linkers are used beautifully
8. Only a few slips
9. Purposeful punctuation
10. Sentence structures:
**May have dialogues (direct & indirect but not overdo-purposeful)
11. Active & passive
1. 3 types of sentences
2. Basic grammar perfect (SVA, singular-plural, tenses)

There I stood on top of the tree, with the wind blowing at me and the Interest is aroused
warm glow of the heaven’s eye shining upon me. The limitless sky was
surrounding me. In the distance, I caught sight of a bird, probably a stork, The use of idiomatic
flying gracefully in the sky almost like it was dancing to the music of the expression
blowing wind through trees. A thought generated in my mind; what if I
could fly like it? I would be able to climb higher to the sky and watch the
Correct punctuations
world from above. Without another moment of thinking, I stretched my
arms to each side of my body, put a leg forward and felt the cool fast air
whipping my face and then excruciating in pain.
The next day, I woke up in the hospital with bandages and cast all Varied and effective
over my body where they were injuries. The smell of medicine was strong sentence structures
on me. That’s what you will expect from a stupid thought of flying. But
then, I was only a child, five years old living in this world. I was curious, The use of correct
and as the saying goes “curiosity kills the cat”, which in my case landed tenses
me in the hospital and a fair share of scolding from the folks. This is one
of the many childhood memories I cherish. The days of my childhood was
no less to me the days of peace, happiness and adventurous.
As a child, I was like the many other children in the

neighbourhood. I did whatever seemed fun, which they were, but
occasionally getting disapproving comments and gestures from the
authority known as adults. I was not exactly labelled as a ‘wild child’ by
the adults unlike some of my friends for I knew when not to put a toe over
the many lines of my doings. The days in my neighbourhood were spent
by the constant roaming around with friends of neighbouring hoods.
Bestowed upon us all was a measure of limitless free time that could be
otherwise spent for studying, doing household chores or feeding the
chickens.
OTHER ESSAY
But how can you not resist the game of hide-and-seek with the Short sentence
whole neighbourhood as the playground? Not me. I remember the time
when it was fruit season. The ripe fruits hanging innocently on the trees,
unguarded, or so we thought until came the barking dogs and their owners,
screaming threats and curse words. But that was worth everything for the
sweet taste of a ripe mango with a pinch of victory and satisfaction. But
as time mature, so do people. I left behind the days of minor child
mischief and went to school.
The school years of my life were in my idea the years of

development. It prepared me for the future. It was like a torch that turned Long sentence
on shines down the light of guidance through the dark room filled with
choices that one must make and take. I spent my school years like any
other student with constant studying, change in hormones that cause
drastic changes, physically and mentally, the socializing with peers and
may be worst, pimples! Days I spent with my classmates were very
memorable. And some, I’m neither fond nor too proud of reminiscing.
Realization came to me as I look back at times in school. It was to me a
second home and my classmates a family of no blood-relation but a family
nonetheless. Back then, I always had mix feelings and a thought about
school, to think it was nothing but a learning facility. To feel that it was
boring to spend my days in school. Those thoughts have left me now, and
in its place, the desire of going back and starting over again with the hope
of rectifying a few mischief, replaces it. I brave myself to overcome these
thoughts and move on to new things.
Time never stops. This is proven to me by the fact that now I am Effective closure
old enough to leave the house of my parents to pursue my dreams. And as
I sit now awaiting for my flight, I tell myself that I have lived a good
childhood that stretched from the day I was born to the day I ride a plane
to another place to continue my studies.

My childhood days were full of wonderful memories. When I was a Opening too general
child, I used to spend time with my childhood friends, playing at the
paddy field. Sometimes, from the sun rose in the east till the sun set
in the west, we would spend time playing hide and seek at our
favourite paddy field spot.
We would not go back home until our parents came looking for Simple sentence
us. We would run and hide until our parents got tired of searching. No connectors
When they seemed to be giving up, we would come out from our Repetition
hiding place and went back home quickly before they got mad at us.
Before they could get angry, we would quickly take bath and got Inappropriate and
OTHER ESSAY
ready for dinner. limited vocabulary
My childhood days were well-spent swimming in the river trying SVA errors
to catch fish. My siblings and I loved to swim in the river while
catching fish. I remember fondly how my big brother told us that Shorter than the
we should catch some fish to bring back home so that we would not required number of
be scolded by our parents. Of course when we reached home, my words General
mother would be very pleased to see the fish that we caught. She opening
would then cook the fish for our dinner.
I love remembering my precious childhood days. Now that I

am a grown up, I wish I could go back to the time when we could
play all day long without getting stress of studying. I really miss my
childhood days.
Topic 1: The Problem of Deforestation OTHER ESSAY
You may not have such a great deal of knowledge about the subject and may not be able to write so
vividly as the above. It’s alright as long as you fulfill the basic requirements. Refer to the notes in the
right column in the sample text below. Compare this text with the one before.
Thousands of acres of rainforests are cleared each year to make way for Note:
development. The beautiful forests are destroyed. This is for development.
. Points are arranged
Firstly, when trees are cut, soil erosion happens. The heavy rains will clearly and logically.
carry away the rich topsoil. The land will become infertile. As a result, the Logical connectors
lush vegetation will become barren. are used to show
link.
Secondly, the rain water will wash away the topsoil and will deposit it in the
rivers. As a result, the rivers will become shallower. As a result, floods will . Simple structure is
occur in this area. People will suffer. used
Forests are home to flora and fauna. So, when man destroys the forest, . Vocabulary used is
where do they go then? Nowhere. They die. Soon the food chain will be simple but able to
disrupted. Man is destroying his own sources of food because they destroy convey the intended
the forests. meaning
If we cut down a tree, it will also affect the supply of oxygen. Trees
absorb the carbon dioxide breathed out by living creatures and produce
oxygen. Without trees, will man be fighting for air?
Too much carbon dioxide will cause a greenhouse effect on earth. When
the earth’s temperature rises, the ice in North Pole will melt. This will raise
the sea level and floods will occur.
A change in our environment will cause other changes. This is why we

should keep the balance of nature. This is why we ought to preserve our
forests. This is why environmentalist are asking governments to reduce the
clearing of forests. We can also help by planting trees. We must be united.
By preserving forests, we are preserving ourselves.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
TIPS ON HOW TO WRITE A BETTER NARRATIVE ESSAY
1. BRUSH UP YOUR GRAMMAR
There is nothing more important than having good grammar skills. So, language must be
taken into consideration when writing an essay. Refer to the above writing practises.
2. ESSAY SHOULD DEPICT WIDE USE OF VOCABULARY AND INTERESTING

PHRASES
Narrative writing requires to have a wide repertoire of vocabulary. This is to avoid

dullness. The marking system for continuous writing is based on impression. Study the
examples given below:
Example 1
"It was a boring weekend. We were lazy to read books and study, so we planned for a
camping trip. After gaining permission from our parents, we brought necessary camping
things and food for the camping trip. Then, we went to Mount Tahan."
Example 2
"It was a mundane and lacklustre period after the school final examination. Danny, Erik
and I had had enough of reading books and studying, so we all set on going a camping
trip. After getting the green light from our parents, we equipped ourselves with the
necessary camping gear and enough food to last us for the two-day camping trip. Then,
we embarked on our journey to Mount Tahan with high spirits."
Between both examples, Example 1 depicts a dull story but Example 2 depicts a

colourful story although both are mainly telling the same idea. Why? Here are the
answers:
1. Example 1 lacks of vocabulary.
2. Reading Example 1 does not portray sense of maturity in writing unlike Example 2.
3. Example 1 lacks of details but Example 2 has an adequate details in the writing that
added the value of interest.
4. The use of word/phrase like mundane and lacklustre, green light,camping

gear, embarked and high spirits added more sophistication to Example 2.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
So, how to make your essay more interesting to read?
1. Find words or phrases that can replace a common word that you think can be
used for every essay you want to write. For example happy can be replaced
by cheerful, cheery, merry, joyful, light-hearted, jovial, gleeful, buoyant, carefree,
blithe, glad, elated, ecstatic, euphoric, overjoyed, exuberant, in seventh heaven,
propitious, auspicious and fortuitous. Actually these replaceable words for happy are
only a portion of it. A thesaurus may come handy for this job. Try searching for sad,
shocked, scared and so on.
2. Insert at least two idiomatic expressions in your essay like Example 2 that uses the
idiom green light which means giving permission and high spirits which means
happy. From Example 2 which is a complete paragraph there are already two
idiomatic expressions. So, imagine if there are five similar paragraphs!
3. This next tips could be very ambitious. Try to insert common words and phrases
from Latin and modern languages which had been accepted and used in English
Language. Such words like ad initio (Latin) meaning from the beginning, esprit de
corps (French) meaning team spirit, genre (French) meaning style and so on. These
words can be found in English dictionary.
3. HAVE A FIXED PLOT WHEN WRITING A NARRATIVE ESSAY
Another important part in narrative writing is the Plot- A good narrative must have a strong
plot. Begin with an introduction, then a rising action, a climax, then a falling action and
lastly a resolution.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
Example of a narrative essay:
From Terengganu Trial Examination; beginning with "I could not sleep throughout that
night..."
LANGUAGE
ESSAY
FEATURE
Stranded Title
I could not sleep throughout that night. Not even a minute. It was just Introduction
because I might miss the ships or boat that passed by the island. I was shivering
in cold even it was just a gentle breeze. I thought to myself that things would
have been different if I did not take part in that vacation. Never in my wildest
dream that a spectacular vacation on a cruise ship at the beginning turned out to
be a nightmarish affair.
Raising action
The day before was a joyous one. I embarked on a three-day vacation
trip on a cruise ship. The vacation was amazing. The scenic view
was splendid across the horizon of the sea as far as the eyes could see. The sea
water was crystal clear and the sky was a magnificent azure. My blissful day did
not stop there. The dusk thrilled me as I sat on a chair. The sky gave its golden
appeal and the Sun looked like it was sinking into the sea as night began to
unfold. Then, the golden yellow background of the sky changed to twinkling
stars. I was staggered to see the view of the opulent God's magnum opus.
As the night grew older, something totally different started to appear up

to the sky. The sky was too dark. It darken so much as the glimmering stars
started to disappear. To my instinct, something bad would happen any time soon,
but I just could not figure it out. I went into my room and soon dived into a deep
slumber.
'RIIIINNNNGGGG!!!!!!' Climax
"This is your captain speaking. Abandon the ship! This ship is about to sink!"
The loud ringing sound really woke me up from my comfort bed and I was taken
aback to hear the announcement. To my horror, the ship was in topsy-
turvy. High jinks enshrouded the air. Then I realised, there was a storm
happening outside. To my flummox, I dragged myself outside and saw people
running higgledy-piggledy as they did not know what to do. As for me, the only
thing I could remember is that a huge wave came crushing upon the ship and
then everything seemed to darken.
Streaks steaks of light awaken me found out that I was on a beach. At Falling action
last I thought that my misery had ended. But a little exploration did not bring
much hope. There was no one there. So, being an optimistic person, I built up a
settlement near the beach. I laid upon my leaves bedding. I wondered. Could I
NARRATIVE ESSAY
survive? Did my family know that I loved them? For how long did I have to
wait?
Out of the blue, an abrupt siren was heard from afar. Swiftly, I arose
from my leaves bedding and ran nearer to the beach. I shouted for my life while
waving my hands up on the air.
"Help! I'm here! On the island! Help! Help! I'm here!"
Then, the siren became louder and louder. At the moment, I knew they Resolution
had noticed me. Unexpected, tears of joy started to drop from my eyes. Before I
even thought my life was over, now the door back to my life was widely opened.
By the moment I stepped into the rescue boat, I know that it was the time for me
to go home.
That is an example of a complete narrative essay written within a week time trial
examination. This essay earned the student 45 marks out of 50 marks.
Note: The underlined words or phrases in the essay really help in earning high marks.
Now back to having a fixed plot. What is the meaning of a fixed plot? A fixed plot is the
plot that you will be using during your exam. How to do that?
The example essay above is from the question; beginning with "I could not sleep throughout
that night..."
But, what will happen if the question says; ending with "...It was truly the experience of a
lifetime." You are suggested to keep on using the same plot, NOT the same essay by means
memorising word by word, but change either the beginning or ending with respect to the
question given.
This an example for changing the ending with the same plot:
"...Then, the siren became louder and louder. At the moment, I knew they had noticed me.
Unexpected, tears of joy started to drop from my eyes. Now, looking back to what had
happened to me I realised that I am surviving alone at a deserted island. Not everyone could
say that they slept on leaves bedding and have the sky as the roof. It was truly an experience
of a lifetime."By practising two or three times, you can easily remember the plot. When
writing the essay, try as much as you can to relate the plot to the question asked.
Note: The benefit of having a fixed plot is that the time that you usually used to plan for
your essay can be used to write.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
IMPORTANT NOTE ON WRITING A NARRATIVE ESSAY

1. Give a title to your essay (refer to the example essay given above; it has a title). The
title itself must be relevant to the plot. The title of an essay can be anything as long
as it fits the story.
2. You must write more than 350 words. But, the essay must not be too long. The
longer you write, the more mistakes you will make. An ideal essay should be around
350 to 400 words.
3. Use only one hour to write the essay and the same for Directed Writing; only use 45
minutes. Be fair when writing the essay;
4. Include wide range of sentence structures, vocabulary and must have at least one
dialogue (MUST HAVE - one of the characteristics of excellent essay). Why you
should have dialogue in your essay? When you include a dialogue in your essay, it
shows that you have the knowledge in punctuation. This is what is special about
narrative essay because there is no dialogue in factual essay, right?
5. At least include a word that plays a specific sound. In the example the word
'RIIIINNNNGGGG!!!!!!'. In English, it does not mean a thing, but it gives the reader
a feel to the story you wrote.
6. Include a wide range of vocabulary to your essay to keep the interests of the
readers.
7. Check for any grammatical error after finishing the essay. Make sure it
is grammatically correct in order to get high marks.
WHAT TO AVOID?
1. AVOID WRITING SOMETHING THAT YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND

Narrative essay is relatively a little bit easier that the other types of essays; but it
depends on the question itself! If your do not understand a word or a phrase for a
particular questions; DO NOT even try to write about it! For example you are given
this question:
Write about your most propitious moment.
See the underlined word? Most of us do not understand the word "propitious, some
may guess that it means sad, surprise and so on where the real meaning is happy.
Avoid writing something that you are not sure.
2. AVOID MEMORISING THE ESSAY WORD BY WORD
Continuous Writing is very related to Directed Writing in terms of language. The
quality of language you portray in Directed Writing reflects the grammar knowledge
that you have.
Therefore, it is crucial for you to have a strong knowledge on basic grammar.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
SAMPLE QUESTION
Write a story that ends with, “…we are to be blamed just as the mother!”
SAVE THE CHILD #Characters: Amir, Jasmine’s son, male visitor
#Setting – average neighbourhood
EXPOSITION #Nice and friendly
#Had a nice next-door neighbor-widow with young

son
#Often watch son play
CONFLICT #Frequently had a male visitor
#Babysit son when running errands
#Son often cried
#Quarrels heard
#Informed the mother but was assured everything was

fine
CLIMAX
#One day child was rushed to hospital
#had breathing difficulties
#child died
RESOLUTION #police investigation
#story emerged
#child abused by male visitor – mother knew but ignored it
#regretted not going to the police earlier – we are to

be blamed just as the mother!
NARRATIVE ESSAY
ESSAY LANGUAGE
FEATURE
Save the Child Title
Life can be so unpredictable and fragile. No one can really know where and
how our own life will turn out. As for Haris, he was the victim of Exposition – start
circumstances. Amir had a next-door neighbour named Puan Jasmine. She with a statement that
was a pretty widow with a son aged five. She was nice and friendly, and would catch the
always had a ready smile whenever she bumped into Amir and his family. readers’ attention
Sometimes she would chat with Amir’s mother as she watched her son,
Haris, play in the compound.
Of late, Puan Jasmine had a frequent visitor. He was tall, dark and Used of connectors to
handsome and worked as a technician. He would sometimes babysit Haris create cohesion.
which allowed Puan Jasmine to run errands. Sometimes he would come and
watch Haris while she went to work. Amir did not like the look of the man
very much but figured it was none of his business.
Whenever, the visitor was around, Amir often heard Haris cry. He Conflict – used of
would cry incessantly. Now and again, Amir would hear a male voice collocation and
shouting, ‘Shut up!’ and then suddenly the cries would stop. Sometimes, precise words
when Puan Jasmine got back home, Amir would hear voices quarrelling.
Amir did not want to get involved but he kept a close watch on the house
next door, especially on Haris.
After a while Amir could guess what was happening. The man was
abusing little Haris. But he had no proof. He told his mother about it and she
Climax
agreed to talk to Puan Jasmine. Puan Jasmine smiled and said there was
nothing to worry about. All was okay. She was convinced that her friend
was a nice man and that he would never hurt little Haris. But that was not
the case. The crying continued and became more serious.
One Sunday morning, Amir and his mother saw the child being
rushed to hospital. Apparently, he was having breathing difficulties. Amir
and his mother waited anxiously for more news. Then it came at noon. The
boy had died!
The next day, police officers were at Amir’s front door asking
questions. Slowly a picture emerged. Just as Amir had guessed, the
boyfriend had been abusing the child. The body of the little boy was full of Used variety of
marks and scars. What was even more shocking, Puan Jasmine had known sentences
about this but chose to ignore it. Both she and the man had been arrested.
Resolution
For weeks, Amir and his mother agonized over little Haris’s death.
‘If only we had gone to the police, the child would be alive today. If only
we had act faster, the child would be alive. If only… If only… But it was
too late! We are to be blamed just as the mother!’
ESSAY LANGUAGE
FEATURE
Save the Child Title
Amir livedin KampungSelasih. He lived with his mother. His

father passed away when he was ten years old. His mother had to support Exposition – the
the family since then. Across his house was his friendly neighbour, Puan background of the
Jasmine; a beautiful widow with a five-year old son named Haris. Puan character. Used of
Jasmine likes to stop by and talk to my mother while watching her son short simple sentences.
play in their compound.
Puan Jasmine had a frequent visitor. It was a male visitor. The Used of short direct
visitor always helped Puan Jasmine to babysit Haris when she is busy sentence
working. Amir always heard Haris cried. He even heard quarrels from the Vocabulary used is
house. Amir told his mother about it was told not to be busybody. Amir simple
became worried of Haris and he convinced his mother that Haris might be Conflict
in danger. Finally, Amir’s mother agreed to talk to Puan Jasmine. Puan
Jasmine said everything was fine. The next day, Amir still heard quarrels
and very rude words from that visitor. Haris never stopped crying.
One day, it was very quiet. Amir was worried more. A lot of
negative thinking came to his mind. What had happened to Haris? Climax
Suddenly, Amir heard the ambulance. Amir and his mother saw the boy
being rushed to the hospital. Haris has breathing difficulties and died on
the way to the hospital.
The next day, police came to the neighbourhood to investigate.

The police told them that Haris had serious injuries on his face and blue Resolution
and black all over his body. The police suspected that Haris was abused.
Amir told the police what he and his mother heard everyday from the
house. Amir was very sad. Puan Jasmine chose to ignore what happened
Normally essay is
to his own son. The man and Puan Jasmine were arrested.
shorter.
Amir and his mother were very sad and regretted that they did not
report to the police earlier. They could have saved Haris’s life. If only
they had acted quicker…but it was all too late!
NARRATIVE ESSAY
TITLE: THE DAY I LOST MY TEMPER
STEP 1: Understand the question
You should write about an occasion when you were angry. You should write about:
The reason why you were angry – an incident, a remark made by
someone, etc.
What you did or what your reactions were after the incident.
STEP 2: Plan your composition
Jot down your ideas. Since you are writing a story, there should be a chain of events or
incidents where one incident leads to another. It is the plot of the story. Look at the example
below:
STEP 3: Make your story interesting
A wide use of vocabulary would make your story interesting and lively. Good vocabulary
can be acquired through extensive reading. Below are some examples of good use of
vocabulary that describe the feelings and reactions of the people involved.
You can also describe the boy. Look at the examples below.
STEP 4: Composing the essay
After planning the plot and brainstorming on the vocabulary, now you are ready to start
composing the story. Keep in mind the 6 elements that you have learned when writing a
story.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
ESSAY LANGUAGE
FEATURE
The Day I Lost My Temper Title
“Ring......”, the shrill ringing of the school bell pierced the air,
bringing to an end the silence that reigned the class for the past forty Exposition
minutes. As the stalwart figure of the Mathematics teacher stepped out of
the class, there was a sense of relief for Mr. Siva was a strict disciplinarian
who would not tolerate any of our pranks.
There were squeals and peals of laughter amidst the din of

conversation. It was at this moment that SengChye bustled to the front of
the class. Easily the most detestable boy in the class, SengChye was an Conflict
incorrigible prankster whose impish behaviour was a source of irritation and Used of sophisticated
annoyance to most of us, especially the girls. As his diminutive figure language, collocation
inched his way to where I was seated, he had the familiar mischievous grin
and words.
which revealed a set of yellowish protruding teeth. As he approached, he
was grinning from ear to ear. Then, in the twinkling of an eye, he put
something on my desk. As he bolted out of the classroom, I could hear
hysterical screams. Perplexed as I was as to the cause of this sudden flurry
of excitement, I knew that SengChye was up to mischief again.
It was then that I saw the slimy, creepy creature staring at me with
its moist, beady eyes. All of a sudden with a husky croak and a single, giant
leap, the four - legged creature landed on my lap. I was frozen with fear. Used of variety of
Then, when the truth finally sank in, I let out a few ear – splitting screams sentence
that echoed along the corridor. All around me, I could hear hilarious Complex
laughter while I was consumed by bitterness and anger. The joke was at my Compound
expense. Dialogue
As I seethed in anger and hurled verbal abuses at the top of my

voice, SengChye cowered in silence. His face has turned as red as a beetroot
and he had guilt written all over his face. The pandemonium that resulted
was enough to catch the attention of the discipline master who stalked into
the class. SengChye and I were summoned to his room. Each of us took Climax
turns to relate the incident. SengChye was asked to apologise which he
readily obliged and was let off with a stern warning. “If I hear any more
mischief from you SengChye, I will have no choice but to call your
parents!” That was the last of our conversation.
Resolution
As I stepped out of the room, I knew that this was one incident that
would remain in my memory for a long time to come. It was the day I lost
my temper.
Source:Maryann Sebastian. 2006. Step By Step Series Model Essays for

SPM. Penerbitespi: Sungai Petani.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
SAMPLE 2 (B) – GRADE E ANSWER
ESSAY LANGUAGE
FEATURES
The Day I Lost My Temper Title
“Riiinnngggg!!!! The sound of the bell telling us that it was recess Exposition
time. After eating, I went back to class as I had not finished my Maths
homework. Mr. Lee would be very angry if students do not finish the
homework he had given.
In the classroom, I was doing my Maths homework. Ali came to

me. Ali is a boy who always likes to disturb other students. There was
something wrong with his smile when he came to me. I know he was up to Conflict
something. Then he threw a slimy thing on my lap. Heran away with a loud
laugh. I jumped. I screamed to the top of my lungs. I could hear laughing
around me.
Climax
I saw Ali talking to and laughing with his friend Chua. I quickly
grabbed and slapped his face. I was so angry. I swore on my way back to
class. Everyone was looking at me and Ali including the disciplinary
teacher, Mr. Hakim!
When I reached my classroom, I cried. Then I heard my class

monitor called my name. I was told that Mr. hakim wanted to see me. When
I reached Mr. Hakim’s room, I saw Ali standing near Mr. Hakim. Mr.
Hakim asked questions and I saw him wrote something in his file. We took Resolution
turns to explain what had happened. I was so scared and I saw Ali was
scared too. Ali was asked to apologise to me and both of us were dismissed
with stern warnings.
I felt bad when I remembered the incident and felt sorry for
slapping Ali. I knew that this was one incident that would remain in my
memory for a long time. It was the day I lost my temper.
NARRATIVE ESSAY
PRACTICE QUESTIONS
a) Write a story ending with “...I shall never forget this day for the rest of my life.”
I just could not take my eyes away from the empty chair in front of me. It was just too
difficult to concentrate on the task in from of me – my Chemistry exam. So much has
happened in just twenty-four hours.
Twenty-four hours ago, Rahim was sitting in front of me, struggling with the History exam.
He was so relieved when the exam was over. We went to our usual hangout with the gang.
He ordered his usual ‘tehtarik’ and I noticed that he looked a little under the weather. He
brushed it aside as ‘exam fever’. Little did I know that it would be the last time I would see
him alive.
Later that night, I received a call from Aunty Elena. She told me that Rahim had been
admitted to the hospital for suspected dengue fever. Then, she paused for what seemed like
ages and said in a tearful voice, “Rahim has left us. He slipped into a coma and never
regained consciousness.” I could not recall how I spent the rest of the night. I only
remembered calling our friends and we went to Rahim’s house.
I looked at my friends who were writing furiously and I wondered whether they were
struggling like me. I glanced at my watch and realized that it was already 10.30 in the
morning. We would be going for the funeral prayers in about an hour. How was I going to
say goodbye to my dear friend, my mentor and my counsellor? He was there for me when
my father passed away three years ago and he had always been like a big brother to me. I
could still hear his jokes, his clowning around with us after the exam. How could I not
know that he was sick?
The examination hall was unusually quiet. Miss Jeya signalled us to get into her car.
Tears blurred my vision. I suddenly remembered the last time we were together in her car.
We were going for a debate competition and Rahim was our first speaker. He made us
laugh at his jokes till our sides ached.
At the service, Aunty Elena looked calm as we took our places. Then, it was time for the
prayers. There are a quite a number of people performing the prayers including us his
classmates. After performing the prayers, I took a deep breath. I wanted to say a few words
when I gave my last respect and to see his face for the last time but I choked. Aunty Elena
looked at me and nodded encouragingly. Then, I say my goodbye and my last words to him.
As my voice wavered, I knew Rahim was listening and I felt at peace. Goodbye, my friend,
till we meet again. I shall never forget this day for the rest of my life.
(473 words)
NARRATIVE ESSAY
a) THE LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
Task:
UNDERLINE:
1) GOOD USE OF VOCABULARIES;
2) THE THREE TYPES OF SENTENCES STRUCTURES;
3) THE IDIOM(S);
4) THE LINKERS IN THE STORY.
As I walked into school that day, I felt a strange but exciting difference. Students
were milling around the assembly area, waiting, anticipating… for the day to
end! Yes! It is the last day of school. We were going to have a special ceremony to
acknowledge the students that had a 100% record of attendance. It was a day many
had been looking forward to as their hard work and perseverance to attend school,
through rain or shine, had finally paid off.
Some students were simply here to say goodbye to their friends before they went
their separate ways for the holidays. Others were anxiously waiting to start their
first day of work at various shopping malls and the ever-present McDonalds and
KFC. That meant extra pocket money as well as means to finally get their driving
licenses.
As for me, I would miss many of many friends and teachers. After all, I had spent
eleven years of my life in school. Parting would not be easy. I enjoyed school and
could not even imagine not seeing my teachers along the corridors or monkeying
with my fellow classmates. There would no longer be any tests, exams, spot quizzes
and assignments to complain about. Life would be relatively tame back home.
This rite of passage of the last day of school is one that I was expecting since last
year but to actually have to go through it was not easy at all. Mrs.Teh walked
towards me. It would be harder for her, I know. She was retiring today. After 56
years of service, she was going to take things easy now. Her last child had flown
the nest and her husband had passed away four years ago. She filled her life with
the students around her. She would surely miss the chatter and laughter. She
gazed sadly around her and I ran towards her to give her a hug. It seemed to tell
her that we would always be around for her – 5 Tekun and I.
Soon, the bell would ring the last time for us. Then, the school corridors and
walkways would empty out, waiting for two months before the next wave of students
arrive for the new academic year. I walked out and turned back for the last time…
sweet memories…
NARRATIVE ESSAY
b) Write a story starting with: “The widow had to work hard to bring up her little son
alone...”
TASK: IDENTIFY THE

(I) SIMPLE SENTENCE (SS)
(II) COMPOUND SENTENCE (CS)
(III) COMPLEX SENTENCE (CXS)
The widow had to work hard to bring up her little son alone. This was after her
husband’s early death. She and her son lived in a wooden house. It was a small
house with only one bedroom and a kitchen.
Mariam wanted Sam to study hard to get good result. So she would not let Sam help
her do any household chores or wash his own clothes. The years flew by. Sam sat for
his SPM examination and pass with flying colours.
His mother was very happy. She went round telling her friends, “My Sam will be
leaving for the city to study in a college. He will become a Manager one day. I’ll
move to live with him in the city. Then, my struggle is worth it.”
So Mariam continued to work hard to send money to Sam who was studying a
business degree. For Mariam, it was a tough life. Meanwhile, Sam kept on phoning
home to ask for more money. Mariam even had to borrow from her neighbours and
friends to send her son the money.
Three years Sam stopped calling home. He did not even let his mother where he was.
When she phoned the faculty, they told her that he had graduated and left for job.
However, they could not her more. Mariam was baffled. Where was Sam? She was
so sure he would come back and fetch her for city. So, she started to pack some of
her bags and boxes.
Three months later, there was still no news or call from Sam. One day, Mariam’s
niece, Kate, came to talk to her about Sam. She told her aunt, “Auntie, a friend of
mine met Sam in a bank. He’s the branch manager. This is his address.”
Early in the morning, Mariam took the first bus to the city. At the bus station, she
took a taxi and showed the taxi driver the bank address. On the way there, she told
the driver about Sam and what a filial son he was.
The driver stopped his taxi in front of a tall building. She got out of the taxi and
smiled at him happily. This was the moment she was going to meet Sam. She
imagined him showing surprise and delight at meeting his mother. Inside the
building, a security guard asked her who she was looking for. She told the guard
Sam’s name.
The bank staff saw an old lady holding a worn-out handbag. They were wondering,
“Who is this woman? Why is she asking for our manager?”
Meanwhile, Sam pretended he did not know his mother. Feeling disgusted and
ashamed, he asked the security guard to ask her to leave. Mariam was shocked to
hear that! She looked Sam in a disappointed feeling ever, and ran out of the bank.
Back in her house, Mariam cried the whole night. She cried and cried till she had
no more tears. The next morning, she was sitting by the window with Sam’s photo on
her lap. She saw him walking towards their house. Soon she was shouting and
crying, “My Sam is back! My Sam is back!”
Sam ran towards her and hugged Mariam as he never let go. He was so sorry and
regretted the way he behaved. His colleagues were the one who made him realized
his big mistakes neglected his mother.
The neighbours heard her. They too shouted and cheered, feeling happy for her.
ENRICHMENT ENRICHMENT
TENSES
TYPES OF TENSES
Past Present Future
Simple Past Simple Present Simple Future
Past Continuous Present Continuous Future Continuous
Past Perfect Present Perfect Future Perfect
Past Perfect Present Perfect
Future Perfect Continuous
Continuous Continuous
1. Simple Present
The simple present tense can be used to indicate:
1. Repeated/ habitual actions
e.g. He goes to school every day.
I study every night.
2. Instructions/ Directions
e.g. Please close the door.
Turn left at the junction.
3. Scheduled events in the near future
e.g. The bus leaves at 9 o’clock tonight.
The event starts at 5 pm.
4. Facts/ Generalisations
e.g. Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah.
Cats like milk.
2. Present Continuous
The present continuous tense can be used to indicate:
1. Actions happening/ not happening at the time of speaking
e.g. My brother is jogging around the park.
She is not watching the Korean Drama.
2. Longer actions that are in progress
e.g. I am studying to become a doctor.
They are working on a project for the Earth Hour Programme.
3. Events in the near future
e.g. I am meeting my friends tonight.
They are moving into their new house next week.
3. Present Perfect
The present perfect tense can be used to indicate:
1. Actions that happened at an unspecified time before now
e.g I have been to France many times.
There have been many landslides along the road to Tambunan.
2. Duration from the past until now (Non-continuous Verbs)
ENRICHMENT
e.g. She has known about it since December.
I have had the flu for five days
4. Present Perfect Continuous

The present perfect continuous tense can be used to indicate:
1. Duration from the past until now (continuous verbs)
e.g. I have been studying for three hours
They have been working at that company for ten years
2. Actions started in the past until now (without specific duration)
e.g I have been feeling happy lately
Recently, he has been paying too much attention to his looks
5. Simple Past
The simple past tense can be used to indicate:
1. Completed actions in the past
e.g. Last year, my family and I travelled to Korea
The boy tripped over a cable and injured his knees
2. Duration in the past
e.g. She stayed in Sandakan for a year
We talked for 15 minutes
3. Habits in the past
e.g. he played the piano. (He used to play the piano but not anymore)
I studied Japanese when I was a child.
4. Past facts/ Generalisations
e.g. She was friendly as a child, now she is rather shy
I didn’t like carrots before.
6. Past Continuous
The past continuous tense can be used to indicate:
1. Interruption in the past
e.g. He was texting me when the car came up from behind
At 7 pm last night, I was having dinner
2. Parallel actions/ Atmosphere
e.g. While I was cooking for dinner, he was watching television
When I walked into the house, my sister was playing with her Barbie dolls,
my father was reading the newspaper, my brother was talking on the phone
and my mother was cooking in the kitchen.
7. Past Perfect
The past perfect tense can be used to indicate:
1. Completed action before another event, incident, action etc. in the past
e.g. she did not have any money because she had lost her purse
I had learnt English before I moved to New Zealand
ENRICHMENT
2. Duration before another event, incident, action etc. In the past
e.g. He had been in Jamaica for a month when his cousin came for a visit
She had owned the car for ten years before she decided to sell it.
8. Past Perfect Continuous

The past perfect continuous tense can be used to indicate:
1. Duration before something in the past
e.g. My baby had been sleeping for two hours when I walked into the room
They had been working at that company for a month before it suddenly
closed down.
2. Cause of something in the past
e.g He was sleepy because he had been studying all night
I was tired because I had been exercising.
9. Simple Future
The simple future tense can be used to indicate:
1. A future promise – “will”
e.g. He will drive you to school
I will call him later
2. A voluntary action – “will”
e.g. I will email you the recipe later
You look tired, so I will prepare tonight’s dinner
3. A plan – “is/am/are going to”
e.g. I am going to drive to Kota Kinabalu
She is going to make a cheesecake for his birthday
4. A prediction – “will” and “is/am/are going to”
e.g. Next year will be an interesting year
Next year is going to be a hectic year
10. Future Continuous

The future continuous tense can be used to indicate:
1. Interruption in the future
e.g. I will be having dinner at my uncle’s house when you arrive tonight
At 8 pm tonight, I will be watching a movie with my daughter
2. Parallel actions/ Atmosphere
e.g. Tonight, I will be studying English and my brother will be watching football
11. Future Perfect

The future perfect tense can be used to indicate:
1. completed action before something in the future
e.g. Florence is going to have completed the course by the time she turns 20
By next December, the company will have recruited 50 new employees
2. Duration before something in the future (non-continuous verbs)
ENRICHMENT
e.g. Jason will have had my car for a week by the time I return from Korea
12. Future Perfect Continuous

The future perfect continuous tense can be used to indicate:
1. Duration before something in the future
e.g. James will have been working at the company for more than a year by the
time he leaves for Singapore
She is going to have been sleeping for three hours when her children come
home from school
2. Cause of something in the future
e.g. He will be tired by the time he gets home because he will have been working
for over ten hours
My French will be perfect when I return to Milan because I am going to have been
learning French for over two years.
EXERCISES/ TENSES DRILLS

Exercise 1 (Present Tense)
Fill in the blanks with the words given in the boxes below. You may change its form
according to the number indicated by the noun (singular or plural).
Enjoy prefer progress watch notice

Do advise increase like screen
Be become widen be forget
I (1) ___________ a 15-year-old student who (2) ______________ to watch television.

However, I (3) _____________ that TVM and 6TV (4) _______________ not air enough
documentaries. They (5) ______________ to air action movies and sports programmes.
Once in a while, TVM (6) ______________ some interesting documentaries, for
example, on Egypt. My family and I (7) _______________ such shows. My English
teacher often (8) ________________ us to watch such programmes. But how can we watch
them when there (9) ______________ none aired?
Some people only (10) _________________ sports programmes. They (11)
______________ angry when TVM and 6TV (12) _______________ the number of
ocumentary shows. Our TV stations often (13) _________________ their responsibility to
educate the public. Watching television (14) ___________________ one’s knowledge. The
nation (15) _______________ only if people are well-informed about the world around
them.
ENRICHMENT
Exercise 2 (Present Continuous Tense)
Brazaitis is trying to catch a king cobra which has escaped from its cage in the zoo. Fill
in the blanks with the present continuous form of the verbs given in brackets.
Brazaitis (1) ____________ (go) up the ladder to the attic. Foster and the curator (2)
_____________________ (helping) him. He (3) ____________ (peer) through the holes in
the ceiling, knowing that there will be no escape if the cobra attacks. Brazaities’ heart (4)
________________ (pound) interror.A shadowy, scaly being (5) ______________ (rest)
between two metal constructions.Brazaitis (6) _____________ (shine) a torch on it now.
Brazaitis (7) ________________________ (cut) a hole in the bottom of the ceiling
occupied by the snake. He (8) __________________ (reach) through it with a long noose
and pole to capture the reptile. Foster (9) _________________ (hold) the ladder steady
while the curator of the Reptile House (10) ____________________ (aim) a shotgun at the
hole. The snake must be shot dead if it tries to escape.
Exercise 3 (Past Tense)
Change the words in the brackets to the simple past tense in the following description of a
woman who got lost in the Sahara Desert.
Amanda (1) _______________ (realise) with horror that she (2) __________________ (be)
lost. There (3) _______________ (be) no landmarks to help her and there (4)
______________ (be) no footprints either.
The cold (5) ____________ (descend) and Amanda (6) ______________ (tremble).
Sahara nights are as frigid as the days are hot. As she (7) _________________ (lurch) over
the feautureless land, she (8) ________________ (know) her fellow travellers would be
sleeping and there would be no light to guide her.
Then she (9) ________________ (see) a fire glowing in the distance. After an
initial rush or relief, she (10) ________________ (freeze).She (11) _____________ (be) a
young blonde woman alone at night.Tuareg rebels (12) _________________ (roam) the
area. They (13) ______________ (be) not known for their tenderness towards women.
But having little choice, she (15) _______________ (walk) towards the glow as
bravely as possible.She (15) __________________ (recognise) the figure of a Wodaabe
tribesman.
ENRICHMENT
Exercise 4 (Past Continuous Tense)
Write the past continuous form of the verb given in brackets in the blanks provided below.
1. My daughter _______________ always _______________ (misplace) her things.

2. Mr and Mrs Lim ________________ (help) their seven-year-old son to make paper
Animals.
3. He _________________ (use) a hand pump, which required enormous effort.
4. She ________________ (visit) her grandparents at that time.
5. He _________________ (look) at the cover of the book when Tim spotted him.
6. The lights went out while Joe and I _______________ (do) our homework.
7. While they ______________ (get) out of the police car, one man got away.
8. The patient ______________ (respond) slowly to the treatment.
9. Bob __________________ (attend) an interview for a job in a supermarket.
10. He __________________ (visit) Texas when he was assassinated.
11. The man _________________ (walk) into the restaurant when he was stopped by the
police.
12. As Abdul _________________ (drive) to work, he witnessed a robbery.
13. I heard my friend complain that her computer ______________ (run) slowly.
14. the rescue team _______________ (prepare) to throw a line to the woman when one of
the men slipped.
15. Ah Leng, who _________________ not ________________ (wear) a seat belt, was
thrown seven metres into the air.
Exercise 5 (Present Perfect Tense)
Rewrite the passage below. Change the tense to the simple present and present perfect
tenses accordingly. Underline the verbs that you have changed.
The Interviewer didn’t like my smile and proceeded with teaching me how to d it properly.
“Do it like this”. He began to smile for me and called out, “Good morning, sir.”
Surprisingly, I got the job.
I had a very busy weekend trying out different smiles. Then came Monday morning and I
set out to work, dragging my feet along the pavement.
I thought all of my friends whom I had left at school and I envied their sums and
compositions and geography and history. I suddenly realised what a happy life I had left, and
what a hard, uncertain world I had moved into. I reached a place called Green Fold, and had to
turn into a narrow country road that led to the automotive workshop.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
ENRICHMENT
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
VOCABULARY VOCABULARY
Describing People
Physical Attributes Physical Attributes

1 Shape/Size 1. Chubby 5 Mouth 1. Big lips
2. Fat 2. Pouting mouth
3. Muscular 3. Thick lips
4. Of average 4. Thin lips
height/size 5. Toothless smile
5. Plump 6. Rosebud lips
6. Short 7. Yellow teeth
7. Tall 8. Shining teeth
8. Thin
2 Shape of 1. Broad 6 Skin / 1. Dark
Face 2. Heart-shaped complexion 2. Fair
3. Oval 3. Freckles
4. Round 4. Pimples
5. Square 5. Smooth
6. Thin 6. Soft
7. Wrinkled
3 Cheeks 1. Dimpled 7 Hands 1. Broad
2. Fat 2. Huge
3. Pale 3. Long/Skinny
4. Rosy fingers
4. Soft
5. Rough
6. Tiny
4 Nose 1. Big 8 Arms / legs 1. Fat
2. Crooked 2. Long
3. Flat 3. Muscular
4. Hooked 4. Skinny
Personality (Adjectives)
Ambitious Dull Helpful Polite Trustworthy
Amusing Fair Ill-mannered Quiet Understanding
Boring Fearful Irresponsible Rude Unfriendly
Brave Firm Kind Selfish Loyal
Caring Friendly Lazy Snobbish Loving
Cruel Generous Nosey Sociable Tolerant
Cheerful Gentle Patient Stingy Zealous
Dependable Hardworking Playful Timid Hardworking
VOCABULARY
Verbs
Organise Schedule See

Campaign / Doctor /
Hold Implement Police patrol Consult
seminar / talk veterinary
Carry out Arrange Visit
Handle Solve Receive

Overcome Situation Overcome Problem Accept Award
Cope with Work out
Provide Launch Held

Build Facilities Write Report Chair Meeting
Improve Attend
Suggest Deliver Buy

Goods /
Propose Idea Present Speech Purchase
Groceries
Recommend Convey
Movement
E.g.: said loudly yelled
To replace “said”
1 Loudly/Angry/Fierce 1. Bellowed
2. Growled
3. Grumbled
4. Ranted
5. Raved
6. Roared
7. Screamed
8. Screeched
9. Snapped
10. Snarled
11. Thundered
12. Yelled
2 Slowly 1. Drawled
3 Happy 1. Chattered
2. Chirped
4 Amused 1. Chortled
2. Giggled
3. Joked
4. Prattled
5 Scared 1. Croaked
2. Sputtered
3. Stammered
4. Stuttered
VOCABULARY
6 Boastful 1. Bragged
2. Crowed
3. Exclaimed
4. Gushed
5. Jabbered
6. Sputtered
7 Repetition 1. Echoed
2. Mimicked
3. Repeated
8 Insulting 1. Jeered
2. Sneered
3. Sniggered
4. Mimicked
To replace “walked” or “ran”

1 In haste/Too excited 1. Barged
2. Burst
3. Charged
4. Dashed
5. Dived
6. Flew
7. Hurried
8. Jumped
9. Leapt
10. Rushed
11. Scrambled
12. Shot
13. Skidded
2 Slow 1. Crawled
2. Inched
3 Happy/Childish/Graceful 1. Danced
2. Flitted
3. Floated
4. Glided
5. Hopped
6. Sauntered
7. Skated
8. Skipped
9. Strolled
10. Twirled
11. Waltzed
4 Boastful 1. Pranced
2. Strutted
3. Swaggered
5 Sad/Tired/Hurt 1. Crawled
2. Dragged
3. Drooped
4. Hobbled
5. Limped
6. Plodded
7. Shuffled
VOCABULARY
8. Staggered
9. Tottered
10. Trudged
6 Fearful/Sneaky 1. Crept
2. Edged
3. Prowled
4. Slid
5. Slipped
6. Sneaked
7. Tiptoed
7 Angry/Stern 1. Marched
2. Stamped
3. Stormed
4. Stomped
Describing Scenes
1 Sea Sand Soft, silky, coarse, burning, white, golden, shimmering
Coconut palms Dancing, waving, rustling … as if to welcome us
The water Blue, green, grey (storm approaching), crystal-clear,
shimmering in the sun
The waves Gentle waves rushed to the shore; Gigantic waves crashed
on the rocks
1. Far out on the sea/on the horizon … a fishing boat, an ocean liner …
2. Couples … walking hand in hand, splashing the shallows/frolicking on
the water’s edge
3. A cool/warm/gentle breeze caresses my skin
2 Sky 1. The sun rose … a ball of fire/in a pool of liquid gold/crimson and gold.
2. The sky was streaked with red, orange and gold.
3. The clouds blushed a shade of deep pink.
4. The sky seems ablaze with red and gold.
5. Fluffy white clouds drifted across the blue sky.
6. Ominous black clouds hung overhead.
7. It was a grey afternoon with dull clouds threatening the rain.
3 Rainstorm 1. The dark clouds that had been gathering all day gave way to pouring
sheets of rain.
2. A flash of lightning streaked across the sky, followed by a roll of
thunder.
3. The distant rumble of thunder …
4. The soft patter of raindrops …
5. The torrential rain thundered on our zinc roof.
6. The rain poured from the heavens.
7. Sheets of rain … / A curtain of rain …
8. The storm raged
9. The wind was trashing in the treetops/howled overhead
10. A high wind swept across the plain.
11. Late that night, the rain finally abated.
4 Traffic 1. A motorbike/racing car whizzed by/roared past…
2. A lorry/An old bus rumbled by … in a cloud of dust/petrol fumes …
3. The traffic piled up …
4. Long rows/A sea … of cars, motorcycles and lorries … / traffic
5. We crawled along the road … / We inched forward, bit by bit …
VOCABULARY
6. Dust … Exhaust fumes …

7. Impatient drivers honked their horns … cursing … waving their fists
8. Red, sweaty faces …
Happy Occasions
1 Wedding 1. Delicious / finger-licking food
2. Happy faces
3. Toast to the newly weds
4. Performance
5. Cake-cutting ceremony
2 Achieved excellent results 1. Leaping with joy
2. Tears of joy
3. Words could not describe my happiness
4. Flying colours
5. Proud
6. Thankful
7. Grateful
8. Congratulating
3 Vacation 1. Relax
2. Happy
3. Beautiful sceneries
4. Spend quality time
5. Bonding session
Sad Occasions
1 Car accidents 1. A pool of blood stained the road
2. Unconscious
3. Crying
4. Ambulance
5. Policemen
6. Shattered glass
2 Natural Disasters (Flood, earthquake, etc) 1. Sad
2. Lifeless bodies
3. Ruins
4. Tears of sorrow
3 Fire 1. Fire brigade
2. Fire engine
3. Screaming
4. Burnt bodies
5. Thick smoke filled the air
6. Choke
SENTENCES
VARIETY IN SENTENCE STRUCTURES
SENTENCE
STRUCTURES
COMPOUND SENTENCES WITH

COMPLEX SENTENCE-
SIMPLE SENTENCES SENTENCES-sentence DIFFERENT
longer sentences
with joining words BEGINNINGS
SENTENCE PATTERNS
PATTERN ONE: SIMPLE SENTENCE
 Contains a subject and a verb.

 It expresses a complete thought/only one main idea.
 This means that it doesn't contain more than one independent clause, and it doesn't
contain any subordinate clauses.
This pattern is an example of a simple sentence:
Independent clause [. ]
Example: Doctors are concerned about the rising death rate from asthma.
COMPOUND SENTENCE :A compound sentence contains at least two independent

clauses. These clauses are joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon.
PATTERN TWO :COMPOUND SENTENCE
This pattern is an example of a compound sentence with a coordinating conjunction:
Independent clause[ , ] coordinating conjunction independent clause [ . ]
There are seven coordinating conjunctions: and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet.
Example: Doctors are concerned about the rising death rate from asthma (independent
clause) but (coordinating conjunction) they don't know the reasons for it (independent
clause).
SENTENCES
PATTERN THREE: COMPOUND SENTENCE
This pattern is an example of a compound sentence with a semicolon.
Independent clause[ ; ] independent clause [ . ]
Example: Doctors are concerned about the rising death rate from asthma; they are
unsure of its cause.
PATTERN FOUR: COMPOUND SENTENCE
This pattern is an example of a compound sentence with an independent marker.
Independent clause[ ; ] independent marker [ , ] independent clause [ . ]
Examples of independent markers are the following: therefore, moreover, thus,

consequently, however, also.
clause); therefore (independent marker), they have called for more research into its
causes ( independent clause).
COMPLEX SENTENCE :A complex sentence contains a subordinate clause and an

independent clause.
A subordinate clause is a group of words that has a subject and a verb but does not express a
complete thought.
PATTERN FIVE: COMPLEX SENTENCE
This pattern is an example of a complex sentence with a dependent marker.
Dependent markerdependent clause[ , ] Independent clause[ . ]
Examples of dependent markers are as follows: because, before, since, while, although, if,
until, when, after, as, as if.
Example: Because doctors are concerned about the rising death rate from asthma
(independent marker) they have called for more research into its causes (independent
clause).
SENTENCES
PATTERN SIX: COMPLEX SENTENCE
This pattern is an example of a complex sentence with a dependent marker.
Independent clausedependent markerdependent clause[ . ]
Examples of dependent markers are as follows: because, before, since, while, although, if,
until, when, after, as, as if.
clause))because it is a common(dependent marker), treatable illness (dependent clause).
PATTERN SEVEN :COMPLEX SENTENCE
This pattern includes an independent clause with an embedded non-essential clause or

phrase
First part of an independent clause[ , ] non-essential clause or phrase, rest of the

independent clause [ . ]
A non-essential clause or phrase is one that can be removed without changing the meaning
of the sentence or making it ungrammatical. In other words, the non-essential clause or
phrase gives additional information, but the sentence can stand alone without it.
Example: Many doctors, including both pediatricians and family practice physicians,
are concerned about the rising death rate from asthma.
PATTERN EIGHT :COMPLEX SENTENCE

This pattern includes a / at least two independent clauses and at least one subordinate clause
OR compound-complex type
SENTENCES WITH DIFFERENT BEGINNINGS
a. Begins with a gerund

Examples :i. Complaining about the noise is useless
ii. Solving crime is one of the jobs of an inspector.
iii. Retrenching of workers results in unemployment.
b. Begins with a preposition

Examples :i. With the guidance of her teacher, she passed the test.
ii. To his surprise, he won the first prize in the contest
iii. Before the match, they met in front of the stadium.
SENTENCES
Exercise
Identify the following sentences as S=simple, CP=compound, CX=complex,
CC=Compound-Complex. To make this easier, circle the subjects, underline the verbs,
and cross out the prepositional phrases.

_____ 1. The most popular sport in the world is soccer.
_____ 2. People in ancient China and Japan had a form of soccer, and even Rome had a
game that resembled soccer.
_____ 3. The game as it is played today got its start in England.
_____ 4. In the Middle Ages, whole towns played soccer on Shrove Tuesday.
_____ 5. Goals were built at opposite ends of town, and hundreds of people who lived in
those towns would play on each side.
_____ 6. Such games resembled full-scale brawls.
_____ 7. The first side to score a goal won and was declared village champion.
_____ 8. Then both sides tended to the wounded, and they didn’t play again for a whole
year.
_____ 9. The rules of the game were written in the late 1800s at British boarding schools.
_____10.Now, nearly every European country has a national soccer team, and the teams
participate in international tournaments.
_____11.For both rich and poor in Rome, public baths were a daily pleasure.
_____12.The baths were somewhat similar to modern health clubs, although they had little
equipment for exercising.
_____13.Rome alone had 856 baths; most of them were private.
_____14.Citizens who became rich were expected to build baths for their fellow citizens,
and many generously built huge marble facilities.
_____15.For the equivalent of about a quarter-penny, any Roman could be massaged,
scrubbed, and soaked in a public bath.
_____16.First, bathers might exercise, and then they went to a hot, dry room to sweat.
_____17.Next, they visited a hot, steamy room, and the final stage was a plunge into ice-
cold water.
_____18.After the citizens finished their baths, they would wrap themselves in towels and
visit with friends or walk about the grounds.
_____19.The serious-minded could browse through the bath’s library.
_____20.They also sat around and played chess and checkers in game rooms.

Fariha MODULE FOR FORM 4 2020

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

You might also like

Fariha MODULE FOR FORM 4 2020

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Fariha MODULE FOR FORM 4 2020

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

DIRECTED

Informal Letter Formal Letter

Time Allocated: 45 minutes

Write one sentence for each point.

1. Date of the camp

2. Venue and accommodation of the camp

3. Target group and number of participants

4. Organiser – English Language Panel

5. Facilitators who conducted the camp

7. Aim 2 [Give your own idea]

8. Activities carried out – Activity 1 [Give your own idea]

9. Activity 2 [Give your own idea]

10. Activity 3 [Give your own idea]

11. Positive feedbacks from the camp participants

12. Your opinion of the camp

Combine the sentences into three paragraphs:

Paragraph 1: Point 1 – Point 5

Paragraph 2: Point 6 – Point 10

Paragraph 3: Point 11 – Point 12

SET B – EVENT: STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMME IN SINGAPORE

2. Duration of the programme

4. Activities – visit places of interest

6. join community service

8. Activity [ Give own idea]

9. Benefits – gain knowledge

10. get new friends

12. Benefit [give own idea]

Combine the sentences into three paragraphs:

Paragraph 1: Point 1 – Point 3

Paragraph 2: Point 4 – Point 8

Paragraph 3: Point 9 – Point 12

SET C – EVENT: RECYCLING CAMPAIGN AT SCHOOL

- State Education officer

- to inculcate the importance of clean surroundings

- gather old newspapers and bottles

Impact on the school

- clean school and beautiful garden

1. Duration – one week

2. Launching ceremony – State Education officer

3. held at the school hall

4. Objectives – to inculcate the importance of clean surroundings

6. Activities – gather old newspapers and bottles

9. exhibitions on products from recycled materials

10. Activity – [give your own idea]

11. Impact on the school – clean school and beautiful garden

12. Impact on the school – [give your own idea]

Paragraph 1: Point 1 – Point 5

Paragraph 2: Point 6 – Point 10

Paragraph 3: Point 11 – Point 12

Write one sentence for each point.

2. post – Head Prefect

7. quality – [your own point]

8. quality – [your own point]

9. Academic achievement – top student – scored A+

10. Academic achievement – [your own point]

11. Co-curricular activities – school debater

12. best actor – drama competition