PART 1 SHORT COMMUNICATIVE MESSAGE (EMAIL)

TOTAL MARKS : 20 marks

In short… LENGTH : About 80 words
TYPE OF WRITING: Informal

ABOUT SHORT COMMUNICATIVE MESSAGES (SCM)

Messages can be either email or letter. Messages are written for different purposes.

PURPOSE FOR WRITING SCM

Below are the purposes of writing SCM:

• To inform about something

• To accept / decline invitation
• To give advice / suggestions (opinion)
• To share experience
• To explain a choice / make a decision

WRITING THE GREETING/SALUTATION

Emails and letters have different greeting/salutation. Below are the differences:

INFORMAL

• Hi,
• Hi [Name],
EMAILS • Hey,
• Hey [Name],

• Dear [Name],
LETTERS
• Dearest [Name],

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WRITING THE INTRODUCTION

For SCM, make sure to write a short, straight-forward introduction addressing the
issue. While it is okay to ask or wish for good health, it is actually unnecessary (especially for
emails). Instead, give appropriate response to the issue at hand.

Let's look at the sample question on page 5. Identify the issue, then give appropriate
response.

Issue Gina can’t decide which sports club to join.

• You don’t know which sports club to choose? Don’t worry. I got your
back.
Appropriate
• You asked the right person! I know which sports club is the best for
Responses
you.

WRITING THE MAIN BODY

Elaborating ideas in the main body is very important as it expands your writing. Thus before
you start writing, remember to brainstorm your ideas first.

Use this method to brainstorm your ideas: I-E-E.

I Choose best ideas based on the given points.

E Elaborate the points using 1H 5WH.

E Give suitable examples.

WRITING THE CLOSURE

To end your email or letter, simply mention that you need to stop writing. Here are two
examples:

I need to stop now. / That’s all from me.

You can end it there or simply add a final comment about the issue. Here are two
examples:

I hope my suggestions could help you. / Have fun in/with the badminton club!

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WRITING THE SIGN-OFF

You can simply sign off with “Bye” or “Bye!” Alternatively, you can also write your first
name. Here are examples:

That’s all for now. Have fun! That’s all for now. Have fun! Bye.

Bye. Marie.

ANSWERING PART 1

Email is a two-way communication. You either send it to initiate the communication, or

reply it to respond. For SPM email question, you are required to reply as a response. As
such, this guide will show you how to properly respond to emails.

PARTS OF AN EMAIL RESPONSE

Every email has 5 important parts:

• Salutation/Greeting
• Introduction
• Main Body
• Closure
• Sign-Off

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 IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Generally, this is how Short Communicative Message (SCM) questions in Part 1 will look like:

Given
situation/scenario
with context

These are the

points for
your
message.
They are not
in point forms
so you need
to identify
them.

Instructions Word limit

GENERAL TEMPLATE FOR EMAILS

Salutation • Use ‘Hi’ / ‘Hello’

• May include the recipient’s name, e.g. Hi Marie,

Introduction • Responds to address the issue.

• Keep it short and straight-forward.

• Use all the points given

• Elaborate the points
Main Body • Give suitable examples
• Give reasons

Note: Remember to use suitable/appropriate linkers

• Mention that you need to stop writing.

Closure • Add a final comment about the issue.
• Write “Bye” or “Bye!”

Sign-Off
• Write your first name.

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EXAMPLE OF AN EMAIL TO RESPOND

Below is an example of an email to respond (refer to the previous sample for question):

Salutation

Introduction

Main Body

Closure

Sign-off

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USEFUL PHRASES FOR EMAILS

Below are some of the phrases you can use in your emails:

LP – for lower proficiency students

Note:
HP – for higher proficiency students

1) Opening Lines for Introduction

Expressing Enthusiasm

• Wow! That’s great / wonderful / fantastic news!

LP
• I am / was happy / glad / pleased to hear that…

HP • I couldn’t believe it when I read that…

Apologising

• Sorry for the late reply.

LP
• I’m sorry to hear about…

• I’m sorry I didn’t reply sooner as I was busy with…

HP
• Sorry that it took so long to get back to you.

Giving News

• Well, here’s the latest.

LP
• Let me fill you in.

• You won’t believe what happened to me the other day!

HP • You asked me to tell you about… so here goes.
• Here’s an update of what’s happening in my life.

Offering Help

• You asked the right person to help you.

LP
• It’s my pleasure to help you.

• You need my help to…? Don’t worry, I got your back.

• You can count on me.
HP
• Consider your problem is solved.
• You know I’m an expert at …, right? Let me help!

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2) Starting Lines for the Main Body

Accepting an Invitation

• Sounds brilliant/perfect! Sure!

LP
• Thanks for inviting me to… / asking me to join you.

• How could I say no?

HP
• Count me in!

Refusing an Invitation

LP • I’m sorry but I have to… Maybe some other time.

• I’m afraid I can’t make it because…

HP • It was nice of you to invite me, but I’ve already made other plans.
• Unfortunately, I’ll have to let you down.

Sharing Information

• Let me tell you about…

LP
• I have many things to share with you about…

• I’d like to inform you that…

HP • Let me explain to you about…
• Here’s what I think about…

Giving Suggestion

• In my opinion, you should…

LP
• If you ask me, I think…

• What about ….? It is…

• How about …? It is…
HP • I believe it’s a good idea to…
• I’m sure it’s a good idea if you…
• Believe me, you should…

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3) Closing Lines for Closure

Wishing for the Best

• Have a great weekend / holiday!

LP
• Enjoy your…

HP • Wishing you nothing but the best.

Offering More Help

• If you have any other questions, feel free to ask me.

LP
• Let me know if you need more help.

• Drop me a line if you need more help.

HP
• Let me know if you need more assistance.

Commenting on Your Own Answers

• I hope you find my suggestions useful / helpful.

LP
• I hope I have answered all your questions

HP • I hope it’s clearer now.

Suggesting to Meet Up

• See you soon / later!

LP
• See you this Thursday / weekend.

HP • Looking forward to seeing you!

Expecting a Reply

LP • Reply soon!

• Let me know if it works!

HP
• I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon

4) Sign-Off

• Bye. / Bye!
LP
• Best regards.

HP • Cheers.

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 Exercise Time Knowing the Format for Emails

Read the following example to learn how to write a good email. Label the parts correctly. Put
the email parts in order in the boxes provided.

Closure Sign off Email address

Introduction Subject line Salutation Main Body

STRUCTURE To : [email protected] IMPORTANT
FEATURES
Subject : Sports Day

 Hi Tom,
Contraction
 Hope you’re feeling better. Fever can make your
– “you’re,
headache like mad, can’t it?
 can’t”

The house meeting was an important one and we  Give details

 finished at 6.30p.m.! Mr Ghazali, our teacher as requested
 advisor chaired the meeting. Of course, I took down & a suggestion
some notes so no worries. Yes, the theme this year Tone is polite
 is Cartoons…how about The Flintstones? Looks and friendly
 like we have to prepare the materials needed for
Language is
the inter-house tug-of-war. For cleanliness, Mr
 Ghazali wants us to make sure every tent has
semi-formal

enough garbage liners to prevent littering and to

 collect them after the event. Should be okay.

Get well soon Tom. We miss your jokes!


Your friend,
Richard


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EXERCISE 1
Read the following question.
You received an email from your foreign friend, James who is from New Zealand.
Hi,
My best friend is going to Malaysia next year. He likes beaches very much. Which beach
would you suggest? When is the best time to go? What can he do there?

Do let me know soon.

Bye!

Based on the question above, label the parts correctly. Put the email parts in order in the
boxes provided.

Closure Sign-Off Content Point 2

Introduction Salutation Content Point 1 Content Point 3

Hope the information helps. Closure

Here’s what I think about the beaches in Penang Island. He can

swim or sunbathe in Batu Ferringhi or enjoy the water activities Content point 1
there.

I believe it’s a good idea to visit Malaysia from January until May as
Content point 2
it will be less crowded. There will be more sunny days too.

Best regards,
Sign-Off
Mary

Hi James, Salutation

When night falls, he can shop at the night market. Content point 3

Warm welcome to your friend! There are many places in Malaysia

Introduction
where your friend can enjoy sunshine and beaches.

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EXERCISE 2
Read the following question.
You received the following email from your friend, Lina.

Hi,
How’s it going? Sorry I haven’t been in touch for so long. I just finished my final exams and
spent a lot of time studying. Let me know what you have been doing and I’m hoping we can
get together soon to catch up. My family just moved to a bigger house. Maybe you can
come and visit one weekend? How’s the new school? Looking forward to hearing from you!
Bye!

Based on the question above, label the parts correctly. Put the email parts in order in the
boxes provided.

Closure Sign-Off Content Point 2

Introduction Salutation Content Point 1 Content Point 3

Hope the information helps Closure

I’d love to visit your new house. Tell me all about your new house
Content point 2
when we meet o.k.

Your friend,
Sign-off
Zaidah

I have many things to share with you about my new school. My

new school is located in the middle of Batu Pahat’s town. There
Content point 3
are about 65 teachers and 900 pupils. I got a few new friends
here and they are very friendly too.

Hi Lina, Salutation

How could I say no? How about next weekend? There’s

definitely a lot of stories to share about my new school. I’ve Content point 1
been busy with my new cat, Teddy.

It’s great to hear from you. Yes, I would like to meet you too.
Introduction
The last time we went out for coffee was five months ago!

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PRACTICES BASED ON DIFFERENT PURPOSES
Below are the different colours used to indicate different aspects in the sample answers:

Reference: Sentence markers Ideas

1. MAKE AND RESPOND TO SIMPLE REQUEST AND SUGGESTIONS

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

You received an email from your online buddy, Maya, who is thinking to go to your place
this coming holidays.

Hi,
My family and I will be visiting you in December during this coming school holidays. Both
my parents and I share similar interest on historical places, perhaps you can suggest to me
any historical place in your area and what I can see there. Besides, I also need your
recommendation on what souvenir I can buy there for my friends here. Well, it will be
wonderful if you can join and show us around the place too.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Bye!

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 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Next Holidays

Hi Maya,
For real? I can’t wait to see you! There are many historical places you can visit at my
place.
A Famosa is quite near to my house. Here, you can see the remaining Portuguese
fortress and know more about the history. Moreover, you will get the chance to buy T-shirt
with Melaka print as a souvenir to bring back home at the nearby shop. Not only that, you
can also buy traditional crafts there.
That’s all for my suggestions. If you need my help just message me through
Whatsapp. See you soon. Bye.
Zakwan

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Next Holidays

Hi Maya,
I was surprised to know that you want to come and visit me soon. It has been a
while since the last time we chat. If you ask me, I would suggest you to visit A Famosa
which is around 15 kilometres from my house.
This place is famous as it is one of the historical places in Malacca. Here, you can
see the famous Portuguese fortress and learn its history. Besides that, you can buy souvenir
like keychain. You’ll find variety of keychains at my uncle store near the A Famosa named
Ahmad’s Souvenir shop. Not only that, any traditional crafts are also available to be bought.
That’s all my suggestions to you. If you need my help just message me through
WhatsApp. I’m really excited to see you soon. Bye!
Zakwan

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 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

You received an email from you cousin, Izz, who lives in the north and currently
experiencing hot weather up to 38 degree Celcius.

Hi my cousin,
How are you? Hope everyone is fine there. It is extremely hot here and we rarely
experience rain. It is almost 2 weeks I guess. As I heard you experienced the same at your
place previously, could you suggest any suitable clothes that I should wear to prevent heat
stroke? Would you mind sharing any activities that I should do and avoid? I heard from my
mom that you started drinking water more often during that time. How often do you drink?
Hope to hear from you soon.
Bye!

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 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Hot Weather

Hi Izz,
Everyone is fine here. Thank you for asking. I had the same experience too but it was
more than two weeks.
Well, regarding the suitable clothing material, personally I think thin clothes are the
best option for you. As for me, thin clothes can prevent from heat stroke. Furthermore, do
indoor activities like board games and avoid outdoor activities like football as it is hotter
under the sun. Drinking a lot of water is also advisable. Basically, I drink plain water every
two to three hours.
That’s all from me. Hope my suggestions are useful. Bye!
Atiq

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Hot Weather

Hi Izz,
I’m fine here. How about you? Everyone here is quite busy with their own business.
I have already heard from the news on television about your place is experiencing extreme
heat. I know how you feel right now as I experienced it too recently. I hope everyone is fine
there.
I think the best clothes that you should wear to prevent heat stroke is a thin and
cotton-made t-shirt. It is because thin clothes will reduce the heat that you feel and cotton-
made clothes will absorb your sweat better which makes you feel cooler. You can do indoor
exercises such as push-up, sit-up and board games like chess. Please avoid outdoor
exercises such as playing football and jogging. Furthermore, I drink plain water every two
to three hours to avoid getting dehydrated.
I hope my suggestions can help you to survive from severe drought. That’s all I can
think of for now. Take care. Bye!
Atiq

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 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

You received an email from your uncle, Mohd who has just retired and wants to know how
to keep save while using social media.

Hi,
How is your school holiday so far? Hope you are having fun there with your parents. As I
have a lot of free time now, can you suggest to me which social media is suitable for me
and why? It’ll be better if you can tell me how long I should spend my day on social media.
Send my regards to your parents.
Bye!

17
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Keeping Safe While Using Social Media

Hi uncle,
My school holiday was boring because my father went outstation for two weeks. So,
I had a lot of free time to spend on social media for the whole holiday.
I have many suggestions but I think the most suitable is TikTok. TikTok is the most
popular application among people. It is because you can earn money by doing affiliate
marketing on TikTok and sell any merchandise. I think it’s better for you to spend at least 4
hours maximum on screen.
I hope my suggestions here can help you. Hope you enjoy the apps! Bye.
Alice

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Keeping Safe While Using Social Media

Hi uncle,
School holiday is fun! There are lots of activities that I do. I also spend time watching
movies with my parents at home. Do you want me to suggest social media sites that are
suitable for you? I have some applications that will allow you to explore and get some local
and international news every day.
There are Facebook and Instagram. I think these applications are suitable for you as
you can update everything that you do every day like travelling or interesting activities that
you do. It’s just like your diary, but it is online! If you have a lot of time, you can scroll to see
your friends’ activities too, but remember not to exceed four hours!
If you need more help you can chat me anytime. You will definitely enjoy these two
apps. Bye!
Alice

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 FINANCIAL AWARENESS

You received an email from your best friend, Tania

Hi,
How are you my dear friend? I need your help. My parents give me RM 200 every week as
my pocket money starting this semester. What are the things that I can buy with that amount
of money? Do you think I have to save some and why? I need to make sure the money is
safe too. Where should I keep them? I don’t know what to do. Please help me.
Bye!

19
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Saving Money

Hey Tania!
I’m fine here. That’s a lot. Lucky you! There are many things you can buy with the
money such as your personal daily care items, reference books and stationery.
In fact, you can keep some money aside for entertainment and food. However, bear in mind
not to overspend as you need to save some money in the bank for your future use.
Hope my suggestions will help you. Bye!
Lily

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Saving Money

Hey Tania!

I’m perfectly fine here. Of course, that’s what a friend is for! Well, with RM200 that
you have, you can buy a lot of things to help you in your studies.
As a student, you need to spend a lot on reference books and stationery. However,
please keep some for rainy days. Of course, you can save your pocket money in a piggy
bank or register any account at a trusted bank near you. Don’t simply put your money
anywhere as you might forget where you placed it.
Hope my suggestions will help you. Bye!
Lily

20
 2. NARRATE FACTUAL AND IMAGINED EVENTS AND EXPERIENCES

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

You received an email from your cousin, Jenny who wants to know about a camp which
you attended recently.

Hi,
My parents told me that you have recently returned back from an English Camp organised
by your English Society Club at your school. I am sure you have enjoyed yourself there,
right? Perhaps you can tell me when and where did the camp was held? What are the most
memorable experiences you got and what new knowledge that you learnt from the camp?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Bye!

21
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject English Camp Experience

Hi Jenny,
I hope you’re doing well! Yes, I did have a good time at the English Camp organised
by the school’s English Society Club.
The camp was held at a place called “Pinewood Camp” from 15th to 20th July. It’s
located not too far from town, in a beautiful natural setting.
As for memorable experiences, there were quite a few English Language activities.
We did a bunch of activities to improve our English skills. We had debate and storytelling
competitions. It was very fun! We also met people from different background and made
some new friends.
I hope this gives you an idea of what the camp was like. It wasn’t just about learning
English but it was about having fun and making friends.
Take care and talk to you soon! Bye!
Rita

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject English Camp Experience

Hi Jenny,
It’s great to hear from you! I did indeed have a fantastic time at the English Camp
organised by my school English Society Club. I’d be happy to share some details with you.
The camp took place from 15th to 20th July at Pinewood Camp, a beautiful retreat
located in the countryside just outside of town.
As for memorable experiences, there were so many! We engaged ourselves in
various language activities like debate and storytelling competitions. These activities not
only improve our language skills but also boosted our confidence in using English. Next, we
had memorable evenings around the campfire, where we took turns sharing stories. It was
a great way to bond with our friends too.
Overall, it was a rewarding experience and I’m grateful for the opportunity. If you
have any more questions about it, feel free to ask!
Take care and talk to you soon. Bye!
Rita

22
 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

You received an email from your friend, Armand who just knew that your family were hit
by disaster.

Hi,
My family and I are sad to hear about the natural disaster that you and your family faced a
few weeks ago. How did it start? Who came to help you and your family when it
happened? Did you lose anything important?
I hope to hear from you as soon as possible.
Bye!

SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Natural Disaster Experience

Hi Armand,
Thanks for your concern about us. So far, my family and I are coping with what had
happened to us. Now, we are staying at my grandmother’s house because my father said
that our house needs to be repaired for a few weeks.
Firstly, the flood happened on 23rd April around 2.00 a.m. when we were sleeping.
The water level risen very fast because it was raining cats and dogs for two days. Everyone
in the house was in panic.
The firefighter officers and the villagers were the first one arrived to help us. They
helped to rescue us using boats and brought us to the nearby flood shelter. We felt very
grateful because they acted quickly to save all the flood victims in our housing area.
Luckily, I didn’t lose all the important documents because my father had told us to
pack that earlier. Sadly, I lost all my storybooks and my piggy bank!
That’s all from me and please keep us in your prayer. Bye!
Lisa

23
 SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Natural Disaster Experience

Hi Armand,
I appreciate your kind words and concern about the recent natural disaster my family
and I went through a few weeks ago. It was a challenging time, but we’re grateful for the
support of friends like you. Here’s a bit more about what happened.
Firstly, the disaster started with downpour for two days that caused flooding in our
area. The heavy rain caused the rivers to overflow, and our housing area was quickly
flooded.
When the disaster happened, our local community and emergency rescuers came
together to help those affected. Volunteers, including neighbours assisted and took us to
the nearby shelter. They provided us with food, water and basic supplies.
As for losses, we did experience some damage to our home and property. It’s so sad
to see personal belongings such as certificates and novel collections as well as cherished
memories like photo albums affected, but we’re thankful that our family members are safe.
Thank you again for your support and reaching out. It means a lot to us. I hope we can
catch up soon. Take care. Bye!
Lisa

24
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

You received an email from your sister, Sue Ann who is working in Singapore and wanted
to know about the special present that you received from you father.

Hi,
Congratulations! Mummy told me that you got a special present from Daddy during your
birthday celebration last Sunday. I am glad that your wish to own a smart watch comes true!
Can you tell me what brand is it? Which feature do you prefer to use? Why? Would you
recommend me to get one for myself?
I hope you will reply soon.
Bye!

SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Smart Watch

Hi Sue,
I hope you’re doing well there! It’s great to hear from you and I appreciate your interest
about the smartwatch dad gave me.
Dad surprised me with a Twatch 168v smartwatch, and it’s been an interesting
addition to my daily routine.
I’ve been using it for a little while now, and here is my favourite feature. Personally, I
love the Health and Fitness Tracking app. One of its basic health and activity tracking
capabilities. It counts steps, monitor heart rate and provides reminders to move, which is
beneficial for me.
Lastly, I would recommend it to you to get one for yourself. It is because you are a
fitness coach. I’m sure that you will love the fitness app like me.
Hope to see you next month. Bye!
Nasrin

25
 SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Smart Watch

Hi Sue,
I appreciate your email and your interest in the special present from dad. I’m excited
to tell you about it.
First of all, dad surprised me with a Twatch 168v. It is the latest model from the
company and it has five colour selection that you can choose.
I’ve been using it for a little while now, and here is my favourite feature. Personally, I
love the Health and Fitness Tracking app. The watch tracks my daily activity, heart rate, and
even blood oxygen levels. It reminds me to stand up and move around when I’ve been
sitting for too long, which is handy when I’m studying for long hours.
Lastly, I would recommend it to you to get one for yourself. It is because you will find
it beneficial as you are a fitness coach. I’m sure that you will love Health and Fitness
Tracking app like me.
Take care and looking forward to hearing from you soon! Bye!

Nasrin

26
 CONSUMERISM AND FINANCIAL AWARENESS

You received an email from your pen-pal, Timmy who is living in London and asking for
some advice about online scammer.

Hi,
I’m so sorry to hear that you were scammed during your online shopping when you wanted
to buy a Mother’s Day present for your mother. Which online shopping platform did you
use? What did you buy for your mother? How much money did you lose? Please share
some advice with me so I will not face the same situation in the future.
I’ll be waiting for your reply.
Bye!

SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Advice About Online Scammer

Hi Timmy,
Thank you for your understanding and concern regarding the unfortunate incident
during my online shopping for Mother’s Day.
Well, I saw a beautiful handbag on a website called “BestGiftsOnline.com.” I wanted
to buy it for my mother. Unfortunately, fell victim to a scam and lost RM200 in the process.
In addition, I want to give you some advices on how to prevent yourself from being
scammed online. First, you should research the online store and the store’s reputation
before making a purchase. Next, you should use safe payment methods. Stick to well-
known and safe payment methods like credit cards and trusted online payment platforms.
Take care, and thank you again for your support. Bye!

Muni

27
 SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Advice About Online Scammer

Hi Timmy,
Thank you for your concern and understanding regarding my recent online shopping
experience. I appreciate your support, and I’m happy to share the details and lessons
learned from this incident so that you and other students can make informed choices when
shopping online.
I made my purchase on a website called “BestGiftsOnline.com.” My intention was to
find a meaningful Mother’s Day gift, and I opted for a beautiful piece of jewellery that I
thought my mother would adore. Unluckily, I became a victim to a scam and lost RM200 in
the process.
In addition, let me give you some advices to help you avoid such situations in the
future. First, you should do research on the online retailer. Make careful research on the
status of the online store. Next, you should stick to well-established and trusted payment
methods like credit cards or online payment platforms. I hope my experience serves as a
valuable reference for you to ensure a trusted online shopping experience.
Thank you again for your support and understanding. Bye!
Muni

28
 3. EXPLAIN SIMPLE PROCESSES

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

You received an email from your friend, Nadia, who wants to take part in a public speaking
competition.

Hi,
I’m worried about my co-curriculum marks. I’m not that athletic to join sports tournaments.
So, I was thinking of taking part in a public speaking competition. Can you suggest an
interesting topic for me to talk on? I have no idea at all. Also, should I write my own text or
ask my English teacher for help? What do you think?
Thanks in advance!
Bye.

29
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Public Speaking Competition

Hi Nadia,
Don’t worry about your co-curriculum marks. I know you will do well.
That’s a brilliant idea in taking part in the public speaking competition. You are such
a natural speaker and that easy-going personality of yours will come in handy. I think the
best choice for your topic is friendship. Interesting, right? Teenagers are really close with
their friends rather than their parents. As for the text, I think you can write on your own. For
a top student like you, writing a simple text won’t be a problem, right?
Hope my suggestions will help you make the best decision. Bye!
Layla

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Public Speaking Competition

Hi Nadia,
Relax, girl. Who’s saying you’re not active enough? Last year you’ve joined the Girls
Scout state level camping and won second runner up in the Spelling competition. That’s
contributed a lot of marks for your co-curriculum.
Public Speaking? That’s brilliant! You are such a natural when it comes to speaking
in front of people. I think the topic of friendship will attract more attention especially among
teenagers. Teenagers are really close with their friends rather than their parents. As for the
text, I think you can write it by yourself. For a top student like you, writing a simple text won’t
be a problem, right?
Hope my suggestions will help you make the best decision. Good luck!
Layla

30
 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

You received an email from your friend, Abdullah, who needs to get an ideal weight.

Hi,
I’m a bit stressed out recently and I couldn’t control my eating habits. I couldn’t fit in any of
my shirts and pants anymore. Oh my, what should I do? Which food is good for me and
which one should I avoid? Do I really need to exercise? Why? Please give me more advice
as I need to get back in shape.
Thanks in advance!
Bye.

31
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject An Ideal Weight

Hi Abdullah,
I’m sad to hear that but don’t worry. I will help you to get your ideal weight faster.
The first thing you need to do is to plan your meals for the whole day. The best types
of food to lose weight are vegetables and fruits. Please avoid fast food and sugary drinks.
Exercise? Yes, you need to exercise at least three times a week. This is because you need
to get rid of the extra calories. Nothing is better than a good sweat, right? Oh, don’t forget
to drink plenty of water too!
Hope my advice will help you make the best decision. All the best!
Farah

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject An ideal weight

Hi Abdullah,
Oh dear, stress eating does affect your body but worry not. I will give you all the tips
I have to help you get your ideal weight in no time.
First, plan out your meals for the entire day. Guess what? The best types of food to
lose weight are vegetables and fruits. I know you hate green stuff, right? Well, you can opt
for eggs. They are rich in proteins plus delicious too! Next, please avoid fast food and
sugary drinks. Exercise? Definitely you need to get rid of the extra calories. In fact, there's
nothing better than working up a good sweat, right? Oh, don’t forget to drink plenty of
water too!
Hope my advice will be helpful to you. All the best!
Farah

32
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

You received an email from your sister, Adriana, who wants to sign up a social media
account.

Hi,
All my friends have their own social media account. I don’t want to be left out. Hey, I know
you have thousands of followers on Instagram. So I was hoping you could help me set up
a social media account. What do I need to have to sign up? I want my account to look
cool. What username should I use? For the personal information, what should I include
and why? Oh, I can’t wait to post my first status!
Thanks in advance!
Bye.

33
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Social Media Account

Hi Adriana,
Don’t worry I will help you. Registering for a social media account is easy.
Firstly, you need to have an email. There are many social media accounts out there
so you need to choose the best one for you. As for your username, choose the one that is
catchy and attractive. For example, you can use its_adriana or cuteriana_chan. Never
expose important personal details such as your address and phone number. Just include
your nickname, age, and hobbies. This information is useful for you to get friends who share
similar interests.
Happy posting your first status! All the best. Bye!
Farhana

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Social Media Account

Hi Adriana,
Don’t worry I will help you out. Registering for a social media account is just a piece
of cake!
Firstly, you need to use an email to register for a social media account. There are a
lot of social media accounts out there so you need to choose the best one for you. A cool
username? How about some catchy and attractive ones such as its_adriana or
cuteriana_chan? Never expose important personal details such as your address and phone
number. Just include your nickname, age, and hobbies. It’s important to find friends with
similar interests. Plus, you are safe from scammers!
Happy posting your first status! All the best. Bye!
Farhana

34
 CONSUMERISM AND FINANCIAL AWARENESS

You received an email from your friend, Latiff, who wants to order food by using an online
application.

Hi,
I’m always hungry when I’m doing my homework but I’m too lazy to go out. Can you suggest
a good food delivery service? Would you teach me how to order food through an online
application? How should I make the payment? Also, do you think I should tip the rider?
Thanks in advance!
Bye.

35
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Order Food Online

Hi Latiff,
I’m always hungry too when I do my homework.
How about using Food Panda delivery service? It’s easy and cheap. First, you just
download the Food Panda app into your phone. Next, you have to sign up and fill in your
personal details. Then, you just click food deliver y button and choose the restaurant. After
that, select the food that you like and add to cart. To make payment, you can either choose
to pay in cash or via online banking. I think you should give some tips to the rider.
I hope it’s clearer now. Bye!
Haziq

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Order Food Online

Hi Latiff,
We’re on the same boat! I also need to munch something while studying.
Oh! My favourite food delivery service is definitely Food Panda. It’s convenient and
cheap. The food panda app is extremely user-friendly. First, you need to download the app
into your phone. Next, you have to sign up and fill in your personal details. Then, you just
click food delivery button and choose the restaurant. After that, select the food that you like
and simply add to cart. To make payment, you can either choose to pay in cash or via online
banking. Well, I usually give RM1 as the rider’s tip. Doesn’t it feel good to make someone
else smile?
I hope it’s clearer now. Enjoy your food! Bye.
Haziq

36
 4. EXPRESS AND RESPOND TO OPINIONS AND COMMON FEELINGS

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

You received an email from your cousin, Alya.

Hi,
Do you remember my favourite English teacher, Madam Ariani? She’s moving to another
school! I’m so sad! By the way, we are planning a farewell party for her next week. We can’t
decide between the school canteen and a hipster café nearby. Which one do you think is a
better choice? Why? Also, can you please suggest a suitable present for her? Our budget
is RM250. I owe you one.
Bye!

37
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Farewell for Madam Ariani

Hi Alya,
Of course I remember Madam Ariani. I’m sorry to hear about the sad news but you
can still contact her after this, right?
Here’s what I think about your choices. It’s cheaper if you do it at the school canteen.
Meanwhile, hipster café looks good for a farewell party. I think the better choice is the hipster
café because you want the party to be unforgettable for her, right? As for the present, maybe
a beautiful shawl or scarf will do.
I have to stop now. Let me know if my suggestions actually helped. Bye!
Salem

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject Farewell for Madam Ariani

Hi Alya,
Of course I remember Madam Ariani. You talked about her all the time! I’m sorry to
hear about the sad news but hey, you can still keep in touch with her even after she left,
right?
Here’s what I think about your choices. If it’s held at the school canteen, the cost is
cheaper. Meanwhile, hipster café will look much grander for a farewell party. In my opinion,
the better choice is at the hipster café because you want the party to be unforgettable for
her, right? As for the present, maybe a fancy shawl or scarf will do for the fashionable
Madam Ariani.
I have to stop now. Let me know if my suggestions actually helped. Bye!
Salem

38
 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

You received an email from your old friend, Nayli who is concerned about her skin.

Hi!
This heat wave is killing me! My skin feels so dry these days. I’m in a dilemma. If I want to
protect my skin, should I use sun screen or moisturiser? Can you suggest a brand you use?
Also, I need to know the price and where can I get it from. Thanks for your help!
Bye.

39
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject To Protect Your Skin

Hi Nayli,
You’re not the only one, mate! I let the air conditioner in my room turned on 24/7!
Now let me help you with your problem. Since it’s super-hot out there, I’m sure you
won’t get out much, so moisturiser should be a better choice for you. I’m currently using one
from Wardah Skincare. It’s not cheap but it is below RM20 so it’s suitable for teenagers like
us. I bought it from Watsons near my house so maybe other pharmacies have it too.
I need to stop now. Make sure to stay indoor to keep your skin healthy! Bye.
Jade

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject To Protect Your Skin

Hi Nayli,
You’re not the only one, mate! If my parents won’t scold me, I would have left the air
conditioner turned on 24/7!
Now let me help you with your problem. Since it’s super-hot out there, I’m sure you
won’t get out much so moisturiser should be the better choice for you. I’m currently using
one from Wardah Skincare. It’s not cheap but affordable for teenagers like us, which is
below RM20. I bought it from Watsons near my house so maybe other pharmacies have it
in stock too.
I need to stop now to shower for the third time today. Make sure to stay indoor to
keep your skin healthy! Bye.
Jade

40
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

You received an email from your friend, Vettri, who wants to spend the holidays with you.

Hi,
Finally a long holiday is coming. As we planned, I’m going to spend it at your hometown.
However, I still can’t decide whether I should take ETS or express bus. Which one do you
think is more convenient for me? How much is the fare and how long would it take to reach
the destination? Oh, I can’t wait!
Bye.

41
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject ETS or Express Bus

Hi Vettri,
I can’t wait for the coming holiday too! It will be better to spend it with you!
Now, about your choices. I personally think ETS is better. It will be more convenient
for you as the train station is very close to my house. It will take around 3 hours to arrive
here compared to an express bus that would take more than 5 hours. Unfortunately, the
ticket is more expensive than the bus. It’s around RM80 which is around RM20 more
compared to bus ticket. However, you can get student discount which is around 30 percent
less.
That’s all for now. See you soon! Bye!
Alif

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject ETS or Express Bus

Hi Vettri,
I can’t wait for the coming holiday too! It will be better to spend it with you!
Now, let’s talk about your choices. I personally think ETS is a better choice. It will be
more convenient for you as the train station is very close to my house. It will take around 3
hours to arrive here compared to an express bus that would take more than 5 hours.
Unfortunately, the fare is more expensive than bus fare. It’s around RM80 which is around
RM20 more compared to bus fare. However, you can get student concession which is
around 30 percent less.
That’s all for now. I’m going to clean the spare room to welcome you here. See you
soon! Bye!
Alif

42
 CONSUMERISME AND FINANCIAL AWARENESS

Your friend, Mei Mei needs to raise money to buy a new smartphone.

Hi!
I’m so clumsy! I dropped my phone the other day and now it’s no longer working. My mom
said if I need a new smartphone, I need to fork out my own money, but I don’t have
enough cash. I still can't decide whether to get a part-time job or sell my old stuff at a junk
sale. Which one do you think is the best option and why do you say so? Or is there
another way to raise money quickly? I don’t know what to do. Please help!
Bye.

43
 SAMPLE 1 (LOW PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject How to Raise Money

Hi Mei Mei,
I’m sorry to hear about that. You need to be more careful next time!
Don’t worry. Let me help you choose! Working part-time jobs seems like a good idea,
but it’s not easy for teenagers like us to find one because we’re underage. So, I think selling
your old stuffs is the best idea since you have a lot of old things in the garage. Why not plan
a garage sale this weekend? I can help you to tell others about it. You can also sell snacks
and drinks there. I can help you to look after the stand while you’re busy at the garage.
Sounds good?
I have to stop now. Let me know if you like my ideas. I’m ready to help any time. Bye!
Vighnesh

SAMPLE 2 (HIGH PROFICIENCY)

To [email protected]

Subject How to Raise Money

Hi Mei Mei,
I’m sorry to hear about your smartphone. You need to be more careful next time!
Don’t worry. Let me help you choose! Working part-time jobs seems like a good idea,
but it’s difficult for teenagers like us to find one because we’re underage. So, I think selling
your old stuffs is the best idea since you have a lot of unused things piling up in the garage.
Why not plan a garage sale this weekend? I can help you spread words about it to the
neighbourhood. You can also sell snacks and drinks like soda and lemonade on the side. I
can help you to look after the stand while you’re busy at the garage. Sounds good?
I have to stop now. Let me know if you like my ideas. I’m ready to help any time. Bye!
Vighnesh

44
 PART 2 GUIDED ESSAY

TOTAL MARKS : 20 marks

In short… LENGTH : About 125 to 150 words
TYPE OF WRITING: Semi formal

GENERAL TEMPLATE FOR ESSAYS

INTRODUCTION
▪ Introduce the topic
▪ State your opinion
▪ Write the thesis statement

MAIN BODY
▪ Use all the points given in different paragraphs
Note: Remember to
▪ Elaborate the points
use suitable/
▪ Give suitable examples
appropriate linkers

CONCLUSION
▪ Re-state your opinion
▪ Add a comment

IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Part 2 for essay writing is also known as “Guided Writing” which means that some points are
given to guide and help you answer the question.

Generally, this is how essay questions in Part 2 will look like:

Given Your school is going to organise Environment Week. Your teacher has asked
situation/ you to write an essay on ways to help save the environment through recycling.
scenario
with
context In your essay, you should write about:
• benefits of recycling These are the points for your
• ways to reduce waste at school essay. They are in point form.
Instructions • things we can do at home The number of bullets is not fixed.

Write your essay in 125 – 150 words in an appropriate style using all the notes
and giving reasons for your point of view.
Word limit
From the situation/scenario given above, we know that Environment Week is going to
be held. However, the real focus for the essay is not the Environment Week.
The real focus of the question normally can be found where the points are given.
For this question, the focus of the question is about recycling while Environment Week is
used as the context why you are writing about recycling.

46
WRITING THE INTRODUCTION

The introduction has two important parts: Introducing the topic/issue and giving your opinion
about it.
1. Introducing The Topic/Issue
There are more than just one way to introduce the topic. You may use one of these options,
or combination of more than one:
1) Giving Definition
2) Asking Rhetorical Question
3) Providing General Statement / General Background

Let’s look at the examples below using the sample question earlier:
Giving Definition

_(the topic)_ is _(definition)_ Recycling is converting waste into reusable materials.

_(the topic)_ can be defined as Recycling can be defined as converting waste into
_(definition)_ reusable materials.

Asking Rhetorical Question

Did you know that…? Did you know that we produce tonnes of waste daily?

Have you ever wondered about

Have you ever wondered about recycling?
_(the topic)_?

Can you believe that _(the topic)_

Can you believe that recycling has been an important
has been/become an important part
part of the efforts to save the environment?
of _(anything related)_?

Providing General Statement / General Background

_(the topic)_ is an
Recycling is an activity where we convert waste into
activity/programme where
reusable materials in order to save the environment.
_(general information)_

_(the topic)_ can be said as Recycling can be said as one of the efforts done by
_(general information)_ mankind in order to save the environment.

* When practising writing, always try to give your own definition instead of always looking up
the meaning in dictionary.

Obviously, there are many ways and other phrases to do the above. If you feel adventurous,
do explore other options with guidance from your teachers.

47
2. Giving Your Opinion

After you have introduced the topic, then you need to give your opinion that will lead the
readers to your points. To do this, look at what the question wants you to do and just use the
keywords. Here are some examples:

THE KEYWORDS EXAMPLES

Benefits
There are many benefits of recycling.
(e.g. benefits of recycling)

Ways to Do Something There are many ways to keep ourselves motivated

(e.g. ways to keep motivated) when we do things that we like.

Advantages and Disadvantages There are many advantages and disadvantages of

(e.g. for social media) using social media.

Types of activities There are many types of sports activities for

(e.g. sports activities) teenagers such as…
Depending on what the question wants, you may need to combine more than one of the
options above.

ELABORATING THE IDEAS

Elaborating ideas in the main body of an essay is very important as it expands your
essay. Before you start writing, remember to brainstorm your ideas first.

1. Brainstorming Your Ideas

To expand your ideas, use IEE* (Idea, Elaboration, Example). Look at the diagram
below for some examples.

Benefits of recycling
• Idea – how? – reduce waste
Ways to keep motivated
• Idea – how? – do your hobbies
• Example – listening to music
• Elaboration – makes you happy
Advantages of social media
• Idea – what? – connect people over long distance
• Examples – via Facebook and Instagram

You don’t need to use IEE to expand every point. Use part of IEE whenever and wherever
necessary.

48
 2. Elaborating Content Points
Now you can use the ideas you have brainstormed to write the main body. When writing
the main body, remember to keep the ideas connected using suitable connectors/linkers (refer
the notes on Linking Words/Phrases).
Below are some examples on how to elaborate the content points using the linkers:

1. There are many benefits of recycling. On the one hand, it could help reduce the waste
we produce daily. On the other hand, it could also help reduce pollution.

2. There are many ways to keep ourselves motivated. Firstly, we can do our hobbies such
as listening to music or reading novels. Doing what we like can make use happy. Next,
we must keep our mind positive. For example, we can smile whenever we are facing
difficulties. This will help us forget our problems.

3. Apart from that, social media is very helpful at connecting people over long distance.
For instance, people from different sides of the globe can interact with one another via
Facebook or Instagram.

4. Lastly, water sports such as kayaking and scuba diving can be interesting to teenagers
too. Imagine yourself getting splashed by the wave while kayaking or enjoying the
beautiful view underwater while scuba diving. Interesting, isn’t it?

LINKING WORDS / PHRASES

TO ADD DIFFERENT
SEQUENCING TO ADD IDEAS TO LINK IDEAS
IDEAS
also, too, similarly,
firstly, secondly, first, besides that, other on the other hand, on
likewise, furthermore,
second, finally, lastly, than that, apart from the contrary, in
moreover, not only
to begin with, to start that, on top of that, in contrast, alternatively,
….. but also, as well
with, next addition conversely, by
as
comparison, instead,
TO GIVE OPINION TO GIVE REASON TO GIVE EXAMPLE
instead of, though,
the way I see it, this is because, this is for example, for
however,
personally, I believe, due to the fact that instance, such as,
nevertheless, in spite
in my opinion, from like, namely,
of that
my view specifically

TO SHOW RESULT TO SUMMARISE TO SHOW EMPHASIS

consequently, thus, in short, in conclusion, above all, most importantly, especially,
as a result, hence, to conclude, all in all, particularly, specifically, indeed, in fact,
so, therefore overall, to summarize actually, mainly, clearly, undeniably,
undoubtedly, certainly, irrefutably
When writing your essay, avoid repeating the same linking words/ phrases. However, do not simply
use them without understanding because each word/ phrase has different functions.

49
WRITING THE CONCLUSION
The conclusion is the final part of any writing. In essays, you need to summarise your
points by re-stating your opinion (from the introduction) as a whole and then add a comment.

1. Summarising Your Points

You may use any of these phrases to start your conclusion:

Phrases To Conclude

✓ To conclude, / In conclusion, / To sum up, / On the whole, / In brief, …

+ statement of opinion from the introduction
(make sure to rephrase the sentence)
Then rephrase the opinion you have written in the introduction.
Compare the sentences in the table below with the sentences from the introduction earlier:

THE KEYWORDS EXAMPLES

Benefits In brief, recycling can be a boon to the

(e.g. benefits of recycling) environment.

Ways to Do Something In conclusion, we can keep ourselves motivated if

(e.g. ways to keep motivated) we follow the abovementioned suggestions.

Advantages and Disadvantages To sum up, using social media has its own pros
(e.g. for social media) and cons.

Types of activities On the whole, teenagers love to do various kinds

(e.g. sports activities) of sports activities.
Notice that the sentences in introduction and conclusion are different in two ways: The
sentence structure and some of the words used. However, the meaning remains the same.

2. Adding Your Comment

To end your essay, you can add comment about your hope, a reminder or the positive
consequences of the topic that has been discussed in the main body.

COMMENTS EXAMPLES

Hope It is hoped that recycling could help reduce the waste and save the
environment.

Reminder We must remember that if we do not do anything to reduce waste,

the environment will suffer even more.

Positive Through recycling, we can/will use less natural resources and thus
Consequences help to save the environment.

50
 HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

Instruction: Write your answer in 125 – 150 words in an appropriate style.

Your class has been discussing mental health among teenagers and your
teacher has asked you to write an essay on it.

In your essay, you should write about:

• causes of stress among students
• how you help someone who is stressed
• why it is important to care for mental health

Write your essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.

IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Do
• write ideas that are related to a student
Causes of stress
among students
Don’t
• write ideas that are related to adults
Do
• write ideas that are personal to you – your own experience

How you help • use the pronoun ‘I’

someone who is
stressed Don’t
• write general ideas about what ‘people’ or ‘everyone’ should do
• use the pronouns ‘we’ or ‘they’
• write about what you should do when you’re stressed
Do
• write about the positive effects of having good mental health
• write about the negative effects of not taking care of mental
The importance
health
of caring for
mental health
Don’t
• write about the importance of supporting people who are
stressed

51
GUIDELINES FOR GUIDED ESSAY
PRACTICE 1: HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

Paragraph 1 - Introduction

LOW PROFICIENCY HIGH PROFICIENCY

(LP) (HP)
Introducing the
Question - Have you ever ...? If you are a student, then I’m sure ....
topic

Giving your In my opinion, ... important –

In my opinion, ... vital – students
opinion students

discuss – causes of stress – how discuss – factors contributing to

Thesis I help a friend who are stressed – stress – ways in assisting stressed
statement why it is important to care for friends – the significance of
mental health prioritizing mental well-being

Paragraph 2 – Causes of stress

Topic sentence
LP : To start with, there are many causes of stress.
HP : Start by knowing that many things create stress.
Idea
LOW PROFICIENCY HIGH PROFICIENCY
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example
First of all, (LP)
Idea 1 examinations heavy workload
To begin with, (HP)
homework –
This is because (LP)
Elaboration worried all the time assignments – little
Particularly, (HP)
time to prepare – exam

For example, (LP) parents – scold – bad working under pressure

Example
To illustrate, (HP) result – fear of failing

Besides, (LP)
Idea 2 always tired constant fatigue
Additionally, (HP)

After school, Then, co-curricular activities – balancing – activities &

So, (LP) Elaboration homework – not schoolwork –
Mainly, (HP) enough rest demanding

As a result (LP) finish homework at

Example cannot focus in class
Unless (HP) school – cannot rest

52
Paragraph 3 – How I help someone who is stressed
Topic sentence
LP : When my friends are stressed, I always help them.
HP : Stress may greatly impact a student's life. Thus, I always lend my hand whenever they
feel stressed.

Idea
LOW PROFICIENCY HIGH PROFICIENCY
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

To begin with, (LP)

Idea 1 support my friend good listener
To start with, (HP)

check on them – spend

Clearly, (LP)
Elaboration feel better time – helps to keep them
Above all, (HP)
calm

For instance, (LP)

Example call – listen to problems have a drink – take a stroll
For instance, (HP)

Moreover, (LP) if that doesn’t help, –

Idea 2 give advice – get help
However, (HP) advise – professional help

That way, (LP)

Elaboration solve problems school counsellor
Undeniably, (HP)

As an example. (LP) accompany them for

Example see school counsellor
Plus, (HP) appointment

53
Paragraph 4 – Why it is important
Topic sentence
LP : Obviously, there are many reasons why mental health is important.
HP : Undoubtedly, having good mental health is very vital.

Idea
LOW PROFICIENCY HIGH PROFICIENCY
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

First, (LP)
Idea 1 healthy relationship healthy relationship
First, (HP)

spend time – friends Thoughts – behaviour –

...because... (LP)
Elaboration and family – do emotions – depend on –
Clearly, (HP)
activities mental health

...like... (LP) can deal with conflicts

Example shopping
For example, (HP) more calmly

Apart from that, (LP)

Idea 2 good for studies academic success
Moreover, (HP)

The reason is, (LP) pay attention – absorb

Elaboration excited for school
Since... (HP) information & lessons

Therefore, (LP) can focus – get better healthy mind - guarantee

Example
Irrefutably, (HP) marks success

Paragraph 5 – Conclusion

LOW PROFICIENCY HIGH PROFICIENCY

(LP) (HP)

Summarising In conclusion, ..... the most important In conclusion, ... mental well-being –
your point – student priority – shouldn’t be taken lightly

I hope...... learn – take care – I hope – prioritise – nurture –

Comment
mental health improve quality of life

54
GUIDELINES FOR GUIDED ESSAY – LOW PROFICIENCY (LP)
SUGGESTED ANSWERS

PRACTICE 1: HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

Paragraph 1 - Introduction

Introducing
Have you ever felt stressed?
the topic

Giving your In my opinion, having good mental health is the most important thing for a
opinion student.

In this essay, I will discuss some causes of stress among students, how I
Thesis
help a friend who are stressed and why it is important to care for mental
statement
health.

Paragraph 2 – Causes of stress

Topic sentence: To start with, there are many causes of stress.

Sequence
I–E–E Sample sentences
Markers
, students are stressed because of
First of all, Idea 1
examinations.

This is because Elaboration , they are worried all the time.

, they are worried if their parents scold them

For example, Example
when they get bad result. It is awful.

, students are stressed because they are

Besides, Idea 2
always tired.
After school, , they have co-curricular activities. ,
Then, Elaboration they have to finish their homework at home. ,
So, they do not have enough rest. It is tiring.

As a result, Example , they are stressed and cannot focus in class.

55
Paragraph 3 – How I help someone who is stressed
Topic sentence: When my friends are stressed, I always help them.
Sequence
I–E–E Sample sentences
Markers

To begin with, Idea 1 , I always give them my full support.

Clearly, Elaboration , it makes them feel better.

, I would call them and listen to their

For instance, Example
problems. It is good.

, if the problem is serious, I would also

Moreover, Idea 2
advise them to get help.

That way, Elaboration , they can solve their problems.

, I would advise them to see the school

As an example, Example
counsellor. It is helpful.

Paragraph 4 – Why it is important

Topic sentence: Obviously, there are many reasons why mental health is important.
Sequence
I–E–E Sample sentences
Markers

First, Idea 1 , it is good for healthy relationships.

This is we can spend time with our friends

...because... Elaboration
and family.
We can do many activities together
...like... Example
shopping. It is fun.

, good mental health also helps us in our

Apart from that, Idea 2
studies.

The reason is, Elaboration , we will feel excited to go to school.

, we will be able to focus when our teachers

Therefore, Example
are teaching and get better marks. It is great.

Paragraph 5 – Conclusion

Summarising
In conclusion, mental health is the most important thing for a student.
your point
I hope all of us will learn how to take care of our mental health and be
Comment
happy.

56
GUIDELINES FOR GUIDED ESSAY – HIGH PROFICIENCY (HP)
PRACTICE 1: HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

Paragraph 1 - Introduction

Introducing If you are a student, then I’m sure you have felt stressed at some point in
the topic your life.

Giving your In my honest opinion, having good mental health is the most vital thing
opinion for a student.

This essay will discuss several factors contributing to stress in students,

Thesis
my ways in assisting stressed friends, and the significance of prioritizing
statement
mental well-being.

Paragraph 2 – Causes of stress

Topic sentence: Start by knowing that many things create stress.

Sequence
I–E–E Sample sentences
Markers

, heavy workloads create most stress for

To begin with, Idea 1
students.

, they have little time to study for exams due

Particularly, Elaboration to continuous homework and assignments for
numerous subjects. This triggers stress and anxiety.

, they are constantly working under pressure

To illustrate, Example
due to the fear of failing.

, another contributing factor of stress is the

Additionally, Idea 2
students are in a state of constant fatigue.

, they must balance their time for homework

Mainly, Elaboration and after-school sports and club meetings, which is
very demanding.
they find a way to finish their homework at
Unless Example school, there is no way for them to rest at night.
Certainly, this causes stress for many pupils.

57
Paragraph 3 – How I help someone who is stressed
Topic sentence: Stress may greatly impact a student's life. Thus, I always lend my hand
whenever they feel stressed.
Sequence
I–E–E Sample sentences
Markers
To start with, Idea 1 , be a good listener.
, being present and supportive when they're
Above all, Elaboration stressed helps. I realize that stressed people need
a shoulder to cry on, not advise.
, making them a cup of tea and taking them
For instance, Example
for a stroll would calm them.
, if that doesn’t help, I would advise them to
However, Idea 2
seek professional help.
, the school counsellor is the most suitable
Undeniably, Elaboration
person to consult.
, I would make it a point to accompany them
Plus, Example
for the first appointment.

Paragraph 4 – Why it is important

Topic sentence: Undoubtedly, having good mental health is very vital.
Sequence
I–E–E Sample sentences
Markers
, mentally healthy people are better
First, Idea 1
equipped to cultivate healthy relationships.
, our thoughts, behavior, and emotions
Clearly, Elaboration
depend on mental health.
, they are able to deal with conflicts with
For example, Example
people around them more calmly.

, a mentally stable student is proven to

Moreover, Idea 2 perform much better at school than those who are
always stressed.
excellent mental health promotes attention,
Since Elaboration
they can absorb information and lessons better.
, a healthy mind guarantees academic
Irrefutably, Example
success.

Paragraph 5 – Conclusion
Summarising In conclusion, it is undeniable that a student's mental well-being is a
your point priority and should not be taken lightly.
I hope that all of us will prioritise and nurture our mental health as it will
Comment
improve our quality of life.

58
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

Have you ever felt stressed? In my opinion, having good mental health is the most
important thing for a student. In this essay, I will discuss some causes of stress among
students, how I help a friend who are stressed and why it is important to care for mental
health.
To start with, there are many causes of stress. First of all, students are stressed
because of examinations. This is because, they are worried all the time. For example, they
are worried if their parents scold them when they get bad result. It is awful. Besides,
students are stressed because they are always tired. After school, they have co-curricular
activities. Then, they have to finish their homework at home. So, they do not have enough
rest. It is tiring. As a result, they are stressed and cannot focus in class.
When my friends are stressed, I always help them. To begin with, I always give them
my full support. Clearly, it makes them feel better. For instance, I would call them and listen
to their problems. It is good. Moreover, if the problem is serious, I would also advise them
to get help. That way, they can solve their problems. As an example, I would advise them
to see the school counsellor. It is helpful.
Obviously, there are many reasons why mental health is important. First, it is good for
healthy relationships. This is because we can spend time with our friends and family. We
can do many activities together like shopping. It is fun. Apart from that, good mental health
also helps us in our studies. The reason is, we will feel excited to go to school. Therefore,
we will be able to focus when our teachers are teaching and get better marks. It is great.
In conclusion, mental health is the most important thing for a student. I hope all of us
will learn how to take care of our mental health and be happy.

59
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

If you are a student, then I am sure you have felt stressed at some point in your life.
In my honest opinion, having good mental health is the most vital thing for a student. This
essay will discuss several factors contributing to stress among students, my ways in
assisting stressed friends, and the significance of prioritizing mental well-being.
Start by knowing that many things create stress. To begin with, heavy workloads
create most stress for students. Particularly, they have little time to study for exams due to
continuous homework and assignments for numerous subjects. This triggers stress and
anxiety. To illustrate, they are constantly working under pressure due to the fear of failing.
Additionally, another contributing factor of stress is the students are in a state of constant
fatigue. Mainly, they must balance their time for homework and after-school sports and club
meetings, which is very demanding. Unless they find a way to finish their homework at
school, there is no way for them to rest at night. Certainly, this causes stress for many
students.
Stress may greatly impact a student's life. Thus, I always lend my hand whenever
they feel stressed. To start with, be a good listener. Above all, being present and
supportive when they are stressed helps. I realize that stressed people need a shoulder to
cry on, not advise. For instance, making them a cup of tea and taking them for a stroll
would calm them. However, if that does not help, I would advise them to seek professional
help. Undeniably, the school counsellor is the most suitable person to consult. Plus, I would
make it a point to accompany them for the first appointment.
Undoubtedly, having good mental health is very vital. First, mentally healthy people
are better equipped to cultivate healthy relationships. Clearly, our thoughts, behavior, and
emotions depend on mental health. For example, they are able to deal with conflicts with
people around them more calmly. Moreover, a mentally stable student is proven to perform
much better at school than those who are always stressed. Since excellent mental health
promotes attention, they can absorb information and lessons better. Irrefutably, a healthy
mind guarantees academic success.
In conclusion, it is undeniable that a student's mental well-being is a priority and
should not be taken lightly. I hope that all of us will prioritise and nurture our mental health
as it will improve our quality of life.

60
 CONSUMERISM AND FINANCIAL
AWARENESS
Instruction: Write your answer in 125 – 150 words in an appropriate style.

Your class been talking about online shopping habits among teenagers. Your
teacher has asked you to write an essay on it.
In your essay, you should write about:
• your favourite online shopping platform
• the benefits of using the online shopping platform
• the ways to be a smart online shopper

Write your essay using all the notes and give reasons for your answers.

IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Do
• write about ONE online shopping platform
Your favourite • write about the features of the online shopping platform
online shopping • use the pronoun ‘I’
platform. Don’t
• write about the variety of online shopping platform
• write about online shopping in general
Do
• provide at least TWO benefits of the specific online
shopping platform mentioned before.
The benefits of
• compare the benefits of online shopping with the in-store
using the online
shopping.
shopping platform
Don’t
• write about the benefit of online shopping in general

Do
• provide at least TWO ways / methods / steps to be a smart
The ways to be a online shopper.
smart online
shopper Don’t
• write general things about shopping like things you can buy
or where you can go shopping

61
GUIDELINES FOR GUIDED ESSAY
PRACTICE 2: FINANCIAL AWARENESS AND CONSUMERISM

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

LP HP

Introducing the Question – Do you know ...? What

Question – Do you like ...?
topic do you ...?

Giving your offers benefits – become

offers – benefits
opinion increasingly popular

discuss – favourite online explore – my preferred online

shopping platform – benefits of shopping platform – the advantages
Thesis
using the online shopping of the online shopping platform –
statement
platform – how to be a smart strategies for becoming a savvy
shopper online shopper

Paragraph 2 – Favourite shopping platform

Topic sentence
LP : Nowadays, there are many online shopping platforms.
HP : In today's era, there is a plethora of online shopping platforms.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

favour – Shopee – go-

First of all, (LP) favourite – Shopee –
Idea 1 to online shopping
To begin with, (HP) free app
platform

a range of features –
Besides, (LP) user-friendly –
Elaboration sell – many things
...due to the fact... (HP) enhance shopping
experience

...like... (LP) books – stationaries – Shopee Games –

Example
...such as... (HP) clothes – bags Shopee Feed

62
Paragraph 3 – Benefits of using the online shopping platform (Shopee)
Topic sentence
LP : There are many benefits of using Shopee.
HP : There are several reasons why I prefer using the online shopping platform, Shopee.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

First, (LP)
Idea 1 time saving time saving
First of all, (HP)

...because... (LP) going – mall – variety of things –

Elaboration
...since... (HP) store – items without going out

For example, (LP) open the app – physical store – waste

Example
On the other hand, (HP) select – pay time – long queues

Plus, (LP) exceptional

Idea 2 convenient
Similarly, (HP) convenience

...because... (LP) do not have to do do not need to carry

Elaboration
...as... (HP) any work heavy & bulky items

For instance, (LP) heavy things –

Example deliver – doorstep
...because... (HP) send – home

63
Paragraph 4 – Ways to be a smart online shopper
Topic sentence
LP : There are many ways to be a smart online shopper.
HP : Becoming a smart online consumer can be achieved through various methods.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

To begin with, (LP) compare – product

Idea 1 compare – quality
First and foremost, (HP) quality

Clearly, (LP) read reviews – buy make an informed

Elaboration
In order to... (HP) good items decision

... like ... (LP) product utilise reviews –

Example
With that being said, (HP) performance valuable resources

Also, (LP)
Idea 2 shop – during sales shop – during sales
Furthermore, (HP)

...because... (LP) significant savings –

Elaboration cheaper items
Consequently, (HP) discounts

For example, (LP) Chinese New Year Chinese New Year –

Example
...like... (HP) – Christmas sales Christmas sales

Paragraph 5 – Conclusion

LP HP

Summarising To conclude – online shopping – To conclude, ... accessibility –

your point benefits widespread – convenient
However, ... remember – use –
Comment I hope – be smart – using it
sensibly

64
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

Do you like online shopping? Online shopping offers many benefits for us. In this
essay, I will discuss my favourite online shopping platform, the benefits of using the online
shopping platform and how to be a smart online shopper.
Nowadays, there are many online shopping platforms. First of all, my favourite
online shopping platform is Shopee. It is free to download. Besides, it sells many things like
bags, clothes and art supplies.
There are many benefits of using Shopee. First, using Shopee is time saving. This
is because we do not have to go to the mall or store to buy the items we need. For example,
we can just open the app, select the items, and pay. Plus, it is convenient. This is because
we do not have to do any work. For instance, when we buy heavy things, sellers will send
them to our home.
There are many ways to be a smart online shopper. To begin with, we should
compare the quality of an item by reading the reviews. Clearly, good reviews help us buy
good items. We can learn many things about the product such as its performance. Also,
we can shop during sales. This is because the items are cheaper. For example, we can
shop during Chinese New Year and Christmas sales.
To conclude, online shopping has many benefits. I hope all of us will be smart when
using it.

65
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Do you know any online shopping platforms? What do you always buy online?
Online shopping indeed offers several benefits, which is why it has become increasingly
popular over the years. This essay will explore my preferred online shopping platform,
the advantages of the online shopping platform, and strategies for becoming a savvy
online shopper.

In today's era, there is a plethora of online shopping platforms. To begin with, I

favour using Shopee as my go-to online shopping platform. This is due to the fact that it
offers a range of user-friendly features, such as Shopee Feed and Shoppe Games, which
enhance the shopping experience.

There are several reasons why I prefer using the online shopping platform, Shopee.
First of all, one of the top reasons is time saving since I can choose and order a broad
variety of things online without even having to go out. On the other hand, going to a
physical store is a waste of time as it often requires waiting in long queues to purchase the
items I need. Similarly, online shopping offers exceptional convenience as it eliminates the
need to worry about carrying bulky or heavy items. This is because, they will be delivered
right to our doorstep.

Becoming a smart online consumer can be achieved through various methods. First
and foremost, in order to make an informed decision before making a purchase, it is
essential to compare the product quality across different shops. With that being said,
buyers should utilise the available reviews left by previous customers as valuable resources.
Furthermore, shoppers should also consider taking advantage of sales, especially during
festive seasons like Christmas and Chinese New Year. Consequently, significant savings
can be achieved through the discounts provided.

To conclude, the accessibility of online shopping has made it a widespread and

convenient option for consumers. However, it is imperative to remember that with this
convenience comes a responsibility to use it sensibly.

66
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Instruction: Write your answer in 125 – 150 words in an appropriate style.

Your class has been discussing cyberbullying among teenagers and your teacher
has asked you to write an essay on it.
In your essay, you should write about:
• ways teenagers are cyberbullied
• how to prevent cyberbullying
• why we should show support towards cyberbully victims

Write your essay using all the notes and give reasons for your point of view.

IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Do
• write ideas on the different ways teenagers are cyberbullied
• give at least TWO different ways
Ways teenagers are
cyberbullied
Don’t
• write ideas that are related to adults
• write about physical bullying
Do
• write about things people can do to prevent cyberbullying

How to prevent
Don’t
cyberbullying
• write about personal experience on stopping cyberbullying
• write about what the victims can do after they are
cyberbullied
Do
• write about the positive result of having support or the
Why we should
negative effect of not having support towards cyberbully
show support
victims.
towards cyberbully
Don’t
victims
• write about what cyberbully victims should do
• write about punishment toward the bullies

67
GUIDELINES FOR GUIDED ESSAY

PRACTICE 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

LP HP

Introducing
cases – increasing technology – advantages
the topic

Giving your
serious problem downside – cyberbullying
opinion

address – various aspects related to

discuss – ways teenagers are
Thesis cyberbullying – ways – preventive
cyberbullied – how to prevent
statement measures – significance of offering
cyberbullying – why we should
support
show support

Paragraph 2 – Ways teenagers are cyberbullied

Topic sentence
LP : Teenagers are cyberbullied in many ways
HP : Cyberbullying affects teenagers through diverse methods.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

First, (LP) getting harsh & hurtful

Idea 1 mean messages
To begin with, (HP) comments

Sometimes, (LP)
Elaboration post rude comments disguised as jokes
Even when... (HP)
discrimination –
...like... (LP)
Example body-shaming prejudice –
...ranging from...to... (HP)
encouraging self-harm
spreading rumours –
Besides, (LP)
Idea 2 spreading rumours detrimental
Furthermore, (HP)
consequences
As a result, (LP)
Elaboration victims – stressed tarnish reputations
...as... (HP)

For example, (LP) embarrassing photos posting embarrassing

Example
...like... (HP) & videos photos & videos

68
Paragraph 3 – How to prevent cyberbullying
Topic sentence
LP : It is very important to prevent cyberbullying.
HP : Undeniably, it is very crucial for us to curb cyberbullying issue among teenagers.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

parents – be alert of
To start with, (LP) parents – monitor
Idea 1 change in children’s
First and foremost, (HP) children’s behaviour
demeanour

signs of cyberbully –
...because... (LP) cyberbullying –
Elaboration pay attention to tell-
...as... (HP) change – behaviour
tale signs
withdrawing from
For instance, (LP) do not want to go out friends – nervousness
Example
...like... (HP) – appear scared when receiving text
messages

Moreover, (LP) teenagers – know

Idea 2 Teenagers – realise
Additionally, (HP) what to do

Clearly, (LP) do not respond – cyberbully – dissipate

Elaboration
...that...if... (HP) mean messages – no response

...like... (LP) quick action – report – report – block –

Example
So, (HP) block account

69
Paragraph 4 – Why we should show support towards cyberbully victims
Topic sentence
LP : We should show support towards cyberbully victims ...
HP : Not surprisingly, cyberbullying is a significant stressor in a teenager’s life.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

...because... (LP) significant stressor in

Idea 1 main cause of stress
Not surprisingly, (HP) a teenager’s life

Obviously, (LP) severe emotional &

Elaboration many negative effects
Indeed, (HP) psychological effects

...such as... (LP) isolated – anxious –

Example cry & stay in room
...such as... (HP) depressed – suicidal

Paragraph 5 – Conclusion

LP HP

Summarising In short, ... serious matter – In short, ... shouldn’t be taken lightly
your point negative impacts – damaging effects

I hope – work together – stop I hope – work hand in hand – make

Comment
cyberbullying a difference

70
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

Cyberbullying cases are increasing nowadays. In my honest opinion, it is a very

serious problem. In this essay, I will discuss the ways teenagers are cyberbullied, how to
prevent cyberbullying and why we should show support towards cyberbully victims.
Teenagers are cyberbullied in many ways. First, they get mean messages on social
media. Sometimes, their friends post rude comments like body-shaming. It is bad. Besides,
spreading rumours on the internet is also cyberbullying. For example, their friends post
embarrassing photos on their wall. As a result, victims are stressed. It is terrible.
It is very important to prevent cyberbullying. To start with, parents should monitor
their children’s behaviour. This is because cyberbullying might change their behaviour. For
instance, they do not want to go out with friends or appear scared when they get text
messages. Moreover, teenagers should know what to do. Clearly, they should not respond
to any mean messages. They should take quick action like reporting and blocking the social
media account. It is safe.
We should show support towards cyberbully victims because it is the main cause of
stress among teenagers. Obviously, it gives the victims many negative effects such as
crying and staying in their room. So, we should show support to the victims.
In short, cyberbully is a very serious matter. It brings many negative impacts to the
victims. I hope everyone will work together to stop cyberbullying.

71
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Today’s world has been made smaller, thanks to technology, offering numerous
advantages. However, it also comes with a downside which is cyberbullying. This essay
will address various aspects related to cyberbullying among teenagers, including the ways
of cyberbullying, preventive measures, and the significance of offering support to
cyberbullying victims.

Cyberbullying affects teenagers through diverse methods. To begin with,

cyberbullying among teenagers often involves harsh and hurtful comments on social media,
ranging from discrimination and prejudice to something more extreme like encouraging
self-harm. Even when disguised as jokes, sending such messages is cyberbullying.
Furthermore, the act of spreading rumours can have detrimental consequences, as it could
tarnish reputations. Simple act like posting embarrassing photos or videos can cause
significant harm, both emotionally and socially.

Undeniably, it is very crucial for us to curb cyberbullying issue among teenagers.

First and foremost, parents should be alert of the change in their children’s demeanour as
it might be the signs of cyberbully. Parents should pay attention to any tell-tale signs in their
children like withdrawing from friends or if they appear nervous when receiving text
messages. Additionally, teenagers themselves should realise that cyberbully is more likely
to dissipate if there is no response from the target. So, all they have to do is to remain calm,
report and block the harasser’s social media account.

Not surprisingly, cyberbullying is a significant stressor in a teenager’s life. Indeed,

cyberbullying can have severe emotional and psychological effects on victims such as
feeling isolated, anxious, depressed, or even suicidal. That is why it is vital for us to show
support towards them. Let them know that we are there for them and we are willing to help
them feel less alone.
In short, cyberbullying should not be taken lightly as it brings damaging effects to
the victims. I hope everyone will work hand in hand to curb cyberbullying. Together we can
make a difference.

72
 PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Instruction: Write your answer in 125 – 150 words in an appropriate style.

Your class has been discussing about crimes in your neighbourhood and your teacher
has asked you to write an essay about what can be done to prevent crime.
In your essay, you should write about:
• crimes that occur in your neighbourhood
• reasons people commit crimes
• ways to prevent crimes
Write your essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.

IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Do
• write about your personal experience with crime
• use the pronoun ‘I’ while explaining the incidents
Crimes that occur in
your neighbourhood
Don’t
• write ideas related to other people
• write about the types of crimes in general
Do
• provide at least TWO reasons on why people commit crime
• write about causes of crimes in general, not necessarily
Reasons people
related to the previous points only
commit crimes
Don’t
• write general things about crimes like disadvantages of
crimes
Do
• provide at least TWO ways to prevent crimes.
• use modals when giving suggestions
Ways to prevent
crimes
Don’t
• write about the effects of crimes
• write about what the crime victims can do

73
GUIDELINES FOR GUIDED ESSAY

PRACTICE 4: PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

LP HP

Introducing crime cases – happen – our crime – pressing concern – many

the topic neighbourhood communities – across the world

Giving
stopping crimes – top priority – safer
your important – solve – crime issues –
environment
opinion affect victims

discuss – crimes in my discuss – types of crimes that occur

Thesis neighbourhood – reasons people in my neighbourhood – reasons
statement commit crimes – ways to prevent people engage in criminal activities –
crimes various ways to prevent crime

Paragraph 2 – Crimes that occur in your neighbourhood

Topic sentence
LP : Many types of crimes happen in my neighbourhood.
HP : My neighbourhood, like any other, faces a range of criminal activities.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

teenagers – property crimes –

Firstly, (LP) Idea 1
vandalism vandalism
teenagers – spray
Generally, (LP) draw graffiti – without
Elaboration graffiti – defacing
In this case, (HP) permission walls – illegally
For example, (LP) unsightly words &
Example spray – bad words
To illustrate, (HP) symbols

Besides, (LP) burglary – detrimental

Idea 2 burglary
Additionally, (HP) crime
news & reports –
Sometimes, (LP) burglars – break into
Elaboration houses being broken
On a regular basis, (HP) houses – at night into
jewellery – money –
...like... (LP)
Example necklaces – money laptops – regularly
...examples of... (HP)
stolen

74
Paragraph 3 – Reasons people do crimes
Topic sentence
LP : Next, there are many reasons why people commit crimes.
HP : There are several factors that contribute to why people commit crimes.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

First, (LP)
Idea 1 peer pressure peer pressure
To start with, (HP)

to be accepted into
Clearly, (LP) look cool – follow
Elaboration groups – follow unruly
In order to... (HP) friends
behaviour

For example, (LP) write improper words – scribble unscrupulous

Example
...like... (HP) desk words – bully

In addition, (LP) financial problems –

Idea 2 money problems
Secondly, (HP) behave irrationally

...so... (LP) cannot buy food for unable to pay for food
Elaboration
...because... (HP) family – commit crimes – beyond their means

...like... (LP) unemployed people –

Example theft and burglary
This can be seen... (HP) shoplift

75
Paragraph 4 – Ways to prevent crimes
Topic sentence
LP : Lastly, there are many ways to prevent crimes.
HP : Evidently, there exist numerous methods to deter criminal activities.

Sequence Markers I–E–E LP HP

To start with, (LP) start a neighbourhood establish a

Idea 1
First and foremost, (HP) watch neighbourhood watch

residents – keep a
When... (LP) take turns – night –
Elaboration vigilant eye – ensure
...where... (HP) take quick action
prompt action

For instance, (LP) call – police – see – suspicious individuals

Example
For instance, Thus, (HP) suspicious people – inform police

Moreover, (LP) surveillance cameras

Idea 2 Put CCTV – home
Apart from that, (HP) – strategic locations

deter burglars from

...when... (LP) burglars scared – see
Elaboration entering – spot CCTV
...as soon as... (HP) CCTV
cameras

...such as... (LP) entrances and exits of

Example gate and front door
...such as... (HP) the house

Paragraph 5 – Conclusion

LP HP

Summarising To sum up, ...important – stop To sum up, preventing crime –

your point crimes utmost importance

work as a team – safe require collaborative efforts –

Comment
neighbourhood ensure safety

76
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

Crimes cases always happen around our neighbourhood. It is important to solve the
crime issue because it affects the victims. In this essay, I will discuss about crimes that occur
in my neighbourhood, reasons people commit crimes and ways to prevent crimes.
Many types of crimes happen in my neighbourhood. Firstly, teenagers do vandalism.
Generally, they draw graffiti on the walls without permission. For example, they write bad
words using spray. Besides, another crime is burglary. Sometimes, burglars break into
houses at night. They take many things like necklaces and money. The victims are scared.
Next, there are many reasons why people commit crimes. First, teenagers do it
because of peer pressure. Clearly, they want to be cool and follow what their friends do.
For example, they write improper words on the desk. In addition, people commit crimes
because they have money problem. They cannot buy food for their family, so they commit
crimes like theft and burglary.
Lastly, there are many ways to prevent crimes. To start with, we can start a
neighbourhood watch. When we take turns to protect the village at night, we can take quick
action. For instance, we can quickly call the police when we see suspicious people. It is
easy to do. Moreover, we can also put CCTV at home such as at the gate and front door.
Burglars will feel scared when they see the CCTV.
To sum up, it is important to stop crimes from happening. Everyone needs to work
as a team to make sure our neighbourhood is safe.

77
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Crime is a pressing concern in our neighbourhood, as it is in many communities

across the world. I think stopping crimes from happening should be a top priority in order to
create a safer environment. In this essay, I will discuss the types of crimes that occur
in my neighbourhood, the reasons people engage in criminal activities, and various
ways to prevent crime effectively.

My neighbourhood, like any other, faces a range of criminal activities. These include
property crimes such as vandalism. In this case, teenagers spray graffiti on the walls
illegally. To illustrate, they deface the walls using unsightly words and symbols.
Additionally, burglary is also one of detrimental crimes that has occurred. On a regular
basis, we are flooded with news and reports of houses being broken into. Jewellery, money
and laptops are examples of electronic and personal belongings that are regularly stolen.

There are several factors that contribute to why people commit crimes. To start
with, crimes happen due to peer pressure. In order to be accepted into groups, teenagers
are pressured to follow their friends’ unruly behaviour like scribbling unscrupulous words
on desks and bullying schoolmates in order to look cool. Secondly, financial problems also
cause people to behave irrationally. This can be seen when some unemployed people
shoplift because they are unable to pay for the food that is beyond their means.

Evidently, there exist numerous methods to deter criminal activities. First and
foremost, we can establish a neighbourhood watch where the residents alternately keep a
vigilant eye on the neighbourhood at night. This may ensure prompt action. For instance,
if they see any suspicious individuals, they can immediately inform the police, thus
preventing crimes from happening. Apart from that, we should install surveillance cameras
at strategic locations such as the entrances and exits of the house. Burglars are likely to
be deterred as soon as they spot the CCTV cameras.

To sum up, preventing crimes is of utmost importance, and it requires collaborative

efforts from everyone to ensure the safety of our neighbourhood.

78
 PART 3 EXTENDED WRITING (ARTICLE)

TOTAL MARKS : 20 marks

In short… LENGTH : About 200 to 250 words
TYPE OF WRITING: Semi formal

Article is by far, the least complicated essay in terms of format as it has only 2 components:

Format
Title

Writer's name

Additional Tips:

1. Imagine what an article in a newspaper or magazine would look like in terms of

layout and you will get an idea of how to position the title as well as the by-line.
2. Typically, the title is written at the top of the page in the centre. Use CAPITAL
LETTERS for the initials and underline. For example,

The Title of This Article

The by-line can be written either right after the title of the article or at the end of the
article on the right.

For example,

The Title of This Article

Written by John Wick
(essay)

OR
The Title of This Article
(essay)
Written by,
John Wick

80
 A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO WRITE AN ARTICLE EFFECTIVELY

STEP 1 – ANALYSE
STEP 2 – PLAN
● Read and understand the
instruction and stimulus. STEP 3 - PRESENT
● Respond to the
question.
● Highlight the bullet points ● Organise your
given. paragraphs.
●Use all the bullet points
given to guide you in
● Identify the key words, writing your answer. ● Use the appropriate
phrases or task. This will cohesive devices so that
help you focus on the your essay reads
important aspects of your ●Elaborate on the points smoothly.
article. given.

● Use a variety of
● Understand what the ●Give reasons and vocabulary.
article should be about. examples wherever
suitable.
● Use short and long
sentences.

● Write your essay in the

appropriate style.

● Ensure that the word

count is 200 – 250 words.

81
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Generally, this is how article questions in Part 3 will look like:

Given Write your answer in 200-250 words in an appropriate style on this

situation/scenario
question paper. You see this notice outside Prefect's Room.
with context

Articles Wanted! Just a statement.

Given title. Can be Same for all article
used as the title of questions.
your article Handling Cyberbullies

• What is cyberbullying?
These are the points
Instructions
• How can students protect themselves for your article.
from cyberbullies? They are in point
form. The number
• What can parents do to support
of bullets is not
their children. fixed.

Continuation of
the given Write an article answering all these questions.
situation/scen
ario
The best article will win a mystery prize.

82
INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency High Proficiency
(LP) (HP)
Example

Technological
Sequencing
Technology - advancements-
Presently, (LP) Idea
improving electronic devices -
Currently, (HP)
remote work

Technology Indispensable - adverse

Emphasising
improvement – bad consequences -
However, (LP) Elaboration
effects technology
Indeed, (HP)
advancements

Giving Example Concerning issue –

Example Cyberbullying
As such, (HP) cyberbullying

2ND PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing What is Definition of

Idea
On the whole, (HP) cyberbullying? cyberbullying

Emphasising
Engage - cyber
Basically, (LP) Elaboration
Do bad things online wrongdoing
In short, (HP)

Giving Example Make hurtful comments,

Say unkind things,
For instance, (LP), send offensive
Example send bad messages -
like (LP) messages - disturbing
share hurtful pictures.
Thus, (HP) images.

83
3RD PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Thus, (LP) Caution – safeguard -
Idea Be careful
As a consequence cyberbullies
(HP)

Emphasising Do not share – Retain information

Besides, (LP) Elaboration information privately
Apart from this, (HP)

Giving Example Full name, address, Personal details,

As an example, (LP) Example phone number - contact information -
In other words, (HP) school name identifying information

Sequencing
Manage - privacy
Other than that, (LP) Idea Use privacy settings
options
Additionally, (HP)

Emphasising Limit access – safer – Configure - privacy

Hence, (LP) Elaboration more private online preferences- restricted -
Subsequently, (HP) experience friends – family

Giving Example Restrict access – limit

Account – personal -
To show that, (LP) Example connections - less
not able – accessed -
Not only…but, (HP) exposed
others

84
4TH PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing Engage – open

Show support - talk –
In addition, (LP) Idea conversations-
children- regularly
Significantly, (HP) cyberbullying – children
Emphasising Encourage - share - Disclose - digital
For this reason, (LP) Elaboration online problem challenge
Equally important, (HP)
Giving Example Communication –
Explain - circumstances
It seems that, (LP) Example children - tell-
- cyberbullying situation.
Furthermore, (HP) cyberbullying

Sequencing
Check children’s Supervise – online
Other than that, (LP) Idea
online activities – activities
Alternatively, (HP)
important
Emphasising
Especially, (LP) Elaboration Young children Keep an eye
In particular, (HP)
Parents – know - Online contacts -
Giving Example
Example social media friends - connections – maintain
Clearly, (LP)
list- avoid bad things – safe – secure

CONCLUSION

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing
Severe / crucial issue/
To conclude, (LP) Idea Serious problem
matter
In brief, (HP)

Emphasising Affect emotion - need

Mainly, (LP) Elaboration – stop- worse Refrain - doing
Hence, (HP)

Giving Example Make report – Notify authorities -

As such, (LP) Example authority - cyberbullying
To be sure, (HP) cyberbullied occurrence

85
 GUIDELINES FOR ARTICLE WRITING – LOW PROFICIENCY

Handling Cyberbullies

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP)
Example

Sequencing
Idea in today's high-tech world, technology keeps
Presently,
improving.

Emphasising
Elaboration with the technology improvement, there are many
However,
bad effects from it.

Giving Example
Example One of them is cyberbullying.
-

2ND PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP)
Example

Sequencing
What is cyberbullying?
- Idea

Emphasising
cyberbullying is when people do bad things
Basically, Elaboration
online.

Giving Example the actions that people do online are like saying
For instance, Example unkind things, sending hurtful messages, or
like sharing hurtful pictures.

86
3RD PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP)
Example

Sequencing students should protect themselves from

Thus, Idea cyberbullies by being careful online.

Emphasising
Besides, Elaboration they must avoid sharing personal information.

Giving Example their full name, address, phone number, or school

Example
As an example, name.

they can also protect themselves from

Sequencing
cyberbullies by using privacy settings on their
Other than that, Idea
online accounts.

Emphasising it will limit access to only friends and family,

Hence, Elaboration ensuring a safer and more private online
experience.

Giving Example This is , their account is personal

Example
to show that and are not able to be accessed by others.

87
4TH PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP)
Example

parents can show support to their children who

Sequencing
had been bullied online by talking to them
In addition, Idea
regularly.

Emphasising
it will encourage them to share any online
For this reason, Elaboration
problems that they face.

by creating an open line of communication helps

Giving Example
Example children to talk about cyberbullying that they might
It seems that,
face.

Sequencing checking children’s online activities is also very

Other than that, Idea important for parents.

Emphasising
They should check it on their young
especially Elaboration
children.

Giving Example
parents must know their children’s social media
Clearly, Example
friends and have a list of the names to avoid any
bad things from happening to their children.

88
CONCLUSION

Idea
Low Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP)
Example

Sequencing
cyberbullying is a serious problem.
To conclude, Idea

Emphasising
as it can affect our emotion; it needs to be
Mainly, Elaboration
stopped before it gets worse.

Giving Example
Example we have to make a report to the authority if we
As such,
are being cyberbullied.

89
 GUIDELINES FOR ARTICLE WRITING – HIGH PROFICIENCY

Handling Cyberbullies

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration High Proficiency (HP)
Example

in the era of technological advancements,

Sequencing
electronic devices have become essential for
Currently, Idea
remote work and communication.

Emphasising it is indispensable but there are numerous

Indeed, Elaboration adverse consequences of technology

advancements.

Giving Example numerous concerning issues emerge and one of

Example
As such, them is cyberbullying.

90
2ND PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration High Proficiency (HP)
Example

cyberbullying is the act of intentionally and

Sequencing consistently mistreating or harassing someone
On the whole, Idea through the use of electronic devices or other
forms of electronic communication.

Emphasising
In short,
Elaboration it is the act of engaging in cyber wrongdoing.

those who are involved in cyberbullying will make

Giving Example hurtful comments, sending offensive messages,
Thus, Example or sharing disturbing images through digital
means such as the internet and social media.

91
3RD PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration High Proficiency (HP)
Example

it is imperative for students to exercise caution

Sequencing
online in order to safeguard themselves from
As a consequence, Idea
cyberbullies.

Emphasising
they should retain information privately and being
Apart from this, Elaboration
mindful of what they share.

they can reduce the risk of cyberbullying and

Giving Example maintain their online safety and privacy by not
In other words, Example sharing personal details, contact information, or
identifying information with strangers.

Sequencing to safeguard against cyberbullies, students should

Additionally, Idea actively manage their privacy options

Emphasising
and configure their privacy
subsequently, Elaboration
preferences on online platforms.

they should restrict access to their profiles,

Giving Example , limiting connections to trusted friends and
Not only, family members, thereby creating a safer online
Example
but, environment where personal information is less
exposed to potential threats.

92
4TH PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration High Proficiency (HP)
Example

parents can support their children by regularly

Sequencing
engaging in open conversations about
Significantly, Idea
cyberbullying and digital challenges.

Emphasising
encouraging children to disclose any issues they
Equally important, Elaboration
face online is crucial.

parents should explain that they are there to help,

Giving Example creating an atmosphere of trust and
Furthermore, Example understanding when addressing cyberbullying
situations.

Sequencing can provide crucial support by supervising their

Alternatively, Idea youngsters' online activities.

Emphasising
In particular, Elaboration this involves keeping an eye on

their online contacts and connections, ensuring

their children are engaging with trustworthy
Giving Example
Example individuals and maintaining a safe and secure
online environment for them to explore and learn.

93
CONCLUSION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration High Proficiency (HP)
Example

Sequencing cyberbullying is a severe and crucial issue that

In brief, Idea demands our attention.

Emphasising we must refrain from engaging in harmful online

Hence, Elaboration behaviour and, if witness to a cyberbullying
occurrence,

Giving Example promptly notify the authorities. By taking collective

to be sure, Example action, we can create a safer online environment
for all.

94
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

Handling Cyberbullies
Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Presently, in today's high-tech world, technology keeps improving. However, with

the technology improvement, there are many bad effects from it. One of them is
cyberbullying.
What is cyberbullying? Basically, cyberbullying is when people do bad things online.
For instance, the actions that people do online are like saying unkind things, sending
hurtful messages, or sharing hurtful pictures.
Thus, students should protect themselves from cyberbullies by being careful online.
Besides, they must avoid sharing personal information. As an example, their full name,
address, phone number, or school name. Other than that, they can also protect themselves
from cyberbullies by using privacy settings on their online accounts. Hence, it will limit
access to only friends and family, ensuring a safer and more private online experience. This
is to show that, their account is personal and are not able to be accessed by others.
In addition, parents can show support to their children who had been bullied online
by talking to them regularly. For this reason, it will encourage them to share any online
problems that they face. It seems that, by creating an open line of communication helps
children to talk about cyberbullying that they might face. Other than that, checking
children’s online activities is also very important for parents. They should check it especially
on their young children. Clearly, parents must know their children’s social media friends
and have a list of the names to avoid any bad things from happening to their children.
To conclude, cyberbullying is a serious problem. Mainly, as it can affect our
emotion; it needs to be stopped before it gets worse. As such, we have to make a report to
the authority if we are being cyberbullied.

95
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Handling Cyberbullies
Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Currently, in the era of technological advancements, electronic devices have become

essential for remote work and communication. Indeed, it is indispensable but there are various
adverse consequences of technology advancements. As such, numerous concerning issues
emerge and one of them is cyberbullying.
On the whole, cyberbullying is the act of intentionally and consistently mistreating or
harassing someone through the use of electronic devices or other forms of electronic
communication. In short, it is the act of engaging in cyber wrongdoing. Thus, those who are
involved in cyberbullying will make hurtful comments, sending offensive messages, or sharing
disturbing images through digital means such as the internet and social media.
As a consequence, it is imperative for students to exercise caution online in order to
safeguard themselves from cyberbullies. Apart from this, they should retain information
privately and being mindful of what they share. In other words, they can reduce the risk of
cyberbullying and maintain their online safety and privacy by not sharing personal details,
contact information, or identifying information with strangers. Additionally, to safeguard against
cyberbullies, students should actively manage their privacy options and subsequently,
configure their privacy preferences on online platforms. Not only, they should restrict access to
their profiles, but, limiting connections to trusted friends and family members, thereby creating
a safer online environment where personal information is less exposed to potential threats.
Significantly, parents can support their children by regularly engaging in open
conversations about cyberbullying and digital challenges. Equally important, encouraging
children to disclose any issues they face online is crucial. Furthermore, parents should explain
that they are there to help, creating an atmosphere of trust and understanding when addressing
cyberbullying situations. Alternatively, parents can provide crucial support by supervising their
youngsters' online activities. In particular, this involves keeping an eye on their online contacts
and connections, ensuring their children are engaging with trustworthy individuals and
maintaining a safe and secure online environment for them to explore and learn.
In brief, cyberbullying is a severe and crucial issue that demands our attention. Hence,
we must refrain from engaging in harmful online behaviour and, if witness to a cyberbullying
occurrence, to be sure, promptly notify the authorities. By taking collective action, we can create
a safer online environment for all.

96
 CONSUMERISM AND FINANCIAL AWARENESS

You read about promoting online shopping on a website.

Articles Wanted!
Why Choose Online Shopping?

• Do you like online shopping?

• What are the advantages of online shopping?
• List the things you would shop online.

Write an article answering all these questions.

The best article will be displayed at the website.

INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example

Sequencing What is online Definition of online

Idea
Nowadays, (LP) shopping? shopping

Emphasising
Generally, (LP) Browsing - purchasing
Elaboration Shop using internet
Without a doubt, (HP) items - online apps

Giving Example
Shopee, Lazada - Numerous online
As an example, (LP) Example
TikTok shop platforms - choose from.
To illustrate, (HP)

97
2nd PARAGRAPH
Idea
Low Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration High Proficiency (HP)
(LP)
Example

Yes – convenient
Sequencing Yes - easy
No – cannot clarify -
Firstly, (LP) Idea No- cannot check -
genuity - products /
First and foremost (HP) products / things
merchandises

Yes - compare -
Yes - can buy / shop -
purchase prices online
Emphasising home
In addition, (LP) Elaboration No – do not know -
No – cannot determine -
Obviously, (HP) products / things -
authenticity -
original / fake
merchandise

Giving Example
Clothes, shoes - Attire, footwear -
For instance, (LP) Example
make- up cosmetics
This can be seen, (HP)

98
3rd PARAGRAPH
Idea
Low Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration High Proficiency
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing
Save money - lower /
Moreover, (LP) Idea Inexpensive / bargain –
cheaper cost basement, cheapjack
Subsequently, (HP)

Emphasising
Promotion – discount
Besides, (LP) Elaboration Redeem coins -
- affordable vouchers
Alternatively, (HP)

Giving Example
Free delivery /
Plus, (LP) Example Pay - freight charges
shipping
In particular (HP)

Sequencing
Other than that, (LP) Idea Many choices Abundance - options
On top of that, (HP)

Emphasising
Many products,
This is because, (LP) Elaboration Assortment -
brands online merchandise, online
Like, (HP) outlet

Giving Example Find - preferred /

Therefore, (LP) Example trusted shop – Authentic outlets
Plus, (HP) convenient

99
4th PARAGRAPH
Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example
Sequencing Contemporary /
Another point is, (LP) Trendy things / voguish / modish
Idea
Last but not least, products merchandises /
(HP) vendible

Emphasising An array of selections -

Easy - choose
Clearly, (LP) Elaboration choose - different
things/ products
Exceptionally, (HP) platforms.

Giving Example
Jewellery, clothes - Accessories, garment /
Such as, (LP) Example
stationery. apparel, and stationery.
including, (HP)

Sequencing
Savvy tech
Other than that, (LP) Idea Buy - gadgets
merchandise
Undoubtedly, (HP)

Emphasising
Marked down price –
The reason is, (LP) Elaboration Cheaper - guarantee
extended warranty
Not to mention, (HP)

Giving Example
Handphone, tablets Video games console,
For instance, (LP) Example
- earphone earphone - wireless
Equally, (HP)
speaker.

100
CONCLUSION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example

Sequencing
Why choose online
In conclusion, (LP) Idea Prefer online shopping.
shopping?
In brief, (HP)

Emphasising
Convenience - Convenient – cost-
- Elaboration
savings effective
Apparently, (HP)

Giving Example Shop - home Leisurely shop - home

Lastly, (LP) Example No need - pay - public No transportation cost -
Not only…..but, (HP) transport parking fee

101
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

DO YOU LIKE ONLINE SHOPPING? YES

Why Choose Online Shopping?

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Nowadays, online shopping is also known as e-commerce. Generally, it is the

practice of buying goods and services through the internet. As an example, popular
platforms are like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop have transformed the way consumers
shop using the convenience of online platforms.
Firstly, yes, online shopping is liked by many because it is easy. In addition, people
can shop from the comfort of their home. For instance, it offers a wide range of products,
including clothes, shoes, and makeup, making it a suitable choice for shoppers.
Moreover, online shopping is a great way to save money because you can find
products at a lower cost. Besides, many online stores offer promotions and discounts,
making it even more affordable. Plus, some websites provide free delivery or shipping,
making the shopping experience convenient and budget-friendly. Other than that, it offers
many choices for the shoppers. This is because there are many online products and brands
available on the internet. Therefore, shoppers can easily find their preferred and trusted
online shops, making it a convenient way to explore and purchase items.
Another point is, online shopping is a place where you can buy trendy items.
Clearly, it is easy to choose from, such as, a variety of products, including jewellery,
clothing, and stationery, making it a convenient way to find and buy the things they desire.
Other than that, it is a fantastic way to buy gadgets. The reason is, the prices are cheaper
and guaranteed. For instance, you can easily buy handphones, tablets, and earphones
from online outlets at affordable prices making it a convenient option.
In conclusion, online shopping is the choice because it is easy to use and the cost
is cheap. In my opinion, it is convenience and affordable. No wonder online shopping is a
top pick for many. Lastly, it lets you shop comfortably from home, so you do not need to
pay for the public transport expenses.

102
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

DO YOU LIKE ONLINE SHOPPING? NO

Why Choose Online Shopping?

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Nowadays, online shopping is also known as e-commerce. Generally, it is the

practice of buying goods and services through the internet. As an example, popular
platforms are like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop have transformed the way consumers
shop using the convenience of online platforms.
Firstly, I do not like online shopping because I cannot check on the products or
things that I buy online. In addition, the products that I might get could be fake or not
original. For instance, the clothes, shoes or make – up that I buy might not be the same as
I ordered.
Moreover, online shopping is a great way to save money because you can find
products at a lower cost. Besides, many online stores offer promotions and discounts,
making it even more affordable. Plus, some websites provide free delivery or shipping,
making the shopping experience convenient and budget-friendly. Other than that, it offers
many choices for the shoppers. This is because there are many online products and brands
available on the internet. Therefore, shoppers can easily find their preferred and trusted
online shops, making it a convenient way to explore and purchase items.
Another point is, online shopping is a place where you can buy trendy items.
Clearly, there are a variety of products, such as jewellery, clothing, and stationery, making
it a convenient way to find and buy the things you desire. Other than that, it is a fantastic
way to buy gadgets. The reason is, the prices are cheaper and guaranteed. For instance,
you can easily buy handphones, tablets, and earphones from online outlets at affordable
prices making it a convenient option.
In conclusion, online shopping is the choice because it is easy to use and the cost
is cheap. In my opinion, it is convenience and affordable. No wonder online shopping is a
top pick for many. Lastly, it lets you shop comfortably from home, so you do not need to
pay for the public transport expenses.

103
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

DO YOU LIKE ONLINE SHOPPING? YES

Why Choose Online Shopping?

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Obviously, online shopping is defined as the process of browsing and purchasing items
through online apps. Without a doubt, it has become a ubiquitous part of modern life. To
illustrate, there are numerous online platforms to choose from where consumers now have
unprecedented convenience and accessibility to a vast array of products and services at their
fingertips.
First and foremost, indeed, online shopping is widely embraced for its sheer
convenience. Obviously, shoppers can easily compare prices and make purchases from the
comfort of their homes. This can be seen and applies to a diverse range of products, from attire
and footwear to cosmetics. For many, it is the preferred way to shop in the digital age.
Subsequently, online shopping can be a treasure trove of inexpensive deals, often
resembling a bargain-basement experience. Alternatively, savvy shoppers can maximize
savings by redeeming coins and vouchers, effectively reducing their overall costs. In particular,
even covering the freight charges, making it an attractive and cost-effective way to shop. On
top of that, it provides an abundance of options, like, a diverse assortment of merchandise
available at your fingertips. Whether you are searching for clothing, electronics, or specialty
items, the online outlet landscape is teeming with choices. Plus, you can trust many of these
outlets to offer authentic products, ensuring a satisfying shopping experience.
Last but not least, online shopping offers contemporary and voguish merchandise
across various platforms. Exceptionally, shoppers have access to an array of selections,
including accessories, garments, and stationery, making it a one-stop destination for those
seeking trendy and fashionable items to enhance their style and convenience. Undoubtedly, it
presents opportunities to snag savvy tech merchandise. Not to mention, marked-down prices,
as well as with the option to extend the warranty. Equally, this applies to various gadgets like
video game consoles, earphones, and wireless speakers, making it a go-to destination for tech
enthusiasts seeking great deals and reliable products.
In brief, my preference for online shopping is crystal clear. Apparently, it is not only
convenient and cost-effective, allowing me to leisurely shop from the comfort of home, but it
also eliminates transportation costs and parking fees. In short, this modern shopping approach
aligns perfectly with my lifestyle and budget-conscious mindset.

104
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

DO YOU LIKE ONLINE SHOPPING? NO

Why Choose Online Shopping?

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Obviously, online shopping is defined as the process of browsing and purchasing items
through online apps. Without a doubt, it has become a ubiquitous part of modern life. To
illustrate, there are numerous online platforms to choose from, consumers now have
unprecedented convenience and accessibility to a vast array of products and services at their
fingertips.
First and foremost, online shopping has its drawbacks. Obviously, one major concern
is the inability to verify the genuineness of the merchandise. Shoppers often find it challenging
to clarify the authenticity of the merchandise they purchase online. This will lead to doubts about
product quality and reliability, especially, attire, footwear, and cosmetics.
Subsequently, online shopping can be a treasure trove of inexpensive deals, often
resembling a bargain-basement experience. Alternatively, savvy shoppers can maximize
savings by redeeming coins and vouchers, effectively reducing their overall costs. In particular,
even covering the freight charges, making it an attractive and cost-effective way to shop. On
top of that, it provides an abundance of options, like, a diverse assortment of merchandise
available at your fingertips. Whether you are searching for clothing, electronics, or specialty
items, the online outlet landscape is teeming with choices. Plus, you can trust many of these
outlets to offer authentic products, ensuring a satisfying shopping experience.
Last but not least, online shopping offers contemporary and voguish merchandise
across various platforms. Exceptionally, shoppers have access to an array of selections,
including accessories, garments, and stationery, making it a one-stop destination for those
seeking trendy and fashionable items to enhance their style and convenience. Undoubtedly, it
presents opportunities to snag savvy tech merchandise. Not to mention, marked-down prices,
as well as with the option to extend the warranty. Equally, this applies to various gadgets like
video game consoles, earphones, and wireless speakers, making it a go-to destination for tech
enthusiasts seeking great deals and reliable products.
In brief, my preference for online shopping is crystal clear. Apparently, it is not only
convenient and cost-effective, allowing me to leisurely shop from the comfort of home, but it
also eliminates transportation costs and parking fees. In short, this modern shopping approach
aligns perfectly with my lifestyle and budget-conscious mindset.

105
 PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Write your answer in 200-250 words in an appropriate style on this question paper. You see
this notice in the English Club Bulletin.

Articles Wanted!
Truancy in Schools

• Why do students play truant?

• How can parents help to reduce this problem?
• What can the school do to motivate students to come to school?
Write us an article answering these questions.
The best article will be published in the English Club Bulletin

Write your article.

INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency High Proficiency
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing Definition for truancy in

Idea What is truancy?
students’ perceptions.

Emphasising
Lessons – less
Basically, (LP) Elaboration Skip classes
impressive/ interactive
Overall, (HP)

Giving Example
For example, (LP) Example Difficult subject Challenging subjects /
Specifically, (HP) topics – fooling around

106
2ND PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Example (LP) (HP)

Sequencing
Do not like Rigid educator/
Generally, (LP) Idea
teacher/subject challenging subjects
- (HP)

Emphasising
Teacher / subject -
Therefore, (LP) Elaboration Uninspiring teacher
boring
Hence, (HP)

Giving Example
Teaching not Teaching-not engaging
For instance, (LP) Example
interesting – chalk and talk
Specifically, (HP)

3RD PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing Awareness – kids’

Ask form teacher –
Because of this, (LP) Idea whereabout- consult
about their kids
Thus, (HP) from teacher

Emphasising Parents make sure – Parents ensure- kids’

Moreover, (LP) Elaboration go to school consistent attendance
In other words, (HP)

Giving Example
Sending and fetching
As an example, (LP) Example Send – to school
kids – to and fro school
To illustrate, (HP)

107
4TH PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency High Proficiency
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing Recompose –
In addition, (LP) Idea Reward strategies- accreditation
Aside from this, (HP) systems

Emphasising
Always come to
Especially, (LP) Elaboration Consistent attendance
school
Above all, (HP)

Giving Example Give accreditation –

Certificate / gifts –
For instance, (LP) Example instil a sense of
cash / hamper
namely, (HP) achievement

CONCLUSION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency High Proficiency
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing
To conclude, (LP) Idea Big problem Crucial issue
In short, (HP)

Emphasising
Overcome matter –
Again, (LP) Elaboration Need to solve
finding solutions
Not only ... but, (HP)

Giving Example
In general, (LP) Example Everyone takes part All parties play vital roles
In brief, (HP)

108
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

Truancy In Schools
Article By: Ali Bin Abu

. What is truancy? Basically, truancy means skipping school or missing classes.

For example, it can happen when some subjects are difficult, or there are other things going
on that make it tough to go to school.
Generally, one of the reasons why students playing truant is because they might
not enjoy a particular subject or class. Therefore, they might find the teacher as boring. For
instance, the lesson is not enjoyable as the teaching is not interesting.
Because of this, parents should always ask the form teacher about their children’s
attitude in school. Moreover, they should also make sure that their children always go to
school. As an example, this is possible if they send their children to the school.
In addition, school can motivate the students to come to school by giving them
reward. The reward is given especially, to those who always come to school. For instance,
the reward given can be in the form of certificate or gifts such as cash or hamper.
To conclude, truancy is a big problem in school. Again, this problem needs to be
solved as it can cause more problems in the future. In general, to stop this, everyone needs
to take part in stopping truancy among the students.

109
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Truancy In Schools

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Overall, truancy, often occurs when lessons are less impressive or interactive,
specifically in challenging subjects or topics. As a consequence, some students may skip
classes and fool around when they find the learning experience unengaging.
From students’ perspective, truancy can result from rigid educators and challenging
subjects. Hence, an uninspiring teacher who specifically employs traditional "chalk and
talk" method may make the learning experience unengaging, leading some to skip classes.
Thus, parents can reduce truancy by maintaining awareness of their kids' whereabouts
through consulting with teachers to address any concerns promptly. In other words, this
is the least of what parents should do in ensuring consistent attendance of their kids to
school. To illustrate, they should actively engage in sending and fetching their
children to and from school.
Aside from this, to motivate full attendance, schools can recompose their strategies
by implementing accreditation systems. Above all, recognising and rewarding students for
consistent attendance, namely, accreditation certificates can instil a sense of achievement.
This encourages them to attend regularly and actively participate in their educational
journey, thus, fostering a positive and committed school environment.
In short, addressing truancy is a crucial issue. Not only, that we can collectively
overcome this matter by recognising the importance of regular attendance, but we can also
actively participate in finding solutions. In brief, this requires concerted efforts from all
parties, ensuring that every student receives the education they deserve.

110
 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

Write your answer in 200-250 words in an appropriate style on this question paper. You see
this notice outside the school office.

Articles Required!
Stress Among Students

• What are the causes of stress among students?

• What are the symptoms of stress?
• How can students overcome stress?
Write us an article answering these questions.
The best article will win a prize.

Write your article.

INTRODUCTION
Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing
Definition for stress in
Basically, (LP) Idea What is stress?
students’ lives.
- (HP)

Emphasising
In my opinion, (LP) Pressure - achieving
Elaboration Study
excellent results
Obviously, (HP)

Giving Example
Then, (LP) Example Exam / Test
- (HP)

111
2nd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example

Sequencing
Students bothered/
To start with, (LP) Idea Worried - grades
perturbed/ distressed
First and foremost (HP)

Emphasising
Not enough time - Students’ yardstick in
Clearly, (LP)
Elaboration exam- time
study
Notably, (HP) management

Giving Example
For instance, (LP) Inconsistencies in
Example Fail in exam
students’ exam results
Yet (HP)

Sequencing
Immense homework
In my opinion, (LP) Idea Too much homework
assigned
Therefore, (HP)

Emphasising
Time constraint
Additionally, (LP) Elaboration Not enough time
Subsequently, ( HP)

Giving Example Homework and

Less homework –
For example, (LP) Example assignments pile up
more time for fun
Resulting in, (HP)

112
3rd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Moreover, (LP)
Students secluded
Idea Want to be alone
It seems to me that, themselves
(HP)

Emphasising
Refused to mingle
- (LP) Elaboration Activities and friends
around
In particular, (HP)

Giving Example
For example, (LP) Stay at home- read Personal / emotional
Example
books – quiet time challenges
- (HP)

Sequencing
Besides, (LP) Idea Feel not good enough Feel intimidated
This can be seen, (HP)

Emphasising
Display volatile
Generally, (LP) Elaboration Moody-upset
behaviour
For this reason,(HP)

Giving Example
Do not know how to Strong emotions -
As an example, (LP) Example
handle-emotions unpredictable reactions
To illustrate, (HP)

113
4th PARAGRAPH

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Another point is, (LP) Execute physical
Idea Do exercise
activities
Last but not least, (HP)

Emphasising
Therefore, (LP) Exercise regularly
Elaboration Workout persistently-
-, (HP) peace of mind

Giving Example
3 times a week – Make it a periodic
For instance, (LP) Example
unwind - happier lifestyle
Specifically, (HP)

CONCLUSION

Idea
Low Proficiency High Proficiency
Sequence Markers Elaboration
(LP) (HP)
Example
Sequencing
In conclusion, (LP) Mental health -
Idea Severe mental health
serious problem
In brief, (HP)

Emphasising
Therefore, (LP) Mentally unhealthy –
Elaboration impact physical health Significant issue
Indeed, (HP)

Giving Example
Take care – our mind
Again, (LP)
Example – happier – healthier Understanding - support
- (HP)
life

114
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

Stress Among Students

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

Basically, stress is when students feel worried and scared. In my opinion, it is

because, they have so much to study for big exams. Which, it makes them feel sad and
tired.
To start with, students feel worried about their school grades. Clearly, sometimes
they do not have enough time to study. For instance, they are scared of failing in exams,
but if they can manage their time well and study a little every day, they can do their best
and not be so worried about their grades. In my opinion, they have too much homework
and not enough time to finish it. Additionally, it feels like there is no rest, because of too
many homework or assignments to do. For example, it would be nice if they had a bit less
homework, so they could have more time for fun things after school.
Moreover, they want to be alone, away from activities and friends. For example,
they prefer to stay at home, maybe read a book or just have some quiet time to recharge.
Besides, it is nice to have a little space for themselves now and then. From my view, as a
teenager, there are times when they feel not good enough. Generally, it can cause them to
become moody and upset. As an example, it is challenging because they often do not know
how to handle these mixed emotions. Learning to handle these feelings is a part of growing
up, and they are working on it every day.
Another point is, doing exercise is a great way to feel better when they are
stressed. Therefore, they should try to exercise regularly. For instance, they can exercise
three times a week as it helps to unwind and makes them feel happier.
In conclusion, mental health is a serious problem that can affect their overall well-
being. Therefore, when they are mentally unhealthy, it can have a significant impact on
their physical health too. Again, it is essential to take care of their minds and seek support
when needed to lead happier and healthier lives.

115
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Stress Among Students

Article By: Ali Bin Abu

In the realm of education, stress in students' lives is obviously, defined by the

relentless pursuit of achieving excellent results. Significantly, the pressure to maintain
distinctive grades in each subject shapes their academic journey profoundly.
First and foremost, many students feel bothered, perturbed, or distressed due to
inconsistencies in their exam results. Notably, effective time management is often their
yardstick for success, yet navigating these inconsistencies can be challenging and
emotionally taxing. Therefore, the immense homework assigned to students
subsequently, often leads to a time constraint, resulting in homework and assignments
pile up quickly. Managing this workload becomes a pressing challenge in their daily
academic routine.
It seems to me that some students choose to seclude themselves, from society,
preferring to stay alone. In particular, they may refuse to mingle around with peers due to
various reasons, seeking solace in solitude as they navigate personal or emotional
challenges. This can be seen when individuals feel intimidated and for this reason, they
may display volatile behaviour as a way to protect their distinctiveness in feelings. To
illustrate, intimidation can evoke strong emotions, causing unpredictable reactions in an
attempt to assert their unique perspectives or emotions.
Last but not least, engaging in regular physical activities, working out in particular,
can provide a sense of peace of mind. In fact, an active lifestyle ensures the benefits of
exercise, both physically and mentally.
In brief, addressing severe mental health conditions is indeed a significant issue in
our society. By promoting understanding and providing necessary support, we can work
towards better mental health outcomes for all.

116
 PART 3 EXTENDED WRITING (REPORT)

TOTAL MARKS : 20 marks

In short… LENGTH : About 200 to 250 words
TYPE OF WRITING: formal

❖ What is a report? An informative and more

formal piece of writing

REPORT

Normally addressed to Aims to inform the reader in a

someone in authority for simple and objective manner
example a principal. about specific issue

❖ Here are some key notes on writing a report:

Know why you're writing

• Before you start writing, know why you're doing it and who will read it. This will help you
focus on the important parts and write in a way that makes sense to the reader.

Find information
• Look for information that's important to the report. Make sure you use sources that are
good and that you have enough information to support your ideas. ❖

Organize the report

• Make sure the report is in a good order. Use headings to help the reader understand the
different parts. Use an introduction to explain what the report is about and a conclusion
to sum up what you've found.

Write clearly
• Use words that are easy to understand. Use short sentences and paragraphs so it's
easier to read.

Check your work

• Make sure there are no mistakes in your writing. Check for spelling and grammar errors.
Make sure the report is easy to understand.

117
❖ A report should consist of the following:

AN BODY CONCLUSION
INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPHS

• The • The body • Should

introduction paragraphs will summarise the
should clearly address the entire idea
state the main content developed in
purpose of the points
report and report.
• Each
what would be paragraph • May also include
discussed in should be suggestions,
the report under suitable opinions and
subheadings. recommendation
which are related
to the report.

GENERAL TEMPLATE FOR REPORTS

AT THE To: (Full Name of the Recipient, Position)

From: (Full Name of the Writer)
TOP
Subject: (Title of the Report)

INTRODUCTION State what the report is about in one sentence.

HEADING 1 *
- Describe the ISSUE.
THE
RECOMMENDATION
MAIN BODY
- Provide SUGGESTIONS.
- Give REASONS/EXAMPLES.

THE
- Give overall OPINION.
CONCLUSION - Mention your HOPE.

* May change depending on the requirements of the question.

118
❖ Some useful phrases that can be used in report writing:

• The purpose/aim/intention of this report…

• This report contains…
To begin reports
• This report outlines…
• This report examines...

• It is my/our recommendation that...

To provide
• My/our recommendation is…
recommendations or
• It is recommended that…
suggestion
• It would be advisable to…

• To conclude…
• To sum up…
To end reports • In conclusion…
• On the whole…
• It is therefore believed…

IDENTIFYING QUESTION REQUIREMENTS

Generally, this is how report questions in Part 3 will look like:

Given situation/ Your school wants to produce a new corporate video, so the principal
scenario with has asked your class to write a report on how to improve the previous
context
year’s school video presentation.

Write your report based on the following questions: These are the points
Instructions • what is good about the previous video? for your report. They
are in point form. The
• what could be improved? number of bullets is not
• are there any new ideas to add? fixed.

Alternatively, report questions may also appear like this:

Given situation/ Your principal wants to produce a new corporate video for your
scenario with school. He has asked your class to write a report and make some
context suggestions on how to improve the previous year’s school video
presentation.

The points for your report

but not in point form.

119
 ADDRESSING THE REPORT
At the top of every report, three important information must be included:
1) Who will receive the report
2) Who wrote the report
3) The title of the report
The top of every report should look like this:
Who wants the report. No need to include name.

To : The Principal Who wrote the report. It’s your full name
Always the same
for every report
From : Ali bin Abu Title of the report. It’s the focus of the question.

Subject : Suggestions to Improve the School Video

120
 SAMPLE QUESTION

THEME : SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The Science club in your school has decided to visit a textile dyeing
factory. You have been asked to write a report to your teacher advisor.
In your report, you must:
• share the details of the visit
• give reasons why the club chose to visit a textile dyeing factory
• how will the trip help in enhancing the club members’ learning?

Write your report in about 200-250 words.

✓ TASK COMPLETION GUIDE

➢ Details of the visit:

• Date and time of the visit
• Location of the textile dyeing factory
• The duration of the visit
• Number of club members who attended

➢ Reasons for visiting a textile dyeing factory:

• To learn about the textile dyeing process
• To see the equipment and machinery used in textile dyeing
• To learn about the environmental impact of textile dyeing

➢ How the trip will help in enhancing the club members' learning:
• Understanding the importance of dyeing in textile production
• Learning about the different types of textiles dyeing methods
• Understanding the environmental impacts of textile dyeing
• Experiencing a real-world application of science in industry

121
 INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Date : 28 Jun 2023

Idea Time : 9 o’clock
Venue : SS7, Petaling Jaya
Name of factory : Ruben Textile Factory
+ -
Elaboration
+ -
Example

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to Idea • To see the process
First and
foremost
+ • Learn about the many procedures used to
Elaboration obtain various hues and designs
And
+
Also • various dyeing techniques
Example

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• obtain opportunity to become familiar with

Idea various dye kinds and their chemical
make-ups
Furthermore
Moreover • understand the science behind dye fixing
+
In addition, • examine how various dying techniques
Elaboration
affect cloth qualities

+
• watch the factory's operations
Example

122
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Furthermore Idea • reduce waste and pollution

Moreover
In addition • gained knowledge of methods for recycling
+
water and for disposing of chemical waste
Besides Elaboration
properly
Not only … but
also + • increase awareness of the need for
Example environmental responsibility

CONCLUSION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • had a memorable learning experience

In conclusion + • academic knowledge put to use

Elaboration • learning journey was enhanced
All in all
+
-
Example

123
 SAMPLE ESSAY

To : Teacher Advisor of Science Club, SMK Amanjaya

From : Maisarah Saidin, Secretary of Science Club, SMK Amanjaya
Subject : Report on the Visit to a Textile Dyeing Factory

Introduction

I am writing to provide you with a report on our recent visit to a textile dyeing factory.
The visit took place on 28 Jun 2023 at 9am at the Ruben Textile Factory in SS7, Petaling
Jaya. Our science club, opted to visit the factory due to several compelling reasons.

Reasons why the club chose to visit a textile dyeing factory

Currently, in order to gain a deeper understanding of the textile manufacturing

process, our group first opted to visit a textile dyeing factory. Our members had a rare
chance to see the complex mechanisms involved in putting colours to materials. Our
participants learned a great deal about the many procedures used to obtain various hues
and designs on textiles by witnessing the various dyeing techniques that were being utilized.

How it enhances the club members’ learning

Thus, the visit provided our club members with the opportunity to become familiar
with various dye kinds and their chemical make-ups in addition to learning about dyeing
procedures. Understanding the science behind dye fixing and examining how various dying
techniques affect cloth qualities required understanding of this subject. Therefore, our
members were able to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practices by
watching the factory's operations and making the connection between these theoretical
ideas and their practical applications.

Furthermore, the significance of sustainable methods in the textile industry was

highlighted by the visit to the textile dyeing factory. Members of our club experienced directly
the factory's dedication in reducing waste and pollution. Hence, they gained knowledge of
methods for recycling water and for disposing of chemical waste properly. This event did
not only increase awareness of the need for environmental responsibility, but also motivated
our members to incorporate sustainable lifestyle choices into their own lives.

124
Conclusion

In conclusion, our club members had a truly memorable learning experience thanks
to the trip to the textile dyeing factory. Our academic knowledge was put to use in practical,
real-world situations by observing the industrial processes firsthand and interacting with
experts in the sector. Our club members' learning journey has undoubtedly been enhanced
by this visit, and we are convinced that it will contribute to their academic development.

125
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

QUESTION 1

Nowadays, more and more people are relying on technologies. As a student

reporter, you have been tasked to write a report to a monthly school magazine
on the effect of technology on the society.
In your report, you must:

• Talk about how technology makes life easier

• How it affected relationships
• Ways to overcome health issues related to technology addiction

Write your report in about 200-250 words.

✓ TASK COMPLETION GUIDE

➢ Positive effects of technology on society:
• Improved communication and connectivity
• Increased efficiency and productivity
• Access to vast amounts of information and knowledge

➢ Negative effects of technology on relationships:

• Decreased face-to-face interaction and social skills
• Increased reliance on virtual communication, leading to miscommunication and
misunderstandings

➢ Health issues related to technology addiction:

• Increased screen time leading to eye strain, headaches, and other physical
health problems
• Over-reliance on technology leading to decreased physical activity and other
related health problems

➢ Ways to overcome health issues related to technology addiction:

• Practicing healthy screen time habits, such as taking regular breaks and setting
time limits
• Balancing technology use with face-to-face interactions and social activities to
maintain healthy relationships and communication skills.

126
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – LOW PROFICIENCY
INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • fast-growing technology has certainly

changed our daily life.

+ • makes our life easier and also difficult

Elaboration
+ -
Example

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
For starter Idea • essential element of our life
First and
+
foremost • use electronic devices for many usages
Elaboration
And
+ • changes how we work, learn and
Also Example communicate

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• Technology changed the way we make

Idea
friends and talk to people
Furthermore
Moreover
+ • important to balance technology with
In addition,
Elaboration spending time together
However,
Besides
+ • spend too much time online making people
Example around us feeling lonely

127
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • long screen time causes health problems

Furthermore
Moreover
In addition + • important to balance screen time with
Elaboration physical activities
Besides
Not only … but
also + • to take breaks and do other fun activities,
Example like playing outside or reading

CONCLUSION
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• technology has had a huge impact on
Idea
society

In conclusion +
• important to use technology in moderation
Elaboration
All in all
+
-
Example

128
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

To : SMK Seri Mahawangsa School Magazine

From : Suhaili Saidin, Student Reporter of SMK Seri Mahawangsa
Subject : The Effect of Technology on Society

Introduction

Currently, technology has had a major effect on our daily life. In today's society,
technology plays an important part in a number of areas of life, making it both easier and
more difficult.

Technology Makes life easier

For starters, technology has become an essential element of our daily lives. We
use smartphones, computers, and other electronic devices for communication, education,
and enjoyment. These devices have changed the way we work, learn, and communicate.

Impact on relationships

However, technology has its disadvantages. It has changed the way we make
friends and talk to people. We can now use any electronic devices to chat with our friends
and family, even if they are far away. Besides, some people spend more time online than
they do with their loved ones, which causes feelings of loneliness and separation

Health Issues Related to Technology Addiction

Furthermore, long-term screen usage can cause health problems such as eye
strain and bad posture. To solve these issues, it is important to find a balance between
screen time and physical activity. For instance, outdoor play and regular screen breaks
can help reduce these difficulties.

Conclusion
All in all, technology has greatly impacted our life, making many chores easier and
more efficient. To maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, however, it is important to use
technology in moderation to maintain real-life connections.

129
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – HIGH PROFICIENCY
INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • influenced every aspect of our everyday

life

+ • technology has made life easier

Elaboration • it has also had a major adverse effect

+ • has transformed how we interact with one

Example another

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to • life is now much more efficient and
Idea
convenient
First and
foremost
+ • cell phones and social media platforms
Elaboration transformed how we communicate
And
+
Also • interact with individuals around the world
Example

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • changed how we interact with one another.

Furthermore
Moreover + • online communication has also resulted in
In addition, Elaboration a decline in face-to-face interactions

+ • decrease in the quantity and quality of

Example interpersonal connections

130
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• technology addiction and its influence on

Furthermore Idea
mental and physical health
Moreover
In addition + • People can maintain a healthy balance by
Besides Elaboration using applications that track screen usage
Not only … but
also + • practicing digital well-being entails limiting
Example screen time, taking regular breaks

CONCLUSION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• Technology has undeniably revolutionized
Idea
society

In conclusion + • critical to be mindful of the potential

Elaboration negative consequences
All in all
+
-
Example

131
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

To : SMK Seri Mahawangsa School Magazine

From : Suhaili Saidin, Student Reporter of SMK Seri Mahawangsa
Subject : The Impact of Technology on Society: Convenience, Relationships, and
Health

Introduction:

Technology has influenced every aspect of our everyday life has transformed how we
interact with one another in the current world. It, conduct business, and simply pass the
time. Without hesitation, technology has made life easier, but it has also had a major
adverse effect on relationships and health.

Technology and Convenience

Generally, numerous elements of life are now much more efficient and convenient
thanks to technology. The introduction of cell phones and social media platforms has mostly
transformed how we communicate. As a consequence, with the help of social networking,
video calls, and instant messaging, it is now simpler than ever to interact with individuals
around the world. In addition, growing automation in different industries has been a result
of technical improvements, which has reduced manual work and enhanced productivity.

Impact on Relationships:

While technology has brought people together, it has also changed how we interact with
one another. Despite making it simpler to stay in touch, the overwhelming amount of online
communication has also resulted in a decline in face-to-face interactions. Thus, people rely
increasingly on texting and messaging which might end up in an overall decrease in the
quantity and quality of interpersonal connections. Because of this, social media platforms
have also fuelled emotions of inferiority, anxiety, and sadness. An ongoing sense of social
isolation and low self-esteem may result from constantly comparing one's life to the carefully
managed lives of others.

132
Overcoming Health Issues Related to Technology Addiction:

In fact, as technology becomes increasingly incorporated into our lives, concerns about
technology addiction and its influence on mental and physical health have arisen. To begin
with, practicing digital well-being entails limiting screen time, taking regular breaks, and
being mindful of one's technology usage. For example, people can maintain a healthy
balance by using applications that track screen usage. Following that, increasing physical
activity and outdoor enjoyment can help to combat the sedentary lifestyle that comes with
excessive technology use. addiction.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, technology has undeniably revolutionized society, making living
more convenient, expanding communication options, and boosting access to knowledge. It
is, nevertheless, critical to be mindful of the potential negative consequences for
relationships and health.

133
 PEOPLE AND CULTURE

QUESTION 2

As a reporter for an entertainment magazine, you have been asked by your

editor to cover the international music festival attended by various artistes and
music groups. Write a report for the event.
In your report, you must:
share the details of the event
give reasons why the event draws huge crowd
give reasons why this kind of event should be held more frequently

Write your report in about 200-250 words

✓ TASK COMPLETION GUIDE

➢ Details of the event:
• Name of the event and location
• Date and time of the event
• List of performers and music genres
• Estimated number of attendees

➢ Reasons for drawing a huge crowd:

• Reputation of the performers
• Diversity of music genres
• Chance to see and hear live performances
• Opportunity to socialize with like-minded individuals
• Promotion and advertising of the event

➢ Reasons for holding this kind of event more frequently:

• Boosting the local economy through tourism
• Providing opportunities for upcoming artists
• Fostering a sense of community among music lovers
• Offering a platform for cultural exchange and exposure
• Encouraging a healthy and enjoyable pastime for all ages

134
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – LOW PROFICIENCY

INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• musical event that brings together

Idea musicians and music fans from all over the
world
+
• feature a wide spectrum of musical styles
Elaboration
+ • classical, rock, jazz, folk
Example

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to • happened on March 16th till 18th at the
Idea
stunning Jubili Perak Park
First and
+
foremost • Musicians from all over the world came
Elaboration
And
+
Also • bright décor and delicious food vendors.
Example

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• this festival provides diversity

Idea
• fosters unity and friendship
Furthermore
Moreover
In addition, + • learn about other countries through their
One of the Elaboration music
reasons
+
-
Example

135
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Furthermore • promote cultural appreciation and variety

Idea
• help local economy
Moreover
In addition • expose us to different ideas and
+
perspectives
Besides Elaboration
• attracts more tourists
Not only … but
+
also • make us more open- minded
Example

CONCLUSION
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• celebrates the beauty of music and brings
Idea
people together

In conclusion + • promotes unity, cultural understanding,

Elaboration and economic development
All in all
+
• enrich our life
Example

136
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

International Music Festival

By Ruben Saraste

Introduction
Generally, the International Music Festival is a grand event that brings people from
all around the world together to celebrate the power of music.

Details of Event
During this fantastic event, musicians and artists from all over the world come
together to perform a wide range of musical genres. There's something for everyone, from
classical symphonies to upbeat pop hits. In facts, the celebration lasts for three days, from
16th March till 18th March and was held in the stunning Jubilee Park with bright décor and
delicious food vendors.

Why International Music Festivals Draw Huge Crowds

One of the main reasons why this event draws huge crowds is the diversity it offers.
People love to experience music from different cultures, and this festival provides the perfect
opportunity. It's a chance to learn about other countries through their music and connect
with people from various backgrounds. Furthermore, the International Music Festival
fosters unity and friendship among nations. It promotes cultural exchange and
understanding.

Why these events should be held more

In addition to these reasons, international music festivals should be carried out
more regularly because they promote cultural appreciation and variety. They expose us to
different ideas and perspectives, which makes us more open-minded people. Furthermore,
by attracting tourists and offering job opportunities, they help the local economy.

Conclusion
Finally, the International Music Festival is a fantastic event that celebrates the
beauty of music and brings people from many backgrounds together. It promotes unity,
cultural understanding, and economic development. As a result, such events should be
encouraged in order to enrich our lives and create worldwide ties through music.

137
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – HIGH PROFICIENCY

INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • annual gathering of renowned artists and

music groups from around the world

+ • held at the picturesque venue of Chenang

Elaboration Beach from 27 June till 30 June 2023

+ • showcased an eclectic mix of musical

Example genres

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to • A remarkable line-up of international
Idea
musicians
First and
foremost + • performances covered a wide range of
Elaboration musical styles
And
+ • rock, pop, jazz, classical, hip-hop, and
Also Example electronic music

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• the festival has assembled a stellar roster

Idea
of musicians from many nations
Furthermore
Moreover + • The fascination of seeing talented artists
In addition, Elaboration perform live

+
-
Example

138
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• emphasize how important it is to hold more

Furthermore Idea
events of this kind.
Moreover
In addition • promote intercultural understanding and
+
appreciation by bringing together
Besides Elaboration
performers and attendees
Not only … but
also + • Attendees can learn about various musical
Example traditions

CONCLUSION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• enthralling occasion that drew music fans
Idea
from all walks of life

In conclusion + • The success of the event, which can be

Elaboration attributed to various factor
All in all
+ • live performances, promotion of the local
Example area,

139
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

International Music Festival: A Melodic Extravaganza

By Asmaza Runida

Introduction

On the whole, The International Music Festival, an annual gathering of renowned

artists and music groups from around the world, was a resounding success this year. The
event, held at the picturesque venue of Chenang Beach from 27 June till 30 June 2023,
showcased an eclectic mix of musical genres, captivating performances, and an electrifying
atmosphere that enthralled the audience.

Event Details

A remarkable line-up of international musicians, including Grammy-winning musicians,

up-and-coming acts, and well-known bands, performed at the festival. In addition, the
performances covered a wide range of musical styles, including rock, pop, jazz, classical,
hip-hop, and electronic music, giving audience members a varied musical experience. Plus,
there were eye-catching decorations, elaborate light shows, and cutting-edge audio
systems across the festival grounds. The simultaneous performances were accommodated
by setting up multiple stages.

Reasons for Enormous Crowd

This year was no different from previous years in that the International Music Festival
drew sizable attendance. The festival continues to draw music lovers for a number of
reasons. To start with, the festival has assembled a stellar roster of musicians from many
nations. This variety drew in a diversified audience. Apart from this, the fascination of
seeing talented artists perform live is another attraction for attendees. The International
Music Festival, thirdly, provides a break from the monotonous routine of daily life. It gives
them a place to gather.

140
Importance of More Events Like This

The International Music Festival's popularity and success emphasise how important
it is to hold more events of this kind. Therefore, these events ought to happen more
regularly since they promote intercultural understanding and appreciation by bringing
together performers and attendees from many nations and cultural backgrounds. Attendees
can learn about various musical traditions while also giving performers a platform to display
their own background. In addition, music festivals have a big financial influence on the host
city and the neighbourhoods nearby. They promote the hospitality and tourism industries,
draw travellers, bring in money for neighbourhood businesses, and produce job possibilities.

Conclusion

Finally, it can be said that the International Music Festival was a riveting and
enthralling occasion that drew music fans from all walks of life. Indeed, the success
of the event, which can be attributed to its varied programmes, live performances,
promotion of the local area, and general enjoyment, highlights the significance of
holding more festivals of this kind.

141
 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

QUESTION 3

The residents committee in your neighbourhood has been affected by the factories built
near to the residential area. As the secretary of the committee, you have been asked to
write a report to your chairman.
In your report, you must:

• Give details what are the environmental and health problems caused by the
factories
• Give details on what the residents did to protect themselves and their homes
• Give reasons why the factories should not be built near to residential areas

Write your report in about 200-250 words.

✓ TASK COMPLETION GUIDE

➢ Environmental and health problems caused by the factories:

• Air pollution caused by emissions from the factories
• Water pollution caused by discharge of chemical waste into nearby water bodies
• Increase in respiratory illnesses and skin diseases among residents

➢ Measures taken by residents to protect themselves and their homes:

• Planting trees and greenery to absorb pollutants
• Conducting regular health check-ups for themselves and their families
• Petitioning the local government to relocate the factories away from residential areas

➢ Reasons why factories should not be built near residential areas

• Health hazards caused by pollution can negatively impact the well-being of residents
• Noise pollution can affect the mental health of residents and disrupt their daily lives
• The long-term environmental impacts of industrial pollution can cause irreversible
damage to the ecosystem.

142
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – LOW PROFICIENCY

INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • some factories were built near our homes

+ • factories have caused some serious

Elaboration problems for us and our environment
+ • emit smoke, noise, and pollution
Example

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to • caused serious environmental and health
Idea
issues
First and
foremost
+ • smokes pollute the air, sound disturb the
Elaboration quietness
And
+
Also • young children have respiratory problem
Example

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• To protect themselves, the residents took

Idea
some actions

Furthermore
Moreover + • organized protests and wrote letters to the
In addition Elaboration local government

+ • planted trees and installed noise-reducing

Example windows

143
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• Factories should not be built near

Furthermore Idea
residential areas
Moreover
In addition +
• can harm our health and the environment
In fact, Elaboration
Not only … but
also + • peaceful environment are essential for
Example everyone's happiness

CONCLUSION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• important for everyone to understand that
Idea factories shouldn't be built near residential
areas

In conclusion + • factories should be located away from

All in all Elaboration where people live

• we need clean air to breathe, a peaceful

+
environment to live in, and a healthy planet
Example
for our future

144
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

To : Mr Muhammad Farouqqi Bin Muhammad Asfar (Chairman of Taman Sri

Taming Neighbourhood Committee)
From : Magendran A/L Sivananthan
Subject : Factories Near Residential Areas

Introduction
Generally, the factories built near our neighbourhood have brought about some
serious problems for the people living here. These factories emit smoke, noise, and
pollution, which have affected our lives in several ways.

Environmental and health problems caused by the factories

These factories are causing serious environmental and health issues. For instance,
the smoke from the chimneys pollutes the air we breathe, making it more difficult to look
after our health. Other than that, machine noises disturb our quiet, and dirty water can
harm plants and animals in our neighbourhood. This is seen by the large number of young
children who have respiratory problems.

Measures taken by residents to protect themselves and their homes

As a result, the residents have taken measures to protect themselves and their
homes. As an example, we organized protests and wrote letters to the local government,
urging them to move the factories away from our neighbourhood. Besides, some of us have
planted trees to help clean the air, and others have installed noise-reducing windows.

Reasons to Keep Factories Away

Furthermore, factories should not be built near residential areas because they can
harm people's health and well-being. In fact, clean air and a peaceful environment are
essential for everyone's happiness, and factories can take that away from us. It's also
important to protect nature and wildlife from the harmful effects of pollution.

Conclusion
In conclusion, it's important for everyone to understand that factories should not be
built near residential areas. Significantly, we need clean air to breathe, a peaceful
environment to live in, and a healthy planet for our future. Factories should be located away
from where people live, so we can all enjoy a better and healthier life.

145
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – HIGH PROFICIENCY

INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• an update on the serious environmental

Idea and health issues that cause by the
factories

+ • precautions people took to safeguard their

Elaboration homes and themselves
+ -
Example

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to • air pollution has increased, lowering the
Idea
quality of the air
First and
foremost + • The health of the residents, is jeopardized
Elaboration by this pollution
And
+ • nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter are
Also Example released into the air by factories

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • the residents launched a campaign

Furthermore
Moreover + • increase awareness of the potential health
In addition, Elaboration dangers

+ • handing out informational brochures,

Example organizing neighbourhood gatherings

146
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• Residents are more prone to suffer from

Furthermore Idea
respiratory illnesses
Moreover
In addition + • Factory pollution disrupts the pleasant
Besides Elaboration environment of residential areas
Not only … but
also + • an impact on inhabitants' mental health
Example and disturb their daily life

CONCLUSION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• quickly in response to the major
Idea
environmental and health challenges

In conclusion + • have taken a number of efforts to protect

Elaboration themselves
All in all
+ • continue to oppose the construction of
Example industries near residential areas

147
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

To : Mr Manveer Singh (Chairman of Taman Sri Kota Neighbourhood Committee)

From : Ng Hui Xin (Secretary of Taman Sri Kota Neighbourhood Committee)
Subject : Report on the Environmental and Health Problems Caused by the Factories

Introduction

I am writing to provide an update on the serious environmental and health issues

that have developed as a result of the proximity of factories to our residential neighbourhood
as the secretary of the Neighbourhood Residents Committee. I will also go through the
precautions taken by the residents to safeguard their homes and themselves, as well as the
strong arguments against placing factories close to residential areas.

Environmental and Health Problems Caused by the Factories

Hazardous pollutants such as sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter
are released into the air by factories. As a result, air pollution has increased, lowering the
quality of the air we breathe and posing a significant risk to our respiratory health.
Furthermore, the improper disposal of industrial waste has contaminated nearby water
sources such as rivers and groundwater. The health of the residents, who rely on these
water sources, is jeopardized by this pollution, which also threatens aquatic life. Aside from
the aforementioned, the continuous noise caused by the factories, has shattered the
peace and tranquillity of our residential area.

Measures Taken by Residents to Protect Themselves and Their Homes

First, the residents launched a campaign to increase awareness of the potential

health dangers linked with the nearby businesses. This involves handing out informational
brochures, organizing neighbourhood gatherings, and planting trees to absorb pollution. In
addition, residents also complained to the local authorities and sought legal assistance in
order to solve the environmental and health issues caused by the manufacturers.

148
Reasons Why Factories Should Not Be Built Near Residential Areas

As a result, residents who live near factories are more prone to suffer from
respiratory illnesses, allergies, and other health issues, especially youngsters, the elderly,
and those with pre-existing conditions. Factory pollution disrupts the pleasant environment
of residential areas, affecting people's mental health and overall quality of life. Noise
pollution, air pollution, and other distractions restrict our ability to enjoy our homes and
communal areas. Prolonged noise pollution can also have an impact on inhabitants' mental
health and disturb their daily life.

Conclusion

To summarise, we must act quickly in response to the major environmental and

health challenges caused by the factories near where we reside. Besides, residents have
taken a number of efforts to protect themselves have taken a number of efforts to protect
themselves and their homes, in addition to promoting awareness, exploring legal remedies,
and collaborating with relevant partners. Given the negative repercussions for the
environment, human health, and the general well-being of the community, it is critical that
we continue to oppose the construction of industries near residential areas.

149
 CONSUMERISM AND FINANCIAL AWARENESS

QUESTION 4

Recently there had been various news on teenagers shoplifting in shopping

malls. As a school bulletin reporter, you have been tasked to write a report on
this matter.
In your report, you must:

• Give details of one incident of shoplifting

• Give reasons why the teenagers commit such crime
• Provide measures to help prevent such crime among the teenagers

Write your report in about 200-250 words.

✓ TASK COMPLETION GUIDE

➢ Details of one incident of shoplifting:

• Date, time, and location of the incident
• Items stolen and their value
• Description of the teenagers involved in the shoplifting

➢ Reasons why teenagers commit such crime:

• Peer pressure
• Desire for material possessions
• Lack of parental supervision
• Emotional or psychological issues

➢ Measures to help prevent such crime among teenagers:

• Educating teenagers on the consequences of shoplifting
• Encouraging positive peer influence
• Increasing parental supervision
• Providing safe and healthy outlets for emotional or psychological issues
• Increasing security and surveillance in shopping malls.

150
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – LOW PROFICIENCY

INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • Shoplifting by teenagers is a big problem

+ • teenagers have been stealing things from

Elaboration stores
+ -
Example

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to • A group of teenagers caught stealing at
Idea
First and the mall

foremost + • the teenagers were warned before being

Elaboration released to their parents
Therefore,
for example +
• stealing various items
Example

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• teenagers do it because they want things

Idea
they can't afford
Furthermore
Moreover +
In addition • do this to fit in and feel important
Elaboration

+ • can be fun and exciting, which makes

Example them want to do it more

151
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Furthermore • parents and guardians can have open and

Idea
Moreover honest conversations with their children

In addition + • to tell them the consequences of

Besides Elaboration shoplifting.
Not only … but
+ • organize fun and engaging activities for
also Example teenagers

CONCLUSION
IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• shoplifting among teenagers is a serious
Idea
problem

In conclusion + • give guidance, support, and good choices

Elaboration to reduce such behaviour
All in all
+ • friendly atmosphere and better choices for
Example teenagers

152
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

Teenagers and Shoplifting: A Growing Concern

By Priya A/P Selwaswaran

Introduction
Firstly, it's important to know that shoplifting by teenagers is a major problem that
we should all be aware of. Recently, one incident occurred serves as a reminder of the
seriousness of this issue.

Incident Details
On 26th June, at 3.30pm, at Hankyu Shopping Mall, a group of teenagers was caught
shoplifting. They attempted to take various items, for example clothes, accessories, and
snacks, without paying for them. Therefore, the teenagers were warned before being
released to their parents. This behaviour not only breaks the law but also affects the stores
and other customers.

Reasons for Teenagers' Involvement in Shoplifting

Primarily, some teenagers do it because they want things they can't afford, while
others feel pressure from their friends to fit in. Sometimes, they do it out of boredom or a
lack of better choices.

Preventive measures
On the whole, to prevent such crimes among teenagers, we can take important
steps. Equally important, parents and guardians can have open and honest conversations
with their children about the consequences of shoplifting. Besides, communities can
organize fun and engaging activities for teenagers, giving them positive alternatives to
shoplifting. Stores can also enhance security measures and educate teenagers about the
importance of honesty.

Conclusion
To summarize, shoplifting among teenagers is a big issue. However, by giving guidance,
support, and good choices, we can work together to reduce this behaviour and create a
friendly atmosphere in which teenagers may make better decisions for their future.

153
 GUIDELINES FOR REPORT – HIGH PROFICIENCY

INTRODUCTION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Idea • Shoplifting among teenagers has become

a growing concern

+ • several incidents being reported

Elaboration
+ -
Example

BODY: 1ST PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION
MARKERS IEE
EXAMPLE
In order to • significant incident at the famed City
Idea
Centre Mall
First and
foremost
+ • cameras caught a bunch of youths stealing
Elaboration products
And
+ • The stolen items ranged from apparel and
Also Example accessories

BODY: 2ND PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

• be perceived as either a rebellious

Idea
behaviour

Furthermore
• The adrenaline surge involved with theft
Moreover +
provide sensation of adventure and
In addition, Elaboration
excitement

+
-
Example

154
 BODY: 3RD PARAGRAPH

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE

Furthermore • schools, community, and law agencies

Idea
should work together
Moreover
In addition + • create instructional programs that
Besides Elaboration emphasize the dangers of shoplifting.
Not only … but
• by increasing surveillance, strategically
+
also placing cameras, and employing skilled
Example
security personnel

CONCLUSION

IDEA
SEQUENCE
ELABORATION IEE
MARKERS
EXAMPLE
• shoplifting poses a significant threat to the
Idea
well-being

In conclusion + • implementing preventive measures, we

Elaboration can work towards curbing this trend
All in all
+
-
Example

155
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

Rising Concern: Teenage Shoplifting in Shopping Malls

By CHOO YU LING

Introduction

Currently, shoplifting among teenagers has become a growing concern in recent

times, with several incidents being reported across various shopping malls. This report aims
to shed light on one such incident, explore the underlying reasons behind teenage
shoplifting, and propose measures to prevent such crimes in the future.

Incident

Last week, there was a significant incident at the famed City Centre Mall.
Surveillance cameras caught a bunch of youths stealing products from multiple stores in the
mall. The stolen items ranged from apparel and accessories to electrical devices worth
around RM2,000. The youngsters were apprehended by mall security and turned over to
local authorities.

Reasons for Teenage Shoplifting

To begin with, teenagers frequently give in to peer pressure, seeking acceptance

from their peers. Shoplifting can be perceived as either a rebellious behaviour or a way to
achieve popularity in one's social circle. Following that, some youths indulge in shoplifting
for the sake of excitement or thrill-seeking. The adrenaline surge involved with theft might
provide a brief sensation of adventure and excitement. Furthermore, economic factors
have a role in teenage shoplifting. Some teenagers may originate from underprivileged
circumstances, prompting them to resort to shoplifting in order to obtain wanted products
that they cannot afford.

Preventive Measures

As a result, schools, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies

should work together to create instructional programs that emphasize the dangers of
shoplifting. Other than that, these programs might emphasize the legal, moral, and

156
personal consequences of participation in such illicit conduct. Hence, promoting positive
peer interactions can help dissuade kids from shoplifting. Moreover, parents play a critical
influence in developing their children's values and habits. Meanwhile, shopping malls can
improve their security systems by increasing surveillance, strategically placing cameras,
and employing skilled security personnel.

Conclusion

In short, teenage shoplifting poses a significant threat to the well-being of

individuals, businesses, and communities. By understanding the reasons behind this
behaviour and implementing preventive measures, we can work towards curbing this trend.
Besides, a collective effort from schools, parents, law enforcement agencies, and society
as a whole is crucial in fostering an environment that promotes ethical behaviour and
discourages teenage shoplifting.

157
 PART 3 EXTENDED WRITING (REVIEW)

TOTAL MARKS : 20 marks

In short… LENGTH : About 200 to 250 words
TYPE OF WRITING: Semi formal

A review is a short description of a film, play, book, etc. It can be formal or informal in style,
depending on the reader it is addressed to. The purpose of writing review is to give information
and analysis, to persuade, to give opinion/judgement and reasons. There are reviews of a
movie, TV programme, book, place, product, service, and food. It could be a positive or
negative review depending on the question. It should also be written in present or past simple
depending on the context.

GENERAL TEMPLATE FOR REVIEWS

[ TITLE OF THE REVIEW ]

INTRODUCTION
▪ Give a brief introduction of what you are reviewing

MAIN BODY
▪ Describe briefly the subject you are reviewing (I)
▪ Elaborate the points (E)
▪ Give suitable examples (E)
Note: Remember to use suitable/appropriate linkers

CONCLUSION
▪ Would you recommend to your friends?
▪ Why?
▪ Why not?

158
 EFFECTIVE STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Analyse the task

• Read and understand the stimulus and task.
STEP 1 • Highlight the keywords or phrases.
• Highlight the three points required in the prompts.
• Understand the type of review you need to respond to.

Plan your response

• Respond to questions in the stimulus.
STEP 2 • Use the keywords/phrases as a guide to respond.
• Decide what to write for the introduction.
• Brainstorm for ideas for the three prompts.
• Elaborate with supporting details.
• Provide your own opinion.

Present your answer

• Begin with a brief introduction.
• Briefly describe the subject you are going to review.
STEP 3
• Organize the response in at least three paragraphs.
• Use cohesive devices or linkers to connect ideas.
• Conclude by stating your evaluation.
• Write in an appropriate style.

159
 THE WRITING PROCESS

Title ✓ Write a title giving the main idea/your opinion

Name what you are reviewing:

Title of the book/film/play/genre, author, actors/actresses or
director.
Paragraph 1 ✓ If you are looking for ….
✓ I recently read/watch ….
General ✓ This is the bestseller novel/box-office movie of the year …
Information/Introduction ✓ The (film, book….etc) I would like to review is …..
✓ The last film I saw/ book I read was ….
✓ It is an adventure film/a comedy/an animated film …
✓ It is a bestseller written by …

Describe the plot and include information about who plays each role.
Paragraph 2 ✓ The story begins/revolves around …
✓ The film/book is about …
Summary of the ✓ The plot has an unexpected twist …
plot/characters ✓ The main character/hero/heroine of the film is …
✓ The cast of the movie gave a superb performance …
✓ This book features the well-known fictional character

✓ On the plus side ….

Paragraph 3 ✓ On the down side …
Paragraph 4 ✓ On the one hand ….
✓ On the other hand …
What you like/general ✓ The story was gripping
comments and opinion ✓ The movie/book is brilliantly plotted
✓ It has a dramatic/tragic/surprising end

✓ Overall, I would recommend ….

✓ All in all the film was ….
✓ If you haven’t watched/read/it, I definitely recommend that
you do.
Paragraph 5 ✓ I would recommend this film to anyone …
✓ Although I enjoyed it, I would not recommend it for …
Conclusion
✓ It’s one of the best (shows) I have ever seen.
Recommendation
✓ It is a wonderful film/book for
comedy/thriller/suspense/action-adventure lovers.
✓ It is suitable for the whole family.
✓ It was a blockbuster/bestseller hit.

160
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

FILM REVIEW
Identify the requirement of the
SAMPLE QUESTION task

This is the part where you need to analyse and understand the task.

1a 1b

Write your answer in 200 – 250 words in an appropriate style on this question.
You recently saw this notice in a magazine.
Identify the
appropriate
style

3a

3b Requirements
of the task

3b

Identify the style

4
Write your review. c

162
INTRODUCTION
Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
What film holds the top
What is your favourite
Sequencing Idea spot on your list of
film?
favourites?
- A distinct and
captivating tale about a
Emphasising - It's about a boy
boy
Elaboration - Growing up in the
First and foremost (LP) - Cool characters,
jungle, surrounded by
Predominantly (HP) amazing places
talking animals and
thrilling adventures
Giving Example
Example - -

2nd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
-Talk about the
Moving on (LP) Idea - Lifelike creatures
animals in the movie
Additionally (HP)
Emphasising - Kind and humorous
- Big, friendly bear
In addition (LP) - Jovial nature
Elaboration - Smart panther
On the other hand (LP) - Wise panther
- Scary tiger
Additionally (HP)
Giving Example - Baloo
- Eerie character
On the other hand (LP) Example - Bagheera
- Menacing tiger
Undeniably (HP) - Shere Khan

3rd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Without doubt (LP) - Brimmed with exciting
Idea - Exciting adventures
Beyond doubt (HP) adventures

- Captivating jungle
- Fun place
Emphasising - Towering trees
-Tall trees
Like (LP) Elaboration - Vibrant birds
- Colourful birds
- Confronting significant
-Tough challenges
challenges
Giving Example - Forged bonds
- Baloo
However (LP) - Baloo and Bagheera
Example - Bagheera
While (HP) - Harmful tiger Shere
- Shere Khan
Such as (HP) Khan

163
4th PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example

Sequencing
Next (LP) Idea - Music - Film soundtrack
Beyond doubt (HP)

Emphasising
- Upbeat and
Even after (LP) - Singing
catchy songs
Another important point Elaboration - Friendly companion
- Magical score
(HP) - Dancing
- Humming
Subsequently (HP)

Giving Example
- Bare necessities
Such as (HP) Example -
- I want to be like you
Whilst (HP)

CONCLUSION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example

Sequencing
In conclusion (LP) Idea - Fantastic movie - Outstanding film
All in all (HP)

- Embarking exciting
- Enjoyable experience
Emphasising journey
- Lovable characters
Truly (LP) Elaboration - Music
- Unforgettable music
Without a doubt (HP) - Extra layer of
- Captivating journey
excitement

- Mowgli
Giving Example - Mowgli
Example - Incredible adventure
- Award 5 stars
- Perfect 5 stars rating

163
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

The Jungle Book

First and foremost, I really like "The Jungle Book" movie. It is about a boy named
Mowgli who lives with talking animals in a jungle. In this essay, I will tell you about the cool
characters, amazing places, and what we can learn from this movie.

Moving on, let us talk about the animals in the movie. They look like real animals
you see in a zoo or jungle. There is Baloo, a big, friendly bear who is funny and kind. In
addition, Bagheera is a smart panther who takes care of Mowgli like a big brother. On the
other hand, Shere Khan is a scary tiger who makes us a little scared. But what is cool is
that these animals talk to each other and help each other in the jungle.

Without doubt, the movie is full of exciting adventures. In the jungle, a fun place
with different animals, tall trees, and colourful birds, Mowgli makes friends with animals like
Baloo and Bagheera. However, he also has to face some tough challenges. One of the big
challenges is the tiger Shere Khan, who wants to hurt him.

Next is the music in the movie, which is fun and easy to remember. Even after the
movie, you might find yourself quietly singing them. It is as if the music is a friendly
companion, singing and dancing with you in the jungle.

In conclusion, "The Jungle Book" is a fantastic movie. It feels like embarking on an

exciting adventure with Mowgli, and the music adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the film.
I truly loved it, and I am confident that you will too. If I were to rate it, I would happily award
it five stars!

164
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

The Jungle Book

Predominantly, I would like to discuss "The Jungle Book," a film that holds a special
place in my heart. This distinct and captivating tale introduces us to Mowgli, a young boy
growing up in the jungle, surrounded by talking animals and thrilling adventures. This
remarkable movie imparts valuable life lessons through its exceptional characters and
stunning scenery.
Additionally, the film brings lifelike creatures to life, resembling to animals you
would find in a zoo or jungle. Baloo, a kind and humorous bear, becomes Mowgli's friend.
Baloo's jovial nature, alongside the shrewd and wise panther Bagheera, creates a delightful
blend. The eerie character of Shere Khan, the menacing tiger, adds suspense. The fact that
these diverse animals can communicate and collaborate undeniably enhances the film's
appeal.
Beyond doubt, the movie brimmed with exciting journeys, with Mowgli's forest
experience at the heart of the narrative. Imagine a captivating jungle teeming with different
creatures, towering trees, and vibrant birds. Mowgli forged bonds with animals like Baloo
and Bagheera, while confronting significant challenges, such as thwarting the harmful tiger,
Shere Khan. This unpredictability kept the film thoroughly engaging, making you feel a part
of Mowgli's forest odyssey.
Another important point is the film's soundtrack which also deserves acclaim.
Upbeat and catchy songs bring a smile to your face. "The Jungle Book" boasts a magical
score that amplifies the excitement. The tunes are so enjoyable and memorable that you
will find yourself humming them long after the credits roll. The music, in harmony with the
jungle characters, feels like your close friends dancing and singing alongside you.
Subsequently, notable tracks such as "The Bare Necessities," sung by Baloo, radiates a
sense of positivity and carefree charm whilst "I Wanna Be Like You," performed by King
Louie, which is another favourite, acts as mini-celebrations throughout the movie,
intensifying the sense of adventure.
All in all, "The Jungle Book" is an outstanding film that combines various elements
to provide a truly enjoyable experience. The lovable characters, exciting adventures, and
unforgettable music together craft a captivating journey. It is as if you are joining Mowgli on
an incredible adventure, with the music serving as a delightful companion throughout. This
film promises joy and entertainment. Without a doubt, it deserves a perfect 5-star rating!

165
 CONSUMERISM AND FINANCIAL AWARENESS

HOTEL / CHALET / HOMESTAY REVIEW

SAMPLE QUESTION

Identify the requirement of the task

Write your answer in 200 – 250 words in an appropriate style on this question.
You recently saw this notice in a travel magazine.

Identify the appropriate style

Reviews needed!
Have you stayed at a good place for the holiday?

Tell us the name and its location.

Requirement
Explain why you like the hotel. of the task

Would you recommend it to the readers? Why?

Send us your review.

The best review will be published in our special issue.

Write your review.

166
INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing - what is the name of
Idea the hotel? - a review of the hotel
Emphasising
Definitely (LP) - wonderful experience
Elaboration - delightful experience
Without a doubt (HP)

Giving Example - Rayyan Palace Hotel - Rayyan Palace Hotel

Example
exceeded expectation surpassed expectation

2nd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing - delve into affordability
- total cost (three-night
To begin with (LP) Idea and amenities that the
To kick things off (HP) stay)
hotel offer
Emphasising
- cost not expensive
First (LP)
(three-night stay) -total cost of stay –
At first (LP) Elaboration
RM600
At the outset (HP)
Initially (HP)
- standout features
- fast internet access
Giving Example - high speed internet
- laundry
Plus (LP) Example - complimentary
- iron clothes
Notably (HP) laundry
- ironing service

3rd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Now (LP) Idea - tasty food - culinary delights
Moving on (HP)
- affordable - culinary delights
- tasty - breakfast
Emphasising
- pasta - tantalizing taste
Furthermore (LP) Elaboration
- crisp - mouth-watering
Subsequently (HP)
- fresh
- delicious
Giving Example - salad - salad
In particular (LP) Example - pasta - delightful breakfast
Picture this (HP) - dressings - delicious dressings

167
4th PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Another highlight (LP)
- recreational
Now let’s dive into (HP) Idea - swimming pool
amenities

Emphasising
Whether (LP) - well-maintained - impeccable
A particular highlight Elaboration - endless fun - unending amusement
(HP)

Giving Example

Example

CONCLUSION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Lastly (LP) - recommend Rayyan - endorse the Rayyan
In conclusion (HP) Idea
Palace Hotel Palace Hotel

Emphasising
Sincerely (LP) - memorable - cherished
Wholeheartedly (HP) Elaboration - affordable - fantastic
- excellent amenities
Giving Example
Personally (LP) - delightful food - culinary delights
Undeniably (HP) Example

168
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

This is my review of Rayyan Palace Hotel in Penang, where my family and I recently
stayed. Definitely, it was a truly wonderful experience that I am excited to share with you.
The hotel's name is Rayyan Palace Hotel, and it exceeded my expectations in several ways.
First, let me tell you about how much it costs to stay at the hotel for three nights. It
was around RM 600, which was a nice surprise because it was not as expensive as I
thought. At first, I was not so sure about staying there, but after our visit, I changed my
mind. The hotel has something really good – it gives you fast internet access, which is super
handy. It means you can always be online during your stay. Plus, they do your laundry and
iron your clothes for free all day and all night, which is a big help.
Now, let us talk about the tasty food the hotel offers. The breakfasts provided are
both affordable and tasty. Each morning, we were treated to dishes like mouthwatering
pasta with crisp garlic bread and a fresh selections of fruits and greens. In particular, I
enjoyed the Caesar salad garnished with cranberries and delicious dressings.These
delightful breakfasts started our days on a high note, and we looked forward to each
morning's culinary surprise.
Another highlight of the hotel is its fantastic swimming pool. The open-air pool is
not only well-maintained but also a source of endless fun for children throughout the day. It
provided a perfect way for our family to relax and enjoy the sunny Penang weather. Whether
you are traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, the hotel has something to offer to
make your stay enjoyable.
Lastly, if you are seeking accommodation for your holiday in Penang, I sincerely
recommend the Rayyan Palace Hotel. You will not regret your choice. I personally will
absolutely suggest this hotel to all my friends and family members. Our stay at Rayyan
Palace Hotel was memorable, thanks to its affordability, excellent amenities, delightful food,
and fantastic swimming pool. It is a place that truly understands how to make guests feel
welcome and at ease.

169
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

This is my review of Rayyan Palace Hotel in Penang, where my family and I recently
stayed. Without a doubt, it was a truly delightful experience that I am eagerly excited to share
with you. The hotel's name is Rayyan Palace Hotel, and it managed to surpass my expectations
in several noteworthy ways.
To kick things off, let us delve into the affordability and amenities that the hotel had to
offer. At the outset, the total cost for our three-night stay amounted to approximately RM 600,
which, quite honestly, pleasantly surprised me. While I initially harbored some reservations
about staying there, my perception experienced a complete transformation by the end of our
visit. Notably, one of the standout features of the hotel is its provision of high-speed internet
access for guests. This amenity, as you may imagine, is incredibly convenient, ensuring that we
could stay seamlessly connected to the internet throughout the entirety of our stay. Furthermore,
the hotel generously offers a 24-hour complimentary laundry and ironing service, which I found
to be a significant convenience for all guests.
Moving on, let us transition to a delectable discussion of the culinary delights that
awaited us at the hotel. Subsequently, the breakfasts provided not only prove affordable but
also tantalizingly tasty. Each morning, we were treated to a delightful array of dishes. Picture
this; mouthwatering pasta served alongside crisp garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad
garnished with cranberries and a selection of delicious dressings. These delightful breakfasts
consistently kickstarted our days on a high note, and we eagerly anticipated the culinary
surprises that each new morning would bring.
Now, let's dive into yet another captivating facet of the hotel: its recreational amenities.
A particular highlight was the hotel's splendid swimming pool. This open-air pool was
impeccably well-maintained, and it emerged as a source of unending amusement for children
and adults alike throughout the day. It provided the perfect setting for our family to unwind and
relish the abundant Penang sunshine. Whether you're traveling solo, adventuring with friends,
or enjoying a vacation with your family, the hotel thoughtfully offers an array of amenities to
ensure that your stay is not just comfortable but truly enjoyable.
In conclusion, if you find yourself in the midst of searching for accommodation during
your holiday in Penang, I wholeheartedly endorse the Rayyan Palace Hotel. I can assure you
that you will not regret your choice. As for me, I will not only recommend but enthusiastically
endorse this hotel to all my friends and cherished family members. Our stay at Rayyan Palace
Hotel was truly memorable, and we have its affordability, excellent amenities, delightful culinary
offerings, and the fantastic swimming pool to thank. This is a place that undeniably understands
how to extend a warm and inviting welcome to its guests, making you feel entirely at ease and
valued.

170
 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

SONG REVIEW
SAMPLE QUESTION

Write an answer to one of the questions, 3 - 5 in this part. Write your answer in 200 – 250
words in an appropriate style on this question paper.

Given
situation/scenario
with context
You recently saw this notice in a magazine.

Do you have a song that is unforgettable?

Tell us why do you like the song?

Requirement
of the task
Describe how the song impacted you and would you
recommend this song to your friends? Why?

Write your review.

Instruction

171
INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example

Sequencing - memorable tune

Idea - unforgettable song - timeless song
- remarkable track

- holds a special place in

Emphasising
my heart
For me, (LP) Elaboration - means a lot to me
- a deep appreciation for
Obviously, (HP)
this song

- The song ”Hijau”

encapsulates the
Giving Example
essence of natural
Generally, (LP) - the song “Hijau”
Example world.
From my point of view, represents the nature
- The song “Hijau”
(HP)
beautifully portrays the
natural environment

2nd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
- the nature is dying
- the nature is getting - the natural world is
Sequencing
worse undergoing a state of
To start with, (LP) Idea
- the natural world is degradation
Unfortunately (HP)
in trouble - the earth’s biodiversity
is eroding

- it is not easy to be - futility of achieving

Emphasising
modern and advanced modernity and
Clearly, (LP)
Elaboration because we need to advancements while
It seems to me that,
sacrifice our sacrificing the legacy of
(HP)
environment the earth

- choosing factories - continuing to prioritize

Giving Example
and new technology rapid industrialization
For instance, (LP) Example
instead of taking care and technological
This can be seen, (HP)
of nature. progress

172
3rd PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing - really passionate of
In my opinion,, (LP) - absolutely adore
Idea - really like this song.
In my own point of - this song is my
view, (HP) absolute favourite
- environmental
Emphasising
enthusiast
In addition, (LP) Elaboration - a nature lover.
- conservationist
Notably, (HP) - earth lover
- plants help keeping - flora - maintain air
Giving Example
our air clean - take in quality - absorb
For example, (LP) Example
dirty air - give us fresh pollutants – release
air oxygen

4th PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing - made me feel - a profound impact and
Another point is, (LP) Idea different about the it changed the way I
In particular, (HP) world. view the world
- close to the earth - felt a deep connection
Emphasising
and thought all to the earth and a sense
Clearly, (LP) Elaboration
different kinds of of awe for its diverse
Significantly, (HP) nature are amazing. ecosystems.
- inspired to - make
small changes in my
Giving Example - to do little things to
own life – reduce waste,
For instance, (LP) Example help the earth, like
conserve water –
Namely, (HP) saving water
support environmentally
friendly practices

CONCLUSION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
- put forth this song as a
Sequencing
- will recommend this recommendation
In conclusion, (LP) Idea
song - highly commend this
In brief, (HP)
song
- artfully composed
- well written
- captivate people’s
Emphasising - make people like it
heart
Thus, (LP) Elaboration - get people love it
- inculcate love for the
Evidently, (HP) - show others how to
preservation for the
love and save nature
nature

173
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

Yes, there is a song that I like. It is known as Hijau by Zainal Abidin. For me, this is
an unforgettable song and also it means a lot to me as I love nature very much. Generally,
the song is about protecting the nature.
To start with, it tells people about the bad condition of nature and people do not
care about it, that is why nature is getting worse day by day. Clearly, the singer tells us
about the bad usage of technology in these days because it makes us become ignorant of
the surrounding. For instance, humans are too obsessed with their phones and gadgets
until they forget their responsibility towards nature.
In my opinion, I really love this song, because I love nature and it makes me sad to
see it is being destroyed. In addition, it gives me the spirit of being responsible in taking
care of the nature. For example, by planting trees, we can keep our air clean.
Another point is, this song makes me feel different about the world, as I do feel that
there are more things to do in this world rather than chasing the modernity alone. Clearly, I
feel close to the Earth and thought that our nature is amazing. I want to help the nature, for
instance, by producing less waste.
In conclusion, I will recommend this song to my friends because I think it is pleasant
to the ears. It is well written in its sense of arrangements. Thus, I am sure that people will
like this song as it will indirectly show others how to love and save nature.

174
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Yes, I do cherish this one particular song called ‘Hijau’, which means green by a
famous Malaysian singer, Zainal Abidin. Obviously, the song beautifully portrays the
natural environment found in the world. The song also possesses a very memorable tune,
as it sounds pleasant to the listeners. It is obvious as I am able to form an unexceptional
deep appreciation for this song. From my point of view, I would say this would forever be
a remarkable masterpiece in the future.
Unfortunately, the nature is dying and no one is aware of this issue. It also tells us
of the futility of achieving modernity and advancements of technology while we are
sacrificing the legacy of the Earth, which is the nature. It seems to me that, Earth’s
biodiversity is also eroding at a very unprecedented pace. This can be seen when the
priority of the rapid industrialization and technological progress left no space for nature to
thrive. This song also tells us that nature has to be well kept so that the future generation
will live to experience it.
In my own point of view, listening to this song helps to enlighten my spirit because
I am a nature enthusiast myself and it disheartens me to see it is getting destroyed. Flora,
notably trees and plants, play a vital role in maintaining air quality by absorbing pollutants
and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis.
This song had a profound impact on me as it changed the way I view the world
around me. In particular, the song conveyed a powerful message about the beauty of
nature and the urge to conserve it. Significantly, by listening to the song, I felt a deep
connection to the Earth and a sense of awe for its diverse ecosystems. I have developed
an inspirational vision to make small changes in preserving the nature, namely, by reducing
waste and conserving water.
In brief, I would put forth this astounding song as a recommendation to my friends.
I think it is a very well written song, through its melody and lyrics. I believe it can captivate
my friends’ hearts. Evidently, it can inculcate their love for the preservation for the nature.

175
 PEOPLE AND CULTURE

CELEBRITY REVIEW
SAMPLE QUESTION

Identify the requirement of the task

Write your answer in 200 – 250 words in an appropriate style on this question.

You recently saw this notice in a magazine.

Identify the appropriate style

Reviews required!
Do you have a favourite pop star?
Why do you like him or her? Requirement
of the task
Do you know his/her personal life?
What has he/she contributed?

Write the best review and we will publish in our newsletter.

Write your review.

176
INTRODUCTION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Who is your favourite
Idea - adored star
celebrity?

Emphasising
As we know (LP) - very unique
Elaboration - distinct character
Obviously, (HP) personality

Giving Example
Other than that, (LP) - starred in multiple
Example - act in many films
For instance, (HP) blockbusters

2nd PARAGRAPH
Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Personally (LP) Why do you like your - reasons you idolize
Idea
First and foremost (HP) favourite celebrity? your adored star

Emphasising
Clearly, (LP) - he is natural in - authentic, convincing
Elaboration
Obviously, (HP) acting and genuine acting

Giving Example
For instance, (LP) - acted in action and - acted in epic battle and
Example
This can be seen, (HP) romance movies heartfelt movies

3rd PARAGRAPH
Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
However, (LP)
Idea - his/her personal life - his/her individual life
Subsequently, (HP)

Emphasising
Also, (LP) - he lives alone
Elaboration - living by oneself
Furthermore, (HP)

Giving Example
In addition, (LP) - ardent fan of
Example - a fan of motorcycle
In particular (HP) motorcycles

177
4th PARAGRAPH

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example
Sequencing
Another point is, (LP) Idea - his/her contribution - his/her altruism
Moreover, (HP)

Emphasising
Clearly, (LP) Elaboration - large donation - absolute wealth
In particular, (HP)

Giving Example
- give an expensive
For example, (LP) Example - bestow a gift
watch to his co-stars
Recently, (HP)

CONCLUSION

Idea
Sequence Markers Elaboration Low Proficiency (LP) High Proficiency (HP)
Example

Sequencing
In conclusion, (LP) Idea - a great role model - an exemplary figure
To conclude, (HP)

- motivate young people

- inspire young people
Emphasising to be passionate about
to like what they do
Also, (LP) Elaboration what they do
- use their talents to
Thus, (HP) - harness their talents to
help others
aid others.

178
 SAMPLE ESSAY
LOW PROFICIENCY

I love Keanu Reeves as my favourite celebrity. As we know, he has a very unique

personality when it comes to acting and performance. Keanu Reeves is Canadian but he is
a Hollywood based actor. Other than that, he had acted in blockbuster movies such as
The Matrix, 47 Ronin and also the John Wick franchise.
Personally, I liked his style of acting because he looks really natural and unique.
Clearly, Keanu Reeves also has the versatility to act in different genres of movies. For
instance, he has been in The Matrix franchise, acting as a person in a different persona,
he has also acted as a Samurai in medieval Japan and been a man that was caught in love
with a Spanish lady in the movie called, A Walk in The Clouds.
However, there is little to his personal life since he is a very private person. He lives
alone as his family had all passed away. Also, he is a fan of motorcycles and he has lots of
it in his garage. In addition, he is also known to be very humble and kind to his fans which
earned him the nickname, ‘The Nicest Guy in Hollywood’.
Another point is, Keanu Reeves had given a large donation to a cancer research
foundation, as his child had passed away due to it. He had also received a smaller pay in a
movie just to let a veteran actor to star alongside him. Plus, he had given his co-stars in
John Wick movie expensive watches, which is very kind.
In conclusion, he is a great role model who inspires young people to love what they
do and use their talents to help others. Also, he has inspired young people to like what they
are doing.

179
 SAMPLE ESSAY
HIGH PROFICIENCY

I deeply adore Keanu Reeves as my favourite pop star. Obviously, he is

exceptionally unique in his own style when it comes to acting and performance, who
possesses a distinct character. Keanu Reeves is Canadian but he is a Hollywood based
actor who has starred in multiple blockbusters such as The Matrix, 47 Ronin and also the
John Wick franchise. Certainly, he is a globally renowned actor.
First and foremost, I adored his style of acting because he looks extremely natural
and unique. Keanu Reeves also possesses the versatility to act in different genres of
movies. Obviously, he grasps the authentic and convincing style of acting which can be
seen in The Matrix franchise, acting in various persona. He also acted as Samurai in
medieval Japan and had been a man that was caught in love with a Spanish lady in the
movie called, A Walk in The Clouds.
Subsequently, there is not much of his personal life since he keeps it private. The
only thing that everyone knows is that he lives alone as all his family members had passed
away. In addition, he is an ardent fan of motorcycles and he has lots of it in his garage.
Furthermore, he is also known to be very humble towards his fans which earned him the
nickname, ‘The Nicest Guy in Hollywood’.
Moreover, Keanu Reeves had contributed his wealth to a cancer research
foundation, as his child had passed away due to it. Other than that, he has a high value of
generosity as he had received a lesser pay in a movie just to let a veteran actor to star
alongside him. Recently, he had given his co-stars in John Wick movie expensive watches,
which gathered everyone’s attention.
To conclude, he is an exemplary figure who inspires young people to be passionate
on what they do and use their talents to help others.

180
 PART 3 EXTENDED WRITING (STORY)

TOTAL MARKS : 20 marks

In short… LENGTH : About 200 to 250 words
TYPE OF WRITING: Informal

ELEMENTS OF A STORY

• Plot
o FIVE stages: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Resolution

• Tenses
o past simple (regular/ irregular) - mostly for actions that happened in the past
o past continuous – to describe the settings, or actions that were in progress
o present simple and future simple for dialogue or monologue

• Adjectives and adverbs

o To allow the readers to imagine the situation
o To give more effect to the story

• Cohesive devices
o To make sure each point is related and connected
o To ensure the story flows smoothly

• Senses: sight, sound, taste, smell, touch

o To ensure the story more appealing, vivid and interesting
o To understand the context or action better

• Proverbs & idioms

o use the correct/ accurate idioms with the context

• Dialogue/ Monologue
o only one or two dialogues
o to give more impact especially during the climax

• Onomatopoeia
o Words to describe the sounds made

• Contractions
o Shortened or combined words used in the story or dialogues
o Use apostrophe to replace omitted letters – couldn’t, hasn’t, I’m, you’re

181
 PLOT

CLIMAX
A surprise to the reader,
where a plot twist/
suspense happens.

RISING ACTION FALLING ACTION

More details on the How the character(s)
character(s) and their solve the problems or
problems or struggles. struggles.

EXPOSITION RESOLUTION
The beginning of the story, The ending of the story –
to introduce the characters, resolved or unresolved. The
background and settings of lessons that can be learnt
the story (time, place) from the story.

182
 TENSES

1. We usually use PAST SIMPLE for the actions in a story. We can also use past simple to
show suspense. For example:
• I looked at the clock, and rushed to the bathroom because I was really late for the
trip.
• The man started to chase me. I ran as fast as I could and turned into the busy
street. I looked back and accidentally hit a passer-by. I fell down and felt someone
was pulling my arm.

2. Sometimes, we use PAST CONTINUOUS to describe the settings, or actions that were in
progress in the past. For example:
• The birds were chirping, the branches were swaying when I stared outside the
window on a bright Sunday morning.
• I was grinning when the little girl handed a dandelion to her little brother.

3. For dialogue and monologue, you can use PRESENT SIMPLE and FUTURE SIMPLE. For
example:
• The phone rang and she picked it up. “Yes, I am her daughter. Whaaaaaaaat? I will
go there now”.

REGULAR VERBS IRREGULAR VERBS

PRESENT SIMPLE PAST SIMPLE PRESENT SIMPLE PAST SIMPLE
work worked buy bought
watch watched bring brought
fill filled teach taught
accompany accompanied think thought
occupy occupied build built
seat seated sleep slept
frown frowned cut cut
notify notified read read
reveal revealed drive drove
scream screamed fly flew
copy copied blow blew
clap clapped drive drove
travel travelled mean meant
stop stopped hear heard

183
 ADJECTIVES AND ADVERBS
1. To allow the readers to imagine the situation.
2. To give more effect to the story.

Adjectives
1. To describe and provide more details of the nouns. For example:
• The cute little boy kicked the blue ball into the rectangular goal post.
• An old woman was said to live in the old, wooden house.
ADJECTIVES
COMMON UNCOMMON
hungry starving/ ravenous
tired exhausted/ fatigue
scared terrified/ panicked
beautiful gorgeous/ elegant
good excellent/ wonderful
loud thundering/ powerful
dark gloomy
quiet silent/ peaceful
small tiny/ compact
big enormous/ massive
naughty mischievous
delicious delectable/ piquant
angry furious
impressive splendid
move abroad/depart emigrated
not relax/ worried unsettled
interesting fascinating
joyful jubilant
ugly hideous/ unpleasant
excited enrapture/ enlivened
necessary fundamental
strong muscular/ brawny
crowded jam-packed/ huddled
nervous agitated/ fidgety
kind charitable/ gracious
help assistance/ guidance
brave courageous/ heroic
jealous envious

184
 ADVERBS
1. To describe or give more information about the verbs or actions that happened in the story.
For example:
• She ran quickly and hid herself in the bushes.
• They kids laughed cheerfully when the clown generously gave them lollipops.

ADVERBS
Manner Frequency Place Degree Time
sadly never outside less yesterday
roughly rarely above little today
angrily seldom away least tonight
politely occasionally towards most tomorrow
eagerly sometimes over much weekly
easily often near nearly yearly
hardly generally in simple annually
violently usually backward(s) too hourly
abruptly always indoors very previously
gently upstairs utterly soon
rapidly on hardly since
slowly near highly sometimes
anxiously up almost seldom
greedily abroad completely recently
healthily far deeply next
joyously below entirely never
unexpectedly right far daily
safely next door greatly early
wisely away intensely earlier
swiftly inside just before
suspiciously here rather after
recklessly there quite not until
painfully somewhere really monthly
obediently overseas fairly immediately
elegantly under barely usually
faithfully along extremely yet

185
 COHESIVE DEVICES

Used to connect ideas and sentences. They are also used to show the relationship
between the paragraphs.

SEQUENCE ADDING EMPHASISING ILLUSTRATING

Besides, And In particular For example

Next, Also Especially For instance
After that, As well as Significantly Such as
Then, Moreover Notably
Apart from that, Furthermore Mainly
In conclusion/ As a In addition, Clearly
conclusion, Additionally Generally
First, Plus Indeed
Second, Along with Above all
Third, Too
Finally,
As a result,

COMPARING CONTRASTING CAUSE AND EXCEPTIONS

EFFECT
Similarly However Although
Likewise Instead of So However
As with On the other hand Therefore If not
Just as Conversely Hence Unless
Like Whereas Because Apart from
Equally Otherwise Thus Aside from
Not only… but Nevertheless Consequently As long as
also… Unlike As a result But
In the same way Alternatively Due to this Except

186
 SENSES: Sight, Sound, Taste, Smell, Touch

We use senses in writing to make our writing becomes more vivid and interesting to be
read.

SENSE THE USAGE EXAMPLE

1) I was amazed to see the paddy field swaying in

What we see or observe in the wind.
terms of:
- size, colour, shape, 2) It was breathtaking to look at the sunset view
Sight
lightness, darkness, from the beach.
appearance,
movement etc. 3) The sunlight that was reflected in the mirror
blinded my eyes when the curtain was drawn.
1) She heard the tweeting and chirping of the
birds as she wandered along the lane towards the
main road.
Hearing What we hear or listen to
2) She roared with laughter when she heard the
joke.

3) Manesh has a calm, gentle voice on the phone.

1) The aroma of the fresh coffee filled the whole
house.

The ability to detect odour or 2) The smell from the rotten eggs releases a foul
Smell
smell smell outside that building.

3) I could smell a strong cigarette smoke along

the corridor.
1) The heavy coat was made from a rough wool.

2) He felt a sharp sting as the knife blade cut his

Touch What we feel or contact with hand.

3) She shivered slightly as the cool breeze

touched her chubby cheeks.

1) The soup has a salty taste.

What we perceive using 2) Ripe pears are sweet and juicy.

Taste
tongue
3) The Carbonara has a rich, thick and creamy
texture.

187
The sensory words that can be used in writing.

Sight Hearing Smell Touch Taste

small whisper aromatic furry bitter

tidy singing burnt short tasteless
blurry slam pungent dry creamy
big melodious spicy coarse vinegary
peaceful splash fresh fuzzy fruity
fat monotonous stinky damp sugary
dark ring smoky greasy hearty
ancient growl unpleasant moist pickled
petite hiss sweaty icy juicy
dim clank unusual soapy floury
gloomy giggle rancid oily nutty
deserted creaking putrid spongy crispy
huge howling floral tough peppery
hazy crying delicious leathery overwhelming
sparkly splashing fragrant warm refreshing
peaceful gasping sour freezing crunchy
enormous thundering odourless wet salty
striped banging fishy crumbly light
clean tingling woodsy crisp tangy
miniature sizzling clean shivering lemony
transparent yelling burnt cool zesty
glossy thumping garlicky drenched bland
wrinkled echo decomposed rough rich
glittery honking strong tender liquorice
sandy exploding musky sandy chalky
colourless squawking fruity velvety minty
sharp mumbling rosy slippery meaty
creepy peeping vile sticky ripe
metallic scratching stuffy dull nauseating
crowded commotion earthy delicate rotten
boiling barking mouldy hot savoury

188
 PROVERBS AND IDIOMS
Proverbs
1. are well-known saying.
2. contain moral or advice, can be easily understood.

PROVERBS MEANING AND EXAMPLE

The feeling of missing and loving someone when they are
not around or when they are away from you for a period of
time

Absence makes the EXAMPLE:

heart grow fonder
“I used to hate going to my grandparents’ house, but now I
miss those moments since they had passed away 2 years
ago. Absence makes the heart grow fonder”.

What a person does and shows is more important than what

they say

EXAMPLE:
Actions speak louder
than words. “My sister always reminds me not to waste money but her
actions speak louder than words. Last week, she had
spent more than RM 300 just for one handbag!”

It portrays the circle of our life, all good things do not last
forever, eventually.

EXAMPLE:
All good things must
come to an end
“The news on the lovely couple getting a divorce was a
shocking thing but I guess all good things must come to
an end.”

Good things will come to those who waited patiently, often

achieving their aims and goals.

EXAMPLE:
Good things come to
those who wait
“After going for numerous job interviews, she remained
patient and optimistic as she believed that good things
come to those who wait.”

Having two or more people working together will yield better

results or solutions.
Two heads are better
EXAMPLE:
than one
“I would love to join the scrabble competition with you
because two heads are better than one.”

189
Idioms
1. They are phrases, not complete sentences.
2. Fixed expression with figurative meaning (does not really mean what the words say).

IDIOM MEANING AND EXAMPLE

To be excited and extremely happy

EXAMPLE:
Be on cloud nine
She was on cloud nine when they announced she was the
winner of the competition.

To avoid getting to the main point of the issue

EXAMPLE:
Beat around the bush
Shila always beats around the bush when I ask about her
family and siblings.

To be very expensive

EXAMPLE”:
Costs an arm and a leg
“I’d love to buy that bungalow, but it may cost me an arm
and a leg.

You should not evaluate someone or something based on

their or its outward appearance only

EXAMPLE:
Don’t judge the book by
its cover
The house looked attractive from outside, but the
decorations and design were old-school and not well
maintained! We should not judge a book by its cover!

Someone that is ill or in low spirits.

EXAMPLE:
Under the weather
I am feeling a little under the weather so I will not go to the
party tonight.

There is not point of crying or be upset over something that

have already happened.

EXAMPLE:
Cry over the spilled milk
Mira has lost all her money from investing in the
unauthorised investment company. There is no use of
crying over spilt milk as there’s nothing she can do.

190
 DIALOGUE/ MONOLOGUE

1. Adding dialogues or monologue to your stories makes the stories more alive. However,
excessive dialogues make the story uninteresting.

2. Below are the few ways you can use dialogues in your stories.

HOW TO USE DIALOGUES EXAMPLES

He looked at her trying to hide his smile, “Can I ask

Only one character speaks in a you something?”
paragraph. When another
character speaks, start a new
paragraph.
“Sure. Ask anything you like,” she replied.

If a dialogue is too long, it can be “Sometimes I wonder,” she rubbed her pointy chin
broken down into two parts with while she looked curiously at me and continued,
description separating them. “why are you so nice to me?”

He lifted her up and asked,

One-word dialogues are

acceptable and considered as a “Are you okay?
paragraph.

“Yes.”

When the main character talks to

him/herself, it is called a Where am I? I don’t know this place, he muttered to
monologue. No quotation marks himself.
needed.

191
 ONOMATOPOEIA

1. Onomatopoeia is the words used to describe the sound made. For example, when phone
rings, we use “ring” to describe the sound, or when something heavy falls, we use “thud.”

2. Below are some words you can use as onomatopoeia in your stories.

SOUNDS WHAT ARE THEY FOR? EXAMPLES

A loud, deep sound like sound

Boom BOOM! A car crashed into the wall.
from speakers or explosion

Sound of heavy metals striking Clunk! The jailer hit his baton against the
Clunk
together metal bars

Riiinnnggg! The phone continued to ring

Ring Sound for phone ringing
loudly.

Sound of movement of dry Rustle. Rustle! There was something

Rustle
leaves or paper hiding in the bush.

Sound made when drinking or Sluuuuurrrppp! He quickly emptied the

Slurp
eating liquid food like soup coffee from his cup.

Sound made by something

Splash SPLASH! He jumped into the pool.
striking or falling into liquid

Tick. Tock. The big clock on the wall broke

Tick tock Sound made by clock ticking
the silence.

Thud! His head hit the floor as he fell to the

Thud Sound of something heavy falls
ground.

Vroom! He hit the gas pedal and drove

Vroom Sound for engine of vehicles
away.

There are a lot more sounds which may be useful in your stories. Search for them and then
add them to your own word bank. Remember to consult your teacher for guidance!

192
 CONTRACTIONS

1. words formed by shortening and combining of two or more words.

2. can be used in oral communication and informal writing. In writing, an apostrophe is
used to replace the omitted letters.

GROUP OF WORDS CONTRACTIONS

are not aren’t

who would / who had who’d

could not couldn’t

she had / she would she’d

does not doesn’t

we are we’re

did not didn’t

he will / he shall he’ll

what is / what has what’s

will not won’t

have not haven’t

do not don’t

let us let’s

cannot can’t

am I’m

might not mightn’t

shall not shan’t

would not wouldn’t

you will you’ll

should not shouldn’t

you are you’re

that is / that has that’s

you have you’ve

193
 PEOPLE AND CULTURE

LOW PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story. The story must have the title:

A Caring Stranger

Your story should include:

• details of the incident
• how the stranger helped

Write your story.

Met stranger -
guidance
Climax

don’t
understand - stranger’s
game performance
strategies - - accept offer
kept losing - strategies
Rising Falling
Action Action

Last
holiday - learn -
interesting kind -
game Exposition Resolution helpful

194
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

A Caring Stranger

A caring stranger can help somebody's life even if it is just in a video game. Last
holiday, I found a game that aroused my interest where two teams battled to be the best.
Since I was still new with the game, I found it confusing to understand the game procedures
and strategies. As I kept losing, I became the weakest player in my team, which in the end
led to our loss.
However, on the next day, things ended up looking better for me because a
stranger offered me his guidance. I was uncertain at first but I clearly needed help for
improvement. After seeing his performance, I knew it was the right thing to accept his offer.
He guided me step-by-step through the game’s controls and showed strategies to be used
in coordination with my teammates.
The patience and kindness of the stranger left a great impression on me. I also
learned that a little guidance from someone more experienced will help us excel in anything.
These actions reminded me of how small deeds of kindness can impact someone's life
positively.
Overall, the meeting with the online stranger has made my holiday quite meaningful.
It taught me the importance of being kind-hearted and willing to offer help to those in need.

195
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story. The story must have the title:

A Caring Stranger

Your story should include:

• details of the incident
• how the stranger helped

Write your story.

conflict - murderer

Climax

met a stranger
- became
closer - got disappointed
married - killed him
Rising Falling
Action Action

Thought
about her court -
family satisfaction
Exposition Resolution

196
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

A Caring Stranger

When a glimpse of the sun sneaked through the cluster of clouds, my mind is filled
with thousands of thoughts. The sunrise accompanied my feeling of hope, absorbing positive
energy from a precious possession my family had left behind before I was alone in surviving the
universe. I have an issue with keeping my feelings in my heart and not letting people around me
know about my problem, thinking it was just an unnecessary burden they had to bear. But it all
changed when I met a caring stranger along the beach near home.
I sat on the cold sand, sinking into the brisk air around me, when a stranger sat beside
me with a note in his hand. The note exchanged the owner when he gave me the piece of paper
with words written on it, which surprisingly changed my perspective on life. “God does not give
you the people you want; He gives you the people you need to make you the person you
were meant to be." I guess He was right. God took away my family so that I can learn to
appreciate the presence of the people I love. Hence, our conversation started with an
introduction of ourselves. Somehow, this stranger seated beside me made me feel at home.
We then decided to spend a bit more time chatting with each other inside a local cafe just on the
other side of the road.
At first, I thought he was just a cold man with a boring personality, but those times spent
with each other proved me wrong. He was filled with knowledgeable words, making me
surprised whenever he talked and gave advice to me, helping me become the best version of
myself. The way he listened to my story was so fascinating that I eventually fell in love with
him. Who would have thought, a stranger I met at the beach would be the love of my life?
My first thoughts were right, but as time passed, the relationship I believed was going to
work suddenly turned bitter. He was still surrounded by his dark past. The unsettled, broken
issues of his family still haunted him even after we were married. I got extremely annoyed that I
decided to conduct careful research about him when suddenly I discovered that his past
convictions were related to mine. He was the one who killed my family when I was studying
across the country. He was the reason I was left all alone in this world. He was my family’s
murderer, whom I have been searching for the past five years.
That’s when I felt a tap on my shoulder. Eventually, reality hit when I found myself in
front of the judge, pleading guilty to murdering my own husband in our own home. I thought he
was my person, but I guess he is the reason I am ruined. Indeed, this is the person I was meant
to be, according to our first encounter.

197
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

LOW PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story for a writing competition. The story must end
with the sentence:
I will never spend my money on that application again.

Your story must include:

• The name of the application

• The unpleasant experience of using the application

Write your story.

phone call accident

- operation - costly
Climax

Friend - online worried -no

shopping - saving - part
addicted time job
Rising Falling
Action Action

wise – regret –
managing learnt from
finances Exposition Resolution mistake

198
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

Regrets

Amin is a person who likes to save money. He is careful and wise in managing his
finances. He also does not like to use his savings for useless things. Amin has a friend and
his name is Ahmad. Ahmad is different from Amin because Ahmad likes to waste his money
on things that is not necessary. One day, Ahmad told Amin that there is an online shopping
application. The application is known as Shoppe. There are various interesting items sold
at reasonable prices in the platform. There are also many services provided in this
application such as online payment method, fast delivery for purchased items and many
more.
Therefore, Amin downloaded the application in his phone and used it wisely. At first,
Amin only bought things that he needed such as clothes and books. Then, Amin became
addicted to Shoppe and bought a lot of useless things such as toys and comics. Amin
wasted a lot of his money on Shoppe and he did not realize that he had used up almost all
his savings. Unfortunately, one evening, Amin received a phone call informing that his
mother had an accident and was hospitalized. He was shocked with the news and rushed
to the hospital to check on his mother’s condition.
When he arrived at the hospital, the doctor told Amin that his mother needed to go for
an operation which costed a lot of money. Amin was sad and worried at the same time as
his savings had been used up to buy unnecessary things. At once, Amin realized that the
online shopping application had changed his life completely. Due to the incident, Amin had
to study and do part-time job at a young age in order to cover the cost of his mother’s
operation. Amin regrets for taking the wrong step in involving himself in the online shopping
platform and said ‘I will never spend my money on that application again’.

199
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story for a writing competition. The story must end
with the sentence:
I will never spend my money on that application again.

Your story must include:

• The name of the application

• The unpleasant experience of using the application

Write your story.

debit card – extra

charge
Climax

pamphlet –
register the informed parents
app - surprise – shorter holiday
trip
Rising Falling
Action Action

school
holiday –
ready for regret -
a trip Exposition Resolution punishment

200
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Guilt
It’s the end of November, an exciting period for students as it was the start of the
holiday season. Like any other family, my family had planned a fun getaway at the Bask
Bear Highland. The week started normally as we packed our bags and luggage to get ready
for the trip. My mom was busy in the kitchen, organizing our groceries for the week to be
brought there, while my father was occupied with checking the car’s condition. As usual,
my sister and I will be taking the duty of cleaning the entire house, so we can leave our
home in great condition. That was when I found a pamphlet under the sofa, written on it a
great deal for MyFlix, a family entertainment application.
At first glance, I was convinced that this deal was real. Thus, I decided to register
for the apps as I thought it would be fun to watch movies with my family at the chalet. Using
my own debit card, I confidently filled up the form and submitted our request to the regarded
post. I thought it was normal to put my identification number and my family’s information on
the form, but I was totally wrong.
Suddenly, I got notified that my debit card had been charged RM300 for the
registration fees. It was supposed to be only RM3 for three months subscription. I was
nervous as I did not tell my parents. It was supposed to be a surprise. Even so, I was forced
to tell them because RM300 was not a cheap price, and our information was revealed to
unknown parties. It could be harmful to let it slide, as we could be robbed without our own
knowledge.
At first, I thought my dad was going to scold me. But, he remained calm even
though I could feel his anger, as he quickly went online and did some careful research on
the too-good-to-be-true deal. That was when we found out that it was misleading
information created by a fake company. It was lucky that my dad was a police officer, so he
rang his friends to report the fraud involving money transfers. As the consequences of the
whole situation, we, unfortunately, needed to shorten our holiday plan and go back and
forth from the police station to the court to settle down the problem involving the lawsuit.
I was filled with guilt as I was the reason the supposed-to-be enjoyable week
turned bitter. I made a promise to my family that I would not recklessly trust any information
online or offline from now on. As a result of the situation, I am responsible for the house
chores for the whole month. I will never spend my money on that application again.

201
 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

LOW PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story for a school magazine. The story must end with
the sentence:
At last, the doctor confirmed that he did not have to take the medications anymore.

Your story must include:

• What happened to him
• The treatment that he received
Write your story.

clinic - symptoms -
diabetes
Climax

cut his hand -

wound - not changed lifestyle
heal - exercise –
check-up
Rising Falling
Action Action

John - fast
food - grateful - no
rarely medication
exercise needed
Exposition Resolution

202
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

Grateful

John is a person who likes to eat fast food and sugary foods such as candy, fried
chicken, cake, and many more. He also rarely does exercises. He does not even take care
of his health.

One fine day, John went to his friend’s house, James, to do their science project
together. While doing the project, he accidentally cut his hand, and it started bleeding.
James immediately told his mom about the incident. Then, his mom treated John's wound
using a first-aid kit. John thanked James's mom and they continued focusing on their project.
A week passed and John noticed that his wound was still not healed completely. He also
urinated frequently, mostly at night.

The next day, he decided to check on his condition at the nearest clinic. John told
the doctor about the slow-healing cut and his frequent urination. The doctor instantly
identified the symptoms. Then, the doctor suggested him to do a blood test. He agreed to
do the test as his body was not at its great condition. After a few days, the results finally
came out. He was shocked when he found out that he had diabetes. From there on, he
was determined to change his lifestyle.

He started practising healthy food intake that is high in fibre and low in carbohydrates
and sugars. He also exercised regularly and drank plenty of water. John even went for
regular check-ups and took the prescribed medication given by the doctor. After a few
years, the doctor confirmed that his diabetes has been cured and his health has improved
a lot. He was happy and grateful for every effort that he made. At last, the doctor confirmed
that he did not have to take the medications anymore.

203
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story for a school magazine. The story must end with
the sentence:
At last, the doctor confirmed that he did not have to take the medications anymore.

Your story must include:

• What happened to him
• The treatment that he received
Write your story.

Royal order –
enough money
Climax

Doctor
Start business appointment –
– went well surprising news
Rising Falling
Action Action

Accident –
on Happy – the
medication best
– no job Christmas
Exposition Resolution

204
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Goodbye, medicine

It felt just like yesterday when my brother, Jacob, was involved in a brutal car accident.
Neither of us expected the incident to happen as we were on the way back from my brother's
graduation ceremony, a joyous moment to celebrate his successful study journey. But
everything changed in just a matter of seconds. The car he was driving was caught up in a
life-threatening crash. This awful incident gave rise to my brother’s prolonged illness, which
he needed to live with for his entire life. Every month, Jacob was required to visit the hospital for
his exercise therapy session, an attempt to get him moving again.

Unfortunately, it affected my brother's daily life, and his mental health had regrettably
declined. The situation had caused him to be reliant on medication, if not for a long time, then
for the rest of his life. Jacob was our family’s breadwinner. He was the one taking over my late
dad’s duties as head of the family. Be that as it may, the rest of the family members were trying
their best to give him strength so he could recuperate healthily.

Hence, to cover our daily expenses, my little brother and I decided to start a business.
Our mother was famous for creating beautiful handmade crafts that were surely popular due to
today’s trends. To our surprise, our marketing hit the mark, and orders kept coming in even
though we were low on stocks. One day, we got immensely well-known when the Princess of
the United Kingdom put in an order for my mom’s signature Christmas stockings. With those
victorious sales, we have enough money to support our family’s expenses and my brother’s
monthly hospital visits.

The week before Christmas, I accompanied Jacob for his monthly visit to the hospital. It
is important for someone to be with him, as he gets awfully anxious meeting the doctor. The
doctor started briefing us on his condition when, suddenly, he frowned. We both expected him
to tell us something miserable, but unexpectedly, he announced that my brother was off the
medication.

I am truly grateful that my eyes got teary while my brother was still processing the
situation. I guess our constant prayers were worth it, and we can finally travel together, just
like the promise we had with Jacob when he first opened his eyes. Once we were out of the
treatment room, we immediately dialled our mom to tell her this exciting news. This year, my
brother had a splendid Christmas present for us. We had been waiting for this moment for too
long. At last, the doctor confirmed that he did not have to take his medication anymore.

205
 CONSUMERISM AND FINANCIAL AWARENESS

LOW PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story for an essay writing competition. You must begin
the story with the sentence:

Shera has decided to use the last of her saving to pay for …

Your story should include:

• The reasons of using the saving
• The effects of using the last saving to her life

Write your story.

Mother - lung
cancer - visit
Climax

Mother -
Work - survive apologise -
- saving give saving
Rising Falling
Action Action

Bad result - died - saving

kick out - - invest -
house Exposition Resolution help people

206
 SAMPLE ANSWER
LOW PROFICIENCY

Love

Shera had decided to use the last of her saving to pay for his mother’s cancer
treatment. She is an obedient child who never has a single bad thought or venge on her
mom even though she had treated her badly.
Shera was disowned by her whole family including her mother because she was the
only one who did not perform well in her education. By the age of 18, she got kicked out of
her house by her mother and siblings after she got a bad result in her SPM examination.
This made Shera depressed and wanted to commit suicide because she did not get any
support from her family members.
Since then, her life as a teenager was not as enjoyable as other teenagers. She
had to work to survive. Usually, she will do part-time jobs as a waitress, dish washer at
restaurants and house cleaning services. Part of the salary she received will be saved in
the bank and she would only spend her money on the important things as she learnt to value
every single cent from her hard work.
Months after the incident of her being chased out of the house, Shera got to know
that her mother was diagnosed with lung cancer and had to go through an operation. She
was the one who paid a visit on her. All of her siblings were busy with their life and did not
bother to care on their mother’s condition. One day, an hour before the surgery, Shera’s
mother apologized for her wrongdoing and realised all the mistakes that she had done to
her. She also told Shera that she had decided to give all her savings to her because she
could feel that her time has come. After the surgery, unfortunately, her mother died. This
made Shera fell deep into sadness and took her a few months to recover.
After the dark period, Shera learnt that she should not be carried away with her
mother’s passing. She was determined to use her mother’s saving wisely. She had
invested the money and became a billionaire. She had also opened up an orphanage and
homeless centre to help those in need. Her life journey had taught her to be an independent
person and be kind to everyone.

207
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Your teacher has asked you to write a story for an essay writing competition. You must begin
the story with the sentence:

Shera has decided to use the last of her saving to pay for …

Your story should include:

• The reasons of using the saving
• The effects of using the last saving to her life

Write your story.

A stepbrother – a
teacher in the school
Climax

Meet up –
Found a tag – letter from
investigated mom
Rising Falling
Action Action

private
school –late Future –
mom’s life Exposition Resolution stay together

208
 SAMPLE ANSWER
HIGH PROFICIENCY

Who is he?

Shera has decided to use the last of her savings to pay for her school fees. She
was a student at a private international school. To say the least, her late mother’s friends
always questioned why Shera did not go to a public school as her family could not effectively
pay her yearly academic tuition. But, behind those hurtful words was a mission. A vital
mission Shera had to accomplish before she finished high school. Yonse Private
International School was her mother’s alma mater.

Shera wanted to explore more about the school while she was studying to dive more
into her late mother’s past, as Shera lost her first love when she was only 3 years old. Her
sad experience had made Shera a quiet person, so she was trying to gain strength by
confronting her late mother’s school life. Lucky for her, Shera had inherited a scrapbook
filled with her mother’s memories from high school, other than a gold necklace she had
always wore no matter the occasion. The scrapbook had been Shera’s helper as it assisted
her in tracing her mother’s commemoration.

In the first month of high school, Shera found a pediatrics tag with the name Shafiq
Lee written on it. In order for her to find out the reason her mother kept the tag, she went to
various hospitals around her high school area to find out about the history behind it. To her
shock, she found her long lost step brother. In her 18 years of living, it was not until that
day that she found out she was not an only child.

To make matters worse, she recognised the name. It belonged to a newly

emigrated Mathematics teacher who had lived in Australia for the rest of his life. Shera was
speechless at first, but her curiosity got the best of her when she met the new teacher as
soon as the week started. Of course, a sane person would be taken aback by this significant
news. Except him, her step brother. To clarify the situation, they had decided to meet up
at the nearby café after school.

Just when Shera had barely seated herself on the seat opposite her step brother,
Shafiq gave her a two-page letter that looked scarce and old. In the letter, her mom revealed
that she was once married before she met Shera’s father, and Shafiq was his step brother.
With his Australian accent, Shafiq explained everything to her, and they managed to come
to a win-win agreement.

209
 After Shera finishes high school, he will fly to Australia and pack up his things so he
can fulfil the responsibility their mother had handed to him; taking care of Shera’s family. It
was a way for her mother to thank their family for accepting her, from an orphan surviving
alone to being married and pursuing a happy life as wife and mother to Shera’s family.
Eventually, the use of her last savings was rewarding, as she found herself a brother whom
she could put her trust in and rely on in the future. She knew that she would not be alone
from now on.

210
 CONCLUSION
We wanted to taRe a moment to express our
deep gratitude to all of you for your unwauering
commitment to using the English module. Your
dedication has not only enriched your language
sRills but has also made our learning community
stronger.
ThanR you for your hard worR, deuotion, and
good influence. We looR forward to continuing
our journey together and achieuing euen greater
success in the future.

Info
Account: [email protected]

Call: 604-7404000
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• • • Location: JABATAN PENDIDIKAN NEGERI KEDAH
KOMPLEKS PENDi Di KAN, JALAN
• • •
• • • STADIUM • • •
• • • 05604 ALOR SETAR, KEDAH
DARULAMAN • • •
• • • • • •