1) John likes to play squash. He does not like to play tennis.
Ans: John likes to play squash instead of tennis. (correct)
John likes to play squash instead of play tennis. (wrong) (Note: 'Instead of' is used to express an alternative. If the verb is the same for both sentences, there is no need to repeat it.)
2) Lisa is a member of the girl guides. Kate is also a member of the girl guides.
Ans: Lisa, together with Kate, is a member of the girl guides. (correct)
Lisa, together with Kate, are members of the girl guides. (wrong) (Note: The verb in the transformed sentence has to agree with the subject mentioned at the beginning of the sentence. In this case, Lisa is the main subject, not both Lisa and Kate.)
3) Jake is an intelligent boy. Jake is a lazy boy.
Ans: Jake is an intelligent but lazy boy. (correct)
Jake is an intelligent boy but he is lazy. (wrong) (Note: 'But' is used to join two sentences which contrast each other. Thus, we do not repeat the noun after 'but' if the subject of the sentence remains the same.)
Friday, October 18, 2013
Model Composition 2
This is adapted from http://thelearningworkshop.blogspot.sg/, one of my favourite websites. No copyright intended. I have highlighted some good phrases and sentences. Happy note-taking! :)
Black ominous clouds moseyed across the sky. My mother, my two-year-old sister, Grace, and I had just finished our great Safari trip. It was magnificent watching the animals plodding across the African plains in herds. The elephants, the lions, the giraffes and the antelopes were all amazing in their natural habitats.
Black ominous clouds moseyed across the sky. My mother, my two-year-old sister, Grace, and I had just finished our great Safari trip. It was magnificent watching the animals plodding across the African plains in herds. The elephants, the lions, the giraffes and the antelopes were all amazing in their natural habitats.
Today was the last day of our holiday in Kenya and we had to do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs while Dad went back to the hotel to catch a nap.
The Nairobi shopping mall was bursting at its seams. Busy shoppers were everywhere. “Let’s go to the toy shop on the third floor,” Grace suggested as exuberance bubbled in her.
“You and your toys!” Mum teased as she playfully pinched her rosy cheeks. Grace smiled sheepishly and stuck out her little tongue.
“We’d better hurry up before the shops close. We have a late flight to catch later.” I hurriedly pulled them along.
Bang! Bang! Bang! Shrill gunshots resounded through the air. I looked down from the escalator and caught a glimpse of men, women and children falling down like dead flies. Scores of shoppers were taking cover, fleeing into shops.
Behind them were a troop of gunmen shooting at the innocent at random. Pandemonium struck! Everyone went amok, shrieking like banshees. We stood rooted to the ground like the Roman statues. Fear pulsated in us. The gunmen then spoke in some foreign languages, pointing upwards. They started rushing upstairs. Panic engulfed us like a huge tsunami.
Grace started bawling at the top of her voice. Mum cupped her mouth tightly and ordered, “Keep quiet and follow me!” Mum carried Grace and ran along the aisle with me in tow, looking for the emergency exit.
“Mum, there!” I pointed excitedly.
Hope rekindled inside me as we rushed towards the door. Mum pressed the door lever but it would not budge. My heart dropped. We turned and heard thumping footsteps. Terrorists! We thought it would be the end of us. To our surprise, it was a burly security guard. “Follow me!” he urged.
Without hesitation, we followed him as if we were his shadow. He brought us to the movie theatre where it was dimly lit. Here was safer than the shops. There were intermittent whispers around. We squatted behind a row of velvety seats, panting profusely. Our fate was so unclear. Would we die?
Suddenly, we heard rough voices. A rebel had entered the theatre. Silence blanketed the place. No one dared to make a sound. He fired at the ceiling. The gunshots ricocheted like bouncing marbles as smithereens fell from above and cut our skin but we did not even whimper. The footsteps of the gunman grew louder and louder. My heartbeats went faster and faster. Then, his shadow loomed over us. My heart was in my mouth. Luckily, he did not notice us. The rebel was holding an AK-47 assault rifle, with ammunition strapped across his shoulder. His heavy boot was pressing against my palm. Ouch! I wanted to scream in pain as tears brimmed in my eyes. However, I held back, knowing that the consequences would be dire.
There was a sudden slight movement outside the exit. It was the same security guard, trying to make his escape. The rebel turned and ran, aiming at him and – fired. Crimson blood spurted everywhere as the bullet penetrated his heart. He fell to the ground - dead.
Just then, my mobile phone broke into the melody of "Oppa Gangnam Style". It was Dad. The gunman turned and ran back. His footsteps thundered in my ears. My heart almost jumped out of my body. We were all ready to die.
Fortunately, a posse of officers from the Special Forces came charging in and killed the rebel instantly. There was an intense gunfight. Numerous gunshots were fired across the aisle. We waited in trepidation. After what seemed like eternity, the policemen triumphed and came combing the areas looking for survivors. We were then swiftly escorted out of the building. Needless to say, stray bullet shells were scattered all over and shops were riddled with multiple bullets. Corpses were everywhere.
As we emerged from the building, a glare of lightning lit up the entire sky. Rain started pouring in torrents as if the heaven was also mourning for the death of the innocent victims. We spotted Dad among the crowd behind the security cordon. Tears flowed freely as we embraced in tight hugs. We were just too lucky to be alive.
Tips for Composition
I don't know where I adapted this from but the tips are useful...
Continuous Writting:
~ You was walking home from school. You saw two man at the loby ofyour flat. Your lift is here and you did not bother too much. When you reached your home, and when you are going to unlock your house gate, you saw two men infront of your neighbour's gate picking on the lock......
Compo plan [5 to 10 min]:
Exposition:
- Characters: Me, policemen, neighbour's relatives
- Setting: Near your neighbour's house
- Introdution: Question
- Walking home from school.
- Noticed two ma in black with caps.
- Did not bother as my lift came.
- Went up the lift and went home.
Rising Action:
- Enter home and heard a "click" sound coming from neighbour's house.
- Remembered clearly that neighbour went to Europe for two weeks and should not be back yet.
- Went to peep through the peep hole.
Climax:
- Saw the exact two men picking the locks of my neighbour's house.
- They went inside neighbour's house.
- No adult at home so decided to salvage the situation myself.
- Locked my neighbour's gate with a huge padlock so that the two men could not come out.
Resolution:
- Called the police and they arrived in no time.
- They went inside and about two minutes later, the policemen and the two man came out laughing.
- Policemen explained to me thatthe two men are my neighbour's relatives.
- They are supposed to take care of the house.
- I felt embarrass and apologised.
Model compo;
Have you evercaught a burglar? I witnessed a whole inccident and even caught one.
"Yay! Finally! I can go home! End of school!" I shouted as I made my way home. Pictures of my new "PSP" kept flashing in my mind waiting for me to play. "Click, clock, click, clock" hush shuffling sounds can be heard as I waited for the lift at my lift lobby. At the corner of my eye, I spotted two men wearing black from headto toe. They even wore a cap. I did not bother too much about them as my lift had just arrived. I dashed home and threw my bag onto my sofa and was ready to start my game when I heard the sound "click" coming from my neighbour's door.
It aroused my suspicion because I recalled very clearly that my neighbours were in Europe for two weeks, hence no one should be at home. Out of curiousity, I peaked through my peep hole. To my horror, I saw the same two men whom I saw at the lift lobby earlier, struggling to open my neighbour's door!
There were no adults at home so I decided to salvage this situation on my own. "Click!" now the door is opened, the two men went inside. I began to panic, thinking desperately what I should do. Just then, a very clever idea popped into my mind. Recently, my parents bought a huge padlock, so I decided to use it to lock the two strange men inside the house. I did not think they could escape through the window as I lived on the eight floor.
I waited for my opportunity to come. After five minutes of waiting, I unlocked my door, slowly tip-toed to my neighbour's door and attached the padlock on the door without making any sound. Then I tip-toed back to my house and locked my door and quickly called the police. I kept an eye on my neighbour's door hoping the burglars take a longer time so that the police will be able to catch them. Within minutes, the police arrived. They asked if I called them, I nodded my head and told them sabout the inccident. Then I handed them the key of the padlock. They asked me to stay at home and not interfere. I watched them from my window as they unlocked he padlock and kicked open the door. They all went inside to search for the two strange men.
Within minutes, the police and the two men came out laughing. I felt very puzzled so I unlocked my door and asked the police. The police explained that the two strange men were actually my neghbour's relatives, they were taking care of the house, just that the key was stuck in the key hole of the door. I flushed with embarrasment and apologised for the inccident.
*Credits go to the one who wrote this...good job...does that happened to you before?*
Continuous Writting:
~ You was walking home from school. You saw two man at the loby ofyour flat. Your lift is here and you did not bother too much. When you reached your home, and when you are going to unlock your house gate, you saw two men infront of your neighbour's gate picking on the lock......
Compo plan [5 to 10 min]:
Exposition:
- Characters: Me, policemen, neighbour's relatives
- Setting: Near your neighbour's house
- Introdution: Question
- Walking home from school.
- Noticed two ma in black with caps.
- Did not bother as my lift came.
- Went up the lift and went home.
Rising Action:
- Enter home and heard a "click" sound coming from neighbour's house.
- Remembered clearly that neighbour went to Europe for two weeks and should not be back yet.
- Went to peep through the peep hole.
Climax:
- Saw the exact two men picking the locks of my neighbour's house.
- They went inside neighbour's house.
- No adult at home so decided to salvage the situation myself.
- Locked my neighbour's gate with a huge padlock so that the two men could not come out.
Resolution:
- Called the police and they arrived in no time.
- They went inside and about two minutes later, the policemen and the two man came out laughing.
- Policemen explained to me thatthe two men are my neighbour's relatives.
- They are supposed to take care of the house.
- I felt embarrass and apologised.
Model compo;
Have you evercaught a burglar? I witnessed a whole inccident and even caught one.
"Yay! Finally! I can go home! End of school!" I shouted as I made my way home. Pictures of my new "PSP" kept flashing in my mind waiting for me to play. "Click, clock, click, clock" hush shuffling sounds can be heard as I waited for the lift at my lift lobby. At the corner of my eye, I spotted two men wearing black from headto toe. They even wore a cap. I did not bother too much about them as my lift had just arrived. I dashed home and threw my bag onto my sofa and was ready to start my game when I heard the sound "click" coming from my neighbour's door.
It aroused my suspicion because I recalled very clearly that my neighbours were in Europe for two weeks, hence no one should be at home. Out of curiousity, I peaked through my peep hole. To my horror, I saw the same two men whom I saw at the lift lobby earlier, struggling to open my neighbour's door!
There were no adults at home so I decided to salvage this situation on my own. "Click!" now the door is opened, the two men went inside. I began to panic, thinking desperately what I should do. Just then, a very clever idea popped into my mind. Recently, my parents bought a huge padlock, so I decided to use it to lock the two strange men inside the house. I did not think they could escape through the window as I lived on the eight floor.
I waited for my opportunity to come. After five minutes of waiting, I unlocked my door, slowly tip-toed to my neighbour's door and attached the padlock on the door without making any sound. Then I tip-toed back to my house and locked my door and quickly called the police. I kept an eye on my neighbour's door hoping the burglars take a longer time so that the police will be able to catch them. Within minutes, the police arrived. They asked if I called them, I nodded my head and told them sabout the inccident. Then I handed them the key of the padlock. They asked me to stay at home and not interfere. I watched them from my window as they unlocked he padlock and kicked open the door. They all went inside to search for the two strange men.
Within minutes, the police and the two men came out laughing. I felt very puzzled so I unlocked my door and asked the police. The police explained that the two strange men were actually my neghbour's relatives, they were taking care of the house, just that the key was stuck in the key hole of the door. I flushed with embarrasment and apologised for the inccident.
*Credits go to the one who wrote this...good job...does that happened to you before?*
作文好词好句
好词好句/俗话
- 我真的是太饿了！我不管三七二十一，狼吞虎咽地吃我的面。
- 小丽的家陷入了困境，所以他变得郁郁寡欢，无心向学。
- 同学们都战战兢兢的走进考场，心情像十五个吊桶大水---七上八下。
- 文具店里的文具琳琅满目，应有尽有，令人目不暇接。
- 妈妈把我骂得狗血淋头，火冒三丈地说：“小时偷针，大时偷金！我今天一定要教训你！”
- 我和弟弟被突如其来的事情吓得魂飞魄散，连忙逃跑。
- 俗话说：“只要功夫深，铁杵磨成针。”只要肯努力，成功就在你眼前。
好句
往事如海滩上五彩的贝壳，数也数不清，然而我心中有那么一枚“贝壳”，它深深地藏在我记忆的匣子里。
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Elephants
Questions about elephants once came out in PSLE. So, here are some facts about the elephants.
Why do elephants have such big ears?
Ans: The big ears are to help the elephants stay cool. Elephants don't sweat, so they have a hard time dissipating excess heat (keeping cool). Their large ears contain many blood vessels that allow heat to escape into the air. When you see elephants they are usually moving their ears back and forth. This fanning helps to dissipate more heat than if their ears remained still.
Ans: The big ears are to help the elephants stay cool. Elephants don't sweat, so they have a hard time dissipating excess heat (keeping cool). Their large ears contain many blood vessels that allow heat to escape into the air. When you see elephants they are usually moving their ears back and forth. This fanning helps to dissipate more heat than if their ears remained still.
Compre Cloze Tips
Here are tips for compre cloze:
a) read entire passage to have a feel of content first
b) read the paragraph and underline clues
c) choose 2 or more suitable words (maximum 3) and write neatly on top in pencil
d) Select the best word by "reading aloud" softly because sometimes the eyes are misleading. Write in your choice.
Here is an exercise for you.
(Comment below if you want answers)
Maricel Apatan, 22, stands in the kitchen of the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Manila, preparing to _________ a cheesecake. It would seem to be a routine task for a pastry chef, but Maricel is no _________ chef – she has no hands.
Her disability, however, barely slows her ________. Using her wrists, Maricel coats the sides of the cake ________crushed nuts. Next, she grips a chef’s knife tightly between her hip and left inner elbow and uses her left wrist to delicately slice grapes, kiwi and strawberries in _________. In short order, she arranges the fruit on the cake, adds blueberry filling, and sets an elegant chocolate curl on top.
Maricel has come a long way since the day in September 2000 when she and her uncle were attacked near their farm in a __________area of Zamboanga City, Mindanao. Five machete-wielding men, who were trying to force Maricel’s family off their land, brutally hacked into her uncle, then turned on 11-year-old Maricel. She passed out as she tried to protect herself from the savage blows. After she _________ to, Maricel pretended to be dead until she was sure the attackers were gone. As she _________ home, she looked down to see her hands dangling loosely on threads of bloodied flesh. Miraculously, she survived a long, arduous trip to the hospital, but doctors could not save her ________.
Maricel eventually __________ from high school and enrolled in a two-year Hotel and Restaurant Management course in Cagayan de Oro City. "I have really enjoyed cooking since I was seven years old." Thanks in large part to her parents’ unwavering support, Maricel flourished even though she was the only __________student in the course. "I wasn’t shy or ___________ to sign up for class competitions like cake decorating."
When managers at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel saw Maricel on television, they hired her as part of the hotel’s Care for People project. Fellow chef Aljamil Borja marvels at Maricel’s skills. "She asks for ___________ only if she needs to move a hot kettle or large saucepan from the stove, or open slippery bottle caps," says Aljamil. Maricel has also ____________her goal of inspiring others.
"It is difficult to make ends __________ but I don’t lose hope. I believe anything is possible if you dream, work hard and pray." Maricel commented.
a) read entire passage to have a feel of content first
b) read the paragraph and underline clues
c) choose 2 or more suitable words (maximum 3) and write neatly on top in pencil
d) Select the best word by "reading aloud" softly because sometimes the eyes are misleading. Write in your choice.
Here is an exercise for you.
(Comment below if you want answers)
Maricel Apatan, 22, stands in the kitchen of the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Manila, preparing to _________ a cheesecake. It would seem to be a routine task for a pastry chef, but Maricel is no _________ chef – she has no hands.
Her disability, however, barely slows her ________. Using her wrists, Maricel coats the sides of the cake ________crushed nuts. Next, she grips a chef’s knife tightly between her hip and left inner elbow and uses her left wrist to delicately slice grapes, kiwi and strawberries in _________. In short order, she arranges the fruit on the cake, adds blueberry filling, and sets an elegant chocolate curl on top.
Maricel has come a long way since the day in September 2000 when she and her uncle were attacked near their farm in a __________area of Zamboanga City, Mindanao. Five machete-wielding men, who were trying to force Maricel’s family off their land, brutally hacked into her uncle, then turned on 11-year-old Maricel. She passed out as she tried to protect herself from the savage blows. After she _________ to, Maricel pretended to be dead until she was sure the attackers were gone. As she _________ home, she looked down to see her hands dangling loosely on threads of bloodied flesh. Miraculously, she survived a long, arduous trip to the hospital, but doctors could not save her ________.
Maricel eventually __________ from high school and enrolled in a two-year Hotel and Restaurant Management course in Cagayan de Oro City. "I have really enjoyed cooking since I was seven years old." Thanks in large part to her parents’ unwavering support, Maricel flourished even though she was the only __________student in the course. "I wasn’t shy or ___________ to sign up for class competitions like cake decorating."
When managers at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel saw Maricel on television, they hired her as part of the hotel’s Care for People project. Fellow chef Aljamil Borja marvels at Maricel’s skills. "She asks for ___________ only if she needs to move a hot kettle or large saucepan from the stove, or open slippery bottle caps," says Aljamil. Maricel has also ____________her goal of inspiring others.
"It is difficult to make ends __________ but I don’t lose hope. I believe anything is possible if you dream, work hard and pray." Maricel commented.
Composition Topics
1) You were on an MRT train when suddenly the train jerked to a sudden halt.
2) There was no one at the bus stop. You were waiting for the bus as usual when you spotted a leather bag on the seat. Out of curiosity, you decided to see what was inside.
3) We were sitting in a cafe after school when we suddenly heard a loud commotion.
4) The angry man raised the whip again. But before he could strike the helpless hungry orphan, a strong arm stopped him.
5) One afternoon, you returned home from school at the usual hour to find your front door wide open. Nobody was in. But your lunch was ready on the dining table.
6) You were walking back from home when you find a wallet. You opened it and saw that it is filled with money.
7) Your classmates and you waited for your Mathematics teacher to come to class. Your friend passes you a piece of paper from behind.
8) You and your classmates were having a lesson when a student burst into the room.
2) There was no one at the bus stop. You were waiting for the bus as usual when you spotted a leather bag on the seat. Out of curiosity, you decided to see what was inside.
3) We were sitting in a cafe after school when we suddenly heard a loud commotion.
4) The angry man raised the whip again. But before he could strike the helpless hungry orphan, a strong arm stopped him.
5) One afternoon, you returned home from school at the usual hour to find your front door wide open. Nobody was in. But your lunch was ready on the dining table.
6) You were walking back from home when you find a wallet. You opened it and saw that it is filled with money.
7) Your classmates and you waited for your Mathematics teacher to come to class. Your friend passes you a piece of paper from behind.
8) You and your classmates were having a lesson when a student burst into the room.
Grammar Tips
Some grammar tips adapted from an english resource website.
Lain vs Laid
The English verb "lie" is complex and often problematic. Proper usage of its past tense forms like "lain" and "laid" are often confusing and used improperly. However, keeping some simple rules in mind makes it easier to use words like "lain" and "laid" in their proper grammatical context.Whether one uses "lain" or "laid" depends on the action being performed by the verb. "Laid" is the past tense of "lay," and "lain" is the past participle of "lie." The most simple way of understanding which form to use is by using it in context. For example, if one is resting or becoming prone, "lain" would be proper, as in "he has lain there for days." However, if one is placing something somewhere, "laid" is proper, as in "she laid the notebook on the desk."
But lie and lay seem to give people more difficulty than do all the other irregular verbs combined. Here's why: The past tense form of lie is lay, so it's indistinguishable from lay in the present tense except in usage. (Sit and set, probably the irregular verbs that give people the most trouble next to lie and lay, for example, have no parts in common. It's sit, sat and sat but set, set, set.)
The principal parts (most-common verb forms) of lie are:
lie (present,) lay (past) and lain (past participle).
The principal parts of lay are:
lay (present), laid (past) and laid (past participle).
As an aid in choosing the correct verb forms, remember that lie means to recline, whereas lay means to place something, to put something on something.
Lie
Present tense: I lie down on my bed to rest my weary bones.
Past tense: Yesterday, I lay there thinking about what I had to do during the day.
Past participle: But I remembered that I had lain there all morning one day last week.
Lay
Present tense: As I walk past, I lay the tools on the workbench.
Past tense: As I walked past, I laid the tools on the workbench. And: I laid an egg in class when I tried to tell that joke.
Past participle: . . . I had laid the tools on the workbench.
Lain vs Laid
The English verb "lie" is complex and often problematic. Proper usage of its past tense forms like "lain" and "laid" are often confusing and used improperly. However, keeping some simple rules in mind makes it easier to use words like "lain" and "laid" in their proper grammatical context.Whether one uses "lain" or "laid" depends on the action being performed by the verb. "Laid" is the past tense of "lay," and "lain" is the past participle of "lie." The most simple way of understanding which form to use is by using it in context. For example, if one is resting or becoming prone, "lain" would be proper, as in "he has lain there for days." However, if one is placing something somewhere, "laid" is proper, as in "she laid the notebook on the desk."
But lie and lay seem to give people more difficulty than do all the other irregular verbs combined. Here's why: The past tense form of lie is lay, so it's indistinguishable from lay in the present tense except in usage. (Sit and set, probably the irregular verbs that give people the most trouble next to lie and lay, for example, have no parts in common. It's sit, sat and sat but set, set, set.)
The principal parts (most-common verb forms) of lie are:
lie (present,) lay (past) and lain (past participle).
The principal parts of lay are:
lay (present), laid (past) and laid (past participle).
As an aid in choosing the correct verb forms, remember that lie means to recline, whereas lay means to place something, to put something on something.
Lie
Present tense: I lie down on my bed to rest my weary bones.
Past tense: Yesterday, I lay there thinking about what I had to do during the day.
Past participle: But I remembered that I had lain there all morning one day last week.
Lay
Present tense: As I walk past, I lay the tools on the workbench.
Past tense: As I walked past, I laid the tools on the workbench. And: I laid an egg in class when I tried to tell that joke.
Past participle: . . . I had laid the tools on the workbench.
Friday, October 11, 2013
All about T-score in PSLE
Here are some powerpoint slides about t-score in PSLE. It is about how the t-score is calculated and how the aggregate score is calculated.
http://www.edgefieldpri.moe.edu.sg/wbn/slot/u2208/Parents_Link/Understanding%20PSLE%20T-scores.pdf
http://www.edgefieldpri.moe.edu.sg/wbn/slot/u2208/Parents_Link/Understanding%20PSLE%20T-scores.pdf
Composition Tips
Step-by-step technique
I don't know where I learnt this technique from but it helped me a lot. So, I hope this technique will help you too! :)First, you will have to find a sentence. (Preferably from one of the compositions you have written.)
Step 1 : Mother took out the cane and swayed it in front of Tom.
Next, strengthen the emotions of the characters.
Step 2 : Mother took out the cane and swayed it in front of Tom. Beads of perspiration trickled down his forehead as she fumed with rage.
Then, you have to improve your descriptions.
Step 3: Mother whipped out the cane and brandished it in front of Tom. Beads of perspiration trickled down his crimson forehead as Mother seethed with rage, her veins were almost void of blood circulation.
Next, you have to add in metaphors.
Step 4: Mother whipped out the cane which seemed like a venomous snake and brandished it in front of Tom as beads of perspiration trickled down his crimson forehead as Mother seethed with rage, her veins were almost void of blood circulation. "Explain! Why did you cheat in the examinations?" Mother barked at Tom, as she huffed and puffed like a steam train.
Finally, you will have to give your paragraph in step 4 a touch-up.
Step 5: Mother whipped out the cane which seemed like a venomous snake, attempting to make a fatal attack, every now and then. She brandished it in front of Tom as beads of perspiration trickled down his crimson forehead as Mother seethed with rage, her veins were almost void of blood circulation. "Explain! Why did you cheat in the examinations?" Mother barked at Tom, as she huffed and puffed like a steam train. Mother seemed like an interrogator, burying Tom under a heap of questions. Tom wore a blanched expression. What would Mother do next?
It is a bit difficult to develop your sentences at first. But if you do this frequently, like maybe thrice weekly, you can do this naturally and you will have no problem in writing paragraphs like in step 5. Happy writing!
Tips on Synthesis and Transformation 2
Hi. I'm back with more tips on S&T. S&T consists of 10 marks in the English Paper 2. Thus, S&T is as important as the other components!
1) Lina likes to take the MRT train more than the bus.
Ans: Lina prefers taking the MRT train to the bus. (correct)
Lina prefers taking the MRT train than the bus. (wrong) (Note: 'prefer...to..' is used to express a choice over something else.)
2) Vince likes drinking apple juice. He likes orange juice more.
Ans: Vince would rather drink orange juice than apple juice. (correct)
Vince would rather drink orange juice than apple juice more. (wrong) (Note: 'would rather...than...' is used to emphasise a choice over something else, same goes for 'prefer...to...'. 'More' has to be omitted in this case.)
3) Dry the paint. Sprinkle the glitter on afterwards.
Ans: After drying the paint, sprinkle the glitter on. (correct)
After drying the paint, sprinkle the glitter on afterwards. (wrong) (Note: 'After' is used to show sequence of events. Thus, 'afterwards' has to be omitted to prevent repeating the emphasis on showing the sequence of events, since 'afterwards' is similar to 'after'.)
1) Lina likes to take the MRT train more than the bus.
Ans: Lina prefers taking the MRT train to the bus. (correct)
Lina prefers taking the MRT train than the bus. (wrong) (Note: 'prefer...to..' is used to express a choice over something else.)
2) Vince likes drinking apple juice. He likes orange juice more.
Ans: Vince would rather drink orange juice than apple juice. (correct)
Vince would rather drink orange juice than apple juice more. (wrong) (Note: 'would rather...than...' is used to emphasise a choice over something else, same goes for 'prefer...to...'. 'More' has to be omitted in this case.)
3) Dry the paint. Sprinkle the glitter on afterwards.
Ans: After drying the paint, sprinkle the glitter on. (correct)
After drying the paint, sprinkle the glitter on afterwards. (wrong) (Note: 'After' is used to show sequence of events. Thus, 'afterwards' has to be omitted to prevent repeating the emphasis on showing the sequence of events, since 'afterwards' is similar to 'after'.)
Good Composition Phrases 1
Here are some phrases for sensational writing. They are adapted from a book which is useful. Here is the link if you want to buy it. http://www.casco.com.sg/onlinestore/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=190 Please note that the phrases here are randomly picked by me. There are many more better phrases in this book! (Oops, it sounds like I am promoting this book, which I am not supposed to. But, this book is really useful and good. Cost is $11.80 w/GST. It is a bit expensive, but it is worth it.)
Happy
Happy
- (Sight) A contented smile materialised from the bottom of his heart.
- (Sound) An infectious joyful chortle ruptured the walls when the children were at play.
- (Touch) I felt the endorphins in my body after a great workout and now I am all hyped up for a new day.
- (Taste / smell) The winners could finally savour the sweet taste of success after all their hard work.
- (Sight) Resentment flashed in his eyes as he stared intently without diverting his gaze.
- (Sound)Spiteful words tumbled out in torrents when the spoilt child screamed at her maid.
- (Touch) She was entombed in her own irritation.
- (Taste / smell) Mother was so exasperated that for a moment she was tongue-tied before she unbridled her chagrin.
- (Sight) The skeletal girl looked pallid and malnourished.
- (Sound) The steely clanking of the braces in the boy's mouth impeded his speech.
- (Touch) The children felt the crunch when their father lost his job and could no longer afford the toys they want.
- (Taste / smell) Hungry for his parents' attention, the boy started misbehaving.
- (Sight) The dilapidated house was clearly neglected. Dense cobwebs hung opaque in the corners.
- (Sound) The stillness of the night reverberated in the room like a haunting tune that sent shivers down my spine as I tossed and turned in my bed.
- (Touch) The textured wallpaper emblazoned with bold prints gave the room an air of opulence and grandeur.
- (Taste / smell) The neighbour's joss incense fumed into our house like a massive fog, choking all of us.
Math Birthday Trick
A Math Birthday Trick to try! I know this does not concern PSLE. But, I just want to share it with you. I don't know where I adapted this from...
Step1: Add 18 to your birth month.
Step2: Multiply by 25.
Step3: Subtract 333.
Step4: Multiply by 8.
step5: Subtract 554.
step6: Divide by 2.
step7: Add your birth date.
step8: Multiply by 5.
step9: Add 692.
step10: Multiply by 20.
step11: Add only the last two digits of your birth year.
step12: Subtract 32940 to get your birthday!.
For example: If the answer is 123199 means that you were born on December 31, 1999. If the answer is not right, you followed the directions incorrectly or lied about your birthday
Step1: Add 18 to your birth month.
Step2: Multiply by 25.
Step3: Subtract 333.
Step4: Multiply by 8.
step5: Subtract 554.
step6: Divide by 2.
step7: Add your birth date.
step8: Multiply by 5.
step9: Add 692.
step10: Multiply by 20.
step11: Add only the last two digits of your birth year.
step12: Subtract 32940 to get your birthday!.
For example: If the answer is 123199 means that you were born on December 31, 1999. If the answer is not right, you followed the directions incorrectly or lied about your birthday
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Model Composition 1
This is adapted from one of my favourite websites. http://thelearningworkshop.blogspot.sg/
No copyright intended. I have highlighted some good phrases.
Scenario: You were cycling across the road but a lorry came barrelling towards you.
Black ominous clouds moseyed across the sky. I was cycling along a quiet road as I had volunteered to fetch my adorable sister from the child care centre a stone’s throw away. Suddenly, a glare of lightning lit up the sky. I had to hurry up or it might pour!
Across the road, I caught a glimpse of Rosy smiling at me. Her round marble-black eyes sparkled as her face lit up like the brightest bulb on earth. Filled with exuberance, she was beckoning me to come quickly for there was a shiny paper star in her tiny hand. Oh, how I adored her! Not wanting her to wait any longer, I cycled across the road without waiting for the traffic lights to turn green.
Out of the blue, my ears were drawn to a loud rumbling noise. A large lorry was heading straight at me at top speed. Panic engulfed me. My legs turned to stones and cold sweat broke out on my forehead. Oh no! A million thoughts flashed across my mind. It was going to be the end of me. My attention was riveted towards the lorry which continued hurtling towards me at lightning speed.
I closed my eyes, awaiting my impending doom. The tyres tried screeching to a sudden halt. It was to no avail for it was too late to stop. The lorry driver instinctively swerved and barreled straight into Rosy’s childcare centre.
Crash! The lorry banged into the school and the walls tumbled like lego bricks. The children screamed in horror like banshees. Finally, the vehicle halted. The bonnet was badly dented and the windscreen shattered into smithereens.
My face bleached to a sombre pale. Without hesitation, I charged towards the direction of the childcare centre. Before I reached, the rotund driver wobbled out and grabbed the scruff of my neck.
“How dare you cross the road like that?” he boomed in blistering fury. “Let me go!” I struggled free and went searching in desperation for my kid sister.
I let out a startled cry when I spotted Rosy, lying sprawled on the ground under a pile of bricks. Her white uniform was stained crimson red. The smell of fresh blood literally assaulted my nostrils. Her face was drained of all colours and she wore a wretched expression. She was enveloped in mind-numbing pain, bleeding profusely. My heart broke.
“Rosy, Rosy! Look at me!” I cried aloud.
She stirred a little and pressed the paper star into my hand and mumbled, “For you!” She gave a weak smile before losing consciousness.
“Wake up! Wake up!” I pleaded, cradling her puny frame in my arms but there was no response. Each time, her breathing became more weak and labored – then it finally stopped.
Passers-by had gathered and their hearts went out to her as well. Some kind soul had called the ambulance which soon wailed down the street. Competent paramedics checked her vitals and tried to revive her. The paramedics shook their heads, saying gravely, “We have tried our best.” I was sobbing heart-wrenching tears non-stop. She had left me for eternity.
The sky rumbled and started crying buckets too – as if it understood. How I regretted my moment of foolishness! How could I dash across the road? I could have waited for the traffic lights to turn green. My hand clenched the paper star tightly as hot salty tears fell again.
No copyright intended. I have highlighted some good phrases.
Scenario: You were cycling across the road but a lorry came barrelling towards you.
Black ominous clouds moseyed across the sky. I was cycling along a quiet road as I had volunteered to fetch my adorable sister from the child care centre a stone’s throw away. Suddenly, a glare of lightning lit up the sky. I had to hurry up or it might pour!
Across the road, I caught a glimpse of Rosy smiling at me. Her round marble-black eyes sparkled as her face lit up like the brightest bulb on earth. Filled with exuberance, she was beckoning me to come quickly for there was a shiny paper star in her tiny hand. Oh, how I adored her! Not wanting her to wait any longer, I cycled across the road without waiting for the traffic lights to turn green.
Out of the blue, my ears were drawn to a loud rumbling noise. A large lorry was heading straight at me at top speed. Panic engulfed me. My legs turned to stones and cold sweat broke out on my forehead. Oh no! A million thoughts flashed across my mind. It was going to be the end of me. My attention was riveted towards the lorry which continued hurtling towards me at lightning speed.
I closed my eyes, awaiting my impending doom. The tyres tried screeching to a sudden halt. It was to no avail for it was too late to stop. The lorry driver instinctively swerved and barreled straight into Rosy’s childcare centre.
Crash! The lorry banged into the school and the walls tumbled like lego bricks. The children screamed in horror like banshees. Finally, the vehicle halted. The bonnet was badly dented and the windscreen shattered into smithereens.
My face bleached to a sombre pale. Without hesitation, I charged towards the direction of the childcare centre. Before I reached, the rotund driver wobbled out and grabbed the scruff of my neck.
“How dare you cross the road like that?” he boomed in blistering fury. “Let me go!” I struggled free and went searching in desperation for my kid sister.
I let out a startled cry when I spotted Rosy, lying sprawled on the ground under a pile of bricks. Her white uniform was stained crimson red. The smell of fresh blood literally assaulted my nostrils. Her face was drained of all colours and she wore a wretched expression. She was enveloped in mind-numbing pain, bleeding profusely. My heart broke.
“Rosy, Rosy! Look at me!” I cried aloud.
She stirred a little and pressed the paper star into my hand and mumbled, “For you!” She gave a weak smile before losing consciousness.
“Wake up! Wake up!” I pleaded, cradling her puny frame in my arms but there was no response. Each time, her breathing became more weak and labored – then it finally stopped.
Passers-by had gathered and their hearts went out to her as well. Some kind soul had called the ambulance which soon wailed down the street. Competent paramedics checked her vitals and tried to revive her. The paramedics shook their heads, saying gravely, “We have tried our best.” I was sobbing heart-wrenching tears non-stop. She had left me for eternity.
The sky rumbled and started crying buckets too – as if it understood. How I regretted my moment of foolishness! How could I dash across the road? I could have waited for the traffic lights to turn green. My hand clenched the paper star tightly as hot salty tears fell again.
My PSLE Experience
Hello. I just want to share with you my experience. I hope I can give you some advice and tips to embark on your long awaited journey to PSLE. To tell you frankly, I started my journey in November when I was in P5. Many people teased me of being a 'kiasu' student. Many of my friends started preparing for the major exam during the June holidays in P6. Well, I did not care. I told myself not to be influenced by others no matter how criticizing they might be. Honestly, I have already started my journey to Secondary 1, a few weeks after the end of PSLE.
I took the initiative to do research on the topics that are going to be taught in P6. I found many useful and interactive websites to aid me in my studies and preparation. Well, one of my favourite websites is www.oldschool.com.sg . How I wish this website provides secondary 1 materials too so that I can continue using it. This website has consolidated questions from various top schools. They sort them in topics too! So convenient! I have posted some useful websites here too. http://journey-to-psle.blogspot.sg/2013/10/useful-websites.html
Enough blabbering. I am going to share with you my timetable for the June holiday. I have no computer or watching TV sessions. Nope. Nothing. Nothing at all. Well, if you can not resist to the temptation of having free time (what I meant for free time is to play, not to eat or bathe), you can relieve yourself from stress by watching 5-10 minutes of TV programmes or listening to your favourite songs. Sometimes, I agree that watching TV programmes once in the blue moon during PSLE period is an advantage to yourself. Not only can you relieve yourself from stress, you can learn a few words from the subtitles and add them to your word bank.
Exercise is a 'die-die must do' activity. I would go exercising at least twice a week, either in school or at the park. However, if you start to adapt yourself to a fit and healthy environment (which you do not really do that frequently) a few weeks before PSLE to keep fit, I would suggest not to exercise at all. You may fall sick if you force yourself to exercise all of the sudden and things will be worse. However, not to worry. This is when vitamin tablets and chicken essence come in to rescue you! But, to take precautions, you have to try the tablets or chicken essence to see if your body is suitable to take a certain brand of the tablets or chicken essence. Safety first!
I would like to recommend some books that had helped me along the way. They are really useful books and I hope you will take these books into consideration.
English-
- PSLE English Oral Tutor by Joey Teo (EPH)
- Thematic Vocabulary by Dorcas Ang (Success Publications)
- Phrases for Sensational Writing by Agnes Ng and Jemmies Siew (Casco)
- Power-up Grammar and Language Usage for PSLE by Ho Lin Lee (Longman)
- Score the A* You Deserve in PSLE Writing by Adeline Yeo (Candid Creation Publishing) (Price for this book is a bit steep though. However, if you are willing to invest on your books, it's worth it.)
- Unit Transfer Method by Sunny Tan (Price for this book is a bit steep though. However, if you are willing to invest on your books, it's worth it.)
- Challenging 4-in-1 Maths by Dawn Tai (EPH)
- Mathematics Challenging Problems by Andrew Er (EPH)
- Challenging Maths Problems for the Advanced Learner by Jeanie Yeo (Marshall Cavendish) (Watch out! If you buy this book, prepare for your brain to 'crack'! The questions in here are so challenging but I agree that they are good practice.)
- And of course, test papers! Tests papers are good to practice Maths.
- Primary Chinese Graded Writing Series (Advanced) by 石滨 (Marshall Cavendish)
- 100% Science Process Skills by Dr Constance Goh (Casco)
- PSLE Ultimate Science Guide by Low Wai Cheng and Leong May Kuen (EPH)
- Science Process Skills by Angeline Tan (SAP)
- And of course, test papers! Doing science test papers is important as you can get an exposure of many different variety of questions.
I have finally finished my PSLE and all I want to say is, thank you to all teachers who had braved through the storms with us and unleashing us to our greatest potential. Now, let's pat ourselves on the back for finally overcoming the hard times. I wish all P6 students all the best for your upcoming major examination----PSLE.
Tips on Synthesis and Transformation 1
1) The cookies in the box have star-shaped icing on them.
Ans: Every cookie in the box has star-shaped icing on it.
(Take note! The 'cookies' and 'have' have to be changed into singular form because of 'every'. It applies to each, none of, one of the, etc.)
2) This is the building. My office used to be located here.
Ans: This is the building where my office used to be located. (correct)
(Take note! 'Where' is used to refer to a place or location where and event is taking place. Adverbs like 'here' and 'there'have to be omitted.)
This is the building where my office used to be located here. (wrong)
3) They like dancing. They like playing badminton too.
Ans: Besides dancing, they like playing badminton. (correct)
(Take note! 'Besides' is used to express an event happening in addition to another. Words like 'also' and 'too' have to be omitted.)
Besides dancing, they like playing badminton too. (wrong)
Well, this is my first advice for synthesis and transformation. I hope I can post more to help :)
Ans: Every cookie in the box has star-shaped icing on it.
(Take note! The 'cookies' and 'have' have to be changed into singular form because of 'every'. It applies to each, none of, one of the, etc.)
2) This is the building. My office used to be located here.
Ans: This is the building where my office used to be located. (correct)
(Take note! 'Where' is used to refer to a place or location where and event is taking place. Adverbs like 'here' and 'there'have to be omitted.)
This is the building where my office used to be located here. (wrong)
3) They like dancing. They like playing badminton too.
Ans: Besides dancing, they like playing badminton. (correct)
(Take note! 'Besides' is used to express an event happening in addition to another. Words like 'also' and 'too' have to be omitted.)
Besides dancing, they like playing badminton too. (wrong)
Well, this is my first advice for synthesis and transformation. I hope I can post more to help :)
Handling Open-ended questions
Hello. This is adapted from Road to PSLE. No copyright intended.
Comprehension (Open Ended) Section accounts for 20 marks out of a total 200 in the English PSLE Paper. That makes up 10% of the whole paper. Unfortunately, this section is where students lose most marks in English Paper 2. As such, it is important to pay close attention to this very important section.
There are many ways to approach Comprehension (Open Ended) Section. However, I find that the most effective way is to read the questions before reading the passage. By reading the questions first, you focus on what is asked, rather than what is in the passage itself.
Hence, with your focus on what is asked even before reading the passage, you will be able to pinpoint the answer when you start reading the passage – a clear advantage over those who read the passage before reading the questions.
Here is an example. Let us read the questions and see if we understand the story even before reading the passage itself.
Questions from the Comprehension Open Ended Section of Ai Tong School P5 English SA1 2004.
Q1. How were the men feeling while they were on the landing craft?
The key phrase that gives us a good hint is “landing craft”. Landing crafts are not civilian vehicles. These vehicles are used by the military and/or rescue mission parties. As such, we can tell that “the men” may be from the military or some rescue team either on a mission or under going training.
The above demonstrates that even without reading the passage, simply by reading the questions first, we already have an idea of what the passage is about.
Q2. Explain in your own words the phrase “betraying of inner feelings” in the first paragraph.
Q3. What was the relationship between Vince and Eddie?
We are introduced to 2 men. Vince and Eddie. Again, without even reading the passage yet, we know that there are 2 characters at least, in this passage.
Q4. How did the British differentiate their planes from those of the enemies?
The words “enemies” and “British” are dead giveaways. This is the first conclusive piece of information that tells us that this story may be about a war scenario. For students who have read widely, they may even be able to relate this background to World War 2 or the Falklands War, where the British made contact with enemy planes.
Q5. What does the word “them” in the fourth paragraph refer to?
Q6. Do you think that Vince and Eddie were proud to be part of the British army?
Question number 6 confirms that the 2 men are serving the British military during a war period.
Q7. Which word in paragraph 7 tells you that the soldiers moved in a group in the water?
The key words “moved in a group in the water” suggest that the soldiers are infantry men. Again, students who read widely will know that infantry men move in groups in such terrain.
Q8. Why did the soldiers “believe they had seen their last day”? (third last paragraph)
A hint that this may be a life and death situation, which aptly fits a war scenario.
Q9. What do you think happened to Eddie in the end of the passage?
Q10. Who helped Eddie when he lost his balance? Why do you think so?
By reading all the ten questions, we can reasonably conclude that:
1. This is a war scenario.
2. The story is seen from the British perspective.
3. It could be about World War 2 or the Falklands War.
4. While the story is about the British at war, it centres on two individual soldiers, Vince and Eddie, their relationship and their fate.
It can be seen very clearly that if you were to read the questions before reading the passage, you would have collected some very important information.
You are now be in a better position to spot the answers in the passage because you will be on the lookout for the information you have already gathered from the questions.
Now compare the passage below and see if the information we have gathered from the questions tallies with the passage itself.
The Comprehension Passage
The mass of helmets lurched backwards as the landing craft plunged into the dark water. Sea spray glistened on the surface of everything it touched, catching the light of the artillery fire. Private Eddie Hagen glanced at the faces of the men around him. Some were praying, while others held pictures or mementos of sweethearts and family before carefully tucking them away inside their pockets. The rest stared into the unknown, their faces expressionless, betraying no inner feelings.
“This is it, Buddy!” Eddie managed a smile in return for the hearty slap on his shoulder and twisted around to acknowledge a friend.
“We’re finally going to get the Japanese!” Vince grinned down at Eddie. “Remember, buddy, stick with me. We’ll both do just fine. Besides, your sister never will never marry me if I let anything happen to you.”
At this moment, both men were distracted by an explosion which sent more spray into the craft. The roar of airplanes filled the sky. As the planes passed overhead, the black and white “invasion” stripes painted on them could be seen. The marking let the British know that these were their own, for protection against their anti-aircraft guns. The soldiers watched them as they made their way over the cliffs.
Eddie recalled the time when Vince and him signed up for the British army at the same time. After basic training, the two strutted like peacocks before family and friends. As full-fledged fighting men, they would now join in the fight against the Japanese.
Suddenly, the barking of orders from the platoon leader interrupted Eddie’s thoughts. The back wall of the craft crashed into the water and the throng of men moved forward. Plunging into the icy water, the British soldiers gasped as the cold wetness penetrated their clothing. The dark, green depths caused many to stumble, already weighted down with excess gear. This, combined with the mortar fire aimed at them from the top of the cliffs, caused many to believe they had seen the last day.
As Eddie struggled toward the shore, a bullet pierced through the man in front of him, causing him to fall backward. He looked into the lifeless eyes before the sea covered the soldier’s face and claimed his spirit.
A second later, Eddie felt a sharp pain in his side. Before losing his balance, he felt a strong arm lifting him up.
So was the information collected from the questions, before we read the passage accurate? Did you have the feeling that you have "read this passage before"? That's because you have read the questions first, giving you some very important clues as to what the passage is about.
The trick here is that while you are reading the passage, take note of the "familiar" pieces of information you gathered earlier. Those pieces of information hold the key to your answers to the comprehension questions.
For example, for Q1, How were the men feeling while they were on the landing craft? Have you noticed that in the passage, you noticed a familiar scenario when you read this part of the passage?
The mass of helmets lurched backwards as the landing craftplunged into the dark water. Sea spray glistened on the surface of everything it touched, catching the light of the artillery fire. Private Eddie Hagen glanced at the faces of the men around him. Some were praying, while others held pictures or mementos of sweethearts and family before carefully tucking them away inside their pockets. The rest stared into the unknown, their faces expressionless, betraying no inner feelings.
The question asks, "How were the men feeling...." That means you are expected to describe the men's feelings and emotions.
So now in your own words, you have to answer Q1, based on the information above. When people pray, hold mementos of loved ones and "stare into the unknown", what do these actions tell you? Are they happy? Sad? Aniticipative? Worried? Enthusiatic? Anxious?
Comprehension (Open Ended) Section accounts for 20 marks out of a total 200 in the English PSLE Paper. That makes up 10% of the whole paper. Unfortunately, this section is where students lose most marks in English Paper 2. As such, it is important to pay close attention to this very important section.
There are many ways to approach Comprehension (Open Ended) Section. However, I find that the most effective way is to read the questions before reading the passage. By reading the questions first, you focus on what is asked, rather than what is in the passage itself.
Hence, with your focus on what is asked even before reading the passage, you will be able to pinpoint the answer when you start reading the passage – a clear advantage over those who read the passage before reading the questions.
Here is an example. Let us read the questions and see if we understand the story even before reading the passage itself.
Questions from the Comprehension Open Ended Section of Ai Tong School P5 English SA1 2004.
Q1. How were the men feeling while they were on the landing craft?
The key phrase that gives us a good hint is “landing craft”. Landing crafts are not civilian vehicles. These vehicles are used by the military and/or rescue mission parties. As such, we can tell that “the men” may be from the military or some rescue team either on a mission or under going training.
The above demonstrates that even without reading the passage, simply by reading the questions first, we already have an idea of what the passage is about.
Q2. Explain in your own words the phrase “betraying of inner feelings” in the first paragraph.
Q3. What was the relationship between Vince and Eddie?
We are introduced to 2 men. Vince and Eddie. Again, without even reading the passage yet, we know that there are 2 characters at least, in this passage.
Q4. How did the British differentiate their planes from those of the enemies?
The words “enemies” and “British” are dead giveaways. This is the first conclusive piece of information that tells us that this story may be about a war scenario. For students who have read widely, they may even be able to relate this background to World War 2 or the Falklands War, where the British made contact with enemy planes.
Q5. What does the word “them” in the fourth paragraph refer to?
Q6. Do you think that Vince and Eddie were proud to be part of the British army?
Question number 6 confirms that the 2 men are serving the British military during a war period.
Q7. Which word in paragraph 7 tells you that the soldiers moved in a group in the water?
The key words “moved in a group in the water” suggest that the soldiers are infantry men. Again, students who read widely will know that infantry men move in groups in such terrain.
Q8. Why did the soldiers “believe they had seen their last day”? (third last paragraph)
A hint that this may be a life and death situation, which aptly fits a war scenario.
Q9. What do you think happened to Eddie in the end of the passage?
Q10. Who helped Eddie when he lost his balance? Why do you think so?
By reading all the ten questions, we can reasonably conclude that:
1. This is a war scenario.
2. The story is seen from the British perspective.
3. It could be about World War 2 or the Falklands War.
4. While the story is about the British at war, it centres on two individual soldiers, Vince and Eddie, their relationship and their fate.
It can be seen very clearly that if you were to read the questions before reading the passage, you would have collected some very important information.
You are now be in a better position to spot the answers in the passage because you will be on the lookout for the information you have already gathered from the questions.
Now compare the passage below and see if the information we have gathered from the questions tallies with the passage itself.
The Comprehension Passage
The mass of helmets lurched backwards as the landing craft plunged into the dark water. Sea spray glistened on the surface of everything it touched, catching the light of the artillery fire. Private Eddie Hagen glanced at the faces of the men around him. Some were praying, while others held pictures or mementos of sweethearts and family before carefully tucking them away inside their pockets. The rest stared into the unknown, their faces expressionless, betraying no inner feelings.
“This is it, Buddy!” Eddie managed a smile in return for the hearty slap on his shoulder and twisted around to acknowledge a friend.
“We’re finally going to get the Japanese!” Vince grinned down at Eddie. “Remember, buddy, stick with me. We’ll both do just fine. Besides, your sister never will never marry me if I let anything happen to you.”
At this moment, both men were distracted by an explosion which sent more spray into the craft. The roar of airplanes filled the sky. As the planes passed overhead, the black and white “invasion” stripes painted on them could be seen. The marking let the British know that these were their own, for protection against their anti-aircraft guns. The soldiers watched them as they made their way over the cliffs.
Eddie recalled the time when Vince and him signed up for the British army at the same time. After basic training, the two strutted like peacocks before family and friends. As full-fledged fighting men, they would now join in the fight against the Japanese.
Suddenly, the barking of orders from the platoon leader interrupted Eddie’s thoughts. The back wall of the craft crashed into the water and the throng of men moved forward. Plunging into the icy water, the British soldiers gasped as the cold wetness penetrated their clothing. The dark, green depths caused many to stumble, already weighted down with excess gear. This, combined with the mortar fire aimed at them from the top of the cliffs, caused many to believe they had seen the last day.
As Eddie struggled toward the shore, a bullet pierced through the man in front of him, causing him to fall backward. He looked into the lifeless eyes before the sea covered the soldier’s face and claimed his spirit.
A second later, Eddie felt a sharp pain in his side. Before losing his balance, he felt a strong arm lifting him up.
So was the information collected from the questions, before we read the passage accurate? Did you have the feeling that you have "read this passage before"? That's because you have read the questions first, giving you some very important clues as to what the passage is about.
The trick here is that while you are reading the passage, take note of the "familiar" pieces of information you gathered earlier. Those pieces of information hold the key to your answers to the comprehension questions.
For example, for Q1, How were the men feeling while they were on the landing craft? Have you noticed that in the passage, you noticed a familiar scenario when you read this part of the passage?
The mass of helmets lurched backwards as the landing craftplunged into the dark water. Sea spray glistened on the surface of everything it touched, catching the light of the artillery fire. Private Eddie Hagen glanced at the faces of the men around him. Some were praying, while others held pictures or mementos of sweethearts and family before carefully tucking them away inside their pockets. The rest stared into the unknown, their faces expressionless, betraying no inner feelings.
The question asks, "How were the men feeling...." That means you are expected to describe the men's feelings and emotions.
So now in your own words, you have to answer Q1, based on the information above. When people pray, hold mementos of loved ones and "stare into the unknown", what do these actions tell you? Are they happy? Sad? Aniticipative? Worried? Enthusiatic? Anxious?
Monday, October 7, 2013
Conversation Topics (Oral)
This is created by me. Well, I found some of the questions on Internet. Most of the questions just came out of nowhere... I combined them together so that you can practice for your PSLE Oral.
Conversation Topics (English)
1) Initial prompt: Do you swim as a form of exercise? Why?
Additional prompts: How does exercising help you? Why?
What event or activity has your school organised so far to promote health?
2) Initial prompt: Have you been involved in your school’s Teacher’s Day Concert?
Additional prompts: How do you feel about taking part in the concert? Why?
What do you learn from taking part in the concert?
3) Initial prompt: Did you witness any incident on a public transport?
Additional prompts: What public transport do you normally take?
Do you think that people should give up their seats to the ones in need? Why?
4) Initial prompt: Have you been to a camp?
Additional prompts: Do you think that we should follow our teachers’ instructions at all times?
Why is teamwork important?
5) Initial prompt: Have you been to a night market?
Additional prompts: What do you think stall holders in night markets should do if they want to attract more customers?
Do you think that cleanliness is essential in night markets or in public areas?
6) Initial prompt: What is the role of policemen in our society?
Additional prompts: Other than the policemen, who also have the responsibility to help the society? Why?
7) Initial prompt: Why is it that we can’t create noises in the hospital?
Additional prompts: Have you been so sick that you have to stay in bed every time?
8) Initial prompt: Do you like to go shopping? Why?
Additional prompts: Do you think that parents should look after their kids? Why?
Why is it important to have surveillances in most shops?
9) Initial prompt: Is the road a dangerous place? Why?
Additional prompts: What do you think might have been the cause of road accidents?
10) Initial prompt: Why is it important to look after your properties?
Additional prompts: Do you help to tidy up your house?
Conversation Topics (English)
1) Initial prompt: Do you swim as a form of exercise? Why?
Additional prompts: How does exercising help you? Why?
What event or activity has your school organised so far to promote health?
2) Initial prompt: Have you been involved in your school’s Teacher’s Day Concert?
Additional prompts: How do you feel about taking part in the concert? Why?
What do you learn from taking part in the concert?
3) Initial prompt: Did you witness any incident on a public transport?
Additional prompts: What public transport do you normally take?
Do you think that people should give up their seats to the ones in need? Why?
4) Initial prompt: Have you been to a camp?
Additional prompts: Do you think that we should follow our teachers’ instructions at all times?
Why is teamwork important?
5) Initial prompt: Have you been to a night market?
Additional prompts: What do you think stall holders in night markets should do if they want to attract more customers?
Do you think that cleanliness is essential in night markets or in public areas?
6) Initial prompt: What is the role of policemen in our society?
Additional prompts: Other than the policemen, who also have the responsibility to help the society? Why?
7) Initial prompt: Why is it that we can’t create noises in the hospital?
Additional prompts: Have you been so sick that you have to stay in bed every time?
8) Initial prompt: Do you like to go shopping? Why?
Additional prompts: Do you think that parents should look after their kids? Why?
Why is it important to have surveillances in most shops?
9) Initial prompt: Is the road a dangerous place? Why?
Additional prompts: What do you think might have been the cause of road accidents?
10) Initial prompt: Why is it important to look after your properties?
Additional prompts: Do you help to tidy up your house?
Phrases to describe fear (compo)
I don't know where I adapted this from but it really helped me a lot. There are even some exercises for you. I have highlighted the phrases and words which are related to fear.
The bullies closed in on the pair of siblings. When cornered by the bullies, Tom felt nauseous and gagged frenziedly. Confronted with impending danger, Tom behaved cowardly as he hid behind his younger sister, Jane. Jane turned pale with terror but she stood up to the bullies who were extorting money from them. Cold perspiration broke out across her forehead when she saw she was intimidated by the bullies. Yet she refused to give in. her fearful heart was pounding very fast as she racked her brain for an escape for her brother and herself. Just as the bullies reached for her collar, Jane screamed, “Police!”
The bullies’ attention was diverted for a moment. Jane grabbed her brother’s hand and ran to the nearest police post. They reported the case and heaved a sigh of relief. It was a nerve- wrecking experience that left her trembling in fear all over.
Part Two: Underline the phrases related to fear.
• Appalled at the deplorable conditions, she stood aghast totally flabbergasted.
• A foreboding premonition came to mind when the grandfather clock sounded ominously at the stroke of twelve midnight.
• Confronted with impending danger, the boy behaved cowardly as he hid behind his younger sister.
• Mother was petrified and her face froze momentously.
• Father was startled by our nasty prank and his smile faded the instant he saw us.
• Mother felt her throat go dry when she saw the grim expression on the doctor’s face.
• When confronted by his phobia for heights, brother’s lips would turn into a deathly grey and he would gasp and pant involuntarily.
• It was a nerve wrecking experience that left her trembling in fear all over.
• The darkness swamped out any spot of light, sending an icy chill down his spine.
• The frightened boy bit his fingers fretfully.
• The hysterical crowd screamed and went amok during the escape from the fire.
• She freaked out and screamed hysterically when red gigantic ants crawled all over her schoolbag.
Part Three: Underline the phrases related to fear
FEAR OF BEING CAUGHT
The darkness swamped out any spot of light sending an icy chill down his spine. His breath was caught in his throat as he tried to steady is breathing. It was his first time. He held the heavy metal lock in his hand shakily. He glanced around nervously, his lips turned into a deathly grey as he gasped and panted involuntarily. His palms were drenched with sweat as he fumbled nervously as he picked the lock. The scraping sound was sending anxiety down his back. His face was stretched thin with fear. Suddenly the door slammed shut behind him making him jump out of his skin.
Part Four: Fill in the blanks with a suitable answer.
manically breath freaked nerve-wrecking terrified trembling
phobia deathly pasty nauseous
It was a 1. __________ experience that left her 2. ___________ in fear. When the lights finally came back on, her 3. ___________ was caught in her windpipe as she tried to steady her breathing. She thought she was already dead in the lift. Jane was 4. __________ of the dark.
It happened very suddenly. One moment Jane was alone in the lift humming a cheery tune; the next moment the lift just stopped moving and all the lights went out. Jane 5. __________ out and screamed 6. ___________. In the face of her fear of darkness, the timid girl felt 7. ___________ and gagged frenziedly. Her lips turned into a 8. ____________ grey and she started to gasp and pant involuntarily when she came face to face with her 9. _____________. In her terror, she rained her fists against the metal door and begged for help.
Jane was quivering all over when the rescue workers got to her. She looked 10. ___________ and her eyes were devoid of life. Fear was written all over her face. Her mother pulled her into a tight hug and reassured her that everything was fine.
Part Five: Fill in the appropriate sense( Sight, Sound, Touch, Smell or Taste) that best describes each underlined phrase.
The weird sounds from the backyard were inducing fear (1. _______) in the two boys. “There could be a burglar!” the elder of the two boys gushed. The younger sibling was so frightened that he bit his fingers fretfully (2. _________). Their suspicion sent an icy chill down their spines. (3. _________). Taking matters into their own hands, the elder one ventured into the backyard to investigate. His fearful heart was beating deafeningly against his ribcage (4. __________) as he went closer and closer to the source of the weird sounds.
ANSWERS
Part Four
1. nerve-wrecking 2. trembling 3. breath 4. terrified 5. freaked
6. manically 7. nauseous 8. deathly 9. phobia 10. pasty
Part Five
1. sound 2. taste 3. touch 4. sound 5. sight 6. touch 7. touch
8. touch 9. sight 10. taste
The bullies closed in on the pair of siblings. When cornered by the bullies, Tom felt nauseous and gagged frenziedly. Confronted with impending danger, Tom behaved cowardly as he hid behind his younger sister, Jane. Jane turned pale with terror but she stood up to the bullies who were extorting money from them. Cold perspiration broke out across her forehead when she saw she was intimidated by the bullies. Yet she refused to give in. her fearful heart was pounding very fast as she racked her brain for an escape for her brother and herself. Just as the bullies reached for her collar, Jane screamed, “Police!”
The bullies’ attention was diverted for a moment. Jane grabbed her brother’s hand and ran to the nearest police post. They reported the case and heaved a sigh of relief. It was a nerve- wrecking experience that left her trembling in fear all over.
Part Two: Underline the phrases related to fear.
• Appalled at the deplorable conditions, she stood aghast totally flabbergasted.
• A foreboding premonition came to mind when the grandfather clock sounded ominously at the stroke of twelve midnight.
• Confronted with impending danger, the boy behaved cowardly as he hid behind his younger sister.
• Mother was petrified and her face froze momentously.
• Father was startled by our nasty prank and his smile faded the instant he saw us.
• Mother felt her throat go dry when she saw the grim expression on the doctor’s face.
• When confronted by his phobia for heights, brother’s lips would turn into a deathly grey and he would gasp and pant involuntarily.
• It was a nerve wrecking experience that left her trembling in fear all over.
• The darkness swamped out any spot of light, sending an icy chill down his spine.
• The frightened boy bit his fingers fretfully.
• The hysterical crowd screamed and went amok during the escape from the fire.
• She freaked out and screamed hysterically when red gigantic ants crawled all over her schoolbag.
Part Three: Underline the phrases related to fear
FEAR OF BEING CAUGHT
The darkness swamped out any spot of light sending an icy chill down his spine. His breath was caught in his throat as he tried to steady is breathing. It was his first time. He held the heavy metal lock in his hand shakily. He glanced around nervously, his lips turned into a deathly grey as he gasped and panted involuntarily. His palms were drenched with sweat as he fumbled nervously as he picked the lock. The scraping sound was sending anxiety down his back. His face was stretched thin with fear. Suddenly the door slammed shut behind him making him jump out of his skin.
Part Four: Fill in the blanks with a suitable answer.
manically breath freaked nerve-wrecking terrified trembling
phobia deathly pasty nauseous
It was a 1. __________ experience that left her 2. ___________ in fear. When the lights finally came back on, her 3. ___________ was caught in her windpipe as she tried to steady her breathing. She thought she was already dead in the lift. Jane was 4. __________ of the dark.
It happened very suddenly. One moment Jane was alone in the lift humming a cheery tune; the next moment the lift just stopped moving and all the lights went out. Jane 5. __________ out and screamed 6. ___________. In the face of her fear of darkness, the timid girl felt 7. ___________ and gagged frenziedly. Her lips turned into a 8. ____________ grey and she started to gasp and pant involuntarily when she came face to face with her 9. _____________. In her terror, she rained her fists against the metal door and begged for help.
Jane was quivering all over when the rescue workers got to her. She looked 10. ___________ and her eyes were devoid of life. Fear was written all over her face. Her mother pulled her into a tight hug and reassured her that everything was fine.
Part Five: Fill in the appropriate sense( Sight, Sound, Touch, Smell or Taste) that best describes each underlined phrase.
The weird sounds from the backyard were inducing fear (1. _______) in the two boys. “There could be a burglar!” the elder of the two boys gushed. The younger sibling was so frightened that he bit his fingers fretfully (2. _________). Their suspicion sent an icy chill down their spines. (3. _________). Taking matters into their own hands, the elder one ventured into the backyard to investigate. His fearful heart was beating deafeningly against his ribcage (4. __________) as he went closer and closer to the source of the weird sounds.
ANSWERS
Part Four
1. nerve-wrecking 2. trembling 3. breath 4. terrified 5. freaked
6. manically 7. nauseous 8. deathly 9. phobia 10. pasty
Part Five
1. sound 2. taste 3. touch 4. sound 5. sight 6. touch 7. touch
8. touch 9. sight 10. taste
Tips for PSLE Oral (Conversation)
Here are some tips for oral in the conversation topic. This is adapted from koobits.com and the ones in brackets were added by me. (edited)
Tip 1 : Have good body language
In any normal conversation, body language takes up a huge part of the initial impression. (First impression counts!) We can instill good body language in our child so that he or she start off on the right foot. Here is what you can do:
There are some common phrases that can come (in) very useful, be it for stalling time or when connecting ideas during conversation. Below are some examples:
Structure is a very useful way of framing an answer so that the child knows how to continue with the conversation as well as to give more in-depth opinion. There are a couple of easy ways to frame a conversation:
1) Breaking answers into points or part(s) : 3 ways, 3 examples, 3 reasons, etc.
2)Breaking answers into short and long run
3)Breaking answers (into) past and future: " I used to do that in the past... but in the future, I think..."
(Remember! In the picture section, you have to use PRESENT CONTINUOUS tense while in conversation, it depends.)
Tip 1 : Have good body language
In any normal conversation, body language takes up a huge part of the initial impression. (First impression counts!) We can instill good body language in our child so that he or she start off on the right foot. Here is what you can do:
- Smile at the examiner and greet them
- Look (at) them in the eye and be confident
- Nod the head to acknowledge what the examiner has spoken
- Sit straight and have a (good) body posture
There are some common phrases that can come (in) very useful, be it for stalling time or when connecting ideas during conversation. Below are some examples:
- For stalling time : "Well...", "If that is the case...", "As a matter of (fact)..."
- For expressing a view or opinion : " I agree that...", "I strongly believe that...", "I doubt that..." , "I confer that...", "In my view..."
- For giving examples : "Personally, I ...", "As an example...", "I have seen..."
Structure is a very useful way of framing an answer so that the child knows how to continue with the conversation as well as to give more in-depth opinion. There are a couple of easy ways to frame a conversation:
1) Breaking answers into points or part(s) : 3 ways, 3 examples, 3 reasons, etc.
2)Breaking answers into short and long run
3)Breaking answers (into) past and future: " I used to do that in the past... but in the future, I think..."
(Remember! In the picture section, you have to use PRESENT CONTINUOUS tense while in conversation, it depends.)
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Useful websites
Here are some useful websites that I am going to recommend you. I, too, learn from these websites and they gave me more knowledge and confidence to soar higher. I hope these websites will also unleash you to your fullest potential :)
1)
http://prischoolmaths.blogspot.sg/
2)
http://road-to-psle.blogspot.sg/
3)
http://unittransfermethod.blogspot.sg/2011/10/title-psle-2011-question.html
4)
http://psle2010a.blogspot.sg/search?updated-min=2011-01-01T00:00:00%2B08:00&updated-max=2012-01-01T00:00:00%2B08:00&max-results=50
5)
http://psle-revision.blogspot.sg/
6)
http://thelearningworkshop.blogspot.sg/search/label/A*%20PSLE
Well, I guess that's all I have...
1)
http://prischoolmaths.blogspot.sg/
2)
http://road-to-psle.blogspot.sg/
3)
http://unittransfermethod.blogspot.sg/2011/10/title-psle-2011-question.html
4)
http://psle2010a.blogspot.sg/search?updated-min=2011-01-01T00:00:00%2B08:00&updated-max=2012-01-01T00:00:00%2B08:00&max-results=50
5)
http://psle-revision.blogspot.sg/
6)
http://thelearningworkshop.blogspot.sg/search/label/A*%20PSLE
Well, I guess that's all I have...
PSLE OVER
PSLE is finally over. I have not posted anything since the end of the exam because I was watching my dramas :) Hehe... I hope that I can help in any way for your PSLE :) I will post 5-6 things in two days.
Monday, July 8, 2013
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Adaptations (Penguins)
1 Why do penguins always stand with
their back facing the sun?
Ans: As
penguins live in cold places, they get cold easily. When they turn their backs,
it makes them warmer as in science, black absorb more heat than white.
2 Why are penguins black and white?
Ans: When it gets cold, they turn their backs towards
the sun to generate heat in their bodies and when they are too hot they will
face the sun with their white fronts and reflect the sun’s rays. Also because
when penguins are swimming if they are swimming more towards to the top it is
harder for predators to see them because of the light from above, the bottom is
blacker so it is also hard to see them from above.
Why
do penguins need webbed feet?
Ans: (for
swimming) The webbed feet create greater surface area than say, claws, to push
against the water and propel the penguin forward.
How
do penguins hold their breath under water for about 20 minutes?
Ans: Penguins are not fish.
They don't have gills and they need to breathe air. When diving to catch food,
penguins are able to slow their heartbeat to just a few beats per minute and
their blood is packed with haemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that
carries oxygen. This allows them to stay under water for many minutes at a
time. Penguins are adapted to be extreme divers.
Adaptations (Camels)
Facts about camels
Why do camels have long eyelashes?
The long eyelashes keep sand out of the camel's eyes.
Thick eyebrows shield the eyes from the desert sun.
Why does a camel have nostrils which can close?
A camels nostrils can close so it doesn't get sand up its nose.
Other Adaptations:
1. A camel can go a week or more without water, and they can last for
several months without food. They can drink up to 32 gallons (46 litres) of
water at one drinking session!
2. Camels store fat in the hump, not water. The fat can be metabolised for
energy.
3. Unlike most mammals, a healthy camel's body temperature fluctuates
(changes) throughout the day from 34°C to 41.7°C (93°F-107°F.) This allows the
camel to conserve water by not sweating as the environmental temperature rises.
4. Camels feet are wide so they can walk on sand more easily. Their huge
feet help them to walk on sand without sinking into it.
5. Camels have thick lips so they can eat the prickly desert plants with
out feeling pain.
6. The colour of their bodies helps them to blend into their environment.
7. Camel's ears are covered with hair, even on the inside. The hair helps
keep out sand or dust that might blow into the animal's ears.
Facts on Maglev Train
In the five-years series, they tested you on the Maglev Train. So, here is the info about it!
Maglev Train
Maglev (derived from magnetic levitation) is a method of propulsion that
uses magnetic levitation to propel vehicles with magnets rather than with
wheels, axles and bearings.Their non-reliance on friction means that
acceleration and deceleration can surpass that of wheeled transports, and they
are unaffected by weather.If you've ever played with magnets, you know that
opposite poles attract and like poles repel each other. This is the basic
principle behind electromagnetic propulsion. Electromagnets are similar to
other magnets in that they attract metal objects, but the magnetic pull is
temporary.
(adapted from wiki)
Hellooo! Some PSLE math questions to blow your mind! Comment below if you want the answers!
1)There are some workers. They arranged chairs into short rows and long rows.
There are 18 short rows and 7 long rows. Each long row has 16 more chairs than
the short row. Half of the chairs are arranged into long rows while 3/7 of
chairs are arranged in short rows. The rest of the remaining chairs are stacked
in a corner. a) What fraction of
the chairs are stacked in the corner? b) How many chairs are arranged in rows?
2)There are 30 steps between Levels 5 and 6. A toy robot takes 13 1/3 seconds
to move up 20 steps if it moves up the first 10 steps at its highest speed and
the next 10 steps in its lowest speed. It will take 14 seconds to reach Level 6
from Level 5 if it moves up the first 24 steps at its highest speed and the
next 6 steps at its lowest speed.Find the shortest time it will take to reach
Level 6 from Level 5.
Youth Day
Hello! Today is Youth Day. (08/07/13) PSLE is nearing... Everybody taking PSLE this year, I wish you all good luck! May you go to the school of your choice! :)
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