NARRATIVE COMPOSTION BASED ON PICTORIAL STIMULUS

For this question, you are required to write a narrative composition or short story based on the pictures and notes given in the pictures. So you have to study the picture given and expand the notes as well. Guidelines 1 Look at the picture or series of pictures given. 2 Study the picture carefully. 3 Read the notes given in the pictures and try to understand them. 4 Jot down the notes you have made on pictures. 5 Now you have a story based on the pictures. 6 Write your composition neatly. 7 Your composition must be based on the stories.

Sample Question 1
Write a short based on the notes and the picture given below. Make your story as interesting as possible. Your composition must be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
Last Saturday Marian had to buy some clothes for her baby girl. So she decided to go shopping. As there was no body in the house to take care of the baby, she had to carry her daughter around. Her baby was wearing a gold anklet on her little ankle. It was a gift from her grandmother. When she arrived at the shopping complex, it was very crowded.
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She wanted to buy the clothes at the babys shop and leave as quickly as possible. While she was admiring some of the latest child wear designs, a snatch thief came behind her. Without her knowing, he snatched the babys anklet. The baby felt the pain and cried out. Marian saw the thief running away holding the anklet. She shouted at the top of her voice. The security guard heard her shouting and chased after the thief down the escalator. The other shoppers were looking and shouting by now. With the help of a big-sized man who was watching, he overpowered the thief. The anklet was taken back form and returned to Marian. Then, the guard phoned the police and informed the management.

Sample Question 2
Look at the picture carefully. Then, write a narrative composition based on the picture. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

Model Answer
Last Sunday, my friends and I went to a book exhibition. We wanted to buy novels and science fiction. Ahmad loved to read ghost stories whereas I loved historical romance. As for Mindy and James, they were crazy about spy stories. The book exhibition was held at Putra World Trade Centre. We took a cab there and shared the cab fare. Inside the building, we found our way to the hall where the exhibition was held. There was already a big crowd at many booths. We rushed to the booths where fiction books were displayed. Mindy and James choose the spy novel and read them while standing. I picked two historical romances and went to cashier to pay. I never liked reading while standing. To me, to enjoy reading a novel, one must curl up comfortably on a sofa. Finally, all of us went home happy with our purchase. It was a day that was well spent. Mindy and I agreed to exchange our novels after reading them.

Sample Question 3
Study the pictures carefully and write a narrative composition about a camping outing that you joined recently. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

Model Answer

Last month, the Boy Scouts organized a camping outing to Frasers Hill. As I had never been to Frasers Hill, I signed up to join the trip. Anyway, I could never resist a camping experience. We started our journey from the school gate early in the morning. The Scout Master had arranged for a van to pick us up. There were ten of us. When we got to the camping site, the first thing we did was to pitch up our tents. That was heavy work. We had chosen a good site in a shady place to camp. After doing it, we decided to have a swim in the nearby waterfall. That night, we made a campfire with the wood that we had brought along. While some were doing this, others were in charge of cooking. We had brought many tins of canned food, so were able to prepare a delicious dinner. As we were very hungry, we gorged down the food in no time. I thought it was one of the best meals I had ever eaten. We stayed there for two nights. On the last day, we prepared to go home. I must say that we left the place with reluctance. The outing had been so relaxing and pleasant.

Sample Question 4
Based on the pictures given below, you have to write a narrative composition or short story. Make your story as interesting as possible. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

Model Answer

Bob parked his car next to the durian stall. He has seen it when he was driving along the highway and so had turned back. As he had not taken his lunch, he thought it was a good idea to have a few durians for his lunch. He had always enjoyed eating durian fruits while sitting at the wooden bench and talking to the seller. After picking two big fruits, he was bargaining their prices with the seller. While doing this, he heard some shouting. He turned around and saw two men showing their fits at each other. They were quarrelling over the fruits that they had picked. I saw this fruit first, the tall man argued But I paid for it, the short man shouted Bob thought the whole thing was so childish. He pacified the two men and broke them up. The seller later thanked him. He even offered to sell the two fruits to bob at half price.

Sample Question 5
Look at the picture carefully. Then, write a narrative composition based on the picture. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

Model Answer
One of the happiest days in my life was on my fifteenth birthday. My family and friend held a surprise birthday party for me. It was even more exciting when I had not expected it. In fact, I had been feeling moody the whole day thinking that my family and friends had forgotten about my birthday. It had hurt me. So when I got home from my tuition classes that Tuesday evening, I was prepared to spend the next two hours sitting in front of the television. When I let myself into the house, I was surprised that none of the lights had been switched on. I was wondering where my mother was. Usually, she would be cooking in the kitchen. I groped in the darkness. Then, the lights were switched on and facing me were fifteen people who were pushing my birthday cake to me. It was a huge one with fifteen candles. I was very surprised and at the same time, very happy. They had not forgotten. Next to the cake were my birthday present! After cutting the cake, we ate, sang and played games. I was really the guest of honour that night. It was the most beautiful party I had ever attended and that was my surprise birthday party.

Sample Question 6
Look at the picture carefully. Then, write a narrative composition about a fun fair held in your school. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

Model Answer
Last Sunday my school held a food and fun fair in the school compound. The purpose of the occasion was to raise funds for our school hall. As it had been well publicised, a large crowd turned up to support the fair. All the classes had been given charge of different stalls to manage. My class was to manage the burger stall. Before this, my classmates and I had gone to our friends burger stall to learn how to make beef and cheese burgers. Since I was good at cooking, I was put in charge of the stall. The fair started at nine oclock. People came in large numbers from eleven oclock. They wanted to take their lunch at the fair. Soon, my classmates and I were busy making burgers. The orders came so fast that we had difficulty coping with them. We were happy for this showed that our burgers must be tasty. We of course took turns to run the stall so that we could go around and enjoy ourselves playing games and trying the food at the other stalls. By the end of the day, we managed to collect two hundred dollars from the sale of our burgers. That was not bad.

DESCRIBING PROCESS AND PROCEDURES

Describing Process and Procedures For this question, you are required to describe a process or procedure as shown in the pictures. So you have to study the pictures and notes given in the pictures and describe the process or procedure step by step. Guidelines 1 Read the question carefully so that you know exactly what you have to write. 2 Your description of the process or procedure can be in the format of report or letter or dialogue or just an explanation. 3 Study the pictures carefully and understand the notes given in each picture. 4 You must know what process or procedure you have to describe. 5 Jot down points on the steps of the process. 6 Then, use sequence connectors to help you join the various steps of the process. 7 These words are firstly, secondly, then, next and finally. 8 The tense used is usually present tense. 9 However, if you are writing a report, you should use the past tense. 10 Your composition should describe the whole process clearly.

Sample Question 1
The science society of your school organized a trip to the paper recycling factory. Based on the pictures below and notes in the pictures, write an article of how paper is recycled. Your composition must be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
Recycling of paper The recycling of paper is done in many stages. First, the paper after sorting is put into the hydropulper where it is broken into fibre and mashed into pulp. Then, the pulp is passed into the separator where its impurities are removed. That means only the cleaner pulp is used. After that, the pulp is passed to a tank where it is bleached by adding bleaching agents. Next, hot water as well as chemicals are added which turn the pulp into a thick greyish matter. This thick now goes through the roller which removes any excess water. At the same time, the matter is pressed into thin layers. The layers are then passed to the dryer where they are steam-dried. After this, they are passed to another roller which roll and cut them. The paper is now ready for packing.

Sample Question 2
Your younger sister wants to learn how to fry rice. Using the pictures below and notes in the pictures, describe to her how fried rice is prepared. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

Model Answer
I am glad you want to learn how to fry rice. This is useful for sometimes when the maid is busy and you can do it yourself. So listen carefully. First, you have to boil the rice in the rice cooker. While waiting for the rice to be cooked, you can prepare the ingredients. Cut the onions and chillies into slices. If you want to add prawns and meat, you can also cut them into slices. It is easier to fry the small pieces. After doing this,heat up the frying pan. Pour some oil into the pan and heat the oil. Add the ingredients and fry them till they are golden brown. When they produce an aroma, you can add the cooked rice. Now you fry everything together. Stir the rice well. You can add an egg if you want to. You can also add chilli sauce for more flavour. Serve the rice hot with slices of cucumber placed all around it on the plated.

Sample Question 3
Your family just engaged a new maid. As she has ever used a washing machine before, you have to teach her how to use it. Based on the pictures below and notes given in the pictures below and given notes in the pictures, instruct her as to how to use the washing machine. Your composition should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
It is very easy to use the washing machine to wash clothes. But you have to follow the instructions or you can spoil the washing machine. So listen carefully to what I am going to tell you. This is how you use a washing machine. Open the front door of the machine and put the dirty clothes inside. Shut the door firmly. Add washing powder or a liquid detergent. Then, select the programme you want. Usually for normal washing, press the regular wash. After this, switch on the power and put on the tap. The clothes will be spinning while being washed. You have to wait for the machine to stop spinning before you can open the door. When it stops spinning, you can now open the door. This means the clothes have been washed and half dried. Take out the washed clothes immediately. Do not leave the clothes inside the machine overnight.

Sample Question 4
Your brother wants to change the colour of the walls of his room. Using the pictures below and the notes in the pictures, describe how he goes about painting his room. Your composition should be more than 150 words.

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Model Answer
It is a good idea of his to paint his room. His room needs a fresh layer of paint as the wall paint is peeling. First, he must buy a tin of paint of blue colour. The first thing he must do before he paints is to scrape off the old paint on the walls. This is to make the walls look better with the fresh paint. Place on old newspaper on the floor. Then, he has to mix the paint is well mixed. Now, he is ready to paint the walls. He should not use a brush. Instead, he uses a roller to roll the paint on the wall. It is better for him to apply two layers. This will make the paint last longer and the walls will have a better finish. Painting the walls requires a lot of patience. He should not rush when doing it. When the whole room is painted, he will love it.

Sample Question 5
Your mother wants to instruct your sister on how to prepare spicy chicken wings. As your mother has asked you to write message to your sister, you have to follow your mother instructions and describe them in the message. Based on the pictures and notes in the pictures, write the message. Your letter must be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
Amy, this is what mother asked you to do in preparing spicy chicken wings for dinner. First, you have a season the wings an hour earlier. This is done by rubbing salt and pepper on the meat. This is to make them tastier. When they are ready to be fried, heat up the wok. Pour quite a lot of oil into it and when the oil is hot, add in the chicken wings. Fry them for about ten minutes till they are golden brown. They should be fried over a slow fire. Next, add chilli sauce. The amount you add depends on your taste. You can add more if you want the wings to be very spicy. Then, you add a bit of water and cook them for a while. Serve the dish while it is hot.
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Sample Question 6
You went to rice field recently. When you came home, your brother asked you to tell him how rice is produced. With the help of the pictures and notes below, describe to him. Your composition must be more than 100 words.

Model Answer

This is what the paddy farmers do. First, they plough their paddy field witch a tractor. At the same time, they plant the seeds in the nursery. When the seeds are about ten centimetres tall, they are transplanted to the rice field. Transplanting is usually done during the rainy season. The farmers then wait for the plants to produce paddy. When the plants are fully grown, the paddy is harvested with a machine. The harvested paddy stalks are tied together in bundles. This is to thresh them in order to separate the paddy from the stalks. This is done with a thresher. Then, the paddy is separated from the husk. This process is known as winnowing. Finally, the rice grains are packed into gunny sacks which are delivered to the customers.

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GIVING DIRECTIONS

For this question, you are required to describe a journey or even give directions based on a map or notes given. You have to study the map carefully, understand it and give correct directions according to the map. Guidelines 1 Look at the map given and study it carefully. 2 Begin at the starting point. 3 Use the landmarks shown in the map. 4 Mention the names of the roads and places in the map. 5 You have to give directions in a clear order. 6 Use words like walk along this road, turn left or right, go straight until you come to a junction or roundabout, etc 7 Link your directions using logical connection like next, then, after that, etc. 8 Use the correct pronoun as required by the question. 9 Use present tense when giving directions.

Sample Question 1
A tourist asks you for directions to the museum. With the help of the map below, give him directions on how to get to museum. Your composition should be more than 100 words.

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Model Answer
You will enjoy visiting our museum. It is very impressive. It is not far from here. You walk along this road until you come to a roundabout. At the roundabout, you turn left. You will be on Jalan Ipoh. You will pass the post office on your right. After passing the post office, you turn left into a junction. This leads to a lane called Emerald Lane. You will see a supermarket on your left. Just continue walking along the lane till you see a church. There is a field on your right opposite the church. Go straight and you will see museum at the end of the lane. It is next to a primary school. I am sure you will not get lost. The walk will take about twenty minutes. So enjoy your visit to the museum.

Sample Question 2

A visitor to your school wants to go to the canteen. He cannot find this way. Give him directions as to how to get there. Your composition must be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
You will find our canteen easily. Just follow my directions. It is behind the science laboratory. Now we are in the first block. You go down the stairs to the ground floor. On the ground floor, you have to turn left. Walk along the corridor until you see the principals office. Next to his office is the teachers room. Pass these two rooms and you will see a ca park. Walk across the car park. You will come to the second block. Keep right. Walk straight. You should be walking alongside the classrooms until you come to the school hall. Our hall is very big. You will not miss it. Pass the hall and turn round the corner. You will see the canteen just across. Do you understand the directions? If you have any questions, you can ask me.

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Sample Question 3
Your friend from outstation wants to visit you. She will be taking a bus from her town. She is not sure of how get to your place from the bus station. Give her directions on how to walk to your place from the bus station. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

Model Answer
May, my house is no far from the bus station. You will have to walk for about fifteen minutes. After leaving the bus station, you turn left. You are on Jalan Kepong. You keep on walking until you come to an old cinema. The name is Cathay Cinema. After the cinema, you turn left at the junction. Now, you are along Paul Road. It is a short road. You walk until you come to a T-junction. Now you turn right into Merry Lane. Walk on until you come to the first traffic light. At the traffic light, you turn left. Go straight and you will come to another traffic light. This time, you turn right. You are now on Swing Street. You walk for another five minutes and you will come to a police station. After passing the police station, you will see my house. My house is number 15 in the row.

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Sample Question 4
Your neighbours are new to the neighbourhood. Their son fell and injured himself. They do not know the way to the hospital. So they ask you how to get there. Give them directions on how to get to the hospital. Your composition must be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
Our place to the hospital is about twenty minutes drive. You are lucky that there are no traffic jams since it is night. From our place, you turn right. You drive straight down the road until you come to a roundabout. Keep left and turn left. Now you are on Jalan Jinjang. Keep on driving until you come to a traffic light. Cross the traffic light. You will pass Bintang Supermarket on your left. After passing it, you will come to the second traffic light. Before the traffic light, you have to turn left. Now you are along Paul Road. You continue driving until you pass the Commerce Bank on your right. Now you turn left and you will see the hospital. You will not miss it for it is a tall yellow building. Do drive carefully.

Sample Question 5
You are visiting your uncle in his fish farm. As the day is hot, you want to go for a swim in the waterfall. Your uncle is telling you how to get there. Write down what your uncle says. Your composition must be more than 150 words.

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Model Answer
It is good idea to go for swim now. You can take a slow walk there and enjoy seeing the scenery on the way. From my farm, you turn right. You will be walking on a rough stony road for five minutes. You will see rubber trees on both sides of the road. Continue walking until you come to a Tjunction. Then turn right. You are now on a tarred road. It is perhaps the only tarred road in this village. You walk straight down. You will pass a studio shop on your left. Next to the studio is the village church. After passing the church, you will come to a nursery. Our nursery has wide variety of roses, orchids and hibiscus. You can stop by there and take a look at these lovely flowers. After that, walk down the road for two more minutes and you will come to the waterfall. You will not miss it for will hear the noise of the water before you see it.

Sample Question 6
You are sending your sister to your usual florist shop to collect a bouquet of flower for your mothers birthday party. As your sister does not know the way, you write out a map for her. Using the map below, give her the directions to the florist shop.

Model Answer
Now you listen to my directions carefully. After turning left to Jalan Morong, you drive along the road for two kilometer. It is better to keep left all the way. Then, you will come to the first traffic light. Go straight and get ready to turn left when you come to a roundabout. After turning left, you keep right this time. You are now along Jalan Apit. You will come to a T-junction. Stop and make sure you see that the road is clear. If it is clear, you turn right. This is Jalan Junit. Along this road, you should pass the police station on your left. Opposite the police station is the science Centre. You will not miss this building. It is huge and white in colour. Drive further down the road. This time you will see the Central Market which is a shaded building. The florist is just next to the market. I have given you clear directions. You will not get lost. So go now.
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INFORMAL AND FORMAL LETTERS

For this question, you are required to write a letter whether formal or informal. Use the notes or pictures given and write a letter. You have to use the format of letter. For friendly letters, you follow the format of an informal letter. However for formal, you have to use the format of a formal letter.

Informal Letters
Guidelines 1 You have to write your address at the top right-hand corner of the letter. Put a comma after every line and a full stop at the end of the address. 2 Write the date below your address. 3 Write the greeting or salutation on the next line but on the left-hand side of the letter. Begin your greeting with Dear. 4 Make sure you put a comma after the greeting. 5 Then, you write the contents of the letter below the greeting. 6 The body of your letter must have an introduction, middle paragraphs and a conclusion. 7 You can begin your letter in one of these ways: How are you? I received your letter on... I am so happy to hear that... I am sorry to hear that I am sorry for not writing Thank you for yours... I heard that 8 Make sure that all your paragraphs are indented 9 When endings you letter, write the closing on the right-hand side of the letter. The first words of the signing off begins with a capital letter. You must add a comma at the end. Example are Yours sincerely, Your love, Your son or daughter, etc .

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10, Ipoh Road, (Writer s address) 40000 Kuala Lumpur 15 December 2004 (Date) Dear Jenny, (Greeting) How are you ________________________________________________________ ____________________________ ________________________________________ ________________________ (Contents of letter) ____________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Goodbye. (Ending Yours sincerely, Signature) Ann

Sample Question 1
You are worried about your studies. Your PMR exam is approaching but you feel that you have not done enough revision. You even worry about doing badly in the exam. Write a letter to your friend who has done well in his PMR exam and ask him for his advice. Your letter should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
10, Jalan Meru, 54600 Klang, Selangor. 15 March 2005. Dear Philip, I received you letter last week. Thank you for showing concern for me. As you know, I am having difficulty studying for my PMR exam. I cant seem to concentrate on my revision. After studying for ten minutes, I just want close my books. I dont know how could do so well in your PMR. What was your secret? I would appreciate some advice as to how to prepare for my PMR. Philip, I am really worried about the exam. I worry that I may even fail and this would be a blow to my parents. Could you advise me how to plan timetable for revision? I tried doing one but had to stop half way. Please show me in your next letter how to plan one and how do I concentrate on my revision without daydreaming? I need some motivation. Of course, you will tell me how important it is to pass my PMR so that I can go on to Form Four and sit for my SPM. I know that but somehow, I lack interest in my studies. Please advise me. So, I am waiting for your reply. Please write. Love,

Sunny
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Sample Question 2
Your family has just move to a new town because of your fathers transfer to another branch. After settling down for a month, you decide to write a letter to your former classmate. In your letter, you include: your classmates your teachers your participation in clubs and societies your feelings about your new school

Model Answer

10, Jalan Binna, 54600 Puchong, Selangor. 12 July 2005. Dear Jane, I am now writing to you as I have promised. It has been a month since we shifted. How are you and your family? I know you must be keen to find out more about my new school. The name of my school is SMK Rajang Puchong. It has about 800 students. I like my classmate. They are friendly and helpful. One of them, May, has even become my best friend. But she can never replace you. She has helped me a lot a notes and homework. We go to movies together on weekends. I like the teacher here. They are friendly and understanding. One of them, Miss Lee is my neighbour. So my mum has arranged for me to go in her car to school. It feels funny going to school in my teachers car. Her two other children come with us. They are studying in the same school. May has asked me join the English Club. It is a good club to join for it organised many activities such as debates, quiz and drama. On the whole, I am quite happy here. What about you? I have been talking about myself only. You must tell me about the school and our clique of friends in your next mail. Take care.

Love,

Sue

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Sample Question 3

Your pen-pal from another country wants to visit you in Malaysia. Write a letter to your penpal expressing your happiness at his or her visit. In the letter, tell him or her the programmes you have arranged, advise him or her on what clothes to bring and let him or her know what type of food to expect. Your letter should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer

10, Jalan Bintang, 52200 Kampar, Perak. 30 May 2005. Dear Takshi, I am so happy to hear that you are coming to visit me in my country. It must be autumn in Japan now. Is it cold now? My parents are also glad to hear that you are coming next months. So you have booked your flight. Just to confirm with you, you are arriving on 10 September. I cant wait to see you. Well, I have planned an interesting programme. We will be visiting many places of tourist interest such as the museum, the zoo, the birds park and of course, the seaside. Bring along a good camera. I am sure you would want to take many shots of the scenery. I would sure love to take pictures with you. So I suggest you bring along jeans, T-shirts and a few pairs of shorts. The climate here is hot, you need thin clothing. As for food, our food is generally hot and spicy. But dont worry. You can take Western food here. Well, I am counting the days to your coming here. Meanwhile, write. Goodbye.

Love,

Paul

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Sample Question 4
Your friend who is outstation is going through a difficult time as he is having problems with his parents. He feels that they do not understand him. He thinks that they are nagging him too much and do not trust him at all. Write a letter to him advice on how solve his problems with his parents. In your letter, you advise him to: spend more time with his parents talk out his problems with them help in housework study harder Your letter should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer

10, Jalan Purat, 50000 Kajang, Selangor. 10 March 2005. Dear Salim, I read your last letter with concern. You are having many problems with your parents. This is not good and the sooner you solve them, the better it is. All parents love their children and want the best for them. It is the same for your parents. If they scold you, it is because they want you to improve. I suggest you spend more time with them instead of loitering at the Summit Complex. During the time you are with them, you get to understand them better. Then you will come to accept what they want for you is good for you. Discuss your problems with them. Ask for their advice. Show them that you can be trusted. Of course, their advice must be followed by you. You have to show them that you are serious in your studies. So have a revision timetable. Revise your studies a few hours a day. Also, help your mother in the housework. Do the heavier chores like cleaning the windows and mopping the floor. I have to stop here. Do write often. Take care

Love,

Alex

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Sample Question 5
Your best friend has done well in her PMR exam. Write a letter to congratulate her. In your letter, you tell her that she deserves the good grades. At the same time, you ask her for tips on how to prepare for the coming PMR exam. Your letter should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer

10, Jalan Sunaway, 54600 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. 1June 2005 Dear Siew Mei, I heard about your good result from my sister. I wish to congratulate you. You have done my very well indeed imagine scoring 8 distinctions. I am very proud of you. Anyways, you deserve the good result. I have known all along that you would do well. My parents convey their regards and congratulations to you too. They praised your diligence and wish I were as hardworking as you. Thats why I want to ask you for some tips on how to score in PMR exam. I did not fail in any of my monthly tests and the final exam. However, I managed to obtain only two distinctions. I want to be like you and score more distinctions. So tell me how you prepared for your PMR exam. Did you have to stay up every night? How many hours do you spend on your revision a night? I have to stop now. Please reply as soon as you can. I am sitting for my PMR exam next year and I am anxious to do well.

Love,

John

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Formal Letters
Formal letters or business letters are written official matters, for example, when you want apply for a job, place an order, ask for permission to visit a place or make a complaint. Guidelines 1 In a formal letter, you write your name and address at the top left-hand corner of the letter. 2 Just follow the address, you draw a line across the page. 3 Just follow the line, you write the name, position and address of the recipient. 4 Then, write the date on the date on the right side of the letter. 5 Write the greeting after the address. Use formal greetings like Dear Sir, Dear Mr... 6 Do not ever use informal greetings such as Hello, Hi... 7 After greetings, write the subject heading and underline it. 8 Then, write the contents of your letter. 9 The language and tone of your letter. 10 Sign off by writing Yours faithfully or Yours sincerely... 11 After singing, write your full name in block letters below your signature.
10, Ipoh Road 40000 Kuala Lumpur. (Writer s Address) _______________________________________________________________________________ The general Manager, Attap Enterprise Sdn. Bhd, 20, Jalan Munang 30000 Petaling Jaya, Selanggor Darul Ehsan Dear Sir/Madam, (Greeting) Re: Application for the Post of Clerk (Subject Heading) . I would like to ________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ 2 I have been working __________________________________________________________ _____________________________ (contents) _______________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ 3 ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Thank you for consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Yours faithfully, (Ending) Ann ( Signature) (Ann Tan) ( Name)

( Name and Address of Recipient) (Date) 15 August 2005

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Sample Question 1
Your school Science Society wants to organise a trip to a chocolate factory. As Secretary of your school Science Society, you have to write to the Manager to ask for permission. In your letter, you have mention: date and time of trip size of the group purpose of trip request for factory tour Your letter should be more than 100 words.

20 Jalan Haiti 23400 Ipoh Perak. _______________________________________________________________________________ The Manager, Cococ Chocolate Manufacturer, Jalan Pudu 67500 Kuala Lumpur Dear Sir, Permission to visit My school Science Society wishes to organize a trip to your factory. As the Secretary, I am writing in to ask for permission for our society members to visit your factory. We intend to visit on 10 July 2005 2. The group consists of twenty people including two teachers. We will be leaving the school at 9 a.m. and should arrive at your factory at 10 a.m. As we are coming by bus, we would appreciate if you instruct the guard to let the bus into the compound. We also need to park our bus inside the car park. 3. We would also like to see how chocolates are made. If possible, please arrange for a factory tour. This will enable us to see the process of how chocolate is made. The society members will learn from the tour. 4. I would appreciate an early reply to enable us to make the necessary arrangements.
Yours faithfully,

25 June 2005

Jack Lim
(JACK LEE)

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Sample Question 2
You bought a visual compact disc (VCD) of the movie Spiderman from a video shop. When you brought it home and played it, you found that the image was blur and the sound fuzzy. Write a letter to the manager of the video shop to complaint about the VCD. You may wish to ask for replacement. Your letter should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
20 Jalan Haiti 23400 Ipoh Perak. _______________________________________________________________________________ The Manager, Kim Seng Bhd, Jalan Pudu 67500 Kuala Lumpur Dear Sir, Complaint about VCD I wish to complain about a faculty VCD that I bought at your shop. I just bought it yesterday. Enclosed is the receipt as proof of purchase. 2. The title of the movie is Spiderman . When I bought it, I was told that is was an original copy of the movie because it has the sticker from Censorship Board. 3. However, when I played it on my player, I found the picture very fuzzy and blur. My family and I could not enjoy watching the movie at all. This made us furious for we had looked forward to seeing the movie. And watching the VCD was a terrible experience. 4. Obviously, I am not keeping this faulty VCD. So I am now requesting for replacement. If you are not replacing the VCD, I would like a refund. 5 My contact number is 05-6617789. I am looking forward to hear you. Please call us and we will collect the VCD from your shop. Thanks you.
Yours faithfully,

25 June 2005

Gary Lim
(GARY LIM)

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Sample Question 3
You wish to apply for the job advertised in the newspaper. Write an application letter stating: reasons for applying your qualifications your school curriculum Your letter should be more 100 words.

Model Answer
20 Jalan Haiti 23400 Ipoh Perak. _______________________________________________________________________________ The Manager, Jalan Pudu, 67500 Kuala Lumpur Dear Sir, Application for the post of clerk I wish to apply for the post of clerk as advertised by your company in The Star dated 30 May 2005. I have just sat for my SPM and waiting for the result. 2. I have attended a short course in computer studies and so I am good at using the computer. For my PMR, I have obtained distinction in English and Bahasa Malaysia. As the post requires a clerk who is good in English, I meet the language requirement. 3. In school, I was active in English Language Society. I took part in many of its activities such as debates and speech contest. I was also the Chairman of the society 2004. 4. Besides clubs, I was active in sports. I played for the school soccer team. We won in a few interschool matches. 5. Due to my active participation in clubs and games, I have developed leadership qualities and skills. 6. I am applying for this post for I want to gain working experience while waiting for my SPM result. 7. I am available to attend an interview at any time. I can be contacted at 05-4567333. Thanks you.
Yours faithfully,

25 June 2005

Ahmad Amin
(AHMAD ALI)

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CHARTS AND GRAPHS

For this question, you are required to interpret non-linear information. This is in the form of graphs and charts. There are three types of graphs that can be given. These are line graph, the pie chart and the bar graph. Information is given in these three graphs and you have study the information. Based on the information and data, you answer the question that is given. Guidelines 1 Read the question and study the graph carefully 2 Study the graph to see what each column represents. 3 A bar graph can be vertical or horizontal. 4 If it is a pie chart, study the data carefully. 5 Comment about the values represented in the chart or graph. 6 Look at the highest and lowest value. 7 After studying the information, write your report. 8 A report based on a graph or chart has to use formal language.

Sample Question 1
The line graph below shows the number of cars sold by Company A from 1999 to 2004. Based on the graph, write a report about the sales of car during those years. Your report should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
The graph shows the sales of cars by Company A in the years 1999 to 2004. During the five years, sales of cars has increased a lot. In 1999, the sales was 30,000. A year later, sales increased by 5,000 which is quite good. This could due to increase in car loans given by banks that year. It is about 17 per cent. However, from 2000 to 2002, sales dropped down to 30,000 again. The recession affected sales of many products including cars. Sales was very good from 2002 to 2004, especially in the year 2003. Wi th such low interest rates on car loans, it was not surprising that many people changed their cars and some were new car

28

owners. The increase in these three years was a jump of 100 per cent from 30,000 cars to 60,000 in 2004.

Sample Question 2
SMK Subang Jering has done a survey on the performance of the 2004 PMR candidates in the school. Based on the bar graphs, write a report about the performance of the students in the various subjects. Your report should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
The PMR results of SMK Subang Jering were on the whole above average. Out of 180 candidates who sat for exam, 150 passed. Only 30, that is about 6 per cent failed in the PMR. This failure rate is low. The good performance by the students in not only shown by the high passing rate but also by the good performance in individual subjects. This is shown in the second graph. The based done subject is Bahasa Malaysia. Out of 180 students, 120 obtained distinctions. The other 60 students passed with a credit. This is very good. The next best performed subject is History followed by Science. For History, 80 students obtained distinctions, 40 credits and ten obtained passes. As for Science, ninety students managed to pass with distinctions. Generally, students did fairly well in the other subjects. However, the performance in English language was not as well done as in the other subject. The failing rate is highest among the eight subjects. Of the 180 candidates, 60 failed in this subject.
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Sampl

The pie chart shows the monthl expenses of Charlie Tan who is married with a school going son. ased on monthl salary of RM3,000, write a report of how he manages his monthly expenses. Your report should more t 100 words.

S v 700

M t l Expenses of C

The pie chart shows the monthl expenses of Charlie Tan. Charlie earns RM 3,000 a month. He has many expenses to meet, so he has to manage his money carefully. His largest item of expenditure is his rental. It is RM 800. That is about 38 per cent of his salary. This leaves him with RM 2,200. RM 500 goes to his car loan every month. He spends RM 1,000 on his family, including food and miscellaneous expenses. His son is in a primary school and this incurs some expenses on his tuition fees and pocket money. Once a week, he bring his family out for a movie and dinner. That means he has only RM 700 left. Fortunately, Charlies company provides lunch and so he can save on this. He is able to save RM 700 a month.

'

od l Ans

30

 

800

lie Tan

 "! 

  

#&

# $#

u stion 3

500

y 1000

Sampl

The pie chart shows the daily schedule of Anna. tudy the pie chart carefully and write 100 words. report on her daily schedule. Your report should be more t
1 0)

3 hours atch tv

3 hours home ork

8 hours s ee

3 hours uition class

6hours school

Anna's Daily Sch dul

The pie chart shows Annas daily schedule. She sleep from 10 p.m. till 6 a.m. That is eight hours. For a student like Anna, she has quite a hectic schedule. She gets up at 6 a.m. and has to get ready for school. By 7 a.m., she is in school. From 7 oclock till 1 p.m. is school time. Her school dismisses at 1 p.m. He r mother usually fetches her at 1.30. Lunch is at 2 p.m. After lunch, Anna has many things to do. Her tuition classes are from 2 p.m. till 5 p.m. On those days, she does not attend tuition classes, she is able to play her favourite game, badminton. So her afternoons are either attending tuition classes or playing games or going shopping. That leaves her two hours to watch television. Dinner is at 7 p.m. After that she spends some time with her family. Of course, she has to do her homework till bedtime, that is, 10 p.m.

od l Ans

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3 2

8A

8 98 8

u stion 4

DESCRIPTIVE COMPOSITION DESCRIBING A PLACE

For this question, you are required to describe a place which can be a building or a street or a village or a town. Whatever it is you are describing, you have to describe it in some detail, including the activities going on, the people you see, the noise, etc. Make your description as clear and as interesting as you can. Guidelines 1 First, you must know what the place looks like. 2 Start with the physical description of the place. 3 Then, describe what you see and hear. 4 You can describe the people and activities in some detail. 5 Dont forget to describe your feelings about the place. 6 You can also say a few things about the lights, colours and smell. 7 Usually, the present tense is used to describe places. 8 From your description, the readers should be able to visualise the place in their minds 9 In describing the place, you can start from the outside and then move inside.

Sample Question 1
Describe a place of tourist interest. In your description, highlight the facilities or features that make the place so appealing to tourists. You may include: facilities scenery outdoor activities food souvenirs Your composition should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
I have been to many places but the place I love to visit most is Genting Highland. The highland is no very high. Many people drive up the highland. It is about two hours drive from Kuala Lumpur. The slope is quite steep, so many father has drive carefully. Genting Hotel is the biggest building in the resort. We usually stay in this hotel. It has many places of entertainment that visitors can be spend a week there without getting bored. There are the Theme Park and Wonderland. Children love to get up on rides. Otherwise, are there souvenir shops selling lovely trinkets and small items. The highlands has many hotels and apartments, so visitors have no problems with accommodation. Of course, the main attraction is Genting Casino. People from Malaysia as

32

well as nearby countries have gone there to try there to try their lunch at the gambling tables. In fact, Genting Higlands is tourist attraction of Malaysia.

Sample Question 2
Describe a supermarket near your house. In your description, you include: different sections e.g. food, household products, washing detergents, etc shelves of goods coffee corner bread and cake corner Your composition should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
The supermarket near my house is called the Pasar Supermarket. It is one of the largest supermarkets in my town. From the road, one can see the long white building. The front part welcomes the customer warmly with its big signboard impressive entrance. The supermarket has three flours. The first floor supermarket, the second floor sells household goods and the third floor electrical equipments. People like to do their shopping there for they can almost anything they want under one roof. There first floor is the most popular for it sells a wide variety of foodstuff. There are rows of canned food and packets of beverage. The frozen section sells fruits, meat, fish and other seafood. The second and third floors get many customers on weekends. Customers do their shopping once a week, so they buy trolley loads of things. The electrical section sells the latest models and designs of gadgets. My family and I always enjoy our weekly shopping trips to this supermarket.

Sample Question 3
Describe your school. Make your description as interesting as possible. You may want to include: the classrooms library school hall canteen garden Your description should be more than 100 words.

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Model Answer
My school is in a housing estate called Taman Jaring. It is only ten minutes walk from my house. Although it is not a big school, I am proud to be a student of this school. This first thing that I see every morning when I arrive at my school is its big red gate. At the side of the gate of the gade is the guard house. My school building looks old but it is actually well maintained. The front part is the office where the staffs are busy attending to students every day. Next to the office is the school hall where the morning assembly and all school functions take place. The classrooms are on the ground and first floors. They are big and well-ventilated. The corridors are long and clean. On the ground floor is also the school canteen. It has rows of tables and benches. Of course, at four sides of the canteen are the different hawkers stalls. Just next to canteen is the computer laboratory and science laboratory. The school library is on the first floor. Inside the library are rows of shelves of books. Behind counters, the librarians are busy attending to the students. The teachers room is next to the library. Here, teachers voices and laughing are heard.

Sample Question 4
Describe a sea or hill resort that you like to go. In your description, write about the scenery, activities of the people, the surroundings, etc. Your composition should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
Malaysia has many hills and sea resorts. The sea resort that I like to go most is Port Dickson. It is a port with a lovely beach. Many Malaysians and tourists go to the beach on weekends. Along the beach and coastal road, one can see many hotels chalets. Some of these are big whereas some are very small accommodating just a few families. There are also numerous restaurants and cafes along the coast. At night, these shops are well lit and patronised by many tourists. Next to cafes are small shops are well it and patronised by many tourist. Next to the cafes are small shops selling souvenirs. These are also stalls that rent out motorbikes at low rate. The beach just behind the big hotel is usually crowded by beach-lovers who love to laze on the sand or simply just take a walk. When the tide is high, the waves can heard hitting against the shore. Seeing people swimming in the sea or collecting seashells is a common sight. It is also common to see people taking pictures sitting on the big rocks. This beach resort is one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia.

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Sample Question 5
Describe the national zoo in your country. In your description, write about the different types of animals, the visitors to the zoo, the activities going on and the animal shows, if any. Your composition should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer

To many children, the Zoo Negara is a fascinating place. It is a world of animals, wild and tame. The entrance to the zoo is a huge gate where tickets are sold at the ticket booth. When one enters the zoo grounds, one first sees big cages where the animals are kept. Many types of animals like lions, tigers, elephants and chimpanzees are seen locked inside their cages. There are so many them that it makes one wonder whether it is cruel to lock them the cage. The caged animals move about restlessly inside their cages. The sight of birds inside their cages and on trees is a sight that attracts many zoo visitors. Many animal trainers and zoo attendants are seen feeding the animals or washing them. It is not often ones sees these animals. So many are seen posing with the animals in the background and having their pictures taken. Of course, there are small restaurant selling snacks and drinks. And many visitors will not leave without buying some of the souvenir items sold in the cute souvenir shops.

35

DESCRIPTIVE COMPOSITION DESCRIBING A PERSON

For this question, you are required to describe a person clearly. You have to say who he or she is. It is better that you know this person in order to able to describe him or her well. Your description should include his or her appearance, character, habits, likes and dislikes. Guidelines 1 You have to describe the person in some detail. 2 Make your description as interesting as possible. 3 You should write about how he looks, what he likes or dislike and how he behaves. 4 Use the present tense if you are writing about a person who is still alive. 5 Explain why you choose to write about this person. 6 Describe his or her influence on you if any. 7 Comment about his or her family influence on you, if any.

Sample Question 1
Write about a person who has influenced you a lot. Explain why he or she has influenced you so much. You may want to write about his or her character, attitude and hobbies. Your description should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
A person who has influenced me a lot is my father. Since I was young, his advice has guided me in the way I look at life and many things. His encouragement is responsible for my success in my studies and games. My father is Derek Tan. To me, he is a special man. He is very tall above six feet and has a muscular man. My mother told me that he was handsome when he was younger. Well, he still looks good to me. He has a big cheerful face and smiling eyes. In the last few years, his hair has been dropping and so he is getting bald. He must be the kindest and most understanding man I have ever known. Most of his friends think so too. He never fails to help anyone in distress. Not surprisingly, many people turn to him for help when they are in trouble. I have learnt to be like him in this respect. To us, helping others brings us joy. So I must thank my father for passing to me the positive traits in me.

36

Sample Question 2
Describe your favourite family member. Say why he or she is your relative. You should write about the persons appearance, personality and character and habits. You description should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
My favourite relative is my Aunt Rose. She is good-looking, funny and helpful. In fact, to me, she is what a lady should be graceful and yet intelligent. Aunt Rose takes a lot of care with her appearance. She is always well dressed witch matching shoes and handbags. Her wrists and neck are decorated with accessories. I like to look at her long shinny hair. When she is working, she ties it up with a hair band. Aunt Rose loves to dance. She has taken part in dance competitions. Her dream is actually to open a dancing school. My mother often follows her to the dancing classes. She is not only beautiful but also intelligent, kind and helpful. I am very proud of my Aunt Rose. I remember there was an incident in which my aunt helped an old lady who had fallen on the road. She took the old lady to a clinic, paid the doctor and even engaged a main for her. She is unbelievable. I love my Aunt Rose.

Sample Question 3
Write a description of a friend who has helped you whenever you need help. In your description, you may want to include: his or her character how he or she helped you your reaction to his or her help Your composition should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
I would like to describe my friend, Sally Lee. She is someone who has helped me many times when I needed help. She has helped me in to do my assignments and given me useful advice when I was lazy. There was one time I was very sick with high fever. Sally rushed to my house and brought me to see a doctor. The doctor gave me an injection and told me that it was fortunate that I was rushed to his clinic. Otherwise, I might have got brain damage. I will always be grateful to Sally for saving my life, so as to say. Another time was when I had a slight accident when I was on my motorbike. I phoned her and asked her to come and fetch me as I had to send my motorbike to a workshop. She even
37

paid for repairs. That helped her a lot as I had no money with me at that time. She even arranged with the mechanic to send the motorbike to me when it was repaired. She is a true friend indeed. I can never forget her kindness to me. And to repay her kindness, I have tried to make her cookies which she loves a lot. She just likes to eat my chocolate cookies.

Sample Question 4
Describe the life of a doctor. In your description, you can write about his lifestyle, his work, his love for his job and his attitudes towards life in general. Use the notes below to help you: years of education to get a medical degree love for the job if has own clinic, cares for patients gives advices on health Your composition should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
A doctor deals with people who are his patients. Sometimes patients who can be very sick so, he has to be understanding and patient with them. He was to try his best to cure them. Since the work requires a person with a good knowledge of diseases and treatments, many years of studying is needed. Usually, a medical course takes six years followed by two years of practical training. A doctors job requires discipline and a healthy lifestyle. He starts his day early. Knowing the importance of breakfast, he makes sure he takes it before going to work. If he operates his own clinic, he is there by 8 a.m. The whole morning passes fast with his examining his patients. He has to be through in his examination to find out their problem so that he can give the correct diagnosis and treatment. He normally takes a lunch break. Some clinics are open until late at night or even twentyfour-hours. In this case, he needs assistants to help him. A doctor may not earn much in terms of monetary returns but his job is honourable for he helps them to get better.

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Sample Question 5
Describe two classmates whom you find interesting of funny. You can write about their: appearance funny habits hobbies mannerism things they say Your description should more than 100 words.

Model Answer
My two classmates whom I find interesting are Bob and Siva. Bob is very good-looking towering at six feet. Siva is always making me jokes and acting funny, this makes the class laugh. Both of them are very different in looks. Bob has a fair complexion while Siva is darkskinned. Bob is very tall but Siva is small and cute. They too differ in their personality. Bob is quiet type. All of us find him interesting for he can write beautiful poetry. He often writes poems about us, the teachers and his experiences. We always look forward to his poetry recitations in class. Siva is the lifewire everywhere he goes. He is small, so he moves very fast and seems to be everywhere. And he always has a joke for any occasion. His words are witty, so they never fail to make us laugh. Anyone who has a bad day will be cheered up by his jokes. He is so nice that he usually makes kind but funny comments about everyone he meets. My class will be dull without be dull without these two characters. We like having them around.

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DESCRIPTIVE COMPOSITION DESCRIBING A SCENE

For this question, you are required to write about a scene. It can be a busy scene or quiet or peaceful. For this description, you have to write in some detail about the place and the things going on. From your description, the readers should be able to visualize the scene in his mind. Guidelines 1 You have to be clear about what scene you have to describe. 2 Use a lot of adjectives in your description 3 Make it interesting so that your readers will enjoy reading it. 4 Your description must be so clear that the readers can visualize the scene in their minds. 5 If you are describing a busy scene, your description must show it is busy. 6 When you describe a scene, you are actually writing about the people, the activities and noise. 7 For a quiet peaceful scene, you have to show its effect on you.

Sample Question 1
Write about a scene at the night market. Make your description interesting. You can include: different stalls activities of customers activities of hawkers noise and light

Your description should be more than 100 words.

40

Model Answer
I have always enjoyed accompanying my mother to the night market. There is so much life, activity and noise. I enjoy looking at the numerous stalls and people. There are all types of people-big, short, fat and thin. The people are either the hawkers or the customer. A common scene to see there are hawkers shouting at customers to go their stalls to buy their goods. Also seen are customers bargaining the prices with the hawkers. It is interesting to see who will give way to the other. The place can be very crowded with customer pushing each other. They just want to buy as much goods as they can for one whole week, so they tend to forget their manners. Personally, I have been pushed by them many times. The stalls are brightly lit with temporary florescent lights hanging from some fittings. This really brightens up the whole place. And coming from the stalls selling tapes and compact discs is loud music which seems to blare the whole time. I find the night market a fascinating place that never fails to thrill me.

Sample Question 2
A street in the city can very busy during peek hours. Write about a busy street scene. You have to highlight the noise and movement on the street. In your description, you can include: heavy traffic noise dust in air hooting of vehicles rows of shops

Your description should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
I live on the busiest street in my town. There is a continuous flow of traffic day and night. In fact, during peak hours, traffic builds up to become a massive traffic jam. At this time, the street is dusty and noisy. It is a long street. My house is actually an upstairs floor above a bakery shop. At the sides of the street rows of shops. It is common to see people sitting at tables in the open air taking their breakfast. At the end of the street is a music school. It is a common sight to see cars sending children to school for their music lessons. A massive traffic jam usually forms after the music classes.
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At night, the street is brightly lit. It is quieter from midnight till dawn. Even that, there are always a few cars on the street during these hours. And from six in the morning, the mas rush starts marks another busy day.

Sample Question 3
Make use of the notes below to write about a scene on the beach. You can add your own points to make your description interesting. sandy beach people on the beach activities like swimming, canoeing, collecting shells, etc groups of people having picnics Your description should be more than 100 words.

Model Answer
My family likes to go the beach during the school holidays. The beach we love to go to is Batu Ferringhi in Penang. It must be one of the loveliest beaches in Malaysia. A typical beach scene is a lively one with a big crowd on the beach. There are different groups of people carrying out different activities. One big group is having a picnic under the tree. They are eating, playing games and listening to the loud radio. Another group of boys are playing volleyball. The children are collecting seashells and corals. Many are swimming in the sea. Others are canoeing in boats in the sea. A few groups of men and boys have cast their lines in the water and are waiting patiently for their catch. And of course, the adventurous ones are surfing and diving. The seaside is an interesting place where many activities go on.

Sample Question 4
Using the notes given, describe a scene in the school canteen. Use a variety of adjectives in your description. different food stalls tables and benches student queuing up prefect on duty noise Your description should be more than 100 words.

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Model Answer
The scene in my school canteen is a busy and lively one during recess. The moment the school bell rings for recess, the students rush out of their classrooms and charge into the canteen. However, there is order in the canteen. The students line up rows for their food. The hawkers are busy preparing the dishes and serving to the students. It is a first come-firstserved system and it is also self-service of course. At the same time, students are seen rushing to the benches to grab a seat. There are different types of food on the long tables. Some are eating savoury dished like fried noodles and rice. Others are just eating sandwiches and snacks. Prefects are standing at the doorway as they are on duty, keeping a sharp eye on the students to make sure that there is order. When the bell rings again, the students once again rush, this time to go back to their classes.

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AGGUMENTATIVE COMPOSITION

For this question, you are required to express your opinion or viewpoint on a certain topic. You also have support your opinion by giving reasons and examples: Guidelines 1 Read the question carefully and express your viewpoint. 2 You should state your opinion in the introduction. 3 Then, study the notes given. 4 Arrange the points according to importance. 5 If you are using them to support your opinion, arrange them and expand them. 6 Use the most important points first. 7 Support your opinion as clearly as you can. 8 Every new paragraph should express in a different point. 9 In your conclusion, you can repeat your viewpoint. 10 Emphasise your viewpoint in the conclusion.

Sample Question 1
Which do you prefer: Living in the city or in the country? Use the notes in the table below and state your viewpoint in a composition. Your composition should be more than 100 words. Living in the city Big shopping complexes Variety of restaurants More jobs More colleges Living in the country Small shopping centre Few restaurants Few jobs No colleges

Model Answer
Some people like to live in the country. As for me, I prefer to live in the city. Life in the city is certainly better than life in the countryside. I have several reasons for thinking so. The city has modern facilities and amenities. This makes life more enjoyable. For example, I can go to the huge shopping complexes and hyper supermarkets every weekend. And while shopping, I can watch a movie in a Cineplex with latest sound system. There are lots of restaurants I can go to such as Chinese Western and many other types. There is variety of Western restaurants serving Italian, French, American and many other types of food.

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As for higher education, school-leaves in the city have a variety of colleges to choose from. However, in smaller towns, there might just be one or two colleges or none. City folks have more and better jobs due to more industries and companies. This certainly means that people in the city have better living standards than those in the countryside.

Sample Question 2
Amin and Rose are having an argument about the advantages and disadvantages of coming from a big and small family. Whom do you agree with? Support your opinion with the points in their dialogue. You should add your own points. Your composition should be more than 100 words.
AMIN: My father likes to have many children. He says that a big family is a happy family. That s why there are ten of us. ROSE : I don t like to come from a big family. If there are many children, the parents cannot give them enough care and attention. AMIN: Of course, they can. Whether there are two children or ten, parents love and care for them. In a big family, we can have playmates in our brothers and sisters. We have them to turn when we face difficulty. We won t be lonely. Family life is necessary for happiness. ROSE: But in a big family, the children have fewer opportunities in education for instance Everything has to be shared out. No, I prefer to be the only child in my family.

Model Answer
I would tend to agree with Amin and his father who believes that a big family is happy. There are many advantages coming from a big family. First, if we have many brothers and sisters, we will not be lonely at home. We will always have playmates. And later, when we have problems in our studies or at school, we can talk to them and ask for their advice. In a big family, we learn to be independent especially if we are the eldest. We also learn give and take as we have to share what we have, including the bedroom, food and eve clothes. However, people from small families especially a one-child family tend to be pampered and selfish. Of course those who support small families may say that it is difficult for parents to send their children to colleges if there are many. But somehow, people can manage to save up to do. There are many local colleges today, so there is no need to study overseas. Education is more affordable now.

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Sample Question 3
Your friend wrote to tell you that he is undecided whether to study in a day school or residential school. His parents prefer him to go residential school. He is now asking for your opinion. Reply his letter to express your view. You must support view with reasons. You make use of the points given below. You letter should be more than 100 words. Advantages Day School Near home See family every day Have comforts of home Mothers cooked meals Advantages Residential school Become independent Can play more game Can make more friends Disadvantages Day School Depend on parents for everything Limited time in school for games Have only a few friends

Disadvantages Residential school Can be in another town See family once a week or once a month Room may not be comfortable Hostel food may be tasteless

Model Answer

10, Jalan Merong, 45900 Klang, Selangor. 5 March 2005. Dear Bob, I received you letter last week. In reply to your letter regarding studying in a day school or residential school, I tend to agree with your father. Studying in a residential school is better than in a day school. I have reasons to say so. Firstly, you will become more independent studying in residential school. At home, everything is done for you. Your mother and maid take care of your food and clothes. So it is a good experience for you to live away from home. In residential school, you can make new friends. You take part in more than activities and games. In all these, you are bound to make friend from other towns. Isnt this better than just having friends from your own town only? You can still see your family once a week or once a month. And when you see them, relationship gets better for they have missed you. So Bob, do consider the residential school. If I were you, I would go to one. Write to me and tell me your decision in your next week letter.

Love,

Sunny
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Sample Question 4
Your brothers friend has just left secondary. He cannot decide whether to enrol for engineering or medicine at a local university. Your brother believes that engineering is a better choice. However, his friend thinks that studying a course in medicine is better. Whom do you agree with? Write down your opinion with reason to support your opinion. You can use the points in the table below to help you in your arguments. Your composition should be more than 100 words. Engineering Shorter course- 4 years Outer /field job Project Good income Medicine Longer course 6 years Indoor job Treats sick people Job satisfaction

Model Answer

I agree with my brothers friend that doing a course in medicine is better than a course in engineering. This is because being a doctor is better than becoming an engineer. A doctor treats sick people and makes them will again. Malaysia and many countries have a shortage of doctor. Doctors are needed in developing countries and remote places. The job of a doctor is an honourable one. His life dedicated to his fellow beings. Engineers are needed in a progressive economy. There are many boys who want become engineers but not doctors. Working as a doctor involves long irregular hours. This profession does not appeal to many. And above all this profession is better than being an engineer. With people leading unhealthy lives today, more doctors are needed to cure increase in cancer and heart problem cases. Moreover, viruses seem to be everywhere. Doctors are needed due this. There should be more young people taking up medicine in university.

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FACTUAL COMPOSITION

For this question, you are required to write a composition which demands some knowledge of the topics you are waiting about. The compositions are usually based on facts such as real events or happenings or real figures or current topics. So you need to have about these so that you are citing real events or figures in your composition. Guidelines 1 Read the question carefully and make sure you understand what you have to write about. 2 Since your composition is based on facts, you need a good knowledge of the topic. 3 Study the notes given and expand on them. 4 Do a mind map if it helps. 5 In your mind map, jot down the points you know on the topic asked. 6 Arrange the points that you have. 7 Try to add in real figures and names. 8 Use the simple tense unless you are referring to a past event.

Sample Question 1
Using the notes given below, write a composition on the use of computers. Your composition should be more than 100 words. to gain more information as reference aid for business transactions for accounts for baking transaction as learn aid as teaching aid

Model Answer
We find the computers so helpful that we cannot imagine how we can function without them. Computers are used at home, in school and in the business world-in-fact, everywhere. We use the computer when we want to find out more about a certain subject. For example, if we want to find out more about a certain disease, we access Internet and we get the information.

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The computer is used in offices by banks and many other companies. Gone are the days thick books were used to keep accounts. Today, all these are done on the computer. Banking transactions are done online. It is accurate and fast. Companies are advertising on the Internet. And companies are doing sales on the Net. This is convenient for people who have a busy schedule. They just have to log into the computer and make their orders on the Net. The computer is a very useful tool today. Considering todays complexities of life, the computer is essential.

Sample Question 2
Use the notes given below and write a composition on how the Malaysian government and the private industry can promote tourism in the country. Your composition should be more than 100 words. Government Policies to encourage tourism Keep the towns and streets clean Organize courtesy campaigns Private industry Build more hotels Open more shopping complexes Open more places of tourist interest

Model Answer
The tourist industry in Malaysia can be promoted by the government and private industry. The government is responsible for improving the highways and infrastructure. This attracts tourists to the country. The town council can maintain the cleanliness of the cities and streets. A dirty place keeps tourists away. Of course, with peace in country, tourists are more willing to come. The private companies have to make sure that there is enough accommodation for tourists. Hotels have to be built with good facilities. Tourists come to a country to shop and be provided. Tourists like to visit places of amusement and interest. So the beaches should be kept clean. There must be places like the birds parks, zoos and places of fun and amusement. The tourist industry brings in revenue to the country. So it should be promoted by the public and private industry.

Sample Question 3
The young people can show their care and respect for the order people in many ways. Write a composition on how we can show our love and respect for our older relatives. You can use the notes give below.

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Your composition should be more than 100 words. invite old parents to live with visit them often support them financially spend time with them celebrate their birthdays and anniversaries look after them illnesses

Model Answer
Old people are happy when their children show them care and concern. They have spent more than half their lives bringing up their children and supporting them through collage. So it is only proper that the next generation take care of them in their old age. We can spend whatever spare time we have with them. This makes old people happy. Although they will never admit that they are lonely to us, they are especially if their partner has passed away. On weekends, we can take them out for shopping and a good meal. If they are too old to live on their own, we can invite them to stay with us. We have heard stories of the old being unhappy in an old folks home. And if we have to put them in the old folks home, it is our duty to visit them as often as we can. Celebrating their birthdays for them gives them a lot of joy. Imagine we put in so little effort in doing these things but the happiness gained by them is a lot more. So there are many ways we can show our care and respect for our older family members. It is just a matter of putting in some effort and spending some time. It is worth the while.

Sample Question 4
Many people enjoy travelling. Using the notes given below, write about the enjoyment and benefits of travelling. Your composition should be more than 100 words. can see places learn about other cultures enjoyment in sightseeing compare different countries chance to shop chance to try different dishes in other countries

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Model Answer
One of my hobbies is travelling. I find a lot of fun and usefulness in this hobby. Travelling to different countries widens our outlook at life. We become more broadminded and understanding of other people and cultures. We gain many things from travelling. There is the scenery to view and sightsee. We see many scenes which we do not see at home. Usually pictures are taken of us in these places which we later look back and remember. We learn about other countries, the people and their cultures. From this, we can compare theirs with our own country, our policies and our culture. It is good to know about other countries and compare. This may make us more appreciative of our own. Of course, there is the enjoyment we get from travelling. While we are visiting other countries, we enjoy their entertainment outlets and food. It is true that a widely travelled man is an experienced man.

Sample Question 5
Use the notes given below and write a composition on the benefits of reading. You should add your own points. Your composition must be more than 100 words. cheap recreation gain knowledge learn about other places and cultures improve languages learn about life and people

Model Answer
Many people enjoy reading. It does not matter whether they read newspapers, magazines, fiction or non-fiction books. The fact remains is that reading is very beneficial. Firstly, it is a relaxing and cheap pastime. We do not need to buy the books we read. We can borrow them from the library or our friends. Other hobbies incur a lot of expenses. In addition, we gain a lot of knowledge from reading. We learn about other countries, current events and the latest products in the market. If we do not travel, we learn about other cultures and governments from reading books on travel. Reading helps us to improve our reading, vocabulary and writing skills. It is one of the best ways to develop mastery of the language. From the books we read, we learn new words and later use them. Reading a well-written book is an interesting way to pass time. It is a god indoor hobby. Many young people today do not read. They miss a lot by not reading regularly.

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THE LITERATURE COMPONENT

The literature component is asked in Question 3 in Paper 2. For this question, you have to write a short composition on one of the novels asked by the question. The question is based on the prescribed novels studied in form 2 and 3. The texts are: 1 Potato People Angela Wright 2 Robinson Crusoe Daniel Defoe 3 Phantom of the Opera Gaston Leroux 4 The Prisoner of Zenda Anthony Hope Hopkins 5 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde R.L. Stevenson Guidelines 1 Read the question carefully. 2 Make sure you know the question wants you to write. 3 If you are asked to write about a character, you answer must be about a character. 4 If you are asked to write about a theme, your answer must be about a theme. 5 Sometimes, you can be asked to describe an exciting event in the story. 6 If the question is on a character, make sure you know what you have to write about the character you choose. 7 Your answer must be more than 50 words in length. 8 You can use the present or past tense as long as you stick to one tense. 9 You should give examples from the novel to support your points. 10 Your answer should have a conclusion.

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Sample Question 1
You are advised to spend about 20 minutes on the question. Novels: 1 Potato People Angela Wright 2 Robinson Crusoe Daniel Defoe 3 Phantom of the of Opera Gaston Leroux 4 The Prisoner of Zenda Anthony Hope Hopkins 5 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde R.L Stevenson Choose one of the novels above. Based on the novels that you have chosen, write about the character that you like most. Give reasons for your choice.

Model Answer
Potato People The character I like most in Potato People is Marie. She has qualities that I admire; she is intelligent, cheerful and determined. In Ireland, she remained her cheerful self despite the hunger and uncertainty of her future. Her intelligence saves her and Patrick when she stopped him from revealing their identity to the soldiers. In New York, she endured hardship as she was determined to make a life for herself in the new country. Her struggle finally paid off when she married Patrick and both settled down in California. Robinson Crusoe The character I like most in Robinson Crusoe is Robinson. He has qualities that I admire; he is persistent and resourceful. Despite being stranded on a desert island, he struggled to survive against all odds. To make his life bearable, he worked hard to have the bare essentials, like food, furniture and clothes. He even built two homes. His persistence to keep himself alive was due to fact that he never gave up hope of rescue. He was finally rescued after staying on the island for twenty-eight years. Phantom of the Opera The character I like most in Phantom of the Opera is the Persian. He has qualities that I admire; he is perceptive and helpful. When he met Erik in Persia, he knew that Erik was dangerous. Through his observations, he found out about Eriks hideout. Later, when Raoul was looking for Christine, he helped Raoul to look for her. He led him through the secret door and passageways. He did this despite knowing that it was dangerous.

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The Prisoner of Zenda The character I like most in The Prisoner of Zenda is Rudolf. He has qualities that I admire; he is adventurous, courageous and honourable. In Zenda, he risked his life to impersonate King Rudolf V. Despite threats from Duke Michael, he made attempts to save the king from the castle. While impersonating the king, he fell in love with Princess Flavia. However, he knew that her duty to her country was more important than their love. This shows his sense of honour. So he parted from her. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde The character I like most in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is Mr. Utterson. He has qualities that I admire; he is trustworthy and loyal. Dr. Jekyll and Dr. Lanyon, who are his close friends, have much trust in him. This explains why both left their statements to him before their deaths. They trusted his discretion and judgement. He is indeed a loyal friend. When he knew the truth about Mr. Hyde, he concealed it from the police. This was protect Dr. Jekylls honour.

Sample Question 2
You are advised to spend about 20 minutes on the question. Novels: 1 Potato People Angela Wright 2 Robinson Crusoe Daniel Defoe 3 Phantom of the of Opera Gaston Leroux 4 The Prisoner of Zenda Anthony Hope Hopkins 5 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde R.L Stevenson Choose one of the novels above. Based on the novels that you have chosen, write about the character that is compassionate. Give reasons for your choice.

Model Answer
Potato People The character in Potato People who is compassionate is Peter OConnor. When he found a little girl abandoned in the deserted farmhouse, he took her along with him. This was an act of compassion; he did not want to leave her there. She would have starved to death. He decided to adopt the girl and named her Mary after his wife. He also included the child in his plan to emigrate to America. At the bakers shop, he offered to buy Patrick a meat pie as he knew that Patrick had not eaten it for a long time.

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Robinson Crusoe The character in Robinson Crusoe who is compassionate is Robinson. When he that Friday was a captive of the cannibals, he felt compassionate towards Friday and so he rescued him. Later, he also recued Fridays father, a European and a Spaniard. He also helped the English captain to regain his ship from mutineers. His sense of compassion caused him for forgive the mutineers and allow them to stay on his island. He even left them his homes and possessions to help them in their new life. Phantom of the of Opera The character in Phantom of the Opera who is compassionate is Christine. Using his kill of ventriloquism, Erik had been giving Christine singing lessons in her dressing room, so she had never seem him. When he kidnapped her and revealed his face to her. She was horrified by his ugliness, but at the same time, she felt compassion from him, though she did not him. When Raoul and the Persian were trapped in the torture room, she kissed Erik, partly out of compassion and partly out of wish to save them. The Prisoner of Zenda The character in The Prisoner of Zenda who is compassionate is Rudolf. He has just met King Rudolf V. However, when the king was in trouble as he was drugged, he impersonated the king to save the throne from the evil Duke Michael. Later, the king was imprisoned in the castle. On hearing that the king was sick, Rudolfs compassionate nature caused him to risk his life to save the king. He had to fight with the kings enemies and even got wounded while doing it. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde The character in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde who is compassionate is Richard Enfield. When he saw Mr. Hyde tramping on the girl, he felt compassion for the girl although he did not know the child. He was furious and the he confronted Mr. Hyde. At the same time, he checked on the girl to make sure that she was badly hurt. To compensate for this girls unpleasant experience, he demanded that Hyde pay the girls family. Later, he accompanied the girls father to Hydes place to collect the cheque.

Sample Question 3
You are advised to spend about 20 minutes on the question. Novels: 1 Potato People Angela Wright 2 Robinson Crusoe Daniel Defoe 3 Phantom of the of Opera Gaston Leroux 4 The Prisoner of Zenda Anthony Hope Hopkins 5 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde R.L Stevenson

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Choose one of the novels above. Based on the novels that you have chosen, write about the character that you think is brave. Give reasons for your choice.

Model Answer
Potato People The character in Potato People who is brave is Patrick. He showed great courage to achieve what he had set out to do; he had left Ireland for a new life in America. Life was full of hardship. He endured the struggle, even joined the Union Army and fought against slavery. His courage paid off when he was promoted to the rank of Captain and had the respect of the people. After the war, travelled a lot, experienced many dangers and finally, settled down in California. Robinson Crusoe The character in Robinson Crusoe who is brave is Robinson. He showed much courage when he was stranded on the desert island. Determined to stay alive till he was rescued, he moved about the island alone, even after finding out about the cannibals. He risked his life to rescue Friday who was captured by the cannibals. Later, he rescued Fridays father, a Spaniard and a European. This required courage. Another of his courageous acts was to help the English captain regain his ship and that was by defeating the mutineers. Phantom of the of Opera The character in Phantom of the Opera who is brave is Raoul. He showed tremendous courage when he tried to protect the woman he loved, Christine. Erik was obsessed with Christine. This posed danger to Raoul who was also wooing Christine. However, the danger did not stop him from loving her. So on the night of her disappearance, he risked his life by going to look for her, accompanied by the Persian. They used the secret door and were trapped inside the torture chamber. Fortunately, Erik released them. The Prisoner of Zenda The character in The Prisoner of Zenda who is brave is Rudolf. He showed great courage by impersonating King Rudolf V despite knowing the danger of doing so. He was determined to save the throne from the evil Duke Michael. Later, when the king was imprisoned in the castle, he courageously tried to rescue the king. He fought with the kings enemies and even got wounded in doing so. His courage paid off when King Rudolf V was finally rescued and he regained his throne. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde The character in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde who is brave is Mr. Utterson. Mr. Utterson was a close friend as well lawyer of Dr. Jekyll. He showed courage when he tried to find out about Dr. Jekylls friendship with the evil Mr. Hyde. To do so, he waited till late at night to meet Mr. Hyde. He warned Hyde not harm his friend. Much later, when Poole came to ask for his help, he followed Poole back to Dr. Jekylls house. Sensing something wrong, he broke down the door of the laboratory although he knew that there was danger lay inside.
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Sample Question 4
You are advised to spend about 20 minutes on the question. Novels: 1 Potato People Angela Wright 2 Robinson Crusoe Daniel Defoe 3 Phantom of the of Opera Gaston Leroux 4 The Prisoner of Zenda Anthony Hope Hopkins 5 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde R.L Stevenson Choose one of the novels above. Based on the novels that you have chosen, chosen a character and describe his or her characteristics.

Model Answer
Potato People The character in Potato People that I am waiting about is Patrick. He is kind, determined and adventurous. When there was mass starvation in Ireland, he emigrated to America. He was determined to have a better life in the new country and endure the hardship to achieve it. He had to take the worst jobs fir the lowest pay. Later, he even joined the Union Army and fought against slavery. After many adventures and dangers, he finally settled down in a cattle ranch in California. Robinson Crusoe The character in Robinson Crusoe that I am writing about is Robinson. He is persevering, brave and compassionate. Stranded on a desert island after a shipwreck, he persevered to stay alive while waiting for rescue. Living in close harmony with nature, he built two homes and stocked up his homes well. He also bravely rescued Friday from the cannibals and showed his compassion by educating Friday. After returning to England and staying there for some years, he visited the island. He even arranged for cows and sheep to be sent to islanders. Phantom of the of Opera The character in Phantom of the Opera that I am writing about is Christine. She is loving, gentle and intelligent. Raoul and Erik were attracted to her beauty and gentle ways. She was receiving voice lessons for Erik. Soon has was obsessed with her. When Raoul and the Persian were trapped inside the torture chamber and were on the verge of death, she cleverly agreed to marry Erik and even kissed him so that he would release them. It worked and he decided to set all three free.

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The Prisoner of Zenda The character in The Prisoner of Zenda that I am writing about is Rudolf. He is brave and honourable. Despite the risk of death, he impersonated King Rudolf V to save the throne. He courageously made attempts to rescue the king from the castle by fighting with the kings enemies. While he was talking the place of the king, Princess Flavia had fallen in love with him. However, he was so honourable that he parted from her so that she could be the queen of Ruritania. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde The character in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde that I am writing about id Dr. Jelkyll. He is a genius, but he is also a hypocrite who lives a double life. In his obsession to prove his theory that man has the good and bad self, he carried out unhealthy research until he finally discovered the drug. It created his evil self, Mr. Hyde. He continued to live his double life until the situation got out of

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