The essays written in Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 of SPM 1119/2 would require candidates to

give opinions. How can candidates present their opinions well? What kind of language can
they use? For sure, there is no definite answer for it, however, the following tips can be used
as guidelines.

First of all, for better LANGUAGE QUALITY, candidates should not only use “In my opinion,
…”, “I think …”or “I believe …”. Instead, in GIVING PERSONAL VIEWS, they should learn to
use other useful and relevant expressions such as:

 As far as I am concerned, global warming is a serious issue.

 From my perspective, reading e-books brings numerous benefits.
 I am absolutely convinced / positive / confident that co-curricular activities enhance
students’ wisdom and maturity.
 I hold the view that parents must be held responsible if their children are involved in
illegal racing.
 There is no doubt in my mind that the cheese cakes served at the café are the best that
I have ever tasted.
 I dare say that the acting by all actors in the movie is extraordinarily superb.

As ESL teachers, we cannot deny the fact that many of our SPM 1119 candidates need our
guidance in many ways, including on how to give opinions which express a general point of
view. Therefore, our candidates must also be coached to use these useful expressions which
are different from giving personal viewpoints. These are the relevant expressions to present
general points of view:

 Everybody knows that vandalism is dreadful.

 It is generally accepted that extreme sports may have certain risks especially among
amateurs.
 It is considered relaxing and rewarding to read novels during leisure hours.
 Some people say that it is not easy to maintain one’s traditions and culture.
 According to experts/researchers, children can be addicted to playing online games.
 It is often said that online shopping saves a lot of time.
Do expose the following less common lexis to the candidates so that they can memorise and
apply any relevant sophisticated words in their essays in examinations.
How to describe an issue/ a problem?
 According to the authorities, drug addiction among teens is a grave issue.
 There is no doubt in my mind that it is gloomy / disheartening to see some heritage
buildings are in dilapidated conditions.
 We cannot take the issue for granted.
 It is fundamental for us to understand the issue well / be kind to others (SPM 2021) /
preserve our cultural traditions (SPM 2022)
 Crime rate in our neighbourhood is alarming / distressing.
 Killing of wildlife by poachers is appalling / dreadful / horrendous.
 Child abuse is an inhumane / a vicious / malicious act.

How to do something? How to address an issue/a problem?

 As far as I am concerned, prompt actions must be taken by the relevant authorities.
 I hold the view that everybody must join forces.
 Teenagers must know and accomplish their roles and responsibilities.
 Parents must foster / inculcate kindness/values in their children since young.
 Stern actions is not an option. Those who are found guilty of the crime must be
punished severely.
 The authorities must fortify the implementation of the law.
 It is paramount / vital / focal / fundamental / pivotal to raise awareness among teens on
the negative effects of vaping.

Why actions must be taken?

 From my perspective, bully, if not treated well, can be cancerous / malignant /
widespread.
 It is generally accepted that we must put a stop to vaping among school students before
it gets widespread / rife / rampant.
 When human beings keep polluting the nature, the effects can be detrimental / fatal.
 We can prevent vandalism from being a norm among some of the teenagers.
 Actions are taken to curb / curtail the issue from getting worse.
 Forests must be preserved for the sake of future generations.
 It is done to create a civilised / learned / humanised / society.