JABATAN PENDIDIKAN NEGERI JOHOR

2016

FIVE STARS
SPM ENGLISH
LANGUAGE
MODULE

COMPILED BY:
RAMESH A/L RAMASAMY
RAHMAH HJ SAYUTI
HO YAT CHIN

1
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTIONS HOURS PAGE

A. SENTENCES AND PARAGRAPHS 4 3-10
i) Showing sentences vs. Telling
sentences
ii) Paragraph Power

B. DIRECTED WRITING 4 11 -29

i) Tips and Guidelines
ii) Formats
iii) Analysis of Past Year’s
Questions
iv) Marking Criteria
v) Elaborating Your Points
vi) Putting it Together

C. CONTINUOUS WRITING 4 30-49

i) Analysis of Past Year Papers
ii) Marking Criteria for Band A &
B
iii) Tips for Scoring High Marks
iv) Sample Essays:
- Narrative (1) & (2)
- Descriptive (1) & (2)
- Argumentative (1) & (2)
v) Practices: Before & After
vi) Suggested Answers to Practices:
Before & After
D. I) 95 common synonyms 50-56
ii) Idioms

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 SECTION A

SENTENCES AND
PARAGRAPHS

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 SENTENCE TYPES

• The best way to improve your writing is to use a variety of sentence structure
• Variety of sentence structure is used to avoid monotony and to make the writing more
interesting and meaningful
• How do you do that? By using
– simple sentences
– longer sentences
– sentences with joining words
– sentences with different beginnings

• Simple sentences
– There is one main idea and one verb
• It was raining heavily.
• I was frightened.
• I started running fast.
***Writing a long series of short sentences will make your writing jerky and
choppy. It will also tire the reader thus make the reader lose interest towards
your writing.
• Longer sentences
– Aini was not allowed to leave the classroom. The teacher was busy in the office. She
had to get permission from the prefect on duty.
– As the teacher was busy in the office, Aini was not allowed to leave the classroom
unless she got the permission of the prefect on duty.

– I was on my way home from school. I saw thick black smoke. It was coming from a
burning house. I saw people rushing out with their belongings.
– While I was on my way home from school, I saw thick black smoke coming from a
burning house. People were rushing out with their belongings.

• Construct sentences with joining sentences such as conjunctions to make ideas flow
smoothly and combine two independent thoughts, giving both equal strength and
importance.
• Linking a whole string of complete sentences with conjunctions will make the paragraph
monotonous and boring to read, so it is advised to have varied paces in your writing as some
parts can be slow moving while others might be fast paced.
• Short sentences for action and excitement
– I sensed that someone was following me. I turned around. There was no one there.
Again, I heard the thud of boots. So, I quickened my steps. My heart started beating
fast.
• Longer sentences for slow-moving events
– Only an hour ago I had celebrated my twenty-first birthday and now he was gone. I
knew that I would never see him again but why was I still waiting for his phone call? I
hugged my mother and cried uncontrollably. We will never see him again but the
memory of those wonderful times we had would forever be embedded in my mind.
• Using sentences with different beginnings :
– Using one / two adverbs
– Using verb-part openers
– Using the …..ing opener ( Gerund )
– Using infinitives as openers

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 SHOWING SENTENCES VS TELLING SENTENCES

• “Show Me, Don’t Tell Me“ is an approach to writing a more vivid paragraph as it breathes
life and energy into any story.
• A reader would want to see how the characters in a story come alive and controls the
attention of the reader. When you ‘tell’ a story…it may seem mundane or boring.
• Telling sentences tell us something and gives general, non-specific and often vague ideas
• They do not involve the reader and these type of sentences are written in a dull and lifeless
manner.
• Telling is the wrong way of communicating facts to the reader.
• So if “telling” is not an effective way of writing…a good writer should use “showing”
sentences.
• “Showing” sentences show us - they describe the scene and actions, they help us see by
using clear, specific details to create clear, strong pictures in our minds.
• “Showing” sentences will get the reader to experience the story as if the reader is there
participating in the story.
• Now…let’s look at some examples

touch

Telling Sentence Showing Sentence

Jack was afraid. As the footsteps tapped closer and closer, Jack felt his
stomach muscles tighten. He flattened himself to the
wall, the gritty bricks against his cheek. Jack was
afraid.

hear touch

• In the “telling” sentence, we are given information but in a way that doesn’t involve the
reader
• In the “showing” sentence however, the reader is brought in the scene along with Jack. Here
the 5S ( sense of touch, smell, feel, see, hear ) factor is used

Smell touch feel see hear

Jack was afraid.

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 • So the secret of a showing sentence is it’s beautifully simple with specified details that brings
life and stimulates the reader’s imagination so that the reader could project him or herself
into the scene and become part of the story.

LET’S TRY

Change the telling sentences below into showing sentences

Telling Sentence Showing Sentence

Hassan thought Zarina was acting

secretively.

Julia was a pretty girl, with blue eyes

and blonde hair.

It was very dark inside.

The pizza was delicious.

The house was haunted

***Use the factor to change the sentences into showing sentences.

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7
PARAGRAPH POWER

• Every paragraph should contain the three main elements mentioned below
– Topic Sentence
– Lets the reader know the topic or main idea of the paragraph
– General Statements
– Gives general reason to go along with the main idea
– Supporting Sentences
– Added support and details to enhance a general statement
• Paragraphs should also be structured as a BLOT ( Bottom Line On Top )
– Topic sentence
Sets up the expectation in the mind of the reader. The paragraph fulfills those
expectations
– Key points and supporting details
– Concluding sentences
These sentences should lead into the topic sentence of the next paragraph and
remind us of the main point
 In order to construct a meaning paragraph and establishing logical flow is the use of
transitions – words that logically link supporting sentences in a paragraph
 To choose the correct transition words, first determine the conceptual category, then
select the words or phrases.

Transition Category Transition Words / Phrases

Adding to also, furthermore, in addition, moreover

Showing sequence then, next, after, finally

first, second, third
one, two, three

Contrasting however, nevertheless, in contrast, on the

other hand, conversely

Showing cause and effect therefore, as a result, consequently, thus for

this reason

Providing examples for instance, for example

Showing similarity similarly, likewise

Conclusion in summary, in conclusion, to sum up, all in

all, all things considered

 Transitions are signals, they establish the relationship between concept and
paragraphs to powerfully move the reader from paragraph to paragraph.

Now let us have some practice on how to construct a topic sentence.

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 1. Topic ( Fast food ) + Main Point ( What will you say about the topic )

I will tell you about fast food. (×)

Fast food is bad for your health. (√)

This is about fast food. (×)

Fast food chains are opening restaurants in Malaysia
and Indonesia. (√)

Here I will talk about fast food. (×)

Fast food is getting healthier. (√)

I will introduce fast food. (×)

Fast food in Malaysia is highly popular. (√)

*** ( x ) with these type of sentences, not much elaboration can be done

A good paragraph contains a topic sentence, general statements, supporting details and a concluding
sentence

Practice 1

topic sentence general statements

Fast food is getting healthier. Recently, in restaurants such as Mc Donald’s, you can find
veggie burgers and salads on the menu. Burger King even has special menus for people who have to
avoid certain food for health reasons. They list all the ingredients for people to see. Things have
really changed for the better on the fast food chain. Now, when you think of fast food, it does not
have to mean bad food.

supporting details concluding sentence

The above paragraph contains the three elements mentioned above. It shows that a good paragraph
will have ample information about the topic supported with various sentences.

When constructing an interesting paragraph, the writer must think about the readers :

i. What will they want to know?

ii. How can I make this more interesting?
iii. Can I give them new information or a new view of the topic?

Practice 2

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 My favourite subject is English. I like to read interesting and exciting literature. Most of all, I
like debates, discussions we are able to have about the things we are studying. There is no class
compared to English.

My favourite subject is English. - topic sentence

I like to read interesting and exciting literature. - general statement 1

I like debates, discussions we are able to have

about the things we are studying. - general statement 2

As mentioned earlier, a good paragraph will consist of a topic sentence, general statements,
supporting details and a concluding sentence. Each general statement should be accompanied by two
supporting statements and transition words or phrases should be used to begin each general
statement. Transitions help the flow of the paragraph and at the end of each paragraph a concluding
sentence must be written.

My favourite subject
is English

exciting literature general statements debate / discussion

read lots of different supporting details hearing others’ perspective

things

non-fiction helps supporting details like to argue

understand history

concluding sentence

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 SECTION B

DIRECTED WRITING

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TIPS AND GUIDELINES

 Read the question carefully. Identify your task, your role and your audience.
 Use the 45 minutes allocated for this question wisely.
 Plan your essay and organize your thoughts (this includes what to write and how to
elaborate on points)
 Include an introduction and a conclusion and make sure your paragraphs are well
organized.
 Use all content points given. It is advisable to cross out the points you have used, so
that no point is left out.
 Include points of your own only if you are asked to. Otherwise, do not waste
precious time doing so because you will not get any extra marks.
 Elaborate on the points given. Write 2-3 sentences to elaborate on each point.
Remember a crucial aspect of this paper is language and your ability to write can
only be tested if you provide sufficient language for the examiner to gauge your
linguistic ability.
 Use a variety of sentence structures so that your essay is not dull and monotonous.
 Always read through what you have written. Correct grammatical, spelling and
punctuation errors before handing in your script.

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1. ARTICLE

OUR HERO F1

Title

by Alina F2

Writer’s name

F3

....................wishing him all the best for his future. Well done John! Ending

(wish/hope)

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2. FORMAL LETTER

Consumer Club, F1

SMK Kuantan, Sender’s

25000 Kuantan.

______________________________________________________________ &

The Manager,

SKF Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Recipient’s address

472, Jalan Kuantan,

52000 Kuala Lumpur.

03 March 2014
Date

&

Dear Sir, (ONLY USE THIS)

Salutation (Dear sir) (F2)

F3
PERMISSION TO VISIT YOUR FACTORY
Title

&

Signing off (F2)

Yours faithfully, (ONLY USE THIS)

David (Yours faithfully)

David Tan

Consumer Club Secretary (STATE YOUR NAME AND POST)

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3. INFORMAL LETTER

123, Taman ABC, F1

25000 Kuantan Sender’s address

F2

Dear Atilia, (name) Salutation (Dear name)

Your friend, (DO NOT USE Yours faithfully) F3

Betty Signing off

4. REPORT

To: Mr Lee F1

Principal To

SMK Kuantan

REPORT ON THE SCHOOL SPORTS EQUIPMENT F2

Title

(REPORT ON…)

Reported by, F3

Lee From

LEE LI LI (Reported by

Secretary & name

Sports Committee & post)

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5. SPEECH

F1

Good morning ........ Greetings (Good morning)

I am going to give a speech entitled “Healthy Lifestyle” in F2

accordance of World’s Health Day …
Speech title & purpose

F3
......... Thank you.
Ending (Thank you)

ANALYSIS OF PAST YEAR’S QUESTIONS

Year Text type Purpose

To inform mother of choice of present for your brother and

2000 Letter (informal)
persuade mother to lend you some money
2001 Article To inform students on ways of coping with stress
To inform students about road safety - causes of road
2002 Speech
accidents and suggestions to reduce them
2003 Letter (formal) To inform the class teacher about the choice of class trip
To inform the school principal about the conditions of the
2004 Report
school canteen
2005 Letter (informal) To inform a friend about a holiday camp
2006 Letter (informal) To convince a friend to run for the post of head prefect
2007 Speech To tell students about a science reference book
To inform students about a friend who has been chosen as
2008 Article
the Best Group Leader
To inform the Principal of the reasons why students lack of
2009 A Report
interest in sports
To tell a cousin the benefits of taking part in National
2010 A letter (Informal)
Service Program
2011 Talk Upgrade skills in first aid treatment to Red Crescent
members
Informal letter Advising sister who is studying overseas on how to spend
2012
money wisely

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 Formal letter A letter of complaint to the town council on the poor
2013
conditions of Bukit Indah recreational park
Article
2014 How to ensure safety in the neighbourhood

2015 Speech A farewell speech for an English teacher who is retiring

SECTION A
MARKING CRITERIA

For students to answer this type of question. Attention need to be given to the marks allocated for
various parts of the essay. The ability to determine the structure of marks will allow students to
gain good marks. Based on standard marking scheme, the allocation of marks for Directed
Writing are as follows:

Item Mark
Format 3
Contents 12
Language 20

Students should realize that these marks are given based on these criteria.

1. Format – Students should use appropriate format based on the needs of the questions.
2. Contents – students must use all contents points given and it must be in sentence form.
3. Language –less grammar mistakes ensure higher marks.

BAND MARK GENERAL DESCRIPTION

RANGE
A 19-20 Language is entirely accurate
B 16-18 Language is accurate
C 13-15 Language is largely accurate
D 10-12 Language is sufficiently accurate with patches of clarity
E 7-9 Meaning is never in doubt- but errors hamper reading
Ui 4-6 Meaning is fairly clear-errors hamper reading
Uii 2-3 Little or no sense
Uiii 0-1 No sense at all

ELABORATING YOUR POINTS

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Before you even start writing your essay, you should read the question thoroughly first. Attempting
to answer this section without a clear understanding of the RUBRIC will mean disaster. You should
spend some time reading the question and highlighting the important information.

1. Understand the different parts of the question. Label the parts correctly.

STIMUL TASK SITUATION

US

Sample Question 2002

Road accidents have been on the increase with more and more young people becoming victims. Your
school has decided to launch a “Road Safety Week” to raise awareness among students of the need
to be more responsible on the road. As chairperson of the school’s organizing committee, you have
been asked to give a talk to other students on road safety.
Below are some notes you have made on the reasons why road accidents occur and suggestions to
reduce to reduce the number of accidents.

Reasons

 speed
 reckless driving
 tiredness
 racing
 poor maintenance of vehicles
 road conditions
Suggestions

 strict enforcement of traffic rules

 increase fines
 road-worthy vehicles
 awareness campaigns
 increase age limit for new drivers
 suspend driving license

Write out the talk that you would give. When writing out what you plan to say, you should
remember to:

- address the audience

- introduce the topic of the talk
- use all the notes above
- end the talk appropriately [35 marks]

Before you start elaborating, read the question and complete the F.A.C.T.S below:

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 ASPECT INFORMATION

Format

Audience

Contents

Task

Situation

MODEL ANSWER

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 NOW YOU TRY!
PRACTICE 1: Informal Letter

Read the question below and complete the graphic organizer. Work in groups.

You have just returned from a three-day outdoor activity camp. You have decided to write a
letter to a friend about your experience at the camp. Write your letter based on all the notes below
 who organized the camp
 date of the camp
 transport to the campsite
 number of participants
 location of the camp
 accommodation
 give two relevant examples of
- activities
- benefits
- problems
When writing the letter you should remember:
- to layout the letter correctly
- to use paragraphs
- that your letter is to your friend

Before you start elaborating, read the question and complete the F.A.C.T.S below:

Know Thy F.A.C.T.S

Format

Audience

Contents

Task

Situation

LEARNING TO ELABORATE CONTENT POINTS

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CONTENT POINT REWRITE THE POINT ELABORATE THE POINT MARKS

1. Who
organized the
camp

2. Date of the
camp

3. Transport to
the campsite

4. Number of
participants

5. Location of
the camp

6. Accommodati
on

7. Activity 1

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8. Activity 2

9. Benefit 1

10.Benefit 2

11.Problem 1

12.Problem 2

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PRACTICE 2: Report to the principal
(taken from ECP Module)

You are advised to spend about 45 minutes on this section.

Section A: Directed Writing

[35 marks]
[Time suggested: 45 minutes]

Your school has carried out activities for Health and Safety month. Write a report to your
school principal regarding the activities organised. In the report, you must describe the
problem faced and the activities that have been carried out.

Use the following notes to write your report:

PROBLEMS

- dengue fever - clogged drains

- dirty toilets - filthy floor
- _________________ - ____________________

ACTIVITIES

- practised 3Rs
- cleared clogged drains
- organised Clean-up Day
- cut off old, overhanging branches
- __________________________________

- __________________________________

When writing the report, you must:

- address your report to the Principal
- provide a title
- include your name
- use all the notes given
- provide two more problems and two more activities of your own

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 Before you start elaborating, read the question and complete the F.A.C.T.S below:

Know Thy F.A.C.T.S

Format

Audience

Contents

Task

Situation

LEARNING TO ELABORATE CONTENT POINTS

CONTENT POINT REWRITE THE POINT ELABORATE THE POINT MARKS

1. dengue fever

2. filthy toilets

3. clogged drains

4. dirty floor

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5. problem 1

6. problem 2

7. practiced 3Rs

8. cleared
clogged drains

9. organized
Clean-up Day

10.cut off old

over-hanging
branches

11.activity 1

12.activity 2

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PRACTICE 3: Informal letter

You have just returned to Kuching from a holiday in Johor. Write a letter to your uncle, thanking him
for the wonderful time you had.

Use the following notes to write your letter.

 arrived airport safely

 parents there to fetch
 thank him - gifts, souvenirs
 thank aunty - delicious cooking
 wonderful trip - Johor
 enjoyed picnic - Kota Tinggi Waterfalls
 exciting time - Legoland
 shopping - City Square
 photos - remembrance
 regret not able to stay longer
 invite uncle and family - Kuching
 tell him latest news

When writing your letter, you must remember:

 To lay out the letter correctly [F1- F3]

 To use all the points given [C1 – C12]
 That your letter is to an uncle

Before you start elaborating, read the question and complete the F.A.C.T.S below:

Know Thy F.A.C.T.S

Format

Audience

Contents

Task

Situation

28
LEARNING TO ELABORATE CONTENT POINTS

CONTENT REWRITE THE POINT ELABORATE THE POINT MARKS

POINTS
1. arrived I arrived safely at Kuching International
airport Airport at 10 p.m. yesterday
safely

2. parents
there to
fetch

3. thank him - I would like to thank you for all the

gifts, thoughtful gifts and souvenirs you
souvenirs bought us.

4. thank Please thank Aunty Lily for her delicious

aunty - cooking. It was most sumptuous and
delicious mouth-watering.
cooking

5. wonderful
trip - Johor

6. enjoyed Firstly, I enjoyed the picnic at Kota Tinggi

picnic - Waterfalls. The water was really cooling.
Kota Tinggi
Waterfalls

7. exciting
time -
Legoland

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8. shopping -
City Square

9. photos -
remembran
ce

10. regret not Nevertheless, I regret not being able to

able to stay stay longer. But fear not, I’ll be back!
longer

11. invite uncle

and family -
Kuching

12. tell him Before I pen off, I would like to tell you
latest news the latest news. Our family pet,
- Snowball, has given birth to eight kittens.

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 SECTION C

CONTINUOUS WRITING

31
 Continuous Writing
[50 marks]

i) Analysis of Past Year Papers; SPM 1119/1: Section B

Write a composition of  about 350 words on  one of the following topics.

Year Descriptive Argumentative Factual Narrative One Word Imaginative

(1) Describe what

Write a story about
makes you happy
someone you know who
and explain why.
Social networking has took a big risk and had a
(2) ‘Honesty is Why is having
caused a lot of good result. Begin your
2015 always the best good neighbours
problems. How far do story with: “Everybody
policy.’ Describe important?
you agree? said that the plan would
an experience
never work. It was far
when this was
too risky …”
true for you.

2014 (1) Describe an There is a lack of Why are animals Write a story about a    
important family freedom given to important to fisherman beginning
celebration and teenagers today. Do human beings? with: "The wind blew
how you felt about you agree? strongly. Out at sea, ..."
it.
(2) 'A friend in
need is a friend

32
 indeed.' Describe
how a friend
helped you in
difficult time.

(1) Write a story about

being alone.
'Truly Malaysian.'
Is tuition necessary? (2) Write a story that
2013 Describe what this Reality shows    
Discuss. ends with: "... and so I
means to you.
became a better
person."

Write a story beginning

Should parents give with: "The teacher
Describe an outing Saving money for
2012 children more walked into the Cleanliness  
with your friends. the future.
freedom? Discuss. classroom. It was the
first period ..."

Write a story that ends

Should school
A famous person The best things in with: "... They looked at
2011 students have part Peace  
you admire. life are free. each other and smiled
time jobs? Discuss.
meaningfully."

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 "The internet is mostly Write a story beginning
Describe the most What can we do
a good thing." Do you with "It had been
2010 popular student in to save the Home  
agree? Support your raining all day ..”
your school. environment?
opinion.

Describe an
School children should Write a story that ends
unforgettable
not have long My favourite day with: "... We said our
2009 incident that you Beauty  
holidays. Do you of the week. goodbyes and went our
saw on your way
agree? separate ways."
home from school.

Write a story ending

Write about a with: "... Now I realise
Examinations - good My perfect future
2008 person who has   the value of a true Stars
or bad? husband or wife
succeeded in life. friend."

'Teenagers today are

Describe an Write a story beginning
only interested in
embarrassing with: "Kim was nervous
2007 entertainment.' Do My early years. Tomorrow  
experience in your when the door
you agree? Support
life. opened..."
your opinion.

34
 Write a story ending
What changes
Describe an How can with: "If only I had been
would you like to
enjoyable television help more careful, that
2006   Food see in your life in
weekend you have students in their wouldn't have
the next ten
experienced. studies? happened."
years?

If you were given

Describe the Write a story with the a chance to be
How to keep
2005 biggest challenge   title: "An Unexpected Music anybody, who
oneself healthy.
in your life. Visitor". would you want
to be and why?

Write a story ending

Describe a festival How can we help
with: "... We had never
2004 celebrated in your   promote tourism Clothes My ideal school
laughed so much in our
area. in Malaysia?
lives."

2003   Data 3 An invention you (1) Write a story that Friends You have been
cannot live ends with: "... If only I given a chance to
without. had listened to his/her visit a country of
advice." your choice.
 (2) A day I wished had Which country
never happened. would you choose

35
 and why?

Describe a Good results in school How I can help to Write a story beginning
favourite teacher do not guarantee make the world a with: "Is it really you?
2002 Colours  
who had a great success in the future. better place to Where have you been
influence on you. What is your opinion? live in. all these years?"

(1) How do you

think the media
Describe how you Good results in school has influenced Write a story of an old
spend a free day do not guarantee you and your man returning to his
2001    
when the weather success in the future. family? home he left many
was very bad. What is your opinion? (2) Large families years ago.
make happy
families.

"More land should be If you were able

(1) Life in
used for agriculture to choose a time
Malaysia in the
than for industry." Do in history that you
2000 My Hero new millennium.    
you agree or disagree? could visit, which
(2) Things that I
Give reasons to time would it be
like about my life.
support your opinion. and why?

36
 The computer - is it Education - what The day I lost my
1999   Memories My Dream Car
really an advantage? it means to me. temper.

Describe a day at Parents do not spend

Write a story beginning
school when you enough time with
1998   with: "I could tell by his    
were very children nowadays.
face that he was angry...
unhappy. What is your opinion?

(1) Imagine you

were moving to a
new house. Describe
the last day in your Do you think games Write a story with the
1997 old house. are an important part Being young. following title: A Water  
(2) Describe the of school life? Narrow Escape.
scene at a crowded
bus or railway
station.

37
ii) Marking Criteria for Band A & B

Mark Range Description of Criteria

 Language is entirely accurate. Very occasional first draft slips.

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

 Language is accurate. Occasional errors are minor or first draft slips.

 Vocabulary is wide enough with some precision.
 Sentences show some variation of length and type with some complex
B sentences.
 Punctuation is almost always accurate.
38 – 43  Spelling is nearly always accurate.
 Paragraphs show some planning, have unity and are usually appropriately
linked.
 Writing is relevant to the topic.
 Interest of the reader is aroused and sustained through most of the time.

iii) Tips For Scoring High Marks

Here are the tips on how to write a good essay, based on each criterion:

1) Hardly any mistakes in grammar (including spelling and punctuation)

Good essays should be without any major grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors. So, focus on
these key aspects. Make sure that you know the grammar rules well and apply them when you write.

2) Effective use of varied sentence structures

Many students face problems with the sentence structure of the English language. The problem can
be solved through plenty of reading. When you read, your mind is fed with the correct sentence
structures over and over. In time, you will be able to write sentences with the right structure. When
you write an essay, use a variety of sentences - simple, compound, complex sentences, in both the
active voice and passive voice, etc. Thus, it is advisable to make good use of as much variety of
reading material as possible - storybooks, magazines, newspapers, etc. to expose yourself to
different types of sentence structures.

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3) Wide vocabulary used expressively/precisely

Reading helps to increase your vocabulary. When you see a new word, look it up in a dictionary to
learn its meaning. To score high marks, you need to show that you have a wide vocabulary. For
example, you can use 'delighted' or 'overjoyed' instead of 'happy'. Instead of using 'sad', use 'upset'
or 'downhearted'. Try not to use the same word repeatedly. Use different words with the same
meaning to impress the examiner. It is also important that you use a word precisely or accurately.
Wrong use of words will result in mark deduction. So, make sure that a word is suitable to be used in
a sentence or a particular situation before using it. Reading helps you understand the meaning of a
word accurately. When you read extensively, you tend to be familiar with words and know when to
use them and when not to. Look it up in a dictionary again when you forget the meaning of a
particular word.

4) Good and relevant points

When writing an essay, it is important to write about relevant points, or write about what the
question ask for. For example, for the title 'Describe an outing with your friends', the whole essay
should be about the outing. If you write about other things such as your friends' hobbies, that would
be irrelevant. As long as you understand the title and write relevant points, you will be safe. The lack
of points or ideas is a common problem faced by students when writing essays. Reading model
essays helps a lot, since it gives you plenty of ideas.

5) Coherence in paragraphing & 6) Well-organised paragraphing

An Oxford dictionary defines 'coherence' as 'the situation in which all the parts of something fit
together well'. For instance, when writing an essay entitled 'My Hero', it is advisable to write about
things that are of the same nature in a paragraph. For example, after the introduction, you can write
about the childhood of your hero in the first paragraph. Then, in the second, third, fourth and fifth
paragraphs, you can write about his educational background, occupation, personalities and
accomplishments respectively. It is unwise to mix them up as it lacks coherence and is not well-
organised.

7) Essay is very interesting and shows originality

An interesting essay does not talk about the boring stuff. For example, you decide to write an essay
entitled 'Describe an enjoyable weekend you have experienced' or ‘Describe a camping trip at the
beach with your family.’ Avoid including stuff like:

"When I woke up that morning, I went to the toilet to brush my teeth and wash my face. After that, I
dressed up and went downstairs to have my breakfast. I had bread and butter for breakfast..."

You can put it this way:

"When I woke up that morning, I was excited as my whole family would be going on a camping trip
at the beach. After getting everything ready, we set off for the beach in my father's van..."

39
You can continue the essay by describing all the interesting things that you and your family saw and
did at the beach. It is a good idea to write about your own experience, since it shows originality.
When writing essays, it is also important to write about logical things.

Stated above are the important points to note. Apart from those based on the criteria, other points
to take note of include:

i) Practise writing essays, since 'practice makes perfect'. Besides school assignments, try to write
more essays and have someone qualified to correct them for you. When you make mistakes, learn
from them and make it a point not to repeat them , in order to improve your writing skills effectively.
When practising, learn to finish an essay within the time frame given. For instance, in SPM, you have
about an hour to complete an essay. Spend about 10 minutes, 35 minutes and 15 minutes on
planning, writing and checking the essay respectively.

ii) Remember, there are no short cuts to success. Essay writing skills take time to develop. There
goes the saying, 'Rome wasn't built in a day'. Diligence and perseverance are the keys to success. Do
not give up until you succeed.

iii) Look at the past year papers and study the examination format. Then, refer to the model answers
and familiarise yourself with the answering techniques in order to score high marks.

In short:

1 Learn and know the grammar rules well.

2 Do more reading, as it helps in all aspects of writing good essays.

Good luck
3 Practise writing essays and learn from your mistakes. In your SPM!

iv) Sample Essays :

40
Read aloud these sample essays and identify the strengths of each essay.

Narrative (1): A day I wished had never happened (2003)

My eyes are filled with tears as I look at a photo. It is a family photo taken three years ago, showing
my parents, my younger brother Alex and myself having fun while we were having a picnic at a
beach. I used to have a warm and happy family but now I am left with only memories.

I could still remember vividly what happened that day, the day I wished had never happened. It was
about two weeks after our family picnicked at the beach. My parents owned a business which
required them to travel once or twice per month. That morning when my brother and I were having
our breakfast before going to school, we saw our parents walking down from the stairs, all dressed
up. They were carrying their luggage and were ready to go on a business trip to Singapore. Normally,
they drove but this time, for a change, they decided to go by air.

Alex and I helped our parents to carry their luggage to a taxi waiting outside our house.

"Sally, we'll be in Singapore for only three days," said my mother, before getting into the taxi. "Take
care of your brother while we are gone."

"Don't worry, Mum," I replied. "I will."

"Alex, be obedient to your sister. Don't be naughty," said our father.

Alex, who was a year my junior, nodded his head. We bade our parents goodbye before they went
off in the taxi.

While my brother and I were schooling later that morning, we were requested to go and see the
principal.

"I'm sorry to inform both of you that the aeroplane which your parents were travelling on has
crashed, due to mechanical failure. No one survived the crash," said the principal, while we were in
his office.

Extremely shocked and grief-stricken to hear the tragic news, we burst into tears. I was so miserable
that I fainted. When I woke up, I found myself at home in my bedroom. I then went downstairs and
saw my brother in the living room. Some of our relatives were present as well. They comforted us
and asked us what we were going to do, since our parents had passed on. They invited us to stay
with them so that they could take care of us. I thanked them for their benevolence and replied that
my brother and I needed to think it over before making a decision.

Having considered our future for a few days, we decided to live in an orphanage as we did not wish
to trouble our relatives.

Three years have passed since we moved into the orphanage. At first, it was hard living without our
parents. Now we have settled down. In the orphanage, we have friends just like us - orphans. Our
relatives come to visit us once in a while. I am in Form 5 now and will be sitting for my SPM
examination at the end of the year. Alex is in Form 4. We take our studies seriously and hope to have
our own loving families one day.

Narrative (2): Write a story with the following title: Pride Goes Before A Fall.

41
Having held the interschool storytelling championship for the past three consecutive years, I was the
star of my school. When it came to choosing the right candidate to participate in such competitions, I
was always the first choice. Naturally, I was once again selected to represent my school in the
approaching contest this year.

Upon hearing the fact that I was chosen again, my classmates and friends acknowledged
unanimously that I would undoubtedly emerge as the champion again. Consequently, I became
conceited. I was so complacent that I neglected the importance of practising for the contest.

"Cindy, would you like to come in front of the class to rehearse for the contest?" asked my teacher, a
week before the contest was held.

"I'm sorry, teacher," I replied. "I'm having a sore throat."

That was what I would do, whenever my teacher requested me to practise in front of the class. I
always found excuses to avoid doing so as I had the opinion that I was too good and therefore the
practice was quite unnecessary. On one occasion, I even told her not to worry as I was well prepared
for the contest. I only managed to glance briefly through the story a day before the day of the
contest. As the best storyteller among the students of the local secondary schools, I was too vain to
practice and expected everything to be fine.

The contest was arranged to take place in a community hall. On the day of the contest, the hall was
packed. Apart from my school teachers and principal, many of my classmates and schoolmates were
present as well. I was the eighth contestant. Those who spoke before me did extremely well. On
seeing their captivating and outstanding performance, I began to lose confidence in myself. My
palms perspired heavily and I felt nervous.

Soon, it was my turn to talk. While walking up the steps leading to the stage, I tripped up on the step
and fell, drawing laughter from the audience. I was mortified and got up quickly to proceed to the
microphone. When I was facing the crowd, I suffered from stage fright. My legs shivered and so did
my voice. I spoke in an expressionless voice and even stuttered a few times as I had forgotten some
parts of the story. On seeing my terrible performance, the judges shook their heads. The supporters
from my school looked at me in disappointment. I had never been so embarrassed in my life. In the
end, I walked off the stage with my eyes filled with tears.

When the results were announced after the contest, I did not win any prizes - not even a consolation
prize. It was not surprising at all. I regretted underestimating my opponents. My vanity had cost me
the championship and I was remorseful for being so vainglorious. I had learnt my lesson well and
finally understood the meaning of the saying, 'pride goes before a fall'.

Descriptive (1): Describe the scene of a night market

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One of the most interesting places in Malaysia is the night market. You may visit and experience the
night market yourselves. Both locals and foreigners agree that the night market is the most common
feature in the local society.

The night market begins when the vendors arrive in the late afternoon. More and more goods laden
vans arrive to begin a brisk day of business. Most of the vendors busily set out to set up their stalls
respectively in order to get ready for a brisk day of business.

The sun gradually sets and the night market picks up momentum. More cars and vans are arriving. By
now, the stalls are neatly and strategically arranged to entice their customers. There is an
assortment of goods sold ranging from food, toys and clothes, to name a few. A variety of goods is
sold at low prices.

Large rainbow-coloured parasols are used to shade the people from rain and shine. A concoction of
blaring music can be heard in the night market background amidst the constant shouting. It is an
amazing kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, smells and colours.

The night market is known as a haven by local ‘gourmets’ who can enjoy various kinds of mouth-
watering local cuisine. Still more people arrive, they come from all walks of life, mingling freely and
harmoniously. Crowds are walking up and down in an endless stream. Some of them are stopping by
the stalls and haggling before making purchases. Little children tag along, amused and excited.
Sprinklings of tourists join in to experience the lifestyle of typical Malaysian folks.

When night falls, lighted lamps brighten up the place, they add gaiety to this atmosphere, and it is
like a funfair. The night wears on and the traffic of people recedes. Vendors get a chance to rest their
weary legs besides bantering with each other.

By 10.00 pm, all the stalls call it a day. The vendors pack up and close the van doors. One by one,
they leave, leaving behind pieces of papers, plastic bags and discarded boxes. It is an eyesore!
Finally, the night market disappears. The place becomes quite and still once more.

Descriptive (2): Malaysia, A Unique Country

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Malaysia is a multiracial country. Malaysia has a population of 23.27 million consisting of 61 percent
Malays, 30 percent Chinese, 8 percent Indians and 1 percent of other ethnic groups. Malaysia is
unique because of its diversity of races, religions and cultures, the stability of the country and many
places of interests. Besides, there are many international achievements which are the pride of our
nation.

Diversity of races, religions and cultures is a significant characteristic of our nation. Malaysia is a
multiracial country with a rich cultural heritage. Unique to Malaysia is the 'Open House' concept
where during the various cultural and religious festival like Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali,
Gawai Day and others, friends and families and even strangers would visit the homes of those who
are celebrating the festival, to wish them well and enjoy the feast prepared by the hosts. Although
the visitors may be from different races, they still can tolerate with each other and live under the
same roof where they celebrate the festival together. This will help to strengthen the ties among
themselves.

Moreover, the stability and peacefulness of Malaysia is also a uniqueness of us. We live
harmoniously in a country where there are no wars and conflicts among Malaysians. War is dreadful
and it may deteriorate human lives. We are fortunate that our country is safe and free from war. So,
people can live safely here. Besides, our country is freed from natural disasters such as earthquakes.
Earthquakes may bring death and destroy many buildings. Therefore, Malaysia is unique because of
the stable and peaceful environment.

On top of that, there are many places of interests in the country such as beaches, islands and rain
forest. Malaysia's rain forest is considered as the oldest in the world. The diverse species of animals
and plant life continue to excite a great deal of scientific research. Many believe that some
undiscovered plants may hold cures to many currently incurable human diseases. There are many
islands in our country such as Pulau Langkawi, Pulau Redang and Pulau Ketam. Pulau Langkawi has a
lot of historical information. Those who are in favour of history can go there to explore the history of
that place. All the beaches in those islands are beautiful. The sand is soft and white. The
accommodation is well-established and that makes those islands ideal places to visit.

In short, Malaysia is unique that it has a diversity of races, religions and cultures, a stable and
peaceful environment, places of interest and some internal achievements. Those are important
characteristics of our nation. It is rich of cultural heritage; it would be worth to pay a visit here.

Argumentative (1): Money Brings Happiness. Do you agree?

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It is truly undeniable that in this science and technology millennium, we can hardly live without
money. Even buying something small such as a sweet will cost you some money. However, this does
not mean that money can buy happiness, unlike the misconception of most people in the world. In
fact, wealth is a far cry from happiness. If you disagree with me, let's look at the reasons for my
stand.

Firstly, one of the main gates to happiness is to stay healthy. Maybe some people think that when
one is rich, he can be healthy or it does not matter even if they have diseases because these rich
men have lots of money to pay for their medication. This is totally wrong. Good health is acquired
from a healthy lifestyle progressively and not in a day. With lots of money we tend to tempt
ourselves with exotic and luxurious food. If this food is taken excessively, it will lead to obesity, heart
diseases, diabetes, hypertension and other serious illness. Moreover, rich people probably lack of
exercise as they hardly walk outdoor, putting them at a higher risk of unnecessary health problems.
How can a person enjoy his life and feel happy when he is confined to a wheelchair or bed-ridden.
He would not even be glad spending his money and time curing his sickness. Therefore, wealth
cannot bring happiness.

Professionals like doctors, lawyers, engineer and accountants earn a lot of money per month. They
are considered the high class citizens who can afford large, expensive houses with huge beautiful
gardens. But do they really enjoy the pleasures of life? Most probably not , because they are simply
too busy with their work. They frequently burn the midnight oil at their work place. It is even more
miserable if they have to turn their home into a work place. Most specialists have to stand-by 24
hours in case of emergency calls from the hospitals. Hence, they can hardly spend any relaxing night
at their home even if they possess a huge two and a half storey bungalow with a beautiful garden
and artificial waterfall. Successful businessmen may always have the chance of flying to all parts of
the world when they go out station for business. However, very few of them can really take it as a
holiday or as a treat for themselves for their schedules are always full and they are so stressful with
their work. Even fewer businessmen can ignore urgent, pursuing calls from their clients or office
when they are going for holidays or resting. In other words, one can make lots of money but he may
not enjoy even the beauty of nature around them or the branded, expensive things with them. So
what is the use of money when we do not even enjoy a meal properly and are discontented with our
lives? One with a moderate income can feel happier if he leads a simple life and be grateful with
what he has.

Finally, a child or a teenager brought up in a moderate family is better than in a rich family. As the
sons or daughters of billionaires, their parents will give them whatever they want in material. These
children or teenagers get a lot of pocket money from their parents and can afford to buy many
expensive things like the latest handset, expensive clothes and branded sport shoes. But the
question is, are they happy if their parents are always working with only an Indonesian maid to
accompany them? If they are asked to choose between wealth and love from their parents, I believe
that they will undoubtedly choose love. These children are mentally not as healthy as those being
cared and loved by their parents. Children need parents who can listen to their problems and give
them words of wisdom, as well as teach them day by day. Parents who are not rich may not be able
to buy branded things to satisfy their children but with more communication and understanding,
these teenagers will understand the difficulty of their parents in earning money, and earn to be
thrifty. In short, money does not promise a happy, caring family.

45
Money may be able to buy a lot of things but not love, friendship, health and others. These are the
main ‘ingredients’ for a happy life. Even, if we can afford many things we desire, we may not be
happy and enjoy our lives if we are always dissatisfied with what we have, always yearning for more.
Thus, I stand firm that money cannot bring happiness.

Argumentative (2): Sharing is Caring. Do you agree?

Some of us may be selfish to share our study tips yet deliberately disturbing the others while they
are doing their works. Some might agree that such an attitude is a secret weapon for crucial
examination, namely the UPSR, PMR and SPM. But don't you agree that sharing is actually the
happiest thing we can do? When we share, it means that we have the capability. Sharing brings more
knowledge and ideas to be exchanged. Nobody will improve much if they are reluctant to share. In
fact, when we initiate to share, we will definitely get more and more feedback which may be beyond
our knowledge. Two heads are better than one. More minds contribute more thoughts. That's why
group discussion is highly recommended for it is a proven and effective way to catalyst our
improvement in our studies.

Studying is only a part of our life routine and being a student is merely our temporary role. Actually
that is our precious moment to develop into a better person. One cannot know and experience
everything with limited source. However, we can gain unlimited knowledge and lesson once we start
to share and exchange. By sharing, we know more, we continue our learning and without realising,
we have foster good friendship and become a better individual. Let's have a very simple example.
Every one of us owns one box of biscuits. Every box of biscuits has a different flavour. If we are kind
enough to reciprocate our biscuits with each other, then we get to taste a variety flavour of biscuits.
Similarly, sharing and exchanging is something mutually profitable for each of us. Through sharing,
we apply our knowledge and subsequently we gain more. Do share your knowledge with others if
you intend for them to share theirs with you. Only those who are generous to share and humble to
keep on learning deserve to possess more power, wealth and knowledge.

Being students, we are still learning and painting our lives with endless colours and school should be
the safest platform for us to practice our behaviour. Here, sharing makes more sense to complement
each other. Nothing can be accomplished without a cohesive teamwork. One cannot be successful
without any assistance provided by the others. Frankly, have you ever shared your fortune, wealth
and knowledge with your friends? If not, try your best whenever you are still able to do so. When we
are stepping into the working world, seldom do we have such an opportunity to share and enjoy
anxiety-free student lives. A real success is more than just a straight A result or thousand and one
certificates but whether one really enjoys the process towards success. And sharing will be a must
for that particular joyful process.

v) Practices: Before & After

Improve on the following paragraphs for a better piece of writing.

46
Write a story ending with: "If only I had been more careful, that wouldn't
have happened."
Before After
Last Saturday, my mother asked me to take One Saturday afternoon, I had to babysit my
care of my little sister. She was three years three-year-old little sister. My mother was
old. My mother was going out. My father going out to run some errands while my
was working overtime. They were very father had to work overtime. They were both
busy. extremely busy.

My sister was cute. She had big eyes and a

nice face. Though I loved her, she was also
very annoying. Once she tore up my
Geography project and I became very angry.

After a while, my friend, Victor, phoned me.

He invited me to his house. I went and
decided to bring Angie along.

Victor came from a rich family. His father

was a wealthy businessman. Then we went
to his big house. It was a large mansion. His
servant brought us to meet Victor. Then
Victor took us up to his big bedroom on the
second floor.

Victor offered us some drinks. Then we

started to play a computer game. We kept
playing and playing and forgot about Angie.
About fifteen minutes later, we heard a
scream from the staircase.

Angie was missing.

47
We were very scared. We went to look for
Angie. She was lying at the bottom of the
stairs. She was not moving. Victor called the
ambulance. Angie was sent to the hospital.

Angie was injured. She had to stay in the

hospital. My parents scolded me because I
was not responsible. I felt very sorry. If only
I had been more careful, that wouldn't have
happened.

If only I had been more careful, that wouldn't

have happened.

Describe a regrettable incident.

Before After
My second term examinations were fast "Son, turn off the computer now and do your

48
approaching. My father reminded me to do revision immediately. Your second term
my revision and not play with my computer. exams are fast approaching," said my father,
as he was getting ready for work that
morning.

I did not listen to my father. I was very

stubborn. I continued to play the computer
game. Although the examinations were
near, I could not stop playing. I felt guilty.

A day before the examinations, I began to

worry. My father wanted me to do well. I
quickly studied till late at night. However,
there was too much to study. I really
regretted not listening to my father.

The next day, the examinations started. I

was shocked to find that I could not answer
most of the questions. I was worried and did
not want to disappoint my father. So I
cheated. I asked my friend for the answers.

I did the same thing in the next few

examinations. I was caught by our
disciplinary teacher. He called me to his
office.

In his office, he asked me why I cheated.

49
I said sorry to Mr Lee and promised not to
do it again. Since I did something wrong, he
still had to punish me. He caned me five
times on the palm. Then he said that I
would be suspended from school for three
days after the examinations were over. He
also gave me a letter for my father.

After school, I went home. I felt very sad

and guilty. I also felt ashamed. . I looked at
the letter I was holding in my hand. How will
I explain everything to my father? 

50
 Describe an accident you witnessed.

Before After
The school bell rang. I said goodbye to my
teacher. It was raining heavily, so I took out
my umbrella. There were many cars but
traffic was moving slowly.

At a junction near my school, I saw a girl

from my school. She was riding a scooter.
She had just stopped at the junction.
Suddenly, a van which was going very fast,
knocked into her from the back. The girl fell
to the ground. Her scooter also fell to the
ground. Her books were everywhere. She
was injured and in pain.

I quickly went to help the girl. Suddenly, the

van sped off. I was shocked. I then helped
the girl to the side. I told her it was alright
because help was on the way. Some
passers-by came to see if they could help.

Some Red Crescent Society members came

to treat her injuries. I collected the girl’s
books. Her scooter was still in good
condition.

Then a parent stopped by. She sent the girl

to the hospital. Then the policemen came.
They asked me some questions. I told them
what had happened. The policemen
thanked me for my help. They also praised
me.

After that, I went home. I felt happy. I

helped the girl and the policemen. I was
also very happy to see so many people
helping the girl. I realised that good people
are always there in this world.

51
 SYNONYMS FOR 95 COMMONLY USED WORDS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

1. Amazing — incredible, unbelievable, improbable, fabulous, wonderful, fantastic,

astonishing, astounding, extraordinary
2. Anger — enrage, infuriate, arouse, nettle, exasperate, inflame, madden

52
3. Angry — mad, furious, enraged, excited, wrathful, indignant, exasperated, aroused,
inflamed
4. Answer — reply, respond, retort, acknowledge
5. Ask — question, inquire of, seek information from, put a question to, demand,
request, expect, inquire, query, interrogate, examine, quiz
6. Awful — dreadful, terrible, abominable, bad, poor, unpleasant
7. Bad — evil, immoral, wicked, corrupt, sinful, depraved, rotten, contaminated,
spoiled, tainted, harmful, injurious, unfavourable, defective, inferior, imperfect,
substandard, faulty, improper, inappropriate, unsuitable, disagreeable, unpleasant,
cross, nasty, unfriendly, irascible, horrible, atrocious, outrageous, scandalous,
infamous, wrong, noxious, sinister, putrid, snide, deplorable, dismal, gross, heinous,
nefarious, base, obnoxious, detestable, despicable, contemptible, foul, rank, ghastly,
execrable
8. Beautiful — pretty, lovely, handsome, attractive, gorgeous, dazzling, splendid,
magnificent, comely, fair, ravishing, graceful, elegant, fine, exquisite, aesthetic,
pleasing, shapely, delicate, stunning, glorious, heavenly, resplendent, radiant,
glowing, blooming, sparkling
9. Begin — start, open, launch, initiate, commence, inaugurate, originate
10. Big — enormous, huge, immense, gigantic, vast, colossal, gargantuan, large,
sizable, grand, great, tall, substantial, mammoth, astronomical, ample, broad,
expansive, spacious, stout, tremendous, titanic, mountainous
11. Brave — courageous, fearless, dauntless, intrepid, plucky, daring, heroic, valorous,
audacious, bold, gallant, valiant, doughty, mettlesome
12. Break — fracture, rupture, shatter, smash, wreck, crash, demolish, atomize
13. Bright — shining, shiny, gleaming, brilliant, sparkling, shimmering, radiant, vivid,
colourful, lustrous, luminous, incandescent, intelligent, knowing, quick-witted,
smart, intellectual
14. Calm — quiet, peaceful, still, tranquil, mild, serene, smooth, composed, collected,
unruffled, level-headed, unexcited, detached, aloof
15. Come — approach, advance, near, arrive, reach
16. Cool — chilly, cold, frosty, wintry, icy, frigid
17. Crooked — bent, twisted, curved, hooked, zigzag
18. Cry — shout, yell, yowl, scream, roar, bellow, weep, wail, sob, bawl
19. Cut — gash, slash, prick, nick, sever, slice, carve, cleave, slit, chop, crop, lop,
reduce
20. Dangerous — perilous, hazardous, risky, uncertain, unsafe
21. Dark — shadowy, unlit, murky, gloomy, dim, dusky, shaded, sunless, black,
dismal, sad
22. Decide — determine, settle, choose, resolve
23. Definite — certain, sure, positive, determined, clear, distinct, obvious
24. Delicious — savoury, delectable, appetizing, luscious, scrumptious, palatable,
delightful, enjoyable, toothsome, exquisite
25. Describe — portray, characterize, picture, narrate, relate, recount, represent, report,
record
26. Destroy — ruin, demolish, raze, waste, kill, slay, end, extinguish
27. Difference — disagreement, inequity, contrast, dissimilarity, incompatibility
28. Do — execute, enact, carry out, finish, conclude, effect, accomplish, achieve, attain
29. Dull — boring, tiring„ tiresome, uninteresting, slow, dumb, stupid, unimaginative,
lifeless, dead, insensible, tedious, wearisome, listless, expressionless, plain,
monotonous, humdrum, dreary
30. Eager — keen, fervent, enthusiastic, involved, interested, alive to
31. End — stop, finish, terminate, conclude, close, halt, cessation, discontinuance
32. Enjoy — appreciate, delight in, be pleased, indulge in, luxuriate in, bask in, relish,
devour, savour, like
33. Explain — elaborate, clarify, define, interpret, justify, account for

53
34. Fair — just, impartial, unbiased, objective, unprejudiced, honest
35. Fall — drop, descend, plunge, topple, tumble
36. False — fake, fraudulent, counterfeit, spurious, untrue, unfounded, erroneous,
deceptive, groundless, fallacious
37. Famous — well-known, renowned, celebrated, famed, eminent, illustrious,
distinguished, noted, notorious
38. Fast — quick, rapid, speedy, fleet, hasty, snappy, mercurial, swiftly, rapidly,
quickly, snappily, speedily, lickety-split, post-haste, hastily, expeditiously, like a
flash
39. Fat — stout, corpulent, fleshy, beefy, paunchy, plump, full, rotund, tubby, pudgy,
chubby, chunky, burly, bulky, elephantine
40. Fear — fright, dread, terror, alarm, dismay, anxiety, scare, awe, horror, panic,
apprehension
41. Fly — soar, hover, flit, wing, flee, waft, glide, coast, skim, sail, cruise
42. Funny — humorous, amusing, droll, comic, comical, laughable, silly
43. Get — acquire, obtain, secure, procure, gain, fetch, find, score, accumulate, win,
earn, rep, catch, net, bag, derive, collect, gather, glean, pick up, accept, come by,
regain, salvage
44. Go — recede, depart, fade, disappear, move, travel, proceed
45. Good — excellent, fine, superior, wonderful, marvellous, qualified, suited, suitable,
apt, proper, capable, generous, kindly, friendly, gracious, obliging, pleasant,
agreeable, pleasurable, satisfactory, well-behaved, obedient, honourable, reliable,
trustworthy, safe, favourable, profitable, advantageous, righteous, expedient,
helpful, valid, genuine, ample, salubrious, estimable, beneficial, splendid, great,
noble, worthy, first-rate, top-notch, grand, sterling, superb, respectable, edifying
46. Great — noteworthy, worthy, distinguished, remarkable, grand, considerable,
powerful, much, mighty
47. Gross — improper, rude, coarse, indecent, crude, vulgar, outrageous, extreme,
grievous, shameful, uncouth, obscene, low
48. Happy — pleased, contented, satisfied, delighted, elated, joyful, cheerful, ecstatic,
jubilant, gay, tickled, gratified, glad, blissful, overjoyed
49. Hate — despise, loathe, detest, abhor, disfavour, dislike, disapprove, abominate
50. Have — hold, possess, own, contain, acquire, gain, maintain, believe, bear, beget,
occupy, absorb, fill, enjoy
51. Help — aid, assist, support, encourage, back, wait on, attend, serve, relieve,
succour, benefit, befriend, abet
52. Hide — conceal, cover, mask, cloak, camouflage, screen, shroud, veil
53. Hurry — rush, run, speed, race, hasten, urge, accelerate, bustle
54. Hurt — damage, harm, injure, wound, distress, afflict, pain
55. Idea — thought, concept, conception, notion, understanding, opinion, plan, view,
belief
56. Important — necessary, vital, critical, indispensable, valuable, essential,
significant, primary, principal, considerable, famous, distinguished, notable, well-
known
57. Interesting — fascinating, engaging, sharp, keen, bright, intelligent, animated,
spirited, attractive, inviting, intriguing, provocative, though-provoking, challenging,
inspiring, involving, moving, titillating, tantalizing, exciting, entertaining, piquant,
lively, racy, spicy, engrossing, absorbing, consuming, gripping, arresting,
enthralling, spellbinding, curious, captivating, enchanting, bewitching, appealing
58. Keep — hold, retain, withhold, preserve, maintain, sustain, support
59. Kill — slay, execute, assassinate, murder, destroy, cancel, abolish
60. Lazy — indolent, slothful, idle, inactive, sluggish
61. Little — tiny, small, diminutive, shrimp, runt, miniature, puny, exiguous, dinky,
cramped, limited, itsy-bitsy, microscopic, slight, petite, minute

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62. Look — gaze, see, glance, watch, survey, study, seek, search for, peek, peep,
glimpse, stare, contemplate, examine, gape, ogle, scrutinize, inspect, leer, behold,
observe, view, witness, perceive, spy, sight, discover, notice, recognize, peer, eye,
gawk, peruse, explore
63. Love — like, admire, esteem, fancy, care for, cherish, adore, treasure, worship,
appreciate, savour
64. Make — create, originate, invent, beget, form, construct, design, fabricate,
manufacture, produce, build, develop, do, effect, execute, compose, perform,
accomplish, earn, gain, obtain, acquire, get
65. Mark — label, tag, price, ticket, impress, effect, trace, imprint, stamp, brand, sign,
note, heed, notice, designate
66. Mischievous — prankish, playful, naughty, roguish, waggish, impish, sportive
67. Move — plod, go, creep, crawl, inch, poke, drag, toddle, shuffle, trot, dawdle, walk, traipse,
mosey, jog, plug, trudge, slump, lumber, trail, lag, run, sprint, trip, bound, hotfoot,
high-tail, streak, stride, tear, breeze, whisk, rush, dash, dart, bolt, fling, scamper,
scurry, skedaddle, scoot, scuttle, scramble, race, chase, hasten, hurry, hump, gallop,
lope, accelerate, stir, budge, travel, wander, roam, journey, trek, ride, spin, slip,
glide, slide, slither, coast, flow, sail, saunter, hobble, amble, stagger, paddle, slouch,
prance, straggle, meander, perambulate, waddle, wobble, pace, swagger, promenade,
lunge
68. Moody — temperamental, changeable, short-tempered, glum, morose, sullen,
modish, irritable, testy, peevish, fretful, spiteful, sulky, touchy
69. Neat — clean, orderly, tidy, trim, dapper, natty, smart, elegant, well-organized,
super, desirable, spruce, shipshape, well-kept, shapely
70. New — fresh, unique, original, unusual, novel, modern, current, recent
71. Old — feeble, frail, ancient, weak, aged, used, worn, dilapidated, ragged, faded,
broken-down, former, old-fashioned, outmoded, passé, veteran, mature, venerable,
primitive, traditional, archaic, conventional, customary, stale, musty, obsolete,
extinct
72. Part — portion, share, piece, allotment, section, fraction, fragment
73. Place — space, area, spot, plot, region, location, situation, position, residence,
dwelling, set, site, station, status, state
74. Plan — plot, scheme, design, draw, map, diagram, procedure, arrangement,
intention, device, contrivance, method, way, blueprint
75. Popular — well-liked, approved, accepted, favourite, celebrated, common, current
76. Predicament — quandary, dilemma, pickle, problem, plight, spot, scrape, jam
77. Put — place, set, attach, establish, assign, keep, save, set aside, effect, achieve, do,
build
78. Quiet — silent, still, soundless, mute, tranquil, peaceful, calm, restful
79. Right — correct, accurate, factual, true, good, just, honest, upright, lawful, moral,
proper, suitable, apt, legal, fair
80. Run — race, speed, hurry, hasten, sprint, dash, rush, escape, elope, flee
81. Scared — afraid, frightened, alarmed, terrified, panicked, fearful, unnerved,
insecure, timid, shy, skittish, jumpy, disquieted, worried, vexed, troubled, disturbed,
horrified, terrorized, shocked, petrified, haunted, timorous, shrinking, tremulous,
stupefied, paralyzed, stunned, apprehensive
82. Show — display, exhibit, present, note, point to, indicate, explain, reveal, prove,
demonstrate, expose
83. Slow — unhurried, gradual, leisurely, late, behind, tedious, slack
84. Stop — cease, halt, stay, pause, discontinue, conclude, end, finish, quit
85. Story — tale, myth, legend, fable, yarn, account, narrative, chronicle, epic, sage,
anecdote, record, memoir
86. Strange — odd, peculiar, unusual, unfamiliar, uncommon, queer, weird, outlandish,
curious, unique, exclusive, irregular

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87. Take — hold, catch, seize, grasp, win, capture, acquire, pick, choose, select, prefer,
remove, steal, lift, rob, engage, bewitch, purchase, buy, retract, recall, assume,
occupy, consume
88. Tell — disclose, reveal, show, expose, uncover, relate, narrate, inform, advise,
explain, divulge, declare, command, order, bid, recount, repeat
89. Think — judge, deem, assume, believe, consider, contemplate, reflect, mediate
90. Trouble — distress, anguish, anxiety, worry, wretchedness, pain, danger, peril,
disaster, grief, misfortune, difficulty, concern, pains, inconvenience, exertion, effort
91. True — accurate, right, proper, precise, exact, valid, genuine, real, actual, trusty,
steady, loyal, dependable, sincere, staunch
92. Ugly — hideous, frightful, frightening, shocking, horrible, unpleasant, monstrous,
terrifying, gross, grisly, ghastly, horrid, unsightly, plain, homely, evil, repulsive,
repugnant, gruesome
93. Unhappy — miserable, uncomfortable, wretched, heart-broken, unfortunate, poor,
downhearted, sorrowful, depressed, dejected, melancholy, glum, gloomy, dismal,
discouraged, sad
94. Use — employ, utilize, exhaust, spend, expend, consume, exercise
95. Wrong — incorrect, inaccurate, mistaken, erroneous, improper, unsuitable

LIST OF USEFUL IDIOMS/PHRASES

01. Absence makes the heart grow fonder

(we miss our friends and relatives more when they are away)
eg. She used to quarrel with her sister but now, she misses her. It is a case
of absence makes the heart grow fonder.

02. All and sundry

( everybody, all types of people)
eg. The government’s new rule concerns all and sundry.

03. As different as night and day

( completely different)
eg. The twins sister may look alike but their mannerisms are as different as
night and day.

04. Bed of roses

( a happy, comfortable situation)
eg. Life is not always a bed of roses. At times, it can be challenging, too

05. Boiling point

( when one is very angry)
eg. When he repeated the mistake for the third time, the teachers
reached the boiling point.

06. Cost a bomb

(very expensive)
eg. His new bungalow house costs a bomb.

07. Curry favour with someone

(to sweet talk/ pretending to be nice to someone for own’s advantage)

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 eg. Some students have been currying favour with the new form
teacher.

08. Cut your coat according to your cloth

(adjust the spending /expenses according to the money one has)
eg. That shirt is too expensive, so I have to cut my coat according to my cloth.

09. Dream come true

( a wish which has come true)
eg. Having you as a friend is a dream come true.

10. Dyed in the wool

(holds certain principles/believes strongly since small)
eg. For a person dyed in the wool, it was difficult for him to change his
ideas and values.

11. Eat humble pie

( to be apologetic when proven wrong)
eg. You’ll have to eat humble pie if you’re proved wrong.

12. Every nook and cranny

(everywhere)
eg. They searched every nook and cranny for the missing book but to no
avail.

13. Fall on deaf ears

( did not pay attention to the advice/warning)
eg. The teacher’s advice to him seemed to have fallen on deaf ears.

14. Few and far between

(very few/limited)
eg. Good jobs with bright chances for promotion are few and far between.

15. Fish out of water

(someone who is uncomfortable with the surroundings)
eg. I was like a fish out of water as I was not familiar with the place.

16. From A to Z
( to know everything in detail)
eg. You should know the details of the topic from A to Z.

17. From cradle to the grave

( throughout one’s life)
eg. Whatever you learn now, you should remember it from cradle to the grave.

18. Give a big hand

( to clap/applause)
eg. Everybody gave a big hand after the dancers finished their eautiful performance.

19. Give a pat on the back

(to praise/congratulate someone)
eg. Although Lim did not excel in his exams, his parents gave him a pat on the back for
trying hard.

20. Green with envy

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 (feeling very envious)
eg. If you buy a new car, your neighbours will be green with envy.

21. Haste makes waste

(doing something in a hurry will spoil the work)
eg. She was in such a hurry that she spilt the milk on the floor. Haste makes waste.

22. In hot water

(in serious trouble)
eg. The principal caught him red-handed vandalizing. Now, he is in hot water.

23. On the dot

(at exactly the right time)
eg. We are expected to be at there at 2.30 on the dot.

24. On one’s high horse

( very arrogant/proud)
eg. She has been on her high horse ever since she was admitted to the prestigious university

25. Pride and joy

(A special object that is someone’s love and pride)
eg. The table that he built on his own, is his pride and joy.

26. Shake like a leaf

(to tremble with fear)
eg. The boy who was caught stealing, was shaking like a leaf.

27. Show one’s true colours

(to show one’s true character)
eg. He pretended to be generous but he showed his true colours when he refused to donate
money to charity.

28. See red

(to become very angry)
eg. My mother saw red when she caught me coming home late at night.

29. Thick and fast

(comes in great numbers and fast)
eg. Offers to help the tragedy-stricken family came thick and fast.

30. Tom, Dick and Harry

(anybody)
eg. We do not want any Tom, Dick and Harry to enter the hall.

31. Ways and means

(methods or ways to do something)
eg. There are ways and means of making money through business deals.

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