By Megan Ng

SRQ mini step by step guide

The answer should follow the same format: PEEL



Point 

(Your inference/claim/opinion that directly answers the question)

Explanation 

(How does your claim work? Explain why you believe what you answered)

Elaboration 

(Here is where you give some examples illustrating how your point works in reality. If you have
specific examples, use them here. If not, give a hypothetical situation: “For example……..”

Link
Once you have written the required PEE paragraphs, generally you need at least 2 per SRQ
question, you need to link back to the question. Use the summary of each paragraph’s main point
to answer the question directly: “Therefore, through initiatives that give citizens more
opportunities to interact with foreign talent, as well as taking strong action against those who
have expressed intolerance that break the law on respectful speech, the government can ensure
that foreigners can feel like they are truly a part of the society, both engaging with locals and
protected by the government.”

Remember however, that there are two types of questions in the SRQ section, and you will need
to answer each in a slightly different way.

For the 1st question, the skill you are expected to showcase is the EXPLANATION skill in the
CONTEXT of Singapore. The question requires you to give explanations, examples and wherever
possible, evidence. So remember it as the 3E question.

Step 1: Read the question and underline the key terms. Provide a definition of those terms.

Step 2: Go to the question and use the words of the question to form your stand statement.

Step 3: Now think of 2-3 points to answer the question, making sure to think of actual ways this
has been implemented in Singapore. If one of your points is to help citizen to upgrade their skills,
you can talk about skills future.

Step 4: Write a PEEL paragraph for each point.

Step 5: Give a conclusion that links back to the question again.

For the 2nd question, the skill you are expected to showcase is your ability to CONSTRUCT a
perspective on two different factors/perspectives on an issue, comparing both points and
selecting one. This is basically a comparison based argumentative essay, and you need to be
persuasive about your view point. So remember it as the persuasion question.

Step 1: Identify the comparison point - what are you comparing the points on? 

____________Example of how to consider the comparison________________

Question: Explain 2 ways we can maintain social cohesion in Singapore, which is more important?

Comparison point: Methods of maintaining social harmony in terms of effectiveness


Step 2: Go to the question and use the words of the question to form your stand statement.

Step 3: Think of 2 factors to compare, and select the one you think is most important.

Step 4: Write a PEE paragraph for each point, making sure to be specific when you elaborate.

Step 5: Give a conclusion that links back to the question again.