SPM ENGLISH
1119
SMART LEAP
MODULE
TABLE OF CONTENT 1. DIRECTED WRITING 1.1 Teacher’s Notes 1.2 Student’s Tips 1.3 Practices Practice 1 Practice 2 Practice 3 Practice 4 Practice 5 Practice 6 Practice 7 2. CONTINUOUS ESSAYS 2.1 Teacher’s notes
2.2 GS4GS (Great Story for Great Score) Essay 1 – Essay 10
2.3 Essays Based on MyMy-Q Technique Essay 1 – Essay 10
2.4 Essays from Final Leap Module 2010 Essay 1 – Essay 10
2.5 Essays from Smart Module 2 2011 Essay 1 – Essay 16
3. LITERATURE COMPONENT – NOVEL (CATCH US IF YOU CAN)
Practice 1 Practice 2 Practice 3 Practice 4 Practice 5 Practice 6 Practice 7 Practice 8 Practice 9 Practice 10 Practice 11 Practice 12 Practice 13
DIRECTED WRITING 1.1 Teacher’s Notes
The Directed Writing question carries a total of 35 marks – 15 marks for content and 20 marks for language. The marks for format, which can vary between 1-3 marks depending on the text type, are included in the 15 marks allocated for content. In this section, candidates are given only one question. This means that candidates do not have the luxury of choice which they are given in the Continuous Writing section.
Most candidates find this question quite manageable. In fact, even weak candidates can be taught to cope with this question to a certain extent. Several factors make this
question quite do able. Firstly, candidates are given help with content. This means candidates do not have to worry about what to write as content points are provided. It is not difficult to score full marks for content. In fact, candidates can score full marks for content if they are able to use the information given in grammatically sound sentences, irrespective of the sentence type or length. It is also easy to get marks for format if they have been exposed to the formats of different text types. Secondly, this question does not demand much
linguistically unlike the continuous writing question. Most candidates are able to cope with this question, even if they are linguistically limited. Thirdly, the question is usually set around the experiences of students. Hence, there is no reason for candidates not to attempt this
question.
Below is an analysis of the questions which have appeared until 2012:
Year Text type Purpose
2000 Letter (informal) To inform mother of choice of present for your brother and persuade mother to lend you some money 2001 Article To inform students on ways of coping with stress
2002 Speech To inform students about road safety - causes of road accidents and suggestions to reduce them 2003 Letter (formal) To inform the class teacher about the choice of class trip 2004 Report To inform the school principal about the conditions of the school canteen 2005 Letter (informal) To inform a friend about a holiday camp
2006 Letter (informal) To convince a friend to run for the post of head prefect 2007 Speech To tell students about a science reference book
2008 Article To inform students about a friend who has been chosen as the Best Group Leader
2009 A Report To inform the Principal of the reasons why students lack of interest in sports 2010 Letter (Informal) To tell a cousin the benefits of taking part in National Service Program 2011 Talk To students – how to manage a sprained ankle 2012 Letter (Informal)
To younger sister studying overseas – advise her how to spend money wisely
Common errors
• Poor time management. Do not spend more than the allocated 45 minutes on this question. Otherwise you will not have enough time for the second question.
• Lengthy essays. Do not write too much. As mentioned earlier, this question does not make many demands on a candidate. Directed writing is a succinct piece of writing. All you have to do is use the given points and provide a sentence or two (maybe three) to elaborate on them. A response of 1 ½ - 2 pages is more than sufficient. After all, the more you write the more mistakes you might make. Some candidates make the mistake of writing one paragraph for each point. If you do this, your essay is going to be very lengthy. Save the time and energy for Continuous writing.
• Usage of informal language. This paper tests your written English. Do not use spoken language. Avoid using slang words (such as guys, …..), contractions, and informal language (such as informal idiomatic expressions or informal phrasal verbs).
• Poor punctuation. Some candidates do not punctuate their sentences correctly. Make sure you end your sentence with a full stop and not a comma. Also, make sure that the
pronoun I is written in upper case and not lower case (i) as is the practice among some candidates.
1.2 Student’s Tips
General Guidelines for Directed Writing
• Read the question carefully. Identify your task, your role and your audience. • Use the 45 minutes allocated for this question wisely.
• Plan your essay and organize your thoughts (this includes what to write and how to elaborate on points)
• Include an introduction and a conclusion and make sure your paragraphs are well organized.
• Use all content points given. It is advisable to cross out the points you have used, so that no point is left out.
• Include points of your own only if you are asked to. Otherwise, do not waste precious time doing so because you will not get any extra marks.
• Elaborate on the points given. Write 2-3 sentences to elaborate on each point.
Remember a crucial aspect of this paper is language and your ability to write can only be tested if you provide sufficient language for the examiner to gauge your linguistic ability. • Use a variety of sentence structures so that your essay is not dull and monotonous.
• Always read through what you have written. Correct grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors.
1.3 Sample Essays And Practices Sample essay and practice 1 Articles
General guidelines
1. Articles are pieces of writing giving information, advice or suggestions to the readers. 2. They are usually written for the school magazine or school newsletter.
3. The tone and style are formal. 4. An article’s format
a) Title – can be taken from the rubric
b) Writer’s name – Just write ‘By,’ and then followed by your name just below the title. c) The people who are going to read the article.
Question
Many students feel that they have too many things to do in one day. Many of them really do not manage their time wisely and end up not completing their homework or school projects on time. You want to make a few suggestions on how they can manage their time in a better and more effective way.
Write an article for your school magazine giving your suggestions on how to manage time. Include the following points.
• Change attitude • Pay attention in class
• Try to complete as much homework as possible during school hours • Make a ‘To do’ list
• Set priorities right
• Set a realistic target for examination • Plan a personal timetable
• Make time for rest and relaxation • Join study groups
• Seek help from parents, teachers or friends • Speak to school counsellor
• Stay happy and healthy
When writing the article, you should remember to: - Include the title
- Include the writer’s name - Include all the points given - Write in the format of an article
Sample Answer
How to Manage Time By Albert Moss
Today many students feel that they have too many things to do in one day. Many of them really do not manage their time wisely and end up not completing their homework or school projects on time. So, here I would like to give some suggestions to students on how to manage time.
Firstly, students must change their attitude. Next, students should pay attention in class. Thirdly, students must try to complete as much homework as possible during school hours. Furthermore students can make a ‘To do’ list.
Students ought to set their priorities right. Students should set a realistic target for their coming examination. Furthermore, students can plan a personal timetable. Students must also make time for rest and relaxation.
Students can join study groups. All students should seek help from parents, teachers or friends if needed. Students should speak to the school counsellor if necessary. Finally students should be happy and healthy when they spend their time wisely.
Examination Tips
1. Introduction of the article can be taken from the rubric as shown in the sample.
2. All students need to do is to add the phrase students followed by a modal, in front of the given content points to create meaningful sentences.
e.g – Students should, Students must etc. 3. Use conjunctions and sequence connectors Practice 1
You are asked to write an article for your school magazine Your article is on ‘Disciplinary Problems in Schools’. In your article, you also suggest ways to overcome the problems. Below are some notes you have made.
Problems
• Playing truant – cutting classes, loitering in shopping complexes, frequenting cybercafes during school hours
• Smoking – in toilets, behind the bushes, cutting classes to smoke • Bullying – intimidating, beating, extorting money
• Vandalism – destroying school property, graffiti
• Gangsterism – involved in gangs, fighting, recruiting juniors Suggestions to overcome the problems
• Counselling
• Joining voluntary organization • Being active in games and societies • Doing part-time job
• Taking up a hobby • Intervention by parents
Do remember: • To give a title
• That your audience are students • To use all the notes given above • To write in paragraphs
Disciplinary Problems In Schools By : Mohamad Khusairi bin Mat Jali
In the recent years, an alarming issue closely related to education that has always been discussed is the student’s discipline in schools. As a student, I think you might have heard of disciplinary problems happening in your own school. You yourself might have also committed certain misconducts throughout the years. This article will deal with common disciplinary problems in school. Apart from that, a few suggestions to overcome the problems will be discussed.
Nowadays, it is common to find students playing truant. Normally, the students involved will be cutting classes. During that time, they prefer to be loitering in shopping complexes and frequenting cyber cafes during school hours. To make things more discreet, right after leaving their homes in school uniforms, they change into their everyday clothes. This makes it more difficult for the authorities to figure out their identities by just looking at them physically. That is why some parents are baffled when informed about the failure of their children to turn up at school.
Smoking is another common disciplinary problem among school students. The offenders normally smoke in toilets and behind the bushes. They also resort to cutting classes just to fulfil their craving for cigarette. Peer pressure is always attributed to this problem. Smoking is seen as a way to make them feel that they belong to certain groups. This problem should be dealt with as soon as possible, for it may lead to other problems in the future, such as addiction and drugs.
Bullying is also another problem faced by the school administration. This is an alarming problem because bullies can be quite intimidating to other students. Bullying does not only come in forms of verbal abuse, it also comes in forms of physical beating. Besides, bullies may also be extorting money from their victims. This problem may leave a permanent damage to the victims, physically and mentally, if it is not curbed at the early stage. Students might feel that school is not a safe place anymore. As a result, this can affect them academically.
Vandalism is another form of misconduct. It is done by destroying school property. It is common to see graffiti on the walls, in the toilet, and even in the classrooms. This happens due to the lack of sense of belonging to the school. Students also do so to show their anger and frustration towards certain issues. This act of vandalism must be put to a stop because it involves a lot of tax payers’ money to repair the damage done.
Lately, gangsterism has also surfaced in the school scene. There are students who are involved in gangs. They will be fighting with other students to solve some issues. The possibilities of them recruiting their juniors are very real. Therefore, it is imperative that the school administration takes a swift action when such problems occur in the school.
All parties must join hands together to overcome the disciplinary problems mentioned earlier. There are a few measures which can be taken by various parties to solve the problems. One of the measures is counselling. The school administration can come forward to offer counselling to the students who have become victims to bullying. By doing so, the victim would feel that they are not alone in this issue. They may be recovering from the trauma or stress from being bullied faster due to the support given by the school. On the other hand, the bullies themselves can also be sent for counselling. The school authorities may use this method as a way to get to the root of the problem and identify the reason behind the offense done. Not only will we give support to the victims, we can also use the counselling sessions to further understand the bullies themselves.
Encouraging students to join voluntary organisations is another way to curb bullying. This is because those who are actively involved in voluntary organisations usually manage to communicate well with other people. This is due to the interactions they make along the way. By having good communication skills, they will make more friends. The students can avoid themselves from being eyed by the bullies because normally, bullies will pick students who are timid and constantly being alone.
Being active in games and societies can also be another way to curb the disciplinary problems in schools. Games and societies are not just meant to be fun, they are supposed to be educational as well. If student really out their effort into the games and societies, they will learn to be more disciplined. Games come with certain rules to obey, so do societies. By immersing themselves in the activities, students can instil into themselves the sense of responsibility. This will lead them to be more responsible, more considerable and more understanding students. They will respect others. As a result, they will evaluate every single action they make and they will have a better judgement towards certain issues.
Doing part-time job is also recommended. The feeling of earning own income can be very enlightening to students. Instead of getting everything easily by the help of their parents, they can now learn that it is not easy to earn their own money. They also learn how to follow instructions in the real situation. The consequences of not following orders are very real once they join the work force. This can make them realise that if they fail to comply, they will lose their job. This can be a meaningful lesson to them, since they can relate this to their everyday life.
Taking up a hobby is another measure. Once the students have hobbies, they will not be distracted by others easily. Having a hobby is good. It provides students with escapism from the real world. Once students are indulged in a hobby, they will commit their spare time for something beneficial. Even if they are stressed with life as students, they can put aside the problems that they have for a while by getting themselves actively involved in their hobbies. Once they get busy, there is no way they can think of committing disciplinary cases.
Although the problems are happening in schools, the intervention by parents is vital in dealing with this issue. Generally, students are at school only for a few hours in a day. Teachers may monitor them during school hour. However, after school hours, parents should shoulder the responsibility in an active way. Parents must monitor the movement of their children and make sure that they know the whereabouts of their children all the time. Parents should also give their full cooperation to the school administration whenever they are summoned to school to discuss their children’s problems. They must realise that discipline actually starts at home. If the parents themselves cannot afford to manage their children’s discipline, they cannot put the blame on the school authorities for any actions taken as a punishment for the children’s misbehaviour.
Although it is impossible to totally eradicate disciplinary problems in school, it is our duty to bring the rate down. With cooperation from all parties, we can reduce the
disciplinary cases at school. It is in everybody’s interest to make the school a conducive environment to study. Therefore, all parties should plan their actions in order to reduce the effects of disciplinary problem on the teaching and learning conditions in schools.
Sample essay and practice 2 Speech/Talk
General guidelines
1. Read questions and notes to understand situation. Determine: a. Type of speech – thank you/farewell/informative
b. Main idea/theme of speech – pollution/safety/smoking/dumping babies c. Who is your audience? – students, teachers, club members
2. Identify the relevant points in the questions. 3. Elaborate on the points. Give examples. 4. Know the format of the speech:
a. Address the audience b. Introduce yourself c. State the topic
d. Conclude by summarizing all the points e. Thank the audience
5. Some useful expressions a. Opening.
- Good morning/afternoon/evening to the Principal, teachers…..
- A very good morning I bid to the Chairman, teachers and my fellow friends…. b. Beginning.
- Today, I would like to talk about….
- I am Adiba bt Kassim and this morning I wish to talk about….. - Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about…. c. Closing
- I hope I have given you all the information on………..Thank you - Finally, let me end my speech by…………..
Question
As the President of the Environment Club, you have been asked by your teacher to give a speech to all students in your school on how they can help to reduce environmental problems. In your speech, include the following notes:
HOW TO REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS Reduce energy usage • Do not waste electricity
• Use products that have timers • Use energy saving appliances Reduce waste • Use environmental friendly products • Use recycled materials • Use washable items Reduce air pollution
• Avoid open burning • Use unleaded petrol • Practise car pooling
When writing your speech text, you should remember to: • use the appropriate greeting and closing
• state the purpose of the speech • use all the notes given
• write in paragraphs Sample Answer 1
Good morning to the Principal, teachers and friends. My name is Labu bin Labi from class 5 Science. As the President of the Environment Club, I have been asked by my teacher to give a speech to all students in my school on how they can help to reduce environmental problems.
Firstly, we have to reduce energy usage. Do not waste electricity. For example we must switch off the lights and fans before we leave the classroom. We should use products that have timers so they will switch off automatically when the time is up. We should also use energy saving appliances like light bulbs and many others.
Secondly, we have to reduce air pollution. For example, we should avoid open burning. It is better to bury than to burn rubbish in the open. We should also use unleaded petrol for our cars. It is also good to practise car pooling to work. Fewer cars on the road means less traffic and less pollution.
Thirdly, we have to reduce waste. We must use environmental friendly products that do not harm the environment. We should also use recycled materials like paper bags instead of plastic bags. We should also use washable items to reduce waste.
That is all for now. Thank you everyone for listening.
Sample Answer 2
Good morning to the Principal, teachers and friends. I as the President of the Environmental Club feel greatly honoured to stand here before you to give a speech. I hope my speech will enlighten you about how students can help to reduce environmental problems.
Do you realize that men are contributing a lot in destroying the environment? Thus, we must take our responsibilities in order to reduce the environmental problems. Reducing environmental problems could be implemented in various ways. My speech will centre on three main ways: reducing energy usage, air pollution and waste.
.
Firstly, we must remember to reduce energy usage. In order to reduce energy usage, we should not waste electricity. Don’t forget to turn out the lights when you leave a room. Unplug all the appliances that you seldom use. Use power strips to switch off televisions, home theatre equipment, and stereos when you're not using them. Even when you think these products are off, together, their "standby" consumption can be equivalent to that of a 75 or 100 watt light bulb running continuously. The best alternative is to use products that have timers. You can set the time when using the products and they will automatically switch off when the time is up. Another way of reducing energy usage is by using energy saving appliances. Energy -saving appliances use less power and water than inefficient models whilst performing to the same standards. Besides, it also saves your bills.
Air pollution is one of causes of environmental problems. Open burning is one example of air pollution and it is a very common, yet very unhealthy method of garbage disposal. This includes the burning of leaves, wood and trash. It could lead to haze. Thus, in reducing air pollution, we should avoid open burning by educating people on the negative effects of it. The other way is to use unleaded petrol. It does not have lead added to it as anti-knock agent, therefore, when burnt in engines, this petrol does not give off toxic fumes and produces far less smokes and fumes. Next, we should start practising car-pooling to schools and offices. Other than helping to reduce environmental problems, it creates friendship as well.
We often forgot that waste disposal is another factor that leads to environmental issues. Waste such as aluminium cans and plastic bags take more than decades to be decomposed. To overcome this problem, it is advisable to use environmental friendly products. Going green is the latest campaign in reducing waste. Instead of using Styrofoam and plastic tableware that will not biodegrade and will fill our landfills forever, why don’t we use biodegradable tableware which only takes 50 to 100 days to completely compost. In addition, use recycled materials in our everyday life. Bring your recycled bags to supermarket for shopping and use recycled paper to write or to print notes. Finally, use washable items. Do not be shy to bring your water tumbler and bento box to the restaurants when you want to buy food. Instead of putting the food and drink in the plastic bag, use the tumbler and bento box. Your effort may be belittled by others but it does help to save the environment. Furthermore, going green does not make money for you, but it saves your wealth, that’s for sure. So it wouldn’t be a foolish decision at all.
To sum up, there are many ways that we can do to reduce environmental problems. However, it depends on us whether we want to do it or not. There is no point pointing fingers to others. As Gandhi said, we must become the change we want to see. Change your thought and you can change the world. With that, I thank you for lending me your ears.
Examination Tips
1. Remind students to write an appropriate greeting according to the question requirement. 2. All points should be written in complete sentences in order to be awarded marks for
content points.
3. Remind students to write simple sentences instead of lengthy ones to avoid grammar mistakes.
4. Giving examples is considered as an elaboration.
Practice 2(a) - Speech
As the President of The Road Safety Club, you have been asked by your teacher to give a speech to all students in your school on how motorists cause accidents and suggest some ways to reduce these accidents.
Use the notes below to guide you. Causes
Turning without signalling
Switching lanes, traffic jams - highways Breaking traffic rules after midnight Weaving in and out of traffic
Beating traffic lights Underaged motorists
Speeding in housing estates Ways to reduce accidents Vehicle - in good condition
Traffic police - peak hours, after midnight More speed traps
Impose heavier fines
Road safety campaign - raise awareness In your speech, remember to:
provide a title
use all the information above
add two other ways to reduce accidents
Practice 2(b) – Talk
Many students in your school complain that they are stressed. As the President of the Health Club in your school, you have been asked to give a talk during assembly. You have made a list of the reasons given by these students and you would like to give them some suggestions on how to cope with their problem.
Use the following notes to write your talk. • Causes
- long hours spent at school - too much homework
- too many projects - frequent exams - tuition classes
- high expectations from parents - lack of sleep
• Suggestions
- have a positive outlook - plan a timetable
- study consistently - have manageable goals - exercise regularly
When writing out your talk, you should remember to: • address your audience
• state the purpose of the talk • use all the points given
• end your talk appropriately
Sample essay and practice 3 Report
General guidelines
1. A report gives information to a particular person or group. 2. It has to be formal and concise
3. The content is inclusive of facts and opinions. 4. Types of report:
a. Report of an incident b. Report on activity or event c. Report on a survey
d. Newspaper report Basic format
Report On__________________________________ To : ( to whom the report is directed to )
From : ( the person who writes the report ) Date : _______________
Facts and elaboration……….
Conclusion………
Reported by, signature
Question
You are the Secretary of the Environment Club in your school. Your club has successfully organized Environment Week in your school. Write a report to the principal about the event. Include the following information in your report:
15 Duration
• 3rd – 7th March 2011
Objectives
• raise awareness
• beautify school compound
Activities • paint murals • plant trees
• recycle old newspapers • poster drawing competition • speech by invited guest Advantages
• create conducive environment • instill love for nature
• foster closer relationship • develop co-operation ENVIRONMENT
When writing the report, you should remember to: • give the report a title
• address the report accordingly • provide an appropriate ending • use all the information given • write in paragraphs
SAMPLE ANSWER 1 To: Principal
SMK Gemilang From: Secretary
The Environment Club
Environment Week In My School
The Environment Club in my school has successfully organized an Environment Week. The duration of the Environment Week was from 3rd - 7th March 2011.
The first objective of the programme was to raise awareness about the environment among the students. The second objective was to beautify the school compound with as many plants as possible.
There were many activities organized by the Environment Club during the week. Students painted colourful murals on the wall about environment. They also planted trees around the school with the help of the school gardeners. They brought old newspapers from home to be sent for recycling. They took part in poster drawing competition on environment and they also listened to a speech by an invited guest during the closing ceremony.
The advantages of the Environment Week are as follows. Firstly. it creates conducive environment to the students. Secondly, it instils love for nature in everyone. Thirdly, it fosters closer relationship between students and teachers in the school. Fourthly, it develops co-operation among students.
The Environment Week was successful and hopefully the programme will be held every year as an annual event.
Reported by, 15 March 2011
Labu bin Labi Labu bin Labi
SAMPLE ANSWER 2
To: Principal SMK Gemilang From: Secretary
The Environment Club
Environment Week In My School
The Environment Club in my school has successfully organized an Environment Week. The duration of the Environment Week was from 3rd - 7th March 2011. A total of 711 students
and 25 teachers were involved.
The first objective of the programme was to raise awareness about the environment among the students. This is imperative as students are a part of society and thus have a vital role in taking care of the environment. The second objective was to beautify the school compound with as many plants as possible.
There were many activities organized by the Environment Club during the week. Students painted colourful murals on the wall about environment. Some drew cartoons while others drew mesmerizing graffiti-style murals. They also planted trees around the school with the help of the school gardeners. They brought old newspapers from home to be sent for recycling. They took part in poster drawing competition on environment and they also listened to a speech by an invited guest during the closing ceremony. The speech was very informative and helped us to have a better understanding of the environment.
The advantages of the Environment Week are as follows. Firstly, it creates conducive environment to the students. This would helps students learn more effectively in school. Secondly, it instils love for nature in everyone. Thirdly, it fosters closer relationship between students and teachers in the school. Fourthly, it develops co-operation among students. It is also hoped that this would help students be more tolerant and understanding of the customs and beliefs of the different races.
At the end of the week the Principal gave away prizes and certificates to the winners of the poster drawing competition. In a nutshell, the Environment Week was successful and hopefully the programme will be held every year as an annual event.
Reported by, 15 March 2011
EXAMINATION TIPS
1. Remind students that they should use the words in the rubric to help them with their introductory paragraph.
2. All points should be written in complete sentences in order to be awarded marks for content points.
3. Remind students to write simple sentences instead of lengthy ones to avoid grammar mistakes.
Practice 3
You and your classmates have just returned from a trip to Kuala Lumpur. You are the class monitor. Write a report to your class teacher about the trip.
Include the following information. Trip to Kuala Lumpur
Date : 15 - 17 December Duration: 3 days and 2 nights No of students : 32
No of teachers: 3 Mode of transport: Bus Accommodation: Hotel Cost per person: RM 120.00 Paces of interest:
• Art gallery
• Shopping complexes • Parks and gardens • Zoos
• Museums
• give the report a title
• address the report accordingly • provide an appropriate ending • use all the information given
Sample essay and practice 4 Formal Letter
Basic Format
Nur Adilah bt Mufti
24, Taman Desa Minangkabau 06400 Pokok Sena The Director, Municipal Council P.O. Box 43 063500 Alor Setar Kedah. 24 APRIL 2011 Dear Sir,
Complaint About Services
With the reference to the above matter, I……… ……… 2 ……….. ………
3 I hope………. ………. Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
(a) Letter of complaint
There has been a plan to build a mega shopping complex near the public beach in your neighbourhood. As a concerned citizen, write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper protesting against the plan. Write the letter based on the notes below:
• A shopping complex already exists
• Spoil the beauty of the beach • Increase traffic flow in the area
• Project may drive tourists away • Local businesses affected • Social ills will increase
When writing the letter, you should remember to:
• Address the letter to the editor of a local newspaper • Use all the notes given
• Elaborate all the notes
Sample Answer Jason James,
5, Kampung Pantai Merdeka, 08100 Pantai Merdeka, Kedah Darul Aman.
Editor, The Star,
08000 Sungai Petani,
Kedah Darul Aman. 26 MAY 2011 Dear Sir,
PROTESTING AGAINST A PLAN TO BUILD A MEGA SHOPPING COMPLEX
I am writing this letter on behalf of the residents of Kampung Pantai Merdeka. It has come to our knowledge that the local authority has already given the green light to build a mega shopping complex near the public beach of Pantai Merdeka. We are totally against the mega project. These are our reasons.
2. Firstly, we do not need a mega shopping complex as a shopping complex already exists in our area. [Where?] The existing shopping complex is only 1 kilometre from the
proposed site. Secondly, the new shopping complex will spoil the beauty of the beach. [What will happen?] The swaying coconut and casuarina trees will be cut down. Besides, there will be more rubbish on the white sandy beach.
3. Next, the project may drive tourists away. [How?] The beach area will be reduced and the shady areas will be demolished. With the mega project, there will also be an increase of traffic flow in the area. [How?] [When?] More heavy vehicles such as lorries and trailers will use the village road throughout the construction period. [What effect?] This will increase the number of road accidents.
4. Furthermore, local business will also be affected. [Who are involved?] Ten hawkers who sell foods and drinks along the beach will be affected. [What are the effects?] They will lose their income and will be unable to support their families. Finally, we believe social ills will increase. [How?] The mega shopping complex will have a big cinema and a bowling arena. These kinds of places may attract more teenagers to loiter and play truant. These may lead to an increase in social ills.
5. We appeal to the authorities to shelve their plans without any further delay as it would mar the beauty of the beach.
Yours faithfully, Jason James (JASON JAMES)
Examination Tips
1. Make a simple introduction. Explain more about the location of the neighbourhood.
2. Rewrite the points given in complete sentences. Elaborate each of the points given by giving simple details. Ask wh-questions to help you to elaborate.
3. Plan the organisation of each point.
4. If you do not have any personal experience regarding the issue, try to be imaginative. Your imagination may help you to provide some relevant details.
PRACTICE 4 – FORMAL LETTERS
LETTER OF COMPLAINT
Practice 4 a
There has been a plan to build a mega shopping complex near the public beach in your neighbourhood. As a concerned citizen, write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper protesting against the plan. Write the letter based on the notes below:
• A shopping complex already exists • People will spend more
• Spoil the beauty of the beach • Project may drive tourists away • Cost of living may go up
• Local businesses affected
• Increase traffic flow in the area • Traffic jam
• Pollution
• Social ills will increase a) Loiter
b) Play truant
When writing the letter, you should remember to:
• Address the letter to the editor of a local newspaper • Use all the notes given
• Elaborate all the notes
SAMPLE ANSWER 1: Jason James,
5, Kampung Pantai Merdeka, 08100 Pantai Merdeka, Kedah Darul Aman.
Editor, The Star,
08000 Sungai Petani,
Kedah Darul Aman. 26 MAY 2011
Dear Sir,
PROTESTING AGAINST A PLAN TO BUILD A MEGA SHOPPING COMPLEX I am writing this letter on behalf of the residents of Kampung Pantai Merdeka. We came to know that there has been a plan to build a mega shopping complex near the public beach in our neighbourhood. We are protesting against the plan. These are our reasons.
1. Firstly, we do not need another shopping complex as a shopping complex already exists in our neighbourhood.. [Where?] Secondly, the new shopping complex may cause people to spend more as there will be two supermarkets to go shopping [What will happen?]
2. In addition, the project may spoil the beauty of the beach. This will surely drive the tourist away. The beach area will be damaged.
3. Furthermore, the cost of living will go up. Furthermore, local business will also be affected. [who are involved?] The hawkers who sell foods and drinks along the beach will have bad business. [What are the effects?] They will lose their income.
4. There will also be an increase of traffic flow in the area. [How?] [When?] Many vehicles such as lorries will use the village road when building the
supermarket.. [What effect?] This will increase the number of road accidents. Traffic jams will occur. Air pollution will happen too.
5. Finally, we believe social ills will increase. [How?] The teenagers especially school students wil loiter and play truant in the new supermarket .. 6. We hope the plan to build a shopping complex will be stopped.
Yours faithfully, Jason James (JASON JAMES)
SAMPLE ANSWER 2: Jason James,
5, Kampung Pantai Merdeka, 08100 Pantai Merdeka, Kedah Darul Aman.
Editor, The Star,
08000 Sungai Petani,
Kedah Darul Aman. 26 MAY 2011
Dear Sir,
PROTESTING AGAINST A PLAN TO BUILD A MEGA SHOPPING COMPLEX I am writing this letter on behalf of the residents of Kampung Pantai Merdeka. It has come to our knowledge that the local authority has already given the green light to build a mega shopping complex near the public beach of Pantai Merdeka. We are totally against the mega project. These are our reasons.
1. Firstly, we do not need a mega shopping complex as a shopping complex already exists in our area. [Where?] The existing shopping complex is only 1
kilometre from the proposed site. Secondly, the new shopping complex may cause people to spend more as people have more options and choices [What will happen?]
2. In addition, the project may spoil the beauty of the beach. As a result, the swaying coconut and casuarinas trees will be cut down. Besides, there will be more rubbish on the white sandy beach. This will surely drive the tourist away. The beach area will be reduced and the shady areas will be demolished.
3. Furthermore, the cost of living will go up. Having another shopping complex is development. In a developed place, cost of things may go up. This will cause
hardship to people Furthermore, local business will also be affected. [who are involved?] Ten hawkers who sell foods and drinks along the beach will be affected. [What are the effects?] They will lose their income and will be unable to support their families
4. With the mega project, there will also be an increase of traffic flow in the area. [How?] [When?] More heavy vehicles such as lorries and trailers will use the village road throughout the construction period. [What effect?] This will increase the number of road accidents. Traffic jams will be part and parcel of our live then especially during rush hours. It would also lead to air pollution as there will be much dust and smoke during construction.
5. Finally, we believe social ills will increase. [How?] The mega shopping complex will have a big cinema and a bowling arena. These kinds of places for sure will attract more teenagers to loiter and play truant. These may lead to an increase in social ills.
6. We strongly appeal to the authorities to shelve their plans without any further delay as it would create all the problems as mentioned above
Yours faithfully, Jason James (JASON JAMES)
(b): Formal Letter of request
The Parent-Teacher Association of your school is organising a food fair to raise funds for various projects. As the Secretary of the Interact Club, you are in charge of writing a letter to a fast-food restaurant asking them to sponsor the food.
In your letter, include the following:
• date, day, time and venue of the food fair
• 2 objectives of the food fair – learn to share, experience the importance of cooperation • further details about the food fair
- involve all clubs and societies - expected crowd: 1,000 people
- amount of money to be raised: RM10,000 • request for sponsorship of food
• request for lucky draw hampers
When writing the letter, you should remember to: • Address the letter to the manager
• Use appropriate opening and closing • Include other relevant details
SAMPLE ANSWER 1: Interact Club,
11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang.
The Manager,
KKC Fast Food Sdn. Bhd., 28, BL Free Trade Zone, 11900 Bayan Lepas,
Pulau Pinang. 12 JULY 2011 Dear Sir,
A Request to Sponsor Food for the School Food Fair
The Parent-Teacher Association of our school is organising a food fair to raise funds for various projects. Here are the details of the food fair:
Date : 5 August 2011
Day : Thursday
Time : 9.00am – 2.00pm Venue : School Hall
2. The food fair has two objectives which are to learn to share and experience the
importance of co-operation. These two objectives are important for students. So, we can learn how to share and co-operate in this food fair.
3. Here are the further details about the food fair. The food fair involves all clubs and societies of the school. The expected crowd is about 1,000 people. The amount of money to be raised is about RM10,000.
4. We would like to ask you to sponsor food like fried chicken, fish and chicken burgers. We also like to request from you to sponsor lucky draw hampers.
5. We hope you can sponsor the food and hamper that we have requested. We will be happy if you help.
Thank You. Yours faithfully, Ssyyysweirtv
(SYLVIA DIANA BT WIRA) Secretary,
Interact Club SMK Cempaka Sample Answer 2: Interact Club,
11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang.
The Manager,
KKC Fast Food Sdn. Bhd., 28, BL Free Trade Zone, i11900 Bayan Lepas,
Pulau Pinang. 12 JULY 2011
Dear Sir,
A REQUEST TO SPONSOR FOOD AND DRINKS FOR THE FOOD FAIR
Our school is organising a food fair to raise funds for various projects. Here are the details of the food fair:
Date : 5 August 2011 Day : Thursday
Time : 9.00 am – 2.00 pm Venue : School Hall
2. The food fair has two objectives. First of all, the club aims to encourage the students to learn to share with others. [How can they share with others?] They must learn not to be selfish and help others in any way they can. Another objective is to allow students to experience the importance of cooperation. [With whom will they cooperate?] Through this food fair we are sure the students will learn how to work with other students of different clubs and societies.
3. The followings are further details of the food fair. This project will involve all clubs and societies. [How many?] So far 12 clubs and 9 societies have confirmed their participations. They will sell different kinds of foods to the expected crowd which is about 1,000 people. [Who are they?] The fair is open to all the students and their parents. Our target amount of money to be raised is RM10,000. [Why RM10,000?] We need that amount of money to organise various projects that will benefit the students.
4. We would like to make two humble requests here. The first is to request for your sponsorship of food. [How much? What kind of food?] We really appreciate if you could sponsor 100 pieces of fried chickens and 100 pieces of fish burgers. There is also a request for your company to sponsor lucky draw hampers. [How many? What is the cost?] It would be good if you can sponsor 3 hampers. Each hamper may cost RM20.00 each.
5. Every member of the Interact Club prays hard that your company would be able to sponsor the food and hampers. We put a very high hope that you will be part of our fund-raising activity. Your generosity is truly appreciated.
Ssyyyysweirtv
(SYLVIA DIANA BT WIRA) Secretary,
Interact Club,
Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Cempaka.
Examination Tips:
1. Make a simple introduction. Refer to the question for the key ideas to be written in the introduction.
2. Rewrite the points given in complete sentences. Elaborate each of the points given by giving simple details. Ask wh-questions when giving elaboration. Certain wh-questions are much easier for you to answer such as when, who, how many and where. Answering why is normally more challenging.
3. Plan the organisation of each point.
Practice 4
Letter of complaint
There are a few matters in your school which could be improved. You and your classmates have had a meeting and decided to write a formal letter of complaint to the principal. As the class monitor, you have been asked to write the letter.
In your letter, include the following: Classroom:
• Unsafe wooden chairs • Fans not working Toilets: • Broken doors • Unhygienic Canteen: • Limited choices of foods
• High price of foods
When writing the letter, you should remember to: • Set out the letter correctly
• Elaborate each note appropriately Sample essay and practice 5
Informal Letter General guidelines
1. Informal letter is written to pen pals, friends, relatives and family members. 2. The format of an informal letter has the following features.
a) Sender’s address
b) Date – any form – but avoid writing in the formal form – 30 August 2011 Both a) and b) must be written on the top right-hand corner of the letter c) Salutation – on the left hand side of the letter – Dear mum, Dear sister, d) Start your letter asking about the receiver’s well-being – How are you? e) If you are replying a letter you may start like this – I received your letter… f) State the purpose of your letter – I am writing this letter because……….
g) Closing – Yours sincerely (for friends, pen-pals, etc.), Your loving daughter, etc. Do not use ‘Yours faithfully’ as it is used for formal letter.
3. Three marks are usually awarded for format although there are more than 3 features. 4. Write your letter in 3 - 4 paragraphs.
5. Informal language can be used in an informal letter – I’ve, dad, mum, sis, be happy, etc.
6. Do not use “sms language” such as “u” for “you” and “b4” for “before”
7.
Basic Format
Muhammad Akiff bin Azizan, No. 4, Taman Desa Impian, 06350 Naka,
12 April 2011 Dear Hani,
I have just received your letter ………... ……….. Yours sincerely, Akiff
Question
Your father wants to buy a computer but he is not sure whether it is better to buy a laptop or a desktop computer. He asks for your opinion. After doing some research, you come up with some information on both computers.
Using the notes given below, write an informal letter to your father stating your choice and supporting it with reasons.
LAPTOP COMPUTER
DESKTOP COMPUTER • Portable
• Slim and light
• Can function on battery • More expensive • More fragile • Easier to steal • Cheaper • Easier to upgrade • Harder to steal
• Bulkier- difficult to carry around • Require more space
• Rely on direct supply of electricity
When writing out your letter, you should remember to include the following: • To state your choice
• To make comparisons
• To state the purpose of the letter
• To give appropriate greeting and closing • Use all the points given
SAMPLE ANSWER 1: 122,Taman Pearlview Avenue, High Tech Park, 09000 Kulim,
Kedah Darul Aman. 30/8/10
Dear father,
How are you over there? I hope you are fine. I am doing okay here. I am writing this letter to let you know about my opinion on whether to buy a laptop or a desktop computer. I think you should buy a desktop computer.
Firstly, desktop computers are cheaper. They are also easier to be upgraded. It is harder to steal desktop computers because they are heavy.
However they have some weaknesses too. They are bulkier and difficult to be carried around. They also require more space and rely on direct supply of electricity.
On the other hand, laptops are portable, slim and light and can function on battery. However I do not recommend it to you because laptops are more expensive and fragile. Besides, they are easier for people to steal.
I hope that I have been helpful. I know that you will make a right choice. If you still have doubts, feel free to contact me again. Till then. Goodbye .
Your loving son / daughter, signature
….………. SAMPLE ANSWER 2: 122,Taman Pearlview Avenue, High Tech Park, 09000 Kulim,
Kedah Darul Aman. 30/8/13
Dear father,
How are you over there? I hope you are fine. I am doing okay here. I am writing this letter to let you know about my opinion on whether to buy a laptop or a desktop computer. I think you should buy a desktop computer.
Firstly, desktop computers are cheaper. They generally give you more computing power and disk space for less money. In addition, desktop computers are cheaper to repair than laptops.
Secondly, they are also easier to be upgraded. In a desktop, you only need to open the casing to access the hardware. You can increase the RAM, upgrade the microprocessor and even increase your storage capacity.
Thirdly, it is harder to steal desktop computers because they are heavy. If someone happens to break into our house, they're unlikely to take the desktop, which has to be
unplugged from the wall and transported with all of its attached peripherals. Therefore, it is
more theft-resistant.
However they have some weaknesses too. They are bulkier and difficult to be carried around. They also require more space, at least a full computer table! They rely on direct supply of electricity. Also there is a mess of connection cables. Even a simple device like a keyboard might have up to two cables that need to be plugged into the main console.
On the other hand, laptops give you portability and convenience. You can take your work with you whenever you go on business trips, holidays or to your favourite cafe, Starbucks. Laptops are also slim and light and can function on battery. However I do not recommend it to you because laptops are more expensive and fragile. The miniaturization of components to make it portable increases the cost of ownership and the sensitivity of the hardware in the laptops make it delicate.
Apart from that, laptops are easier for people to steal. Just leave the laptop unattended and you can be sure of never seeing it again. Someone could just put it in their backpack and walk away without a trace because it is compact and weightless. I hope that I have been helpful. I know that you are in a quandary about what to buy but keep your options open until you’re sure it’s the best choice. If you still have doubts, feel free to contact me again. Till then. Goodbye .
Your loving son / daughter, signature
EXAMINATION TIPS
1. Refer to other model letters to see how the given content points are constructed into meaningful sentences.
2. Sentences need not be long.
3. Just add phrases like “They are” or “Desktop computers” to the given content points. 4. Remember there would be 12 content points and it is easy to get marks for all the
content points.
5. End your letter in a friendly, informal manner – Well, till we meet again, Goodbye.
Practice 5
You have a cousin who lives in Kuala Lumpur. You have decided to organize a trip there for you and your classmates during the second term holidays. Write a letter to your cousin informing him or her of your plan.
In your letter, ask your cousin to help you rent rooms at a hostel. You should also include the following information:
Details of your visit • Date
• Number of people going
• Number of days you intend to stay there • Number of rooms required
• Budget for the rooms per day What you plan to do
• Visit:
Kuala Lumpur Tower National Zoo
Science Centre Putrajaya • Tour the city
• Go shopping at KLCC
When writing the letter, you should remember to: - Use suitable format
- Use all the informations given above - Elaborate on what you plan to do
Practice 6
You are asked to write an article for your school magazine. Your article is on ‘Disciplinary Problems in Schools’. In your article, you also suggest ways to overcome the problems. Below are some notes you have made.
Problems
• Playing truant – cutting classes, loitering in shopping complexes • Smoking – in toilets, behind the bushes
• Bullying – intimidating, extorting money
• Vandalism – destroying school property, graffiti • Gangsterism – involved in gangs, fighting Suggestions to overcome the problems • Counselling
• Joining voluntary organization • Being active in games and societies • Doing part-time job
• Taking up a hobby • Intervention by parents Do remember:
• To give a title
• That your audience are students • To use all the notes given above • To write in paragraphs
SAMPLE ANSWER:
DISCIPLINE AND ITS PROBLEMS By Banu Priya Mohan
As we all are well aware the school is the place where knowledge is gained. It is the place that’s houses teenagers from a variety of age. Thus the school has to have a set of rules that help guide these teenagers in the right path as fools rush where angels fear to tread.
It is common knowledge to one and all every school is faced by disciplinary problems. Among them is playing truant. Students who play truant usually choose to cut classes and hang out in places outside the school. Some of them can be found loitering in shopping complexes. Another rampant problem is smoking which is often carried out in toilets, behind the bushes, at the back of the school and also the stairways. These students obviously are not aware that prevention is better than cure.
Aside from this, some students also take to bullying for instance intimidating others and also extorting money from their peers. They believe that they are the king of the area. Bullying would eventually lead on to gangsterism which involves gangs and brutal fighting that can lead to fatality. Vandalism is also a problem that actually disturbs everyone as the facilities cannot be utilized as properties are destroyed and graffiti on the walls make the school is a sight for sore eyes.
It is never too late to mend these problems so we the students should work hand in hand with the teachers to clean up the school of these social ills. The first and most effective step would be counselling as the counsellors can serve as an ear for students to pour out their problems as well as triumph over their troubles. The counsellors can then go on to encourage this students to join voluntary organizations which would keep them occupied as any empty mind is the devils humble abode
Aside from these they can also get themselves actively involved in games and societies and also do part time jobs as this would form a good habit, habit is second nature. Some parents encourage their children to take up a hobby like raring fish or writing stories which keeps them busy. These kinds of hobbies also encourage the intervention by parents which would eventually form a strong bonding between parent and child.
With all that has been sad I strongly believe that the students of these schools would not fall prey to these bad habits if they strictly adhere to the advice given.
Practice 7
You and your classmates have just returned from a trip to Kuala Lumpur. You are the class monitor. Write a report to your class teacher about the trip.
Include the following information. Trip to Kuala Lumpur
Date : 15 - 17 December Duration: 3 days and 2 nights No of students : 32
No of teachers: 3 Mode of transport: Bus Accommodation: Hotel Cost per person: RM 120.00 Paces of interest:
• Art gallery
• Shopping complexes • Parks and gardens • Zoos
• Museums
When writing the report you should remember to: • give the report a title
• provide an appropriate ending • use all the information given
Sample answer:
A REPORT ON A TRIP TO KUALA LUMPUR TO : MADAM NORMAIN BINTI NGAH,
CLASS TEACHER, 4 SCIENCE,
SEKOLAH MENENGAH KEBANGSAAN TAMAN HI-TECH. FROM : DHANYAAH RAJAN.
SUBJECT : A REPORT ON A TRIP TO KUALA LUMPUR. DATE : 29 DECEMBER 2012.
I, as the class monitor of class 4 Science at Sekolah Menengah Taman Hi-Tech, would like to take this golden opportunity to inform you about a recent class trip we took to Kuala Lumpur, after the final examination.
The weekend of 15-17th December 2012 will forever be etched in the minds of the 32
classmates of 4 Science and the 3 teachers accompanying, who attended the trip to Kuala Lumpur, organised by the Counselling unit of SMK Taman Hi-Tech. The keyed up students congregated at the school corridor at 8 a.m. on Saturday, 15 December, before boarding the bus to Kuala Lumpur. The students were raring to go and did not mind paying RM 120.00 per person for food and accommodation at Hotel Seri Intan Perda.
The journey kicked off smoothly. However, upon reaching Ipoh traffic thickened and the bus was forced to move at a snail’s pace for over an hour. The teachers decided to make a pit stop at a nearby ‘R and R’ (Rest and Refreshment). Once the bottleneck cleared off, the bus was back on track. Fortunately, we made it in time and were not back on schedule. Upon arriving, students and teachers checked-in into their assigned rooms. Everyone had enough time to take a bath, before assembling in the hotel lobby at 8.00 p.m. We were then taken out for dinner to Sunway Pyramid Mall which was ten minutes away from the hotel. Students were amused by the enchanting lights of the city. At 9.30 p.m. we were all taken back to the hotel. By 10.30 p.m. all students were in bed.
On the 16th of December our journey entailed a lot of walking and sightseeing. After a
satisfying buffet style breakfast in the hotel at 9.oo a.m. we visited The Contemporary Art Gallery. It was an eye-opener as the arrangement of local masterpieces engendered the patriotic spirit in most of the participants. Then, we visited a few parks and gardens. The sight of vibrant flowers in the midst of a bustling city was invigorating and refreshing. After lunch at a restaurant we spent the afternoon visiting a few museums. The most enjoyable place was The Museum of History. Students were not shy to apply what they learnt in the confinement of the classroom. Before we headed back to the hotel, we visited the National Zoo. Students were given 2 hours to roam in the zoo. Then, we headed back to the hotel and had dinner, before calling it a night.
After a hearty breakfast on the 17th of December, we checked-out of the hotel. The
course of the day was spent visiting a plethora of shopping complexes and buying souvenirs before bidding farewell to the heart of Malaysia. During the journey back, students were given the opportunity to voice out their feelings and thoughts regarding the trip. Some of the participants gave constructive feedback on what this trip had taught them, while others gave heart-warming speeches.
By the time we reached Kulim, we were worn out and exhausted. But, each of us had a store of memories, which will not be easily effaced.
Reported by, Dhanyaah Rajan Class monitor, 4 Science, SMK Taman Hi-Tech, Kedah.
CONTINUOUS WRITING Teacher’s Notes
Narrative essays are a favourite among students as they are easier to handle. This type of essay enables the writer to use and share experiences with the readers.
1. Students must read the question carefully and know exactly what they are supposed to write.
2. Ask the students to decide whether to write their essay from their own perspective or someone else’s. The first person or third person singular is the most popular choice. 3. Students should use a simple plot. Asking students wh-questions will help them to
develop ideas. Advise them to list in chronological order. 4. Students should use the past tense forms.
5. Encourage the students to include adjectives and adverbs. 6. Students may also use dialogue.
STUDENT’S TIPS
WRITING A NARRATIVE ESSAY
A narrative is a story with a sequence of connected events. It could be about a personal experience or an imagined event or events.
Let us look at some typical examination questions:
1. Write a story of a man who returns to his home after many years. 2. The day I lost my temper.
3. Write a story ending with, “I shall never forget this day for the rest of my life.” 4. Write about an occasion when you got into trouble.
5. Write a story beginning with, “I could not believe my eyes….” How do I write a narrative essay for the examination?
ACTION PLAN: (1 hour) A. Planning = 15 minutes B. Writing = 35 minutes C. Checking = 10 minutes This is how we do it. A. PLANNING
Let’s say you have chosen question 3, - Write a story ending with, “I shall never forget this day for the rest of my life.”
1. Read the question carefully and underline important phrases. Pay particular attention to the ending.
2. Brainstorm for ideas by using the 5Ws and 1H approach and jot down notes. • Who is the character?
• When is the event taking place? • Where is it happening?
• What is happening? • Why is there a problem? • How is the problem solved? Example:
Introduction
• Who - main character, first person narrator (I) and cousin from Cambodia • When - holidays, one Sunday
Body
• What - had to accompany cousin Problem 1 • Why - cousin loved riding escalators
• Where - at the shopping centre Problem 2 • Why - riding escalators again
• Who - main character Problem 3
• What - nearly had an accident
• How - stumbled Climax
• Why - tried to escape from cousin Conclusion
B. WRITING THE ESSAY
Now that you have got the skeleton of your story, it is time to begin writing.
1. Use linkers and phrases which link the events to move your story in a chronological order. Some phrases that are suitable :
• It was very dark…. • I will never forget ….. • A few minutes later…. • Suddenly,…
• When the disaster happened, …..
2. Use the past tense forms. Check all the verbs you have used. 3. Use descriptive language (adjectives, adverbs)
4. Use sensory details to reveal the events and to get the readers involved. Do not merely tell but show the events through words and phrases.
Example:
a. I went into the restaurant. b. I walked into the restaurant. c. I sauntered into the restaurant.
5. Sentence a: merely states that I went into the restaurant
Sentence b: gives a little more information as to how I went into the restaurant. Sentence c: uses a more specific word to show clearly the idea of how I went into the restaurant.
Sentence c. allows the reader to see what I am doing. The word ‘sauntered’ means ‘to stroll’. It gives the image of a person walking slowly into the restaurant. Thus, sentence c. is more effective in narrative and descriptive writing.
6. Use direct speech, but use it sparingly and effectively. Remember, you are writing a narrative, not a script.
C. CHECKING
Read your essay once through and check for the following things: • Is the spelling accurate?
• Is the punctuation appropriate? Did you use too many commas in a sentence? • Did you vary the sentence structure? Are your sentences too long?
• Does one thought follow the next in a logical order?
• Did you stick to the topic? Did you use words so that your reader could experience the incident?
• Did you use the appropriate tense of the verb throughout? Make any corrections neatly.
WRITING A DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY
Writing a descriptive essay is perhaps more difficult than writing a narrative essay because it makes more demands on one’s use of language. In a descriptive essay, you need to give a detailed description of a person, place, object, experience or memory. Your description must be so effective that the person, place, object, experience or memory described is clearly visualised by the reader.
If you are describing a person, the reader should feel that he knows the person well. If it is a place that is described, the reader should feel as if he is there and seeing it with his very eyes. How can this be achieved? Through the use of details that appeal to your reader’s senses and a lively tone that draws his emotions.
Techniques in Descriptive Writing STEPS
A. PLANNING
1. Read the question carefully. (eg. An Unforgettable Character) 2. Understand the question.
a. What does the phrase ‘Unforgettable Character’ mean? He/She is a person you will always remember.
b. What is your focus?
A favourable or unfavourable impression of the character. 3. Brainstorm for ideas. Expand and elaborate the points.
Introduction
Body
• Detail 1 - General Appearance Neat
Height – short Age – 50
The way she walked - limps • Detail 2 - Non-physical features
Manners of speaking – gentle, low voice Habit – smiled a lot
• Detail 3 - Why she is unforgettable Kind - art lesson
- the way she treated a bully
Keenness to learn – the way she read newspapers even though she was illiterate
Conclusion
• Give an opinion – not a person to sit back and let things go by
B. WRITING THE ESSAY
1. Use details – Focus on the five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste and touch). Details are very important and when properly used, enable descriptions to come to life. Use nouns, adjectives and verbs to evoke these senses. Nouns and adjectives help the reader see; verbs help the reader feel.
2. Use a lively tone – Show your own feelings, responses and reactions as these make your description more vivid and lively.
3. Describe different aspects – If you are describing a person, do not limit your description to the person’s physical appearance. Include a detailed description of the person’s character and personality and how other people react to him. Include a detailed paragraph of an incident which highlights one of these aspects.
Let’s look at the two extracts below on the topic “An Unforgettable Aunt”. Sample 1
Aunt Eleanor had a sharp nose and a pair of black eyes. She was thin, and had a thin, long face, an aquiline nose and sunken cheeks. Her hair was always tied in a knot and
