Model Compositions for Primary 5 and 6

Topic: Regret
Pictures given: A dustbin, A glass of water with ice-cubes in it, A capsule
Standard: Primary 6

I almost did not recognise the face in the mirror. My skin had turned yellowish-white. Thin foamy
lines of spittle trailed from my cracked lips. My eyes had sunk into their sockets, their previously radiant
glow replaced by a dull, lifeless shimmer.

Something was wrong. I could feel it in my bones.

I was fine just a few hours ago. But now, I felt rotten to the core. There was no time to
lose. I knew I needed urgent medical help.

As I fumbled desperately for my mobile phone in my trouser pocket, my eyes fell on

the glass of chilled water on the table. Subconsciously, I lunged for it, and grabbed it with
my trembling hand.

Was this the culprit?

This was a burning question in my head as I cast an accusing look at its contents. The
water in the glass seemed so innocent, swirling about nonchalantly among the ice cubes.

Why on earth had I drunk the water?

“This place is not Singapore, son. Don’t drink the water here unless it has been
boiled,” Uncle Ben had cautioned me.

However, ever since arriving in Bangkok five days ago to stay with Uncle Ben for the
December holidays, I had always seen him guzzle tap water without falling sick. If Uncle
Ben could do it, why could I not?

The very next moment, I felt my stomach throb with excruciating pain.
“Aaah!” I groaned. As I bent over in pain, the glass in my hand slipped from my grip.

Thud! Landing on the floor, the glass rolled to the left before coming to a quivering
stop, spilling out the water and the ice cubes.

My body was now shaking, and my stomach was churning violently.

 I groaned again, louder this time. I was clutching my stomach.
Why did I ever drink the water? Alas! It was no use regretting now! As my knees gave way, I
collapsed to the floor like a crumpled doll.
“Jake!” a voice called out.

In the hazy background, I could barely make out the faint silhouette of a fast-approaching man. A
pair of strong hands grabbed me by my shoulders. Then, darkness descended and everything turned
black…

When I opened my eyes, I found myself in a hospital bed.

“Jake! Thank goodness you’re finally awake! You have been unconscious for the pasttwo days!” It
was Uncle Ben. He reached out and clasped my hands tightly.

“What…hap…happened? Was it… the… wat..water?” I asked feebly.

Dr Philips shook his head and said, “No, not really. Drinking unboiled water sometimes gives you
a stomach ache, especially if your body is not used to the local conditions here. But it definitely won’t
cause to collapse and almost die.”

Uncle Ben chipped in, “It was the fat-burning capsules you took. I found them on your bedside
table and passed them to Dr Philips.”

“Yes! Thanks to your uncle, we’re able to diagnose your condition and quickly treat you. Those
capsules were dangerous! Where did you buy them?” Dr Philips asked.

“Do you mean the red and yellow capsules?” I asked as memories came flooding back. I had gone
to Chatuchak market, a shopping haven in Bangkok. I had stopped at numerous “weight-loss” stalls here,
hoping to find a cheap, miracle cure for my obesity. I was convinced to buy two boxes of “Instant Fat
Buster” capsules. I had consumed two capsules there and then.

Dr Philips nodded. “Yes, laboratory tests have shown that those capsules contain traces of
dangerous toxins. You’re one lucky chap, young man! You could have died!”

I lowered my eyes, deeply regretting my naivety. Hugging Uncle Ben tightly, I started weeping. In
some aspects of life, there are just no shortcuts. I had learnt my lesson.

Topic: Greed
Pictures given: A variety of fried food, a toilet sign, digestive aid juice
Standard: Primary 6
 “Ugh…” I groaned weakly. I had lost it. It was just 24 hours before “the day” and I blew the
opportunity. All this was because of my greed. The greed for a delicious taste and a fulfilling meal. I
groaned and lay on my bed wondering whether that moment of greed was really worth it. Images of the
fateful day flashed in my mind like the scenes of a horror movie…

It was the day before my school sports meet. I was taking part in a 100 metre race and had trained
hard for it. I wanted to prove to the whole school that I was the fastest. Soon, the school will find out
about my talent, I thought with pride. I had waited very long for this sports event. But before I retired for
the day, I had to get dinner.

My parents were at work and I would not be seeing them until tomorrow. As they were not at
home to cook food for me, they told me to go to the nearby hawker centre to have dinner. When I heard
those words, I was filled with happiness. I was hoping to try out food at the newest stall: “Mr Chan’s Fried
Delicacies. However, my happiness was quashed when my parents said that I had to eat healthy food and
not “unhealthy food from unhealthy stalls”.

When I reached the hawker centre, it was already bustling with people. The noise of patrons
shouting orders to stallholders was drowned out by the deafening clang of plates and cutlery. The aroma
of the delicious food enticed me. I made my way towards “Mr Tan’s Healthy Meals” and got into the
queue. But greed and temptation got the better of me.

“Mum and Dad are not at home. They would never know if I ate from Mr Chan’s store or Mr
Tan’s store”, I thought.

I felt a surge of conflicting emotions. Should I disobey my parents and eat from Mr Chan’s Fried
Delicacies or should I follow what my parent’s advice and eat from Mr Tan’s Healthy Food store? My
parent’s trust in me would be shattered but I would have a satisfying meal. Imagining the taste of Mr
Chan’s Fried delicacies, I gave in to my greed. I immediately stepped out from the queue and headed over
to Mr Chan’s shop.

Mr Chan’s shop was not that clean. There were flies flying around and he wore a stained t-shirt
with multiple patches. He had no gloves and the kitchen was dripping with Tom Yam Soup. However, I
ignored the misgivings and put my stomach in charge and ordered as much as I could. With my plate piled
up with food, I began devouring them up in record speed. The colourful flavours danced on my taste buds
leaving me craving for more. Within an hour, I had finished my meal and I made my way home. Little did
I know I was going to experience the result of my greed

The next morning, I woke up with a terrible sensation. It felt as if my stomach was on fire. It was
so painful I could not get out of bed. My parents immediately phoned the doctor who came as quickly as
he could. After a thorough examination, he asked, “Did you eat something unhealthy yesterday?”

I thought of saying no, but the pain in my stomach was too overwhelming. I told them the truth.
 The doctor immediately said, “You have food poisoning. You would have to rest for few days and
drink plenty of this digestive aid juice.”

After the doctor left, my parents chided me for what had happened. I had missed the chance of
proving myself in the 100 metre race event that I had been training for diligently because of my greed. My
parents then comforted me and said that I could work for the next term exam. I nodded glumly.

So here I am in bed, resting. From this incident, I could draw two conclusions. One, greed can ruin
opportunities that you have waited so long for. Two, “Mr Tan’s Healthy Meals” is much better than
digestive aid juice.

Topic: A Person in Need of Help / Bravery / Courage

Pictures given: A drowning boy, an umbrella, a fire extinguisher
Standard: Primary 6

Fear was pulsating through my entire being as I tried against all odds to get to the head bobbing up
and down in the churning waters. Fear Desperation. Agony. However, I vowed to save him. I had to…

Before all this turmoil had happened, I was having relaxing time by the beach. There were a few
families there too. Children were squealing and bikers were whizzing by. Palm trees swayed gently in the
wind as the smell of the sea invigorated me. It was just what I had in mind when I decided to go the beach
for a break.

Suddenly, a high-pitched whistle snapped me out of my tranquility and shattered the joyful
atmosphere. The lifeguard was blowing his whistle to warn everyone of an impending storm. The sky had
darkened ominously; it was full of dark grey clouds. Thunder rumbled in the distance. Without warning, a
curtain of rain beat down from the sky. The waves turned choppy, a stark contrast to the serene waters
before. All hell broke loose as everyone scrambled back to shore to seek shelter. “A ruined holiday,” I
grumbled inwardly.

Just as I was about to seek shelter in a nearby restaurant, I heard it.

“Help!” A small voice called out. I looked out into the sea but nothing seemed amiss. Perhaps my
ears were playing tricks on me. I shrugged and turned back.

Then, I heard the cry of help again. This time, it was louder. I turned around instinctively and a
horrible sight greeted me. A small figure was struggling in the choppy waves. His head bobbed up and
down as the waves closed in on him, seeming to hold him hostage.
 My heart was thumping furiously as I looked around frantically. Not a single soul was in sight. Not
even the lifeguard! Everyone must have already taken shelter. I contemplated calling for help but every
second was precious. It was a matter of life and death. The poor boy seemed to be drifting further away
from the shore. He was going to drown soon.

Remembering my mother’s mantra to help others who are in need, I decided to save the boy on my
own. I could not bear to see him drown before my eyes! I had to do something!

Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves, I plunged into the icy cold waters. The waters felt like it
wanted pull me down into its deathly grasp too. I swam in powerful strokes towards the boy, vowing to
myself that I would save him. It was tough to swim against the currents but I persevered. Every time I
swam closer to the boy, the current would push me back again. My legs ached. My arms were tired. But
my spirit was determined. I had to save him. I had to.

My perseverance finally paid off. I summoned my last ounce of energy and swarm towards the boy
who was already faltering. Without hesitation, I pulled him into my arms and with a spark of hope in me, I
swam back to shore.

A lone figure stood on the shore - the boy’s mother. When we finally reached the shore, I felt a
surge of relief. Overwhelmed with fatigue, I collapsed onto the ground. Reunited with his mother, the boy
hugged her tightly as tears of joy streamed down their cheeks. Turning to me, the boy’s mother thanked
me copiously for saving her son. Although I was dripping wet, I glowed with warmth. I had performed a
courageous act.

Topic: A Challenge
Pictures given: Athletes running, Gym Room, a plaster
Standard: Primary 5

In all my years of coaching, I have never seen a runner like Bolt. I am sure you have heard of him.
He is a legend and may he always remain a legend. This is his story.

Bolt was once racing with his friends for fun, but he came in last. All his friends laughed at him.
At first, he let it slide. The next day, his friends were treating him like a loser. It continued for too long
and soon he could not take it. In his position, most people would have snapped and become depressed.
Bolt, however, channelled his anger into something more productive. He started training to run faster and
faster. That was how he met me.
 Bolt met me when I was training myself (being a coach and all). I met him while I was jogging at
the stadium’s tracks. When I stopped to rest, I noticed that Bolt continued running without stopping to
catch his breath. That was when I realised I wanted to train this rare talent.

Bolt was slow but he was determined. Every other student I coached, I had to push them. As for
Bolt, he pushed me! He would call me up at 5am and say that he was heading down to the tracks to train.
I, of course, had to wipe the sleep out of my eyes and meet him there. I realised that with his
determination, he could be the best one day.

One day, Bolt called me up and told me that he had signed himself up for a race. I was shocked. At
his speed, he would come in last! When I told him that, he simply chuckled. “That might be true, but at
least it will be more challenging than your training, haha!” I laughed along.

I trained him as hard as I could. As the days passed, he became better and better. He beat the top
runners in my class. I started to use him as a role model for the rest of my students. Eventually, his friends
stopped making fun of him. Unfortunately, the day before the race, the most tragic thing happened …

Bolt was hit by a car. His arm was fractured and in a sling. He was supposed to be hospitalised for
two days but Bolt refused despite the dull, throbbing pain. He insisted that he went for the race. He said
that he did not need his hand to run. Having no choice (see what I told you about him pushing me), I
brought him to the stadium in my car (something I never did for any student before). I bought him an
energy drink and got him ready for the race.

He crouched at the starting line and waited for the starter’s command. The
starter shouted, “Three, two, one…Go!” The race had begun. He followed the technique I had
taught him: run slowly and conserve his energy for the final dash.

Would you believe it? He came in second! At the end of the race, Bolt taught me something far
greater than anything I have ever taught. He taught me that if you put your mind to it, you can do it. I am
sure you all know of someone that you look up to – just remember, they got to where they are because
they persevered through their challenges.

Topic: A Dangerous Situation

Pictures given: A Tent, Fire and a toddler
Standard: Primary 4

When I was a toddler of about 14 months, I was caught in a dangerous situation and survived it.
Until today, I can still remember what had happened that suspenseful afternoon.
 It was a Thursday afternoon. I was in my playpen, in front of the television watching my favourite
episode of High Five. Mum was cooking soup for dinner, when she realised that she had run out of
carrots. She quickly dashed out of the house to buy some without turning off the stove.

"I'll be back in a jiffy, " she called out to me cheerfully, "Don't go near the stove, the fire is still
switched on."

Just then, a strong gust of wind blew the curtains on the kitchen window. The curtains brushed
against the flame. Soon, the end of the curtain was lit. The fire climbed higher in seconds and the kitchen
was ablaze in minutes.

I watched the events unfold in horror. Just like any other toddler, I wailed loudly when I felt the
heat. After crying for five minutes, no one responded but by then the whole area was engulfed in thick
black smoke. I started coughing badly, unable to breathe properly. I instinctively knew that if I did not
escape I would be in great danger. I climbed out of my playpen and took my first step.

However, as soon as I let go of my cot, I fell. I bore with the pain and tried again. Finally, I did it!

I then toddled unsteadily to the living room. With all my might, I pushed the front door open. I
happily breathed in the fresh air. By then, the ambulance and fire fighters had arrived. One of them
grabbed me and swung me into my crying mother's arms. They then raced into the house at top speed and
used the fire hose to put out the beginning inferno. The paramedics took me to the hospital to check for
burns. Luckily, I was not injured.

The next day, I was in the newspaper with the headline as "Fourteen month old baby escaped from
a fire". Mum regretted leaving me alone at home. She picked me up from the hospital and returned home.
All the furniture that remained in the house was covered with black soot. The pot was dented out of shape.
Mum took a week to clean up the whole house. Until this day, I am afraid of fire. Fortunately, I had
escaped from the dangerous situation.

Topic: An Adventure
Pictures given: A forest, A haunted house and a tent by the beach
Standard: Primary 6

"Truth or Dare," Daniel whispered as he held the torchlight under his chin. "Seriously, stop it!
You're not even scary!" yelled Jonathan, who gave his twin brother a hard smack on his head before
returning his gaze to Tom, "So?"

"Truth," Tom replied timidly.

 "Alright, try exploring the witch's den," all the boys whispered before bursting into laughter upon
seeing Tom's pale face.

"I said truth, not dare!" Tom crossed his arms angrily, not amused the slightest bit.

"Come on, be brave, it is Halloween, why not have an adventure?" Sam suggested before the boys
placed a torchlight in Tom's hands and pushed him out of the house.

"Wait!" Before Tom could complain, the door slammed shut in his face. Gulping down the lump
that had risen in his throat, his hand gripped the torchlight tightly before stepping down from his porch.
His skin tingled as the cold, mysterious wind swept across, scattering the dead autumn leaves of
Halloween. Mice scattered from the bin, giving him a glare as they ran out onto the streets. Tom's eyes,
however, was fixated on the tall, dark woods that stood in front of him, giving off a creepy aura.

Shivering, Tom took small steps as he inched closer to the woods. "Aargh!" Tom let out an ear-
piercing shriek as a crow swooped down towards him. "Darn you 'Truth or Dare'!" Tom yelled in
frustration as he entered the woods. "Creak-snap!" Tom jumped up in fear again as he stepped on a twig.

The tall, menacing trees seemed to tower over Tom, caving in and capturing him in darkness. The
red eyes of the bats which hung above, flashed under the moonlight. Crows stood on the trees, eye
following his every move. Every now and then, Tom would spin around to check if anyone was behind
him as he had most certainly felt someone watching him. Tom broke into cold sweat, as shivers ran down
his spine. Fear and trepidation bubbled in his stomach as his frantic pupils scanned his surroundings.

Just as Tom was recovering from the shock, the moonlight sucked the life from his torchlight.
Darkness flashed a grin before covering everything in blackness. Trembling like a jelly, Tom tried to
revive his torchlight but to no avail. "Snap!" another twig snapped under another foot. Without looking
back, Tom threw his torchlight down, running for his dear life.
Tom panted heavily as he looked back, he had made it out of the woods. Beads of perspiration
trickled down the bridge of his nose, as he gasped for air. However, the real obstacle was the one in front
of him. Old, tattered wood decorated house. Its windows barely hung from the hinges of the windowsill.
A huge hole was in front of the door, sheltering many unknown creepy-crawlies. The grass was curled up,
dried and dead. The mailbox had snapped into two as the pathway cracked into pieces. It was certainly
the Witches Den'. It was rumoured that a 'witch" had stayed there, kidnapped many children, and dug out
their eyes. Tom trembled as another chilly breeze swept by.
Mustering his courage, Tom stepped into the house, every file creaking under his weight. Tom
walked to the end of the wall until he heard noise. He whipped his head to the room on his left as he
tiptoed towards the room. There it stood, a figure that seemed to sway with the breeze of the wind, hair as
long as its body. Tom's eyes widened, "It is the witch!", he thought before running down the hall.
However, his legs that had turned into jelly and gave way, giving him a hard landing on the floor.
 Tom groaned in pain as he struggled to stand up. As he was doing so, he spotted a piece of white
paper lying on the floor at the corner of his eyes. He reached for it and flipped it around. "Trick or Treat",
it read before someone grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around. Another loud shriek escaped
Tom's mouth as he stared hard at the sight in front of him. "Guys?" Tom muttered under his breath, at the
brink of tears.

"Happy Halloween! You should have seen your face! That "ghost" was just a piece of cloth! You
have been tricked!" Daniel grinned as he patted Tom on the shoulder. "Let's head back to the party!" the
rest yelled as they walked out. Tom followed them, relieved it was just a prank. However as he glanced
back, a figure standing in the hallway seemed to grin before vanishing into thin air.

Topic: Stopping A Fight

Standard: Primary 6
Topic: In the Nick of Time
Standard: Primary 5
Topic: Helping a Friend in Need
Standard: Primary 5