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PAPER 1
SECTION A : DIRECTED WRITING

SECTION B : CONTINUOUS WRITING

PAPER 2
SECTION A : SHORT TEXTS & GRAPHICS

SECTION B : STRUCTURED RESPONSE

SECTION C : READING COMPREHENSION &
SUMMARY

SECTION D : LITERATURE

DIRECTED
WRITING
Paper 1 Section A

BACK TO MAIN MENU

ANALYSIS OF PAST YEAR EXAM PAPERS (2001 2010)

Year

Topics

2001

An article for school newsletter

2002

A talk on road safety

2003

A formal letter to a class teacher

2004

A report to principal

2005

An informal letter (to a friend)

2006

An informal letter (to a friend)

2007

A talk on a reference book

2008

An article for the school magazine

2009

A report to the principal

2010

An informal letter (to a cousin)

PAST YEAR QUESTIONS

SPM 2010

Section A : Directed Writing

(35 minutes)

Your cousin has been chosen to take part in the National Service Programme and is
worried about going. You have decided to write a letter to tell him/her about the benefits
of the programme and encourage your cousin to go.
Use the notes given below to write your letter.

develop good habits

make new friends
learn leadership skills / responsibility
exciting activities
see different parts of Malaysia
be independent
gain new experiences
teamwork
strengthen love of country
keep fit and healthy
learn survival skills
discipline

When writing the letter, you must :

lay out your letter correctly ( address, greeting, closure )
use all the notes given
remember that your letter is to your cousin

1.

2.

Allocation of marks :
Content

15 marks

Language

20 marks

Total

35 marks

Marks for content are awarded as follows :

Format:
F1

Address

1 mark

F2

Greeting

1 mark

F3

Closure

1 mark

Content:
C1 -

develop good habits

1 mark

C2 -

make new friends

1 mark

C3 -

learn leadership skills / responsibility

1 mark

C4 -

exciting activities

1 mark

C5 -

see different parts of Malaysia

1 mark

C6 -

be independent

1 mark

C7 -

gain new experiences

1 mark

C8 -

teamwork

1 mark

C9 -

strengthen love of country

1 mark

C10 -

keep fit and healthy

1 mark

C11 -

learn survival skills

1 mark

C12 -

discipline

1 mark

F/C

F1

CONTENT POINT

MARK

Address of receiver (your cousins house

address)

1 mark

Address of sender
F2

F3

0 mark
(not a formal letter)

To: Name of your cousin (Rosli)

1 mark

Your cousin,

1 mark

Name mentioned + signature (Aireen)

1 mark

Yours faithfullyAireen

0 mark
(not a formal letter)

The first benefit of NS programme is to

develop good habits

1 mark

Another reason is to make new friends

1 mark

Students do not mix around with others

but keep to themselves

0 mark
(irrelevant)

C3

Has the opportunity to learn leadership

skills or responsibility

1 mark

C4

Can participate in exciting activities

1 mark

Can see different parts of Malaysia

1 mark

Can visit different parts of Malaysia

0 mark
(meaning distorted)

C1

C2

C5

Learn to be independent
C6
Can rely on others in teamwork

1 mark
0 mark
(meaning distorted)

C7

Able to gain new experiences

1 mark

C8

The spirit of teamwork in carrying out

activities as a group

1 mark

Able to strengthen love for our country

1 mark

Able to strengthen love for one another

after the NS programmme

0 mark
(meaning distorted)

C9

C10

Able to keep fit & healthy

1 mark

F/C

CONTENT POINT
Able to learn survival skills

C11

C12

Able to help each other to survive during

the NS programme
Able to discipline oneself during & after
the NS programme

MARK
1 mark
0 mark
(meaning distorted)
1 mark

SAMPLE ANSWER

No 16, Jalan Seroja,

Taman Emas,
28200 Kuantan
10.11.2010
Dear Rosli,

How are you? I hope you are in the pink of health. I was delighted to receive your
letter last week. In your letter you expressed your worry as you are chosen to take part in
the National Service Programme This is avery interesting news. Congratulations!
I guess your fear is understandable as there are a lot of reports lately about the
NS trainees encountering mishaps that are sometimes fatal at their camps. But you know
some things are just unavoidable. You have to think positive about the programme. NS is
actually fun. You can learn all sorts of new things there such as learning the survival
skills(C11) and also the leadership skills(C3) which are essential in building a healthy
soul. Dont you worry. There will be a lot of exciting activities.(C4)
One thing that I know you are looking forward to ismaking new friends. (C2) You
are a happy go lucky type of person and I believe that you will get along well with the
others. You will be meeting teenagers from all over the country and you can take this
opportunity to see the different parts of Malaysia.(C5) You will certainly enjoy yourself
during the programme.
Apart from gaining new experience (C7)and knowledge you will also be able to
develop good habits(C1)as well as some survival skillswhich is important in our life. It
might be as simple as how to build a raft or how to cook simple dishes as I know you
really hate cooking. Am I right? All the exciting activities that come hand-in-hand will

keep you fresh and strong. Being a scout, I dont see you will have problem with the
activities.
Cousin Rosli, a soul is like a seed. It needs to be taken care of to make it grow
healthy. The NS programme is the perfect recipe to feed the teenagers like us to be
confident in our life. Therefore the NS programme will definitely teach us to be
independent (C6) apart from involving you in teamwork(C8) activities as well as to
make you become more disciplined(C12). Last but not least, this NS programme will
surely make you fit and healthy(C10) as long as you join the activities. You can also
strengthen your love for our country(C9)because by joining the camp you will be
determined to contribute something for our country.
I have to pen-off now. Dont worry too much about the NS programme. It is worth
giving it a shot. I guarantee you will enjoy yourself for the next three months during the
camp. Who knowsat the end of the day you might feel that the duration of the camp
should be extended.
Send my regards to your parents. See you someday.

Your cousin,
Aireen

Format
Content
Language

3
12
20

Total

35

ANSWER ANALYSIS

Format

Content points

Strength

Topic
The style and tone

Complete Correct Format

Sender Address (F!)
Receiver with the name (Rosli) mandatory (F2)
Close Your cousin (F 3)
All content points included
Refer to the letter
The content points do not have to be written in sequence.

Accurate language
Varied sentence structures
Simple sentences
How are you?
This is interesting news
Compound sentences
You will learn survival and leadership skills
Apart from gaining new experience and
knowledge
You are a happy-go-lucky person and I believe
you will get along well with others.
Complex sentencesBeing a scout, I dont think you will have problems
with the activities.
Addressed with consistent relevance
Appropriate and very informal

SPM 2009
Section A

: Directed Writing

Many of your schoolmates are not interested in sports. You have carried out a survey on
the reasons for their lack of interest. Based on your findings, write a report to the
Principal regarding the matter. In your report, give reasons for the lack of interest in
sports and provide suggestions to overcome the problem
Use the following notes to write your report

REASONS

Students
attitude
lack of time

Parents
emphasis on
academic
performance
tuition classes

Facilities
insufficient
sports
equipment
poor conditionfield, courts

SUGGESTIONS

Stress
importance
of sports

Improve
facilities

Dialogue with
parents

Organise
more
competitions
Employ
qualified
trainers

When writing the report, you must :

-

Address your report to the principal

Provide a title
Include your name
Use all the notes given

Offer
attractive
prizes

1.

2.

Allocation of marks :

Content

15 marks

Language

20 marks

Total

35 marks

Marks for content are awarded as follows :

Format:
F1

Addressed to the principal

1 mark

F2

Title of the report

1 mark

F3

Name

1 mark

Content:
C1 -

students attitude

1 mark

C2 -

lack of time

1 mark

C3 -

parents emphasis on academic performance

1 mark

C4 -

tuition classes

1 mark

C5 -

insufficient sports equipment

1 mark

C6 -

poor condition of field and courts

1 mark

C7 -

stress importance of sports

1 mark

C8 -

dialogue with parents

1 mark

C9 -

improve facilities

1 mark

C10 -

employ qualified trainers

1 mark

C11 -

organise competitions

1 mark

C12 -

offer attractive prizes

1 mark

F/C
F1

CONTENT POINT
To: Principal of Sekolah Menengah
Kebangsaan Bahagia
Address of sender and receiver

F2

F3

A report on the Lack of Interest in

Sports Among the Students of SMK
Bahagia
Written by,..Khatijah Bt. Rosli
Name mentioned in the body
Yours sincerelyKhatijah Bt. Rosli

MARK
1 mark
0 mark (not a letter
format)
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (not a letter
format)

C1

The reason why students did not

choose sports as their preferred
leisure activity is their own attitude
towards it

C2

Another reason is their lack of time

Students do not have much time to
spend in sports because they think
sports does give them benefit

C3

Has become an obsession with

parents to make their children
excellent in academics

1 mark

C4

Parents sending them for tuition

classes, workshops and seminars at
every possible opportunity

1 mark

C5

C6

There is insufficient sports equipment

to cater for students need
Facilities have insufficient sports
equipment
The poor condition of the school field
and the badminton courts have drawn
anger of students
The poor condition of the school field

C7

The school authorities should stress

the importance of sports to the
students

C8

The school authorities could hold a

dialogue with the parents during the
next Parent Teacher Association
meeting

1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (contradicting)

1 mark
0 mark (meaning
distorted)
1 mark
0 mark (court not
mentioned)
1 mark

1 mark

F/C

C9

C10

C11

C12

CONTENT POINT
On top of that, the school authorities
could improve the sporting facilities for
the students
The principal must be improve facilities
very good for student
Qualified trainers should be employed
to teach and guide the students
The school authorities could organise
more competitions related to sports
After that, many more organise
competition
Attractive prizes should be offered to
winners to recognize their efforts and
to motivate other students to
participate in sports

MARK
1 mark
0 mark (meaning
distorted)
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (subject not
stated)
1 mark

SAMPLE ANSWER

To : The Principal of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Bahagia

A report on the Lack of Interest in Sports Among the Students of Sekolah Menengah
Kebangsaan Bahagia
I have recently conducted a survey among the students of SMK Bahagia .
The results of the survey show that among 2,000 students from form one to form
five, only 200 would choose sports as their preferred leisure activity during their
spare time. That number is only 10% of the student population.
Among the reasons cited by the 1,800 students who did not choose sports as
their preferred activity is their own attitude towards sports. Many of them assume
playing sports involves getting hot, dirty and sweaty as well as being occasionally
sunburned. Also the students complained about their lack of time. Many of them
commented that this was caused by the longer school hours and also because
many co-curricular societies, such as uniformed bodies, hold extra meetings on
weekends.
Not only that, many of the students complained about parental factors.
According to them, their parents place an excessive amount of attention on
academic work. Many of them have stated that it has become an obsession with
their parents to make them excellent in academics. With their parents sending them
for tuition classes, workshops and seminars at every possible opportunity, it has
become very difficult for them to make time for leisure, let alone sports.

Other students complained that the school field and sports equipment are not
at a reasonable level. Since the school field is fully utilised, the students expect it to
be at its level best. However, they have said that the opposite is often true. There is
insufficient sports equipment in the school storage room with only two soccer balls.
The schools hockey equipment is also in very bad condition with several broken
hockey sticks that have not been replaced. The poor condition of the school field
and the badminton courts have also drawn the anger of the students. Many students
submitted complaints that the school field is very wet and muddy after it rains while
the badminton courts floor is heavily damaged.
Due to the overwhelming lack of interest in sports among the students I have
formulated a few suggestions for consideration. Among my suggestions is that the
school authorities, such as the Head of Student Affairs, should stress the
importance of sports to the students. The message would have a much greater
impact on the students if delivered by a person in authority.
Moreover, the school authorities could hold a dialogue with the parents
during the next Parent Teacher Association meeting. During the dialogue, the
school authorities could explain to the parents about the importance of a balanced
life for the students through sports.
On top of that, the school could improve he sporting facilities for the students
and employ qualified trainers. Both steps would go a long way towards attracting the
interest of the students to get involved in sports. The presence of the trainers would
be an added bonus for the students because they could receive proper training on
the rules and regulations in sports.
Lastly but not least, the school authorities could organise more competitions
related to sports and offer attractive prizes to the winners. This would act as an
incentive for students who have talent in sports to come forth and compete.

Written by,
..
(Khatijah Bt. Rosli)
Secretary,
Sports Club,
SMK Bahagia

SPM 2008
Section A

: Directed Writing

You recently attended a leadership camp organized by your school. At the camp, one of
your friends was chosen as the best group leader. You have been asked to write an
article about your friend for your school magazine.
Write your article based on the information below.

BEST GROUP LEADER

Friends details

name
age
family
background

Reasons why he/she

was chosen
responsible

certificate of
achievement

caring

RM500

best speaker
for camp
debate

school
attended
voted the
most
cooperative

When writing the article, you should remember:

Award received

to give a suitable title

to give your name as the writer
to use all the information given
to provide an ending
to add two other reasons why your friend was chosen
that your readers are students of your school

1.

Allocation of marks :

Content

15 marks

Language

20 marks

Total

35 marks

2. Marks for content are awarded as follows :

a. Format:
F1

title

1 mark

F2

name of the writer

1 mark

F3

ending

1 mark

b. Content:
C1 -

name

1 mark

C2 -

age

1 mark

C3 -

family background

1 mark

C4 -

school attended

1 mark

C5 -

responsible

1 mark

C6 -

caring

1 mark

C7 -

best speaker for camp debate

1 mark

C8 -

voted the most co-operative

1 mark

C9 -

certificate of achievement

1 mark

C10 -

RM500

1 mark

C11 -

one reason why your friend was chosen

1 mark

C12 -

one reason why your friend was chosen

1 mark

F/C

F1

CONTENT POINT
The Making of a Future World-Class
Leader
Best Group Leader at Leadership Camp
Camping
By Zulkfli Bin Hassan

F2

Written by Zulkifli Hassan

By Zee Boy

F3

Amirs positive traits makes him an ideal

choice as the best group leader
Bravo to Amir and I wish him good luck
for all his future undertakings
Thanks for the article
Amir Zulhaqeem Zakaria

C1
Mee

MARK
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (article is about a
person not an activity)
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (name is too
informal for an article)
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (not a correct
ending format)
1 mark
0 mark (name is too
general)

17 years old

1 mark

Seventeen years old

1 mark

23rd of July 1992

1 mark

C2
23rd of July

C3

0 mark (cannot determine

the age)

Both his parents are teachers

1 mark

He is the eldest among his 5 siblings

1 mark

Amir likes to go fishing

SK Bandar Jerantut
(C4
Jerantut

0 mark (not relating to

family background)
1 mark
0 mark (no mention of
school)

F/C

C5

CONTENT POINT
Was a responsible leader

1 mark

Made sure his group members were

safe all the time

1 mark

Reasons why he was chosen as a

responsible leader
C6

MARK

0 mark (copying rubrics)

He cared for the members of his group

1 mark

Hel is also a caring person

1 mark

Chosen as the best speaker for the

camp debate

1 mark

C7
Was the best school debater

C8

0 mark (should be at the

camp)

Was voted the most cooperative student

1 mark

Always the first person to volunteer for

any task

1 mark

Always cooperated with the teachers

0 mark (too general)

Was given a certificate of appreciation

1 mark

He gave a certificate of appreciation to

his team members

0 mark (meaning is
distorted)

C9

C10

Was awarded RM500

1 mark

Received a whooping sum of RM500

1 mark

Awards received RM500

0 mark (meaning is
distorted)

C11

He instilled confidence among his group

members which led to victory in the
camp debate

1 mark

C12

He did not let achievements get to his

head and earned the respects of all the
participants

1 mark

SAMPLE ANSWER
The Making of A Future World-Class Leader
By : Zulkifli Bin Hassan
On the 15thof May 2008, SMK Darul Ehsan organised a leadership camp at Hutan
Lipur Pandan, Kuantan. The camp was attended by all the form five students. Its
objective was to enable students to get along well with each other and help them to
develop their self-esteem. At the camp, the most anticipated time by all was when the
best group leader was announced. And as predicted by most, Amir Zulhaqeem Zakaria,
a tall dark,looking guy, managed to get the prestigious award.His positive traits made him
an ideal choice.
Amir Zulhaqeem Zakaria, popularly known as Caem, is a seventeen-year old guy
who comes from Jerantut. His fathers name is Zakaria Adul Hamid while his mothers
name is Halina Hamid @ Md Noor.Both his parents are teachers. He is the eldest among
his five siblings. He is now studying in SMK Darul Ehsan and is thehead prefect of the
school. During his primary school time, he had studied in four different schools which
were situated at four different states respectively. He had been schooling at SK Gua
Batu, Sarawak, SK Kangar Perlis, SK Ulam Batu, Terengganu and SK Bandar Jerantut,
Pahang.
There were so many reasons on why he was chosen as the best group leader and
one of them is that he was responsible. He is also a caring person who always made
sure his group members were safe all the time. He instilled confidence among his group
members which led to victory in the camp debate. As such, it was not surprising that he
managed to get the best speaker award for the camp debate. And from the 253 students
who had attended the camp, Amir Zulhaqeem was voted the most cooperative student.
He was always the first to volunteer for any task.
During the final day of the leadership camp,he received awards from our school
principal, Madam Hajjah Norlia Bt. Mohd Shuhaili. He was given a certificate of
achievement as the best group leader and even went home with a whooping RM 500, a
very handsome sum of money.
People also admired him because of his amazing achievement in his studies. He
did not let achievements get to his head and earned the respects of all the participants.
Furthermore, he is among the top ten students of the school and is the head of the
students facilitators. Amir Zulhaqeem loves to play basketball. Together with his team he
represented the school in the state basketball tournament, The Flyerz, they managed to
win second place for the event.
The students of SMK Darul Ehsan should try to follow Amir Zulhaqeems
footsteps. We knowthat if this country is to produce more future leaders that will soon
help in developing thiscountry to another level and probably, Amir Zulhaqem will be one
of them. This year, he and hisbatch members will sit for the SPM examination. Let us
pray together so that all of them can succeed and make SMK Darul Ehsan as one of the
best school in this country. Bravo to Amir Zulhaqem and I wish him good luck for all his
future undertakings.

SPM 2007
Section A

: Directed Writing

You have been asked by your teacher to give a talk on a reference book that is so useful
for secondary students. You have decided to talk about a science book.
Use the following notes about the book to write your talk

Details of the book

Reasons why the book is useful

Title
: Science Made Simple
Author : Sharifah Shazana
Publisher: Bunga Publication

attractive presentation
clear explanations
helpful diagrams
variety of exercises
sample answers
practice question papers
useful tips

When writing the talk, you should remember :

to use an appropriate greeting and closing

to state the purpose of the talk
to use all the notes given
to give two other reasons of your own
that the talk is for school students

1.

Allocation of marks

Content

15 marks

Language

20 marks

Total

35 marks

2. Marks for content are awarded as follows :

a.

b.

Format:
F1

- greeting

1 mark

F2

- purpose of talk

1 mark

F3

- closing

1 mark

Content:
C1

- Title: Science Made Simple

1 mark

C2

- Author: Sharifah Shazana

1 mark

C3

- Publisher: Bunga Publications

1 mark

C4

- attractive presentation

1 mark

C5

- clear explanation

1 mark

C6

- helpful diagrams

1 mark

C7

- variety of exercises

1 mark

C8

- sample answers

1 mark

C9

- practice question papers

1 mark

C10

- useful tips

1 mark

C11

- own reason

1 mark

C12

- own reason

1 mark

F/C

F1

CONTENT POINT
Good morning teachers and students
Good morning dear students
Good morning everybody
Good morning
Assalamualaikum

F2

F3

I would like to give a talk on a reference

book

1 mark

I am standing here to talk about

1 mark

This book is about

0 mark (not the purpose

of the talk)

Thank you ( mandatory)

1 mark

Thank you for listening

1 mark

Thank you for your attention

1 mark

I would like to thank all of you for

listening.Good bye.

C1

0 mark (not anappropriate

expression to end a
speech)

The title of the book is Science Made

Simple

1 mark

This book, Science Made Simple

1 mark

Science Made Simple

1 mark

This book is very useful

This is a science reference book

C2

MARK
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (not a standard
English greeting)

0 mark (title not

mentioned)
0 mark (title not
mentioned)

The author is Sharifah Shazana

1 mark

Written by Sharifah Shazana, this

book..

1 mark

The book is written by a famous writer.

0 mark (name is not

mentioned)

This book is published by Bunga

Publications

1 mark

The publisher is Bunga Publications

1 mark

Published by Sharifah Shazana this

book..

0 mark (wrong idea)

C3

F/C

C4

CONTENT POINT
This book has attractive presentation

1 mark

The book is presented in a very

attractive manner

1 mark

This book is interesting and attractive

C5

C6

MARK

0 mark (idea of the books

attractive presentation
does not come through)

Apart from that this book has clear

explanations on every sub topic.

1 mark

We can easily understand as the notes

are explained clearly

1 mark

The explanations are simplified and

clear.

1 mark

This book is useful for many students

0 marks (point not

mentioned)

This book has many helpful diagrams

This book is filled with colourful
diagrams

1 mark
1 mark

There are variety of exercises in this

book

1 mark

The author provides the students with

many exercises.

1 mark

Every sub-topic is followed by many

exercises

1 mark

This book has sample exercises

1 mark

Sample answers are also provided to

guide the students.

1 mark

This book provides sample answers

1 mark

We can refer to the sample answers

provided.

1 mark

C7

C8

Every reference book has sample

answer

0 mark (does not refer to

the book)

F/C

C9

CONTENT POINT
Another excellent point about this book
is it has practice questions papers

1 mark

The practice questions papers provided

will.

1 mark

Students can do their revision by

answering the practice question
paper.

1 mark

We can get practice question paper

from the science teacher.
There are many useful tips in this books
C10

C11
C12

MARK

Students can always refer to the useful

tips found in this book
This book is affordable
This book is cheap
This book can be reviewed at the library
This book can be bought from the local
book store near the school

0 mark (not relevant to the

point)
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark

SAMPLE ANSWER

A very good morning to En .Kama bin Hasan, principal of Sekolah Menengah

Kebangsaan Dinding, dearest teachers and my fellow friends. I Mohd Hafiz the president
of the Science Club stand before you today to deliver a talk regarding a Science
reference book that I have found very useful and may come in handy to all form five
students of this school. I hope I can have your undivided attention for the next half hour
as I proceed to explain how and why this book can benefit us as well as the teachers.
I came across Science Made Simple authored by Sharifah Shazana as I was
browsing my local bookstore for a text guide to help me understand science better. This
book caught my attention as its front cover delivered an attractive presentation of a
microscope and a colourful display of many unicellular organisms. Many of you would
undoubtedly find Science as a difficult subject to master due to the amount of facts
students are required to digest before examinations. However, this book which is
published by BungaPublications has clear explanation so that students have better
understanding. This book is also filled with many colourful diagrams to instill a sense
of eagerness in students to make them interested in the subject.
Apart from that this book has a variety of exercises throughout the chapters and
at the end of each subtopic. These exercises are very useful because it tests students
thoroughly on the contents of that particular subtopic.
In addition to that, sample answers are also provided at the end of each chapter provide
easy reference when answering the questions. The suggested answers are concise,
straight to the point are exact replicas of answer expected during the real examination
what is required in the real exam. In short, this reference guide can serve as a useful
resource for other topics under the science subject.
Another good point about this book is that it has practice questionpapers which
would be very useful for our preparation for the coming examination.. Besides that there
are many useful tips under the summary section which will give you a list of important
details and cuts short long study before the exam. This book is affordable to most at
only RM 12.00 and can also be reviewed at the school library. I hope my talk has
been worth your patience and I can guarantee that Science Made Simple is an
excellent science guide that many of you will find helpful. Thank you for your attention.

SPM 2006
Section A

: Directed Writing

Your friend, who lives in another town, wants to know whether he/she should run for the
post of Head Prefect. Write a letter to your friend giving reasons why he/she would make
a good Head Prefect.
Use the notes given below to write your letter.
Personal Qualities:
friendly
responsible
helpful
Academic performance:
intelligent student
hardworking
problem solver
Co-curricular Involvement:
Blue House Captain
secretary of English Language Society
school debater
Other points:
lives near school able to sacrifice time
good study habits academic performance will not be affected
popular with students and teachers

When writing your letter, you should remember to include the following:
address
salutation/greeting
close
all the notes given

1.

Allocation of marks

Content

15 marks

Language

20 marks

Total

35 marks

2. Marks for content are awarded as follows :

a.

Format:

b.

F1

- address

1 mark

F2

- salutation

1 mark

F3

- closing

1 mark

Content:
C1

friendly

1 mark

C2

responsible

1 mark

C3

helpful

1 mark

C4

intelligent

1 mark

C5

hardworking

1 mark

C6

problem solver

1 mark

C7

Blue House captain

1 mark

C8

secretary of English Language Society

1 mark

C9

school debater

1 mark

C10

lives near school able to sacrifice time

1 mark

C11

good study habits academic performance

1 mark

will not be affected

C12

popular with students and teachers

1 mark

F/C
F1
F2

CONTENT POINT
Students address
Dear Ali.
My friend
Hi...

F3

C1

Yours sincerely
Your friend
Yours faithfully
You have good personalities. You are
friendly to everybody in school
You are responsible and friendly
You are friendly, responsible,helpful,
Intelligent, hardworking

C2

C3

C4 &
C5

C6

C7 &
C8
C9

C 10
C 11
&
C12

You are also a responsible students

Your responsible nature will be a welladded advantage
Besides youre very helpful.
You are always fond of helping others.
You always help your friends ..
Apart from that you are also intelligent and
a hard working student
Your excellent academic performance
proves that you are intelligent and
Besides that you are also a problem solver.
You always manage to find ways to solve
problems faced by your friends.
You are good in solving problems
Another good point is that youre active in
the co-curricular activity.
As the Blue House captain you..
Being elected as the secretary of the
ELS.you are capable of..
As a school debater you always..
Since you live near school you are able..
Your house is near the school and..
You have a good study habit
You are popular among teachers and
students

MARK
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (name of receiver
must be mentioned)
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (formal letter)
1 mark
1 mark
0 mark (no mark is
awarded for mere
mention of content point)
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark
1 mark

.You are famous in school.

1 mark

SAMPLE ANSWER
G9-1-7, Desa Perwira
Jalan Anggerik
55100 Kuala Lumpur
16 March 2010
Dear Samsung,
How are you? Judging from the letter you sent me last week, you seem to be
doing just fine. I would like to apologize for not writing sooner; the ton of holiday
homework I received from school made it virtually impossible for me to pen a reply any
sooner than today.
My answer to your question would definitely be a yes. I think that you would make
an excellent Head Prefect. Your out-going and down-to-earth personality should be
enough to convince you of your undoubted capability to take on this task. Your
friendlyand helpful nature would make it easy for you to get along with the students and
reprimand them in a tactful way. I am also sure that you would take your responsibilities
seriously as you are one of the most responsible people with whom I have made my
acquaintance.
Furthermore, your academic performance outshines your peers making it clear
that you are an intelligent and hardworking student. This in itself proves that you are
capable of dealing with heavy workloads. Goodness knows, with the subject combination
that you are taking, your workload is anything but light. Plus, I know that you especially
have a knack for solving problems.
Though being a Head Prefect is without doubt a tiring job, the experience you
have gained from being actively involved in co-curricular activities should help you to pull
through. Being the Captain of the Blue House should give you a vague idea of what it is
like to lead the school, while as the secretary of the English Language Society, you
should be an expert at handling paperwork and organizing events. Besides that, by
virtue of you being a school debater, your speeches would surely be outstanding.
The strategic location of your house should also give an extra shove towards
running for the past. As it is within walking distance from the school, you would be
able to sacrifice time and effort in carrying out your duties as Head Prefect. Your
academic performance would also be unaffected as you are a consistent student
with good study habits. In addition to that, you have a further advantage of being
popular among the students as well as the teachers.
Having read of all your good qualities should make it an easy choice for you now,
dont you think? I hope I have helped you to make up your mind, but remember that no
matter what choice you make, I will be rooting for you. Let me know of your decision. Till
next time, bye!
Your friend,
Hisham

ENRICHMENT EXERCISES
EXERCISE 1
Section A : Directed Writing
(35 marks)
Obesity has been on the rise with more and more young people becoming obese.
Your school has decided to launch a Health Week to raise awareness among students
about the need to be more health conscious. As Chairperson of the organizing
committee, you have been asked to give a talk on health consciousness.
Use the notes below to write the talk.
Reasons
Improper eating habits
Eating too much junk food
Too many calories
Lack of exercise
Hectic lifestyle
Late night supper

Suggestions
Exercise 3 times a week
Reduce food Intake
Reduce sugar and fat intake
Change eating habits
Have fixed time for eating
Eat small meals

When writing the talk, you should remember :

-

To use the appropriate greeting and closing

To use all the notes given

That the talk is for school students

Sample Answer A
A very good morning(F1) to Puan Normah Nordin, Headmistress of SMK Taman
Indah, teachers and fellow students. As you are aware, our school is organizing a Health
Week to raise awareness among students about the need to be more health conscious.
Obesity has been on the rise among young people. As the Chairperson of the organizing
committee, I would like to give a talk on health consciousness.(F2)
Teachers and fellow friends,
There are many reasons contributing to obesity. Firstly, the continuous improper
eating (C1)is the main factor for one to be obese. Eating too much junk food (C2)and
fast food such as potato chips, fries and crackers in between meals is a reason why
youngsters are putting on weight nowadays. All this food items contain extra
calories(C3) that are not needed by our body and thus are stored as fat. In addition
most young people dread about exercising(C4). They prefer to hang out at shopping
complexes or internet cafes rather than exercise. Without proper exercise they do not
work off the extra fat thus become overweight. Another reason is their hectic
lifestyle.(C5) In most homes, there are maids to do the house chores. Young people
tend to be lazy and less active. They will loose their extra weight slower or not at all. The
worst part is that having late night supper (C6) is a very common habit among
teenagers nowadays. This is not healthy at all as after supper they will go to bed thus
making them overweight.
However there are many ways for a person to lose weight. Here are some
suggestions on how you can throw away those extra unwanted kilos. Exercise is the key
to loosing weight. You should exercise at least threetimes a week(C7) in order to burn
the extra fat that is stored in the body. The easiest exercise you can do is jogging or brisk
walking as it is simple, easy and cheap. All you need to do is to take a brisk walk around
the neighbourhood to lose some weight.
You will also have to reduce the intake of food(C8) If you eat two bowls of rice
for lunch and dinner, reduce the amount of rice to one bowl. In addition,lowering the
intake of food that is high in sugar and fat(C9) such as sweets, cakes, chocolates and
carbonated drinks will help you lose weight.
Lastly,changing eating habits (C10) will help you control your weight. You have
to adopt proper eating habits in order to lose weight. Eating a lot of vegetables and fruits
instead of junk food helps to reduce your weight. Eating three meals a day at a fixed
time(C11) will also help to reduce weight and to stay healthy. Alternatively, instead of
having three meals a day you can have five small meals (C12) a day so as not to feel
hungry.
Before I conclude, I hope my talk has been helpful. I hope you have gained some
insight about the problem of obesity among young people and learnt ways to control your
weight. Thank you(F3)for your attention.

EXERCISE 2

Section A : Directed Writing

(35 minutes)
Nowadays, many students are under a lot of stress and they are suffering from it. They
are expected to perform excellently by their teachers and their parents and they are also
burdened with a lot of extra homework to be completed as scheduled. As the President
of the Counseling Club, you are asked to give a speech on the ways of controlling stress.
Used the note below to write your speech
Stress management
Learn to manage your time
Set realistic goals
Do regular exercise
Express your feeling
Get enough sleep
Develop good study skills
Make a checklist
Seek help
Avoid self-medication
Talk to your family
Listen to music
Trust yourself

When writing the speech, you should remember to :Address your audience
Introduce the topic of your talk
Use all the notes given
End the talk appropriately

Sample Answer
A very good morning toEn.Khalid b.Ishak, the Principal of SMK Putra, Assistant
teachers, teachers and fellow friends.
I am very grateful to all of you for giving me the opportunity to give a speech on
this lovely morning. I am Krisna, the President of the Counseling Club in this school, will
enlighten everyone here especially my fellow friends on ways to overcome stress.
Teachers and fellow friends,
Stress is a common experience among the young and old especially among the
students. Everyone of us, I believe experience some degree of stress. Too much stress
can lead to other serious problems or even death. Working people have a mountain of
stress everyday and some of them almost come to a mental breakdown. Some people
even sacrifice their social life to achieve their social status. As for students, some would
burn the midnight oil just to ensure they do well in their studies ignoring the fact that they
will have less sleeping time which is not good for health. However, there are many
possible ways for us to handle the stress and to avoid other serious health
consequences.
As I mentioned earlier stress is also a part of every students life. As students, the
greatest source of stress are relationship, keeping up with their studies, homework and
examinations A little stress is sometimes good for us especially when we need the push
ourselves to work harder. However, if we allow stress to get out of hand, it can harm us.
One of the greatest sources of stress is poor time management. Therefore, learn
to manage your time(C1) properly. We should make a list of tasks that should be done
first and we should arrange time for them. Give priority to the most important tasks and
do them first. The important thing is to set realistic goals(C2). Do not overwork and
overload ourselves. Too much studying at any single time can cause unnecessary stress
and lead to burnout. Allow yourself occasional breaks. Exercise regularly.(C3) When
you sit down and study, life can become sedentary. Sitting around can cause stress to
mount and make you feel nervous and upset. Therefore we need to exercise as it help to
release the pressure.
Learn to express your feelings(C4). Get someone to share your feeling with.
The best and easiest way is to talk toyour family(C10) or someone you trust. Another
important solution is to get enough sleep (C5)Lack of sleep will make us more stressful
as we will feel sleepy in class and could not catch up with what the teachers are
teaching. Remember, our bodies always get better after a good rest. Make learning fun
by developing good study skills.(C6) Working or studying in group will help us to
understand better and thus help us to reduce stress. Learn to do mind maps and make a
check list(C7)to monitor your progress in your study. If you are still unable to handle
stress seek help(C8) andavoid self medication(C9). Another easy option that can be
done is bylistening to soft music.(C11) This will help to relax our mind and body .Last
but not least the best way is tobelieve in yourself (C12). Dont do something to convince
others but do something that you are really capable off. Work smart and stay focus.
In conclusion, I hope the advice will enlighten all of you on how to handle stress.
Thank you for your attention.

CONTINUOUS
WRITING
Paper 1 Section B

BACK TO MAIN MENU

TYPES OF WRITING
NARRATIVE

WRITE A
STORY

ARGUMENTATIVE

DESCRIPTIVE

STATE VIEWS

DESCRIBE A
SCENE/EVENT,
PLACE, PERSON

FACTUAL

BASED
ON
FACTS

COMPONENTS IN CONTINUOUS WRITING

i)

Mind maps and outline (table) help to stimulate the mind to think deeper by using
the 5W1H formula :
Who is it? (Person/People)
What is it? (Objects/Things)
Where is it? (Place)
When is it? (Time)
Why is it? (Reason)
How is it? (Method)

ii)

Mind maps are simple graphic organizers created to help the students to identify
some ideas related to the topic that they are writing using the 5W1H formula.

WHO
WHAT

HOW
TITLE

WHERE

WHY

WHEN

iii) Table of contents (outline) will be able to guide the students to write the essay
according to the required words (350) needed for this question correctly. This
guideline will help the students to estimatethe required number of words for each
paragraph accurately.
INTRODUCTION:
When writing your introductory paragraph, always remember what, how & why
questions. You must be able to lead your reader into defining the purpose of your piece
of writing.
CONTENTS:
You must be able to define your main ideas relevant to the topic clearly and accurately.
Your supporting idea must be stated clearly which must be relevant to the main idea.
This should be followed by further elaboration and examples which are relevant to the
main idea.
CONCLUSION:
You should be able to end your writing effectively and give your readers a sense of
completion or satisfaction. You may like to highlight the issues discussed and suggest
possible solutions to the issues highlighted.

TABLE OF CONTENTS (OUTLINE)

Paragraph 1

INTRODUCTION
(25 words)

Paragraph 2

CONTENTS
(MAIN POINT 1)
(100 words)

Paragraph 3

CONTENTS
(MAIN POINT 2)
(100 words)

Paragraph 4

CONTENTS
(MAIN POINT 3)
(100 words)

A brief, relevant and interesting

introduction to attract readers attention
a) Main Idea

b) Supporting Idea
c)Elaboration/Explanation
d) Relevant examples
a) Main Idea

b) Supporting Idea
c)Elaboration/Explanation
d) Relevant examples
a) Main Idea

b) Supporting Idea
c)Elaboration/Explanation
d) Relevant examples

Paragraph 5

CONCLUSION
(25 words)

NARRATIVE WRITING

a)

Definition of narrative

A convincing and satisfactory

conclusionwith suggestions & possible
solutions

A narrative tells or narrates a story or a sequence of events. It may be about something

common or uncommon, for example, a strange encounter or events, a sudden
catastrophe, a crisis, a conflict, a victory, an exciting adventure or discovery. However, it
may be also be about an ordinary experience or the daily routines that can occur in our
daily life.
b) Tips on writing a narrative
Sense of sight colourful lights, wide variety of food, lushgreeneries,
dark stormy, tall, dark and beautiful lady
Sense of smell smell of coffee brewing, aroma of crisp fried chicken,
pungent smell of rotten eggs
Sense of touch soft silky material, rough surface, warm pot, hot iron,
slimy dirty plates
Sense of taste bitter coffee, sweet and savoury puff, hot and spicy
chicken, sour grapes
Sense of hearing blaring of horns, the sound of footsteps, doors
creaking, brakes screeching
c)Features of a narrative
When you write a narrative, it is important for you to pay attention to the following:
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)

Tense
Cohesiveness
Plot
Characterization

i)

Tense
A narrative usually describes events or happenings in the past. Thus, the Past Tense
forms are usually used in narrative writing. Other tenses are also used but not as
frequently.

ii) Cohesiveness
Theflow of the story is important as it sets the mood of the storyline. Events should
be arranged logically and systematically. This can be done by using connectors and
suitable linkers.

Connectors / Conjunctions

iii)

Functions

a) Nevertheless, However,
b) On the other hand

To show contrast of ideas

To join two opposing ideas

a) As well as, Besides, Bothand,

Not onlybut also

To combine two ideas that are similar

or related

a) In addition, Furthermore,
Moreover

To introduce new ideas or add extra

information

a) In conclusion, In short, To
summarize

To conclude the story or the ideas

presented

Plot
The plot is the storys framework. It is the storyline of, for example, how a character
changes or how a mystery is solved or how an enemy is defeated. To be
interesting, a story must have a good plot.

iv)

Characterization
The events in the story usually happens to the main character and how he/she
solves a problem or overcomes challenges thrown towards him. Thus,
characterization should include the description , the characteristics as well as clear
incidents that show his utmost outstanding personality.

A SAMPLE OF A NARRATIVE ESSAY

Write a story ending with:
We had never laughed so much in our lives

We were just coming back from the railway station after picking up my brother
who had arrived from Kuala Lumpur. As we arrived at our house, my brother who has
not been around for three years jumped out and said happily, Home sweet home at
last. Our father quickly stopped him and said, You might get lost in the house
because we have given the house a new facelift. Danny quickly said, Dad, it is my
house and how can I get lost in my own house even though you have renovated it.
Father quickly took out the keys and offered to show my brother around the
newly renovated house. My brother was impatient and he dashed in when dad had
opened the door. He tried to open the door of his room but it turned out to be a new
toilet. That was the first surprise that he had when stepped into the house.
Soon he tiptoed back, he looked shocked. Our father was surprised and asked
him what the matterwas. He told us that there was a burglar in the toilet. We were all
frightened. Our mother reminded us of the many break-ins that were happening in the
neighbourhood. Father went first and all of us tiptoed carefully following father to
investigate brothers claim. Sure enough there was movement in the toilet.
My brother suggested that we take a stick each and attack the intruder. So we got
ready. Father took a hammer to break open the door. He said that there was no other
way the intruder could come in. Father gave the door a hard blow. It flew wide open.
With all our might, we swung at the supposedly present intruder. But we were merely
swinging at the wind. There was no one.
We were astonished and wondered who could it be. My younger sister screamed,
I thought there was a ghost in the bathroom. Suddenly, from the toilet bowl came a
small head. We peeped into the bowl; it was our pet dog Skippy. All of us had
completely forgotten about him. It had gone into the toilet and the door was shut.
Skippy couldnt get out. We looked at the poor shivering Skippy, and we all burst out
laughing. We had never laughed so much in our lives.

PAST YEAR QUESTIONS

The following writing activities can be carried by the students under the guidance of the
teachers to make them better writers.
1) Write a story ending with:
We had never laughed so much in our lives.

(2004)

2) Write a story with the title:

An Unexpected Visitor

(2005)

3) Write a story ending with:

If only I had been more careful, that wouldnt have happened.

(2006)

4) Write a story beginning with:

Kim was nervous when the door opened..

(2007)

5) Write a story ending with:

..Now I realize the value of a true friend.

(2008)

6) Write a story ending with:

..We said our goodbyes and went our separate ways.

(2009)

7) Write a story beginning with:

It had been raining all day ..

(2010)

ARGUMENTATIVE WRITING

a) Introduction
In an argumentative essay, students are required to state their views on an issue.
These views can be in favour or against the issue. Students may be required to
make a stand or present a balanced view of the issue and state their stand or
recommendation in the conclusion. Whatever the format required, all views, for and
against, must be supported by examples and facts.
b) Tips on the format in writing an argumentative essay
Introduction
-

Look at the issues or topic concern

Explain the issue or topic given
Express stand, if required

Body
-

Arguments for
Give supporting statement
Compare& contrast
Justify with examples

- Arguments against
- Give evidence
- Justify argument

Conclusion or recommendation
-

Restate your stand

c) Some useful expressions in an argumentative essay

I agree/I disagree/I believe/I dont believe
It cannot be denied/There is no doubt
I am sure that
My intention is
I am of the opinion
d) How to write a thesis statement
WHY ? (To identify the problems/ideas related to the topic)
HOW ? (To come up with solutions/recommendation)
Using the brainstorming techniques (5W1H) will enable the students to generate
ideas & details related to the topic concern.

TABLE OF CONTENTS (OUTLINE)

PART OF
ESSAY

AGREE

DISAGREE

NEUTRAL

Introduction
(Paragraph 1)

Thesis statement
of agreement

Thesis statement
of disagreement

Thesis statement of
neutrality

Body
(Paragraph 2)

Topic sentence 1
(first reason)
Supporting ideas
to support the
topic sentence

Topic sentence 1
(first reason)
Supporting ideas
to support the
topic sentence

Topic sentence 1
(Reason (s) for
agreement)
Supporting ideas to
support the topic
sentence

Body
(Paragraph 3)

Topic sentence 2
(second reason)
Supporting ideas
to support the
topic sentence

Topic sentence 2
(second reason)
Supporting ideas
to support the
topic sentence

Topic sentence 2
(Reason (s) for
disagreement)
Supporting ideas to
support the topic
sentence

Body
(Paragraph 4)

Topic sentence 3
(third reason)
Supporting ideas
to support the
topic sentence

Topic sentence 3
(third reason)
Supporting ideas
to support the
topic sentence

Topic sentence 3
(Reason (s) for
dis/agreement)
Supporting ideas to
support the topic
sentence

Conclusion
(Paragraph 5)

Restatement of
opinion
Summary of main
points

Restatement of
opinion
Summary of main
points

Restatement of opinion
Summary of main points

A SAMPLE OF AN ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

Examinations good or bad?
Examinations are good. They are a means to evaluate the performance and
assess the academic achievements of students. They aim at testing the students grasp
and understanding of the subjects taught to them. Obviously examinations have come to
play an important part in ones educational career. In fact most students are afraid of
examinations.
No examinations may lead students to nowhere. Studies will no more be an
orchard of knowledge. The ability to pass an examination is indeed a valuable quality. It
shows that the student is able to express his thoughts and ideas in a manner others can
understand. It also shows that the student has acquired a certain amount of knowledge in
some branches of study. Besides, the mind of a student, even if he is dull, receives good
exercise when he prepares for an examination. A students success in an examination
therefore helps employers and others to assess his mental or general ability.
One may doubt about the existence of educational institutions, especially
colleges, if there are no examinations. Some may disappear. Others would remain but
known only for fun and frolic. College unions would be more important than the classes.
The classes may run. But the teachers will have to arrange programmes in the classes to
attract the students. As such students will only go for selective studies done through
selective books, guides and notes. Even the strenuous two months before the
examinations will be left for relaxation.
Examinations pave the route to students to portray their excellence in
studies. They are able to compete with each other in order to prove their mental powers.
Students will be able to show their intelligence and power of reasoning especially if they
are sitting for higher examinations. There are so many subjects taught in schools and a
student can indicate his grasp of the subjects that he has studied.
Without examinations, institutions of education will face difficulties in
assessing the mental capabilities of the students. Selections of candidates for careers
will also become a problem as paper qualifications play a vital role in the career arena.
Examinations enable students to qualify for scholarship apart from gaining entry into
institutions of higher learning.
The excellence of examinations consists of its objectives and the goal of
evaluating the quantum of knowledge acquired by students and of grading them. As
such, the world of academicians will be filled with poor souls without examinations.

PAST YEAR QUESTIONS

The following writing activities can be carried by the students under the guidance of the
teachers to make them better writers.

1)

How can we help promote tourism in Malaysia? (2004)

2)

How to keep oneself healthy. (2005)

3)

How can television help students in their studies? (2006)

4)

Teenagers today are only interested in entertainment. (2007)

Do you agree? Support your opinion.

5)

Examinations good or bad? (2008)

6)

School children should not have long holidays. Do you agree? (2009)

7)

The Internet is mostly a good thing. Do you agree?

8)

Support your opinion. (2010)

DESCRIPTIVE WRITING

They are three (3) types of descriptive essays. They are :

a) Describing a scene/event
b) Describing a place
c) Describing a person
a) Describing a scene/event
When describing a scene or event, you are required to write in some details about
the people and activities going on.
Guidelines in writing descriptions of scenes/events
Be clear about what scene/event you are describing
Description must be lively and interesting
Describe activities in details
Activities are arranged in order
Highlight person involved & what are they doing
Capture the mood of the scene (noise, lights & colours)
b) Describing a place
When describing a place, you are required to describe the place in detail. In your
description, include the people and activities going on.
Guidelines in writing descriptions of places
Give an introduction to the place
Give a physical description of the place (from outside moving to inside)
Describe what you see and hear
Describe in details the activities and attractions
Can include your personal feelings about the place

DOS

DONTS

Have a good grasp of the topic

Choose a topic if you dont

understand

Write about the place/scene only if

you have the knowledge about it

Try to describe a place/scene if you

are not sure about it

Describe the activities of the people in

it

Leave out the activities of the people

in it

Write about your feelings /

impressions of the place or scene

Leave out your feelings about the

place/ scene

Write concluding lines about your

description

End your description without a

conclusion

c) Describing a person
When describing a person/a group of people, you should give enough details about
the person/people. Include their lifestyle, contributions if any and daily activities.
Guidelines in writing descriptions of people
Be clear about who you are describing
If he/she is a famous person, mention why is he/she famous
If it is about a group, some knowledge about them is vital
Your description must be interesting
Mention the special features why that person is outstanding
Use present tense if the person is still alive

DOS

DONTS

Write a clear description about the

person or group of people

Give a poor description of the

person or group of people

Highlight his/her/their qualities

Leave out his/her/their qualities

Describe his/her/their interests

clearly

Leave out his/her/their interests

Describe the lifestyle of that

person/group correctly

Forget to mention about the

lifestyle of the person/group

Conclude the description orderly

End the description abruptly

USEFUL WORDS & PHRASES TO DESCRIBE FEELINGS AND REACTIONS

FEELINGS
Terrified

REACTIONS
face went as white as a sheet
my heart missed a beat or two
screamed at the top of my voice
nearly jumped out of my skin

Shocked

eyes nearly popped out

I stood dumbfounded
I almost choked on my food
seethed with anger
went mad with rage

Angry

started calling names

my parents went mad with rage
he hit the roof
went as red as a beetroot
was blushing from head to toe

Embarrassed

had guilt written all over his face

I did not know where to conceal myself
burst out laughing

Amused

he had everyone in stitches

my friend became hysterical
she smiled from ear to ear

Happy

I danced in to the room

USEFUL VOCABULARY & SENTENCE PATTERNS

A.
-

THE SKY
The blazing sun was shining through the cloudless sky ( a hot mid-day)
The sun rose, slowly and majestically, over mountains (early morning)
The sun appeared over the horizon, giving out rays of faint yellow light.
(dawn/sunrise)
Everything looked radiant in the early morning sun.

B. THE BEACH/SEA
- Tall coconut palms swayed gracefully to the sounds of the sea waves (beach)
- The gentle waves rolled endlessly towards the white sparkling beach
(b each)
- The whispering breeze and splashing waves gently rocks me to sleep.
- The winds caresses my cheeks and ruffles your hair as I relish the tickling sensation
of the waves crashing at my feet.
C.
-

A STORM
The sky darkened and it threatened to rain but the weather held (gloomy with no rain)
Lightning streaked across the sky
There was a flash of lightning followed by a rumble of thunder.
The wind shrieked. The wind howled
A peal of thunder boomed in the distance.

D. A VILLAGE
- The village houses were hurdled together ,surrounded by lush green shrubs
and trees
- As it was a fruit season, the wind carried the strong fruity aroma, tantalizing all
who came across it.
- Behind the quaint little huts, thick green forests and hills lends a majestic
surrounding to the village.
- The garden was a kaleidoscope of colour as red, pink and orange flowers
danced
gracefully in the gentle breeze
E. DAY/NIGHT
- The dark night was slowly crawling by and the dawn was approaching
As the moon makes a retreat, the sun rises in all its radiance and splendor.
- A new day is born.
- The night crawled by slowly.
- The stars twinkled in the black sky like thousands of fireflies
- The cry of million cicadas broke the silence of the night
- In the dead of the night, came the sound of the banging of a door.

A SAMPLE OF A DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY

Describe the biggest challenge in your life
The biggest challenge in my life is to get through my SPM examination with good
grades. Little did I know that the form five Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia or SPM examination is
so important to me. Ever since I have entered secondary school, I have been repeatedly
told and reminded by my teachers and my family that SPM exam is very important
because it is the stepping stone into my career and my future. But as usual, students like
me have taken this matter lightly because we cannot see the future yet.
Many students can fairly get through the SPM exam, but how many of us will be
able to get through with flying colours is another question. Why is it so important to do
well at SPM level? It is simply because it is a gateway to further education and higher
education. Strange enough SPM qualification itself does carry weight. A person with
SPM qualification only get to be employed as a clerk and may be paid a salary of
RM500.00 at the most. But having a good SPM certificate can ensure many other perks.
Students with good grades are often offered scholarships to further studies in local
or foreign institutions of higher learning. This incentive will be a great motivation to me
as I do not have to burden my parents unnecessarily. Moreover, those with good grades
are also exempted from sitting for foundation courses in some programmes. This is good
because I can save cost and time in pursuing my ambition that is to be a biotechnologist.
Those students who do well in SPM are also given priority to get into Form Six or
the pre-university classes which are conducted in some schools. The cost is low and
affordable for students and parents. Those who want to do their pre-university in a
private college because their SPM results are not good enough to be absorbed into
government schools, have to pay higher fees.
With an excellent SPM result, students can also opt to do their A levels which
could take them for an oversea education in countries like the United Kingdom, Australia
or even in the United States of America. These countries have excellent tertiary
educational programmes which uses the SPM results as their yardstick to take in
Malaysian students.
Therefore I think the biggest hurdle in my life is the SPM. It is the deciding factor
that makes or breaks my future and career. So my advice to all my comrades out there,
take the challenge and excel in your studies.

PAST YEAR QUESTIONS

The following writing activities can be carried by the students under the guidance of the
teachers to make them better writers.

1) Describe a festival celebrated in your area. (2004)

2) Describe the biggest challenge in your life. (2005)
3) Describe an enjoyable weekend you have experienced. (2006)
4) Describe an embarrassing experience in your life. (2007)
5) Write about a person who has worked hard to succeed in life. (2008)
6) Describe an unforgettable incident that you saw on your way home from school.
(2009)
7) Describe the most popular student in your school. (2010)

FACTUAL / EXPOSITORY WRITING

a) Introduction
You are required to write a composition which demands some knowledge of the
topic. This topic requires the students to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence,
expound on the idea and present in a clear and concise manner. It is based on facts
such as real events or happenings, real examples and real figures if any. If it is on a
current issue, you need to have read about it.

Guidelines in writing factual / expository essay

Understand what you should write
Have a good knowledge on the topic
Jot down relevant point using mind map
Arrange the points in sequence / orderly
Try to elaborate with real figures, examples, names
Points must be well explained or illustrated

DOS

DONTS

Have a good knowledge of the topic

Choose a topic if you are not sure

about the facts

Jot down the points

Start writing immediately

Define the topic & give relevant

examples

Start writing without giving any clear

definition

Arrange points according to

importance

Jumble up your points

Give relevant examples & figures

Forget to give relevant examples &

illustrations

Present points clearly

Present points poorly

Sum up points accurately

End without a conclusion

A SAMPLE OF A FACTUAL / EXPOSITORY ESSAY

FOOD
You are digging your grave with your teeth! was the doctors cry to his patient. It is
just as true today that people damage their health by eating badly. This is because food
nowadays can be obtained in different varieties.
Food can become either too much or too little of a good thing to people as well as
animals. Of course it is not only the type of food eaten that affects peoples health but
also the amount and how they are cooked. Food holds a special meaning in many
peoples lives. It is not a mere substance to keep one alive, instead there is so much
more to it.
Some people eat food because they are hungry. However, some may find solace in
food especially when people are under constant pressure, anger or solitude. They
usually vent their frustrations by eating. They will find anything from the refrigerator to fill
their poor stomachs. Stuffs such as sweets, candies, chocolates and junk food become
the victims.
Food is a passion for people when there is a family gathering or during festive
seasons. So food, as a matter of fact, binds the ties among family members because it is
during this time that laughter, joy and sorrows are shared over the dining table.
In our country, food seems to portray itself with utmost importance. We can find a
variety of food among the multiracial people of Malaysia. During festive seasons, we
enjoy ourselves with mouth watering food. In fact, we are able to discover the customs of
people by means of food. All kinds of traditional delicacies can be savoured by the
people of Malaysia.
Food can be prepared in many ways. Some of them, especially vegetables can be
eaten raw. Food can be steamed, roasted, stewed or fried. Each method of cooking
gives food a distinctive taste. Different people prepare food in different ways too.
Food is important not only to humans but to animals as well. No living things can
survive in this world without eating food. However, food can also be harmful to us if taken
too much. We should know the right amount of food to consume, as well as the type of
food in order to maintain a healthy life.

PAST YEAR QUESTIONS

The following writing activities can be carried by the students under the guidance of the
teachers to make them better writers.
1) Clothes (2004)
2) Music (2005)
3) Food (2006)
4) Tomorrow (2007)
5) Stars (2008)
6) Beauty (2009)
7) Home (2010)

TYPES OF SENTENCES FOR WRITING PURPOSES

1)
2)
3)

1)

SIMPLE SENTENCES
COMPOUND SENTENCES
COMPLEX SENTENCES

SIMPLE SENTENCES
A simple sentence contains a subject and a predicate, and it expresses a
complete thought. In the following simple sentences, subjects are in RED, and
predicate are in BLUE.
Examples:
A) Some pupilslike to eat chicken rice.
B) Epin and Upinplay volleyball every evening.
C) Zackgoes to the school and studies every day.
The three examples above are all simple sentences. Note that sentence B contains
a compound subject (Epin and Upin), and sentence C contains a compound verb
(goes to the school and studies) in the predicate. Simple sentences, therefore,
contain a subject and verb and express a complete thought, but they can also
contain compound subjects or verbs.

2)

COMPOUND SENTENCES
We may form Compound Sentences by joining two (2) simple sentences with
a punctuation mark and a linker.
1. Using a comma and a linker (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So, etc)
Examples:
a) The manager tried to help his employees, but they do not listen to him.
b) The players played well, forthey feared they might lose thegame.
c) She plans to get a scholarship to further her studies, soshe will study
very hard to get an excellent result in her exam.

Subject + Predicate,joining word Subject + Predicate.

2. Using a Semicolon ( ; )
Examples:
a) The manager tried to help his employees;they do not listen to him.
b) The players played well;they feared they might loose the game.
c) She plans to get a scholarship to further her studies; she will study
very hard to get an excellent result in her exam.

Subject + Predicate;Subject + Predicate.

3. Using a Semicolon (;), a linker (however, therefore, in fact, on the
other hand, nonetheless, besides, instead, then, moreover, similarly,
nevertheless, etc.) and a Comma(,)
Examples:
a) The car is sporty ; however, its price is expensive.
b) Salina brushes her teeth ; before,she goes to sleep.
c) Mohan is hardworking ; so,he can finished all his work on time.
Subject + Predicate; transition word ,Subject + Predicate.

3)

COMPLEX SENTENCES
We may form Complex Sentences by using one of the two patterns below:
Duringrecess time, I go to the canteen.
I go to the canteenduringrecess time.
Beforethe bell rings, everyone is still in class.
Everyone is still in class beforethe bell rings.
Linkers/joining words (subordinating conjunctions): As, As if, Because, Since,
Although, Even though, When, While, Until, Unless, Where, etc.

Pattern 1

Linkers,Subject + Predicate, Subject + Predicate.

Pattern 2

Subject + Predicate , Linkers, Subject + Predicate.

It is important to know that sentences containing adjective clauses are also

complex:
The man whom my dad talked tois my uncle.
The birdthat Ali foundwas alive.
The citywhere I grew upis in Malaysia.
Subject +Adjective Clause+ Predicate

8 TIPS FOR SPM CONTINUOUS WRITING

1. Write a story because your errors (grammar, spelling, sentence structures and so
on) will not be so glaring in a story compared to a factual/argumentative essay.
2. Always write about something real and close to you. It is easier than writing about
something fictional, which you have to create and imagine.
3. Combinedescription with narration and you will get a wonderful story (see the
sample of a narrative story ending with "We had never laughed so much in our lives").
4. Prepare a story in advance. Write a story about two pages length; do not write too
long because it will make the examiner spend longer time to read and mark your
essay, which is quite annoying. Ask your teacher to check the grammar and the
sentence structure. Then, memorize everything. Make sure that when you enter the
exam hall, you have a story in your mind.Do not go there empty-headed; you will
waste a lot of your precious timethinking ofwhat to write on the spot. When you
get the question paper, what you have to do is to adjust andadapt the story in
your head to the question. Usually the question will ask you to write "a story
beginning with..." or "a story ending with...". So, be smart and creative.
5. Be positive (think positively) about yourself because self- confidence is important
in writing a creative & interesting story.
6. Be bold to create a story based on personal experience or extensive reading
(story books, etc) as it allows your brain to flow freely as ideas can pop up now&
then (feel free to express yourself or your thought). Jot it down quickly as the ideas
pop up because our minds can play tricks on us.
7. Be smart to evaluate the ideas that pop up in your brain & only choose those are
relevant to your story.
8. Be cautious about your sentences (simple, compound & complex) & to be safe,
always use simple sentence (weak), simple & compound (average), compound &
complex(good).
9. Be adventurous in creating your story either a real life story based on your
personal experience or a fictional story with some adjustments based on your
extensive reading.
10. A good writerkeeps the examiner guessing whether the story is real or just
fiction.

9
SAMPLE EXERCISES FOR THE AVERAGE & WEAK STUDENTS
DESCRIPTIVE WRITING/ESSAY
My Ideal School (2004)
Though I have spent eleven years of my life in schools, I have my own dream of an
ideal school. I would want my __(1)__ school to be built __(2)__humanistic values. Since
I __(3)__ a naturalist and an __(4)__ ; I would like my __(5)__ to be built surrounded
__(6)__ trees, plants and animals. __(7)__ may sound weird, but __(8)__ is definitely
better than __(9)__ a school in the __(10)__ jungle. Schools currently are __(11)__ in the
middle of __(12)__ , cities and houses. Students __(13)__ to rush everyday through
__(14)__ traffic jam, which tires __(15)__ distracts them. These cause __(16)__ stress
which in turn __(17)__ them to concentrate on __(18)__ studies.
The ideal school __(19)__ I propose is a __(20)__ school with green plants, __(21)__
and petting animals. Students __(22)__ adopt every tree in __(23)__ vicinity and care for
__(24)__. They should monitor the __(25)__ of the tree . Since __(26)__ tree is taken as
__(27)__ case study, they should __(28)__ their reports periodically. With __(29)__
results they have, they __(30)__ compare and analyze in __(31)__ to improve the
__(32)__ of the trees and __(33)__. By doing this, they __(34)__ know it is not __(35)__
for a tree to __(36)__ and how other elements __(37)__ pollution can destroy the
__(38)__.
In a residential school __(39)__ students take responsibilities in __(40)__ the school
and their __(41)__ areas. Living skills like __(42)__, housekeeping, gardening, laundry
and __(43)__ daily chores carried out __(44)__ the students. These may __(45)__ sound
academic but they __(46)__ part and parcel of __(47)__ and help you to __(48)__ your
time and chores.
At the end of __(49)__ day when they finish __(50)__ ,
the students are not __(51)__ academically inclined but also __(52)__ developed.

ANSWER KEY:
1. ideal

27. a

2. on

28. present

3. am

29. the

4. environmentalist

30. should

5. to

31. order

6. by

32. growth

7. this

33. plants

8. it

34. would

9. building

35. easy

10. concrete

36. grow

11. built

37. like

12. towns

38. tree

13. have

39. where

14. the

40. running

15. and

41. residential

16. them

42. cooking

17. unable

43. other

18. their

44. by

19. that

45. not

20. tropical

46. are

21. gardens

47. life

22. should

48. manage

23. the

49. the

24. it

50. schooling

25. growth

51. only

26. the

52. holistically

SAMPLE EXERCISES FOR THE AVERAGE & WEAK STUDENTS

NARRATIVE WRITING/ESSAY
Write a story ending with: (2008)
..Now I realize the value of a true friend.
There is hardly any living being who has not gone through the ups and downs of life.
Actually life is full of bad as __(1)__ as good incidents. Some of them may __(2)__
forgotten with the passage of time, whereas __(3)__ leave an everlasting imprint on the
mind. __(4)__ feels delighted when one is favoured with __(5)__ but plunges into despair
during misfortunes. In __(6)__, the wise is he who is neither __(7)__ in prosperity nor
takes adversity to heart.
Last year, I passed the SPM. Although __(8)__ had fared well in the examination yet I
__(9)__ not hopeful of getting first grade. I was very __(10)__ because the question of
__(11)__ future career depended on it. The day __(12)__ , when the result was
expected to appear __(13)__ the newspaper, I spent a restless night.
__(14)__ with my friends, I got up early __(15)__ the morning and wanted to catch the
__(16)__ vendor on his way. Soon he appeared __(17)__ about the SPM results and I
hurriedly __(18)__ the paper and started searching for my __(19)__. It was a matter of
immense surprise __(20)__ pleasure to find that I stood second __(21)__ my school
securing first grade. My other __(22)__ also passed securing good marks. In order
__(23)__ celebrate our happiness, we chalked out a __(24)__ to go to some picnic sport
at __(25)__ Dickson.
We reached Port Dickson at twelve oclock __(26)__ headed straight to the Glory
Beach resort __(27)__ was a lovely picnic resort. The white __(28)__ beach was
occupied by the visitors. We __(29)__ a place under a coconut tree __(30)__ sat there. I
immediately rushed towards the sea and __(31)__ my shock and surprise that a boy
__(32)__ drowning. He was crying for help.
I immediately __(33)__ into the water and swarm towards the __(34)__ boy. I caught
hold of the boy __(35)__ a great struggle and dragged him towards __(36)__ bank. He
was in a semi-conscious __(37)__.When I looked at him closely, I __(38)__ surprised to
know that he was at __(39)__ time my classmate. We were good friends __(40)__ later
on we drifted apart.
He was __(41)__ medical aid and after some time, he __(42)__ consciousness. I was
delighted to see him__(43)__. My joy knew no bounds because I __(44)__saved the life
of a boy who __(45)__ had been my friend.
He looked at __(46)__ and recognized me as well. He hugged me __(47)__ whispered,
Now I realize the __(48)__ of a true friend.

ANSWER KEY :

1. well

25. Port

2. be

26. and

3. others

27. which

4. one

28. sandy

5. fortune

29. picked

6. fact

30. and

7. overjoyed

31. to

8. I

32. was

9. was

33. jumped

10. anxious

34. drowning

11. my

35. after

12. earlier

36. the

13. in

37. state

14. along

38. was

15. in

39. one

16. newspaper

40. but

17. shouting

41. given

18. took

42. regained

19. result

43. recovering

20. and

44. had

21. in

45. once

22. friends

46. me

23. to

47. and

24. programme

48. value

SAMPLES OF INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPHS

NARRATIVE WRITING
TOPIC : DESCRIBE AN OCCASION WHEN YOU WERE VERYFRIGHTENED
SAMPLE : The bus was travelling at high speed. I have been used to
several trips like this before but this time I felt frightened.
The driver was a new face, the weather was bad and the traffic
was heavy. The passengers were unusually quiet and had looks
of anxiety, just as I had.
DESCRIPTIVE WRITING
TOPIC : My Neighbour
SAMPLE : The moment Mr Seng is up and about, you cannot miss his
cherry Good morning, Alice. Practically everyone gets a
personalized greeting. Even if you get out on the wrong side
of the bed, you are right again, with Mr Sengs cheerful
and pleasant disposition. What would people like me do
without Mr Seng?
ARGUMENTATIVE WRITING
TOPIC : Should co-curicular activities be made compulsory in schools?
SAMPLE : Co-curricular activities involve students participation in
clubs or societies and sporting activities outside school hours.
In my opinion, I strongly believe that co-curricular activities
is important for overall self- development and should be made
compulsory in schools.

GRAPHIC MATERIALS
& SHORT TEXTS
Paper 2 Section A

BACK TO MAIN MENU

A.

ADVERTISEMENTS/ LABELS/POSTERS

1. Study the advertisement below.

WAREHOUSE SALE!
Get designer handbags and shoes at giveaway prices.
The sale is on from 15th 16th November,
9 a.m. 10 p.m.
All items must go.
Cash only, credit cards will not be accepted.
Lot 32, Jalan Pahang, 55000 Kuala Lumpur.

What is this advertisement about?

A.
B.
C.
D.

A one-month warehouse sale in Jalan Pahang.

A two-day sale for handbags and shoes.
The sale of unusual handbags and shoes.
The sales of a warehouse on the 15th and 16th of November.

2.

NATURAL COOL HERBAL PRODUCT

Miracle face creams that keep your skin young and smooth. The perfect choice for young
and modern people.

The advertisement claims that the product makes the skin

A.
B.
C.

young and modern

youthful
rosy

Read the pamphlet below and answer the question that follows.
INTENSIVE ENGLISH CLASSES

These classes are designed for students, working adults and

housewives.
Results guaranteed- can speak and write good English after six
months.

Topics:
Conversational English, Listening Comprehension, Grammar and Writing

3. The statement that best describes the pamphlet is

A.
B.
C.
D.

The classes teach design for working adults and housewives.

Only students can attend the courses on grammar.
The courses enable the students to master English in six months.
The classes are specially designed for students only.

Read the label below and answer the question that follows.

LULU SPICY NOODLES

1.
Directions for preparation:
1.
Put the noodles into a bowl.
2.
Fill the bowl with boiling water.
3.
Cover the bowl and leave for 3 minutes.
4.
Add the seasoning.
5.
Stir well and serve hot.
Ingredients: Flour, palm oil, chilli, salt, dried chives
Manufactured by: GoodOne Noodle Factory
4. Lulu Spicy Noodles need to be
A.
boiled in water
B.
served with chives
C.
eaten when hot
D.
seasoned with salt
5. Many people like to eat the noodle because it is
A.
hot
B.
easy to prepare
C.
seasoned with salt

Read the job advertisement below and answer the question that follows.
A WELL-KNOWN RESTAURANT IN SINGAPORE
requires

CHEF
Specialising in Thai and Western cuisine. Salary depends on your ability and skill (
range of S$1500 S$2000 )
Accommodation will be provided.
Please call +65-9030 5674 for interview
6. Which of the following is not required for the job?
A.
ability
B.
skill
C.
accommodation
7. Those interested in the job should
A.
wait for a letter for an interview
B.
made an appointment for an interview
C.
prepare Thai and Western dish
Read the coupon below and answer the questions that follow.
GET A FREE COPY OF PASS WITH DISTINCTIONS
Name
Sex
IC
Tel(H)
Tel(O)
Address
Postcode

:
:
:
:
:
:
:
Send your coupon to:
Star Publisher
P.O. Box 65, Jalan Raja Siong Post Office
37900 KUALA LUMPUR

8. The coupon enables one to

A.
get a free cinema pass
B.
enter a book exhibition free of charge
C.
buy a book at a good discount
D.
get a complimentary copy of a book
9. Which of the following is incorrect about the coupon?
A.
The publisher uses a post-office address.
B.
We have to promote Pass With Distinctions.
C.
We can get a free copy by posting the coupon.
D.
We have to complete the coupon before posting it.

B.

CARTOONS / IDIOMS
10. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

The lady is telling the man that they

A. can be heard by other staff
B. are leaning against the wall
C. are blocked by the wall
D. should listen to the wall
11. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

The manager is telling his staff that the office has

A.
a lot of paper
B.
no order for paper
C.
no more paper
12. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

By saying these words, the man is

A.
asking the lady to drop him off.
B.
Inviting the lady to his house.
C.
Asking the lady when she is free.

13. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows:

The man means that while travelling, he

A.
has enjoyed travelling.
B.
feels tired and lonely
C.
has missed his home.

Read the statement below and answer the questions that follow.
Dont judge the book by its
cover
14. This statement warns us not to
A.
look at the book carefully
B.
buy a book without cover
C.
be misled by a persons appearance
15. The saying that is similar in meaning is
A.
Look before you leap
B.
New broom sweeps clean
C.
All that glitters is not gold
D.
Strike while the iron is hot
16. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

The man is advising his son to

A.
study properly and systematically
B.
do it the way he has been taught
C.
show him that he can do it
D.
be determined in what he does

17. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

The phrase passed with flying colours means that the boy has
A.
used many types of colours
B.
bought water colours
C.
passed with good results
18. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

The girl is accusing the boy of being

A.
brave
B.
timid
C.
clever
19. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

Linda is telling her mother that

A.
she knows Aunt Pauline
B.
she ran with Aunt Pauline
C.
she met Aunt Pauline at the bank

20. Read the statement below and answer the question that follows.

By saying red letter day, she means that

A.
she is very busy
B.
it is a working day
C.
it is an important day

C.

TABLES/CHARTS/DIAGRAMS/MAPS/PICTURES`
2009

2010

transport
10%
entertaiment
10%

transport
20%
food
40%

food
35%

entertaiment
5%

food
rental
entertaiment
transport

rental
40%

rental
40%

21. The pie chart of 2009 shows that Sams expenses on food and rental were
A.
the same
B.
different
C.
the least

22. The two pie charts show that Sam

A.
spent the most on rental for both years
B.
spent the same on food for both years
C.
spent more money on food in 2009
D.
had higher transport expenses in 2009
Enrolment at Suria Tuition Centre
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
BM

English

Maths

Science

Commerce

23. The enrolment figures show that the

A.
classes are very big
B.
tutors are not qualified
C.
commerce classes are popular
D.
English tuition is most sought-after
NUMBER OF TOURISTS TO MALAYSIA
Country
2008
2009
Japan
70 000
85 000
Middle East
50 000
45 000
Canada
35 000
26 000
Korea
19 000
20 000

2010
60 000
48 000
30 000
36 000

24. We can conclude from the table that

A.
most of the tourists who came to Malaysia are from Europe
B.
most of the tourists who came to Malaysia from 2008 to 2010 are from
East Asia
C.
there is a steady increase of tourists from Canada

D.

TEXTS/NEWS REPORT/MOVIE REVIEWS/LETTERS

25. Read the news report below and answer the question that follows.
SENAWANG, Wed: A family of seven people were killed in a fire at a shop house.
The bodies of the victims were all charred beyond recognition. A state Fire and
Rescue Department Operations Officer said that the fire occurred at 3 a.m. The
family were sleeping in three rooms on the upper floor of the shop house.
From the news report, we know that
A.
not all in the family died in the fire
B.
the shop house was partially burnt
C.
the fire victims were badly burnt
D.
an explosion started the fire
26. Read the movie review below and answer the question that follows.
KARATE MEN
Two martial arts fighters have to overpower a
terrorist and his bodyguards on a tropical island.
Action-packed and keeps you on your edge. Ends
with a twist.Starring: Bob Dylan and Jack Lyon

The word overpower can be replaced with

A.
overdo
B.
fight
C.
challenge
D.
subdue

27. Read the letter below and answer the question that follows.
Dear Leela,
I have to tell you about the flood. My village was flooded last
Monday. The water level was so high that we had to evacuate. The
police sent boats to my village and helped the victims to move. We
moved to a school that is on higher ground. Fortunately, the water
subsided the next day.
Hani
When the flood victims were forced to evacuate, they had to
A.
lock their houses
B.
drive their cars away
C.
move their furniture
D.
leave their houses
28. Read the text below and answer the question that follows.
Exercising is a good way of reducing stress. This leads to mental health. People who
are involved in sports are more likely to have good mental and physical health.
Playing games improves the persons alertness. Besides, people who play games
have better control of their emotion.
The main idea in this text is that exercise develops the
A.
brains
B.
oral skill
C.
mental state
D.
persons intelligence
29. Read the text below and answer the question that follows.
If live longer and lower the risk of heart disease, a move to the mountains may
help. A research by scientists in Greece shows that mountain dwelling is good for the
heart and longevity.
People living at higher altitude have lower odds of dying from heart disease that
those closer to sea level, even if they have factors that could increase their risk.
What is the writers message?
A.
One can live a healthier life in the mountains.
B.
Mountain dwellers do not die from heart diseases.
C.
Mountain dwelling is full of risks.
D.
One can be free of diseases at a high altitude.

Read the text below and answer the questions that follow.
There was already a large crowd on the school field when I arrived. Here
were tents for the athletes to get ready. When the Director of the School Board
arrived, he was greeted by our school principal, Encik Adnan. Then, the National
Anthem was sung, followed by the march past. The races took place between
10.00 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. There were the 100-metre, 200-metre and 300-metre
races were the highlight of the sports events.
30. According to the passage, the march past took place
A.
before the National Anthem
B.
after the National Anthem
C.
after the arrival of the guest
31. The highlight of an event is usually
A.
the opening
B.
the closing ceremony
C.
the most exciting part
D.
the break between events
E.

SIGNS

1. The sign tells the car owners that the management

A. forbids parking outside
B. park their own cars inside
C. is not responsible for any loss
D. is a risky management

2. The sign is hung at the door by the hotel

A. cleaners
B. bell boy
C. manager
D. guests

3. Anyone who wants to enter the hall must

A. dress fancifully for the function
B. wear the latest fashion
C. be in formal attire
D. be ladies only

PLEASE TAKE ONE

4. If customers see this sign, they can

A. take one copy
B. take and read
C. read only
D. buy one copy

5. This sign is displayed on the

A. door of an office
B. gate of a house
C. door of a building
D. door in a house

6. The sign means that only those

A. working in the company can enter
B. wearing uniforms can enter
C. living nearby can enter
D. doing delivery

7. The sign tells customers that they have to

A. use their credit cards
B. withdraw cash from there
C. show their cash at the counter
D. pay for purchase in cash

8. This sign indicates that you can

A. only for parking
B. park pick-ups only
C. only to load your car
D. only drive-thru

9. This message is seen at

A. the cinema ticket booth
B. the bus lane by the road
C. the check-in counter
D. the automatic teller machine

10. This sign is usually seen at these places except the

A. bank
B. post office
C. cinema
D. market

11. This sign means that those who

A. come first are served first
B. come early are served
C. are behind come first
D. come late have to go
12. This sign is usually placed in front of the
A. hotel lift
B. motor workshop
C. toll both
D. restaurant

F.

CLOZE TEXT

EXERCISE 1
Fill in the blanks with the correct answer.
Many people know Pulau Gemia as one of the many beautiful islands off the
coast of Terengganu.
Just a fifteen-minute boat ride away from Marang town, the island is a
privately-owned one with well-maintained villas and beaches. There is also a
thriving turtle hatchery run and (9). by Encik Rani Awang, a
recreational supervisor in charge of guiding resort guests of the best diving
and snorkelling spots. (10) he is not working, he turns his full attention
to his babies or turtles the greenbacks and leatherbacks which are fast
diminishing (11) .. number.
I was previously a boatman and know this area well. Turtles coming
ashore to (12) eggs were common. Sadly, times have changed. I was
disturbed to see so many of the eggs (13) . collected and sold for
consumption, he said.
He made up his mind to do his part for conservation when he came
(14) .. a dead turtle on the beach one day. They are already battling for
survival in (15) . waters that are full of predators. And this is what people
are doing to them. Something must be done, he added
9.

a
b
c
d

maintain
maintains
maintained
maintaining

13.

a
b
c

be
been
being

10.

a
b
c
d

How
When
While
Where

14.

a
b
c
d

from
onto
away
upon

11.

a
b
c
d

by
in
on
at

15.

a
b
c
d

this
that
these
those

12.

a
b
c
d

lie
lay
laid
lain

EXERCISE 2
Like the pitahaya or dragon fruit, abiu, a close relative of sweet ciku, is not a local
fruit. Both the dragon fruit and abiu contain healthy nutrients and are rich in vitamins. (9)
. the dragon fruit is now widely sold in supermarkets and is widely (10) . abiu
which comes from Amazon, is still unknown.
Unknown (11) many, one thousand abiu trees were planted at the agricultural
department station in Hulu Paka, Terengganu and now after three years, are (12) fruits
with golden peels when ripe. Abiu is nutritious and bears fruits the whole year (130 .
In South America, the sweet succulent pulp is normally eaten (14) .. or chilled or
used as a dressing on ice creams. In Brazil, it is eaten to relieve coughs and bronchitis.
Besides, abiu is also valued for (15) wood which is dense and heavy.
The agricultural station has plans to popularise this species and make it a popular
house plant.
9.

a
b
c
d

as
since
when
while

13.

a
b
c
d

after
round
around
onward

10.

a
b
c
d

cultivate
cultivates
cultivated
cultivating

14.

a
b
c
d

fresh
freshly
fresher
freshen

11.

a
b
c
d

by
to
for
from

15.

a
b
c
d

it
its
its
its

12

a
b
c
d

bear
bore
bears
bearing

EXERCISE 3
Plants are a good source of food for people and animals. One such (9) .. of
plants is the one grown for its seeds. The seeds are (10) . for their grains such as
wheat, rice and corn. They make (11) food.
Plants also provide us (12) .. from seeds like coconuts, oil palm, groundnuts
and sunflower seeds. Soya and pepper are the seeds of soya and pepper plants. Drinks
made from soya bean (13) tasty and nutritious. Plant roots such as carrots, turnips
and potatoes are also eaten. They contain vitamins. We also eat (14) leaves of
plants like lettuce, spinach and cabbage as well as the stalks such as celery. Plants like
beans and peas are rich in proteins. Plants also give us fruits supplying us with abundant
vitamin C.
9.

a
b
c
d

type
style
stem
method

14.

a
b
c
d

were
are
was
is

10.

a
b
c
d

gather
gathers
gathering
gathered

15.

a
b
c

a
an
the

11.

a
b
c
d

nutrition
nutrients
nutritious
nutritionist

12.

a
b
c

by
with
along

13.

a
b
c

come
came
comes

EXERCISE 4
With the functions available today, a mobile phone is not just a tool of
communication. It is also a personal digital (9) . , an internet browser, a payment
channel and a data transmitter. Mobile phones have become a (10) .as well as a
lifestyle convenience.
While mobile phones are rapidly becoming more common around (11) ..
world, the mobile phones now are capable of accessing the Internet. (12) .. includes
sending and receiving e-mail. This has led to the creation of original Internet content for
mobile-phone users. These sites (13) .. towards mobile phones have been referred
to as the second Internet. Users of these services (14) . use their mobile phones
to purchase concert and airline tickets (15) also do their banking. Some phones
also functions in place of a wallet. Mobile phones with digital cameras are an enormous
hit among people in their teens and twenties.
9.

a
b
c
d

assist
assisting
assisted
assistant

13.

a
b
c
d

orients
oriented
orienting
orient

10.

a
b
c
d

need
necessary
necessity
necessarily

14.

a
b
c
d

might
must
can
may

11.

a
b
c

the
an
a

15.

a
b
c
D

however
although
but
and

12.

a
b
c

This
That
These

EXERCISE 5
Klausner had invented a sound machine (9) .. he believed would enable him
to hear sounds that humans (10) .. not. While he was out in the garden testing
(11) .. machine, he heard strange sounds. He believed that the sounds (12)
..from the roses his neighbour was cutting. Later, he twisted the daisy stem (13)
heard the same sound of pain. The next day, he heard strange sounds when he
(14).. cutting a tree trunk. He summoned the doctor to the park. The doctor listened
to the machine and the tree came crashing (15) .. and crushed the machine. The
doctor thought he was mad and took him home.

9.

13.

c
d

when
which
who
what

a
b
c
d

but
and
so
over

10.

a
b
c

could
must
should

14.

a
b
c
d

is
was
has
had

11.

a
b
c

your
its
his

15.

a
b
c

come
came
coming

a
b
c
d

up
over
down
upon

12.

EXERCISE 6
To reduce acid rain, we need to (9) the amount of acid pollutants in the
air. We can (10) . by decreasing the number of motor vehicles on the road as they
are the (11) source of acid pollutants. We can carpool, use public transport, walk
(12) .. cycle to some of our destinations. We can fit (13). motor vehicles with
catalytic converters to reduce the amount of pollutants they release (14) . the air
by installing devices to remove (15) . of the pollutants from gases and smoke that
come out of chimneys at power stations and factories.
9.

a
B
C
D

reduce
reduces
reducing
reduced

13.

a
b
c

his
their
our

10.

a
B
C
D

began
begin
begins
beginning

14

a
b
c
d

in
into
by
on

11.

a
B
C
D

bigger
biggest
most big
most bigger

15

a
b
c

any
a lot
some

12.

a
B
C
D

and
but
or
so

EXERCISE 7
MELAKA, Fri.- Police seized 350 cartons of cigarettes and 400 cartons of expensive
liquor in a pre-dawn raid at a house in Kampung Belukar yesterday. It is believed that
Malaysian (1) .. amounting to RM50 000 had not been paid on the items.
Acting on a tip-off, a (2) of policemen led by Inspector Ali Hanafi,
(3) the house and apprehend five men. It was (4) that two of them had
entered the country illegally. The police also (5). 2000 CDs believed to be (6) ..
copies of popular Hindi films and computer software programmes.
On (7).. , it was discovered that the goods had been smuggled in from a
neighbouring country and were meant for (8) in Melaka, Negeri Sembilan and
Johor.
The five men are expected to be (9) in court tomorrow for evading duty on
goods. Police spokesman ACP Glen Koding said, We will (10). for a deterrent
sentence to (11).. others from smuggling goods into our country.
1.

a
b
c
d

money
funds
loans
duty

7.

a
b
c
d

question
questions
questioned
questioning

2.

a
B
c
d

gang
team
station
division

8.

a
b
c
d

distribute
distributed
distribution
distributing

3.

a
b
c
d

raided
charged
attacked
investigated

9.

a
b
c
d

seen
charged
brought
imprisoned

4.

a
b
c
d

seen
known
assumed
discovered

10.

a
b
c
d

wish
hope
press
insist

5.

a
b
c
d

hid
took
seized
captured

11.

a
b
c
d

stop
encourage
discourage
encouraging

6.

a
b
c
d

new
old
hidden
pirated

ANSWER KEY
A.

ADVERTISMENT/LABEL/POSTER
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

B.

A
C
B
C
C
C

12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

D
C
B
C
C

A
C
D
B

TEXT/NEWS REPORT/MOVIE REVIEWS/LETTER

16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.

E.

C
B
D
B

TABLE/CHART/DIAGRAM/MAP/PICTURE
12.
13.
14.
15.

D.

6.
7.
8.
9.

CARTOON/IDIOM
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

C.

A
B
C
C
B

C
D
D
C
A
B
C

SIGNS
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.

C
D
C
A
A
A

30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.

D
C
A
D
A
D

F.
EX. 1
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

CLOZE TEXT

B
B
B
B
C
D
C

EX. 2
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

EX. 4
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

D
C
A
A
B
C
D

EX. 5
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

EX. 7
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

A
B
A
D
C
D
D
C
B
C
A

D
C
B
D
B
A
B

EX. 3
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

A
D
C
B
B
C
C

B
A
C
B
B
B
C

EX. 6
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

A
B
B
C
C
B
C

STRUCTURED
RESPONSE
Paper 2 Section B

BACK TO MAIN MENU

SECTION B
EXERCISE 1
Read the following descriptions on the different types of herbs and answer the questions
that follow.
Tumeric or kunyit grows in tufts, with leaves alternately
arranged. They are light green and flaccid. There are
no true stems. The rhizomes or roots are fleshy and
branch off at right angles forming a dense clump. They
are aromatic orange brown on the outside but bright
orange inside. It has a variety of uses in cooking and
cosmetics. It is used during traditional ceremonies and
to treat bruises and wounds. The leaves are also used
in cooking.
Peppermint or pudina has attractive, lanceshaped aromatic leaves supported by thin
square stems. A popular herb in many local
dishes, it also replenishes us with minerals
like zinc and magnesium. It is best known for
its menthol which gives a cooling fragrance
and taste.

olyganum minus or kesom is native to

Southeast Asia. It has slightly dark green
leaves that taper to a point. A sharp fragrance
comes from the leaves that shoot out
alternately from the stems. They contain
certain minerals and are made into oils. It is
an essential ingredient in many local dishes

Ginger flower or bunga kantan or siantan locally,

is known as torch ginger. The flowers are showy
pink and has a tall perennial look. It gives a
special sharp fragrance to Asian soups and
curries. The finely shredded ginger buds are
sprinkled in laksa soups or eaten raw as
garnishing.

Lemon grass or serai is aromatic Asian plant. It is

a tall grass with sharp-edged leaves and grows in
clumps. The whitish and slightly bulbous base
gives the lemony flavour to curries. The fragrant
variety gives a stronger scent to traditional
cooking. It is also an ingredient in herbal baths.

Using information from the description, complete the following table.

Herb

The part that is used

Uses

Lemon grass

16.

Gives flavour to curries.

Peppermint

17.

21.

Ginger flower

18.

22.

Polyganum minus

19.

Gives a sharp fragrance to

soups.
23.

The leaves
Tumeric
20.

Used in
* Cooking
* Cosmetic
24.
25.

TRAVEL FAIR
2Time to unwind, time for MASholidays
Booking period: 21-28 Feb 2011
Travel period: 21 March-31 December 2011

3D/2N Bali Free & Easy from

RM865
per person based on twin sharing

6D/4N Lovely Korea from RM2148

per person based on twin sharing
(travel period: 28 May 2 June
2011)

7D/4N Rome-Florence-Venice Tour from RM7218

per person based on twin sharing
(travel period: 12-17 March2011)

4D/3N Hong Kong Shopping Tour from RM1519

per person based on twin sharing

5D/3N Tokyo Mount Fuji-Hakone Tour from Rm3999

Pwr person based on twin sharing
(travel period: 6-10 April 2011
7D/5N Turkey Delight Tour from RM4466
per person based on twin sharing
(travel period: 19-24 Oct 2011)

Description

Package

1. Suriana has RM1000.

2. Rohana wants to go shopping.
3. Zakri wants to bring his wife to Venice
4. Adlina and friends only have holidays in April
5. Caroline plans for vacation in October
6. Rosnah and husband can only go for a 6-day
vacation
7. The booking period is for ........................................... days
8. One has to travel between ...............................................................
9. The travel packages are brought by .................................................
10. The package that offers more than RM5000 is .................................

BANANA
The banana "tree" is not really a tree, but a giant herb. The banana is the fruit of
this herb. The cluster of bananas sold in supermarkets is a "hand" of bananas, while
the individual bananas on the hand are called fingers. The strings that go up and
down the length of bananas are called Phloem Bundles. They help distribute
nutrients to every part of the growing bananas.
The yellow bananas that are most often sold in supermarkets are sometimes
called "dessert bananas" because they are soft and sweet. Plantains are a type of
banana that are not as sweet and are usually cooked. While not as commonly eaten
in North America, plantains are a dietary staple in many tropical regions. It is
believed by many experts that bananas were the first fruit cultivated by humans.
Alexander the Great first came across bananas in India in 327 B.C.
Bananas were introduced to the United States at the 1876 Philadelphia
Centennial Celebration, where they were sold wrapped in foil for 10 cents each.
Worldwide, bananas are the fourth largest fruit crop. The average American
consumes 28 pounds of bananas per year. The banana peel is edible, though
perhaps not very palatable unless cooked. About 50 percent of people who are
allergic to latex are often also allergic to bananas. India is the number one banana
producer in the world. The most popular banana cultivar in the world is the
Cavendish. This is the banana most often seen in U.S. and European markets. In
Uganda, bananas are such a big part of the diet that the same word,matooke, is
used for both "food" and "banana." The banana split was invented in 1904 by 23year-old David Evans Strickler, an employee at the Tassel Pharmacy soda fountain
in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

1.Cluster of banana is
called ...................

3. Banana sold at
supermarkets is known as
..............................

5. Banana was first found in

the year ........................

7. A person who is allergy to

banana usually is also allergy to
.............................................

2. An individual banana is
called ................................

4. Banana that needs to

be cooked is known as
..................................

6. An average American
consumption of banana in
a year
..................................

8. World number one

banana producer is
..................................

9. World most popular

banana cultivar is
..................................
10. Banana split was introduced by
.............................................

ANSWER KEY
EXERCISE 1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

the bulbous base

the leaves
the ginger buds
the leaves
the rhizomes/roots
used in many local dishes
used in soup and curries/eaten raw
made into oil
traditional ceremonies
to treat bruises and wounds

EXERCISE 2
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

3D/2N Bali Free & Easy

4D/3N Hong Kong Shopping Tour
7D/4N Rome-Florence-Venice Tour
5D/3N Tokyo-Mount Fuji-Hakone Tour
7D/5N Turkey Delight Tour
7D/5N Turkey Delight Tour/6D/4N Lovely Korea
7 days
21 March-31 December 2011
Malaysia Airlines
7D/4N Rome-Florence-Venice Tour

EXERCISE 3
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

a hand
finger
dessert bananas
plantain
327 B.C.
28 pounds per year
latex
India
Cavendish
David Evans Strickler

READING
COMPREHENSION
& SUMMARY
Paper 2 Section C

BACK TO MAIN MENU

EXERCISE 1
Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow.
1

Quiet and freedom from distraction are essential for private study.
There is everything to be said for habitually studying in the same place.
Books and materials are at hand, and do not have to be transported from
one place to another. The familiar room provides the right atmosphere
and stimulus for work.
Unfortunately it is not always easy to find this desirable environment. If
you have to live in lodgings, you may have to live with non-students who
do not realize that quiet and privacy are necessary for study; and even if
your privacy is respected, you may still be distracted by noise or music or
by the mere awareness that others are enjoying themselves while you
are working. Often friends are the worst enemies of study, if they keep
dropping in on you for gossip or idle conservation, or try and tempt you
away for a drink, a game of cards, etc. The only remedy against wasting
your time away in this way is to be firm in keeping set hours for work, and
in letting your friends know these hours are. All productive workers are
forced to set aside certain hours for work, and to insist that they are not to
be disturbed these hours by telephone calls or visitors.
A study, then, is usually the best place for serious work. There are
some students, however, who have a perfectly suitable study room, but
still find it hard to work there. There may be a radio to turn on, a
photograph of a sweetheart to gaze upon, food and drink temptingly
available, etc. Also, it is easy to fall into the trap of daydreaming. Even Dr
Johnson, who was a very scholarly writer of 19 th century
England,admitted that he could not concentrate on difficult questions for
long periods when he was alone in his study room.
Only those who are strongly motivated are able to work for long in
solitude. Others may find it easier to work in libraries. Research in fact
shows that students who habitually work in libraries do better in their
studies than those who do not. The sight of others working sometimes
makes it easier to get down to work; behaviour is more disciplined as
there are rules against talking. So if you are a person who is strongly
affected by external stimulation you may find it easier to work in a library
or classroom, where others are also working.
Another factor that affects ones ability to study well is noise. Anyone
who has had to do much intellectual work must at times have been
distracted or even maddened by noise.
A distinction has to be made between meaningless noise and more
meaningful sounds such as music or conversation. Meaningful sounds,
although of less intensity, can obviously be much more distracting than
sheer noise.

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

Noise, especially man-made noise, is a problem because little control

over it is possible, short of wearing earplugs. Much depends on your
attitude to the source of noise. I work a few hundred yards from a factory
plant which is seldom silent, and whose loud discontinuous clanging
appalls most visitors. But it is possible to get used to it, and even to feel
happy about it, by regarding it as a symbol of industry and national
prosperity. The noises made by neighbours tend to be more upsetting,
because they often seem to arise from lack of consideration and
ignorance on the part of the neighbours.

45

Answer all the questions.

1. There is everything to be said for habitually studying in the same place (line 2-3).
Explain the meaning of this statement.
.. (1 mark)
2. What are two advantages of having a special room to study in?
..
.... (2 marks)
3. Why it is not good for a student to share his lodgings with tenants whoare not
students? Give two reasons.
..
.... (2 marks)
(a) How may our friends cause us to do badly in our studies?
.. (1 mark)
(b) What should a person do if he realizes that his friends are causinghim to neglect
his studies?
..
.... (2 marks)
5. Give two reasons why some people find it easier to study in the library than in a
personal study.
..
.... (2 marks)

Summary
When choosing a place to study, many factors need to be considered.
Write a summary about favourable conditions for effective studying and things that
distract students from studying and what to do about them.
Your summary must
be in continuous writing
not be longer than 130 words, including the 10 words given below
use material from lines 1 to 49
Credit will be given for use of own words but care must be taken not to change the
original meaning.
Begin your summary as follows:
To study effectively, one should be free from distractions such ...
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..

EXERCISE 2
Questions 26 - 30 are based on the following passage.
The following passage is about a woman Patricia Zahara Arffin, 7I , who lives her life to
the fullest, unlike most senior citizens.
1

Patricia Zahara Ariffin, 71, is a body painter. She paints pictures on

people's faces and hands at the National Zoo. Visitors will definitely notice
her while waiting to take the train ride at the starting point. She will be
there, with her forearm stretched out to show off the various animals she
has painted on her skin. "Get your face painted," this sprightly lady will say 5
to persuade the 5 children. "Won't it be cute to have a little dolphin on your
hand?" she will suggest to them. Sometimes, she would be mobbed,
surrounded by those eager children to have her "masterpiece" on their
skins. Sometimes, she sits alone under her large umbrella with her tubes of
water-based paints and brushes.
10

Patricia is not a professional artist. Art critics describe her paintings of

owls, eagles, tigers and fishes as "cute". Nothing more. This is not a big
deal to the English native who came here after her marriage to a Malaysian
in the 1950s. After all, she only started face-and-hand painting in March
when theMalaysian Nature Society needed something novel to attract the 15
crowd to come to their Floral Exhibition in Tanjung Tuan, Melaka.

Patricia can always be seen at the train ride station, come rain or shine,
on most Saturdays, because painting has always been her passion.
Besides that it gives her happiness to see that the fruits of her labour help
the animals in the zoo. "It's not so much the trouble," insisted the former 20
headmistress who revealed that all proceeds are given to the zoo for the
animals' upkeep. I have seen some of the children jumping up and down
after getting their faces painted and that gives her the most satisfaction.
Some people have slippery skin which makes it very hard for the paint to
stick so you have to apply thicker layers. Another problem is hairiness 25
which makes it impossible for any work to be done," she said." Unless they
shave, there is no way the paint would stick. One guy proposed that I do a
painting on his neck which was about the only spot that didn't have hair,"
she laughed.

Listening to her stories, one may think Patricia has never experienced 30
any sad moment. On the contrary, she spent the last three years of her life
grieving. That was when her husband, the late Jamil Ariffin, passed away
due to bonecancer. She refused to meet people or take part in social
activities. Later, she came to her senses and realised that this was not the
way to live .Being old does not mean that you should give up an active life. 35
Many old people lose their flexibility when they are not active for a long
period of time." she added .She later joined the Malaysian Nature Society.

As a member of the Malaysian Nature Society, Patricia tries to take part

in as many activities as she can. She goes bird-watching, looks out for
frogs, snakes and other reptiles and follows the marine group for snorkeling 40
trips in Pulau Tioman. She also supports the World Wildlife Fund For
Nature. Recently, she went to Terengganu and Melaka to patrol parts of
the beaches which have been declared turtle sanctuaries.

Patricia is asthmatic and uses an artificial hip. Despite that, she is an

active volunteer with the National Association of Stroke of Malaysia. 45
According to her, "being old helps" as the stroke patients at the
physiotherapy class she attends, feel encouraged with her around. This
golden girl who goes line dancing to keep fit has visited many countries. In
the near future she plans to visit lndia to see the Taj Mahal. "l want to see
the monument of love before it crumbles." she said.
50
(Adapted from Sunday Metro. December 2008)

26. From paragraph 1, what does Patricia Zahara Ariffin do at the National Zoo?
.(1 mark)
27. Fromparagraph3,
(a) WhatdoesPatriciado with all themoney she getsfromherpaintings?
.(1 mark)
(b) Which word has the same meaning as a strong feeling to do something?
.(1 mark)
28. From paragraph 4, describe two challenges that Patricia faces as a body painter.
i. ..(1 mark)
ii. ....(1 mark)
29. From paragraph 6,
(a) State two activities that Patricia does with the Malaysian Nature Society
members.
(i)......................................................................................................(1 mark)
(ii)......................................................................................................(1 mark)
(b) Why is it necessary to guard parts of the beaches of Terengganu and
Melaka?
.(1 mark)

30. In your own words, give two reasons why Patricia is considered active.
(i).............................................................................................................(1 mark)
(ii)............................................................................................................(1 mark)

Question 31
Basedon the passagegiven write a summary on why Patriciaenjoys face-andhandpainting andher other activities after her husband's death.
Credit will be given for use of own words but care must be taken not to change the
originalmeaning.
Your summary must
. be in continuous writing (not in note form)
. use material from lines 21 - 61
. not be longer than 130 words, including the 10 words given below

Begin your summary as follows:

Patricia enjoys doing face-and-hand painting at the zoo because painting ..................
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
(15 marks)

EXERCISE 3
1

Bye, Aunt Iva, Audrey said, pulling, on fluffy mittens. Its getting late
and I have to go home before dark. Standing on her aunts porch, she
breathed in the crisp, late autumn air. Aunt Iva shivered in her thin
sweater as she hugged Audrey. Stuffing a package of homemade
chocolate chip cookies in Aubreys pocket, she added. I enjoy your 5
visits, dear. How would I manage doing my mopping and laundry without
your help? We lost track of time! Will you be all right going home? she
asked, draping a wool scarf around Audreys neck.

Audrey was accustomed to her aunts nervous nature. Ill be fine!

Dont worry! Waving to Aunt Iva, she sprinted towards home. Giggling 10
silently to herself, she thought of the possibility of no school tomorrow.
Snow days were fun!

Henson, where are you? She called hurrying through the yard. Time
to go home!

The sun slowly disappeared behind the hills. Audrey shivered in her 15
coat. The cold air chilled her bones. The one-mile hike leading to home
through the woods was familiar, but she had never walked the hike late in
the evening. Reaching the opening that led deep into the forest, she
paused. A lump formed in her throat. In the fading light, the path was
darker than ever. The snow began to fall heavily and she calmly took a 20
deep breath. In order to reach home before dark, she had to hurry.

Entering the woods, her footsteps crushed the dead leaves carpeting
the ground. The inviting sounds of crunching leaves were usually calming
but as the evening progressed, the bare tree branches seemed to reach
out and try to snag her coat as she passed. A tapping sound startled 25
Audrey and she looked up at the tall trees casting twisted shadows
everywhere. A woodpecker was pecking the bark of a rotting tree, busily
hunting for insects. Breathing deeply, she continued to walk. The snow
plummeted suddenly, blinding her vision more than a few feet in front of
her. Increasing her pace, she ripped over a hidden log in the path and fell 30
to the ground. Breathless and a bit shaken, she reached down and
rubbed a sore spot on her leg. A pointy branch had ripped her pants and
scraped her exposed skin. Grabbing onto a nearby tree, she pulled
herself up. Luckily, she was not hurt too badly. The thought of being
trapped in the cold, dark woods gave her goose bumps.
35

Unfamiliar sounds echoed behind her and she glanced back on the
forest path that faded in the dark. Shrugging off her wild imagination, she
turned and continued home. A flock of birds shooting out of a thicket of
bushes stunned her and she darted and scampered over limbs and
rocks. No sound escaped as she tried to scream, her dry throat was 40
frozen. Panting heavily, Audrey stopped to catch her breath. Glancing
around, she realized she was off the path. The landscape looked
unfamiliar. She must be lost! Puffs of her breath surrounded her in cloud

of fog.
Collapsing on a nearby log, she controlled her shaking legs. As she 45
thought about who or what was following her, her breathing returned to a
normal rhythm. Thats it! she shouted and leapt up from the log. Henson
was following her! Cupping her hands around her mouth, Audrey yelled.
Henson! Her voice echoed throughout the woods.

Crunching sounds in the distance came toward her and Audrey 50

clenched her fists at her sides. Was she mistaken? Was she in danger?
Within moments, Henson appeared. Dashing over a log, he barked and
leaped into her arms, covering her face with wet, slobbery kisses.
Henson bounded out of her arms. Audrey followed the dog and hoped he
would lead her home and not toward a fidgety rabbit.
55

Within moments Audrey heard a distant hum of a tractor. Her face lit
up. Audrey ran towards the welcoming noise with Henson at her heels.
The last light of day beamed through a forest clearing. Bursting through
the clearing, and into the pasture, she spotted the tractor chugging in the
distance.
60

10

Dads familiar straw hat dotted the horizon as he drove the tractor,
pulling a hay wagon behind it. Elmer, his cowhand, tossed bails of hay off
the wagon for the cows to eat. Waving wildly at her dad, she smiled as he
tipped his straw hat in greeting.

11

Henson, you did it. You helped lead me home! Audrey danced in 65
circles laughing. Lets go home and drink hot chocolate and eat
chocolate chip cookies. Henson barked at her.

Answer all questions. You are advised to answer them in the order set.
1.

From paragraph 2, why was Audrey giggling?

2.

From paragraph 4, give two reasons why she was feeling uneasy as she entered
the forest.
i.
ii.

3.

From paragraph 4, give two reasons why she was feeling uneasy as she From
paragraph 7, why did she leap up from the log?

4.

From paragraph 8, what was Audrey still worried about as she followed the dog?

5.

From paragraph 9 and 10, what two things made Audrey convinced that she had
reached home?
i
ii.

Summary
Based on the passage given, write a summary about
Audreys experience in the forest up to the time she reached home.
Credit will be given for use of own words but care must be taken not to change the
original meaning.
Your summary must
be in continuous writing form
use materials from 16 to 72
not longer than 130 words, including the 10 words given below.
Begin your summary as follows:
Her shiver was caused by the cold air and the ...
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
(15 marks)

PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

PROBLEM

SOLUTION

Problem 1
Candidates tend to
start their summary at
the wrong paragraph.

Candidates have to study the question closely, know

where to start from the instruction given.
For example, from lines 5 to 45

Problem 2
Candidates tend to
start summarizing by
picking out any
sentences.

Read the passage carefully, and try to look for what

you are supposed to summarise; action, feeling,
ideas, steps, etc.
Then, underline those sentences.
After that, transfer the underlined sentences onto
another piece of paper.

Problem 3
There will be too many
sentences and words.

Eliminate any examples by looking at the key words;

for example, for instance, such as, like or the
use of colon to indicate proceeding list.

Problem 4
There will be a limited
number of own words.

Look at the sentences.

Then identify words that you know.
Replace them with other words without distorting the
meaning.
For example: The word assistance can be replaced
with the word help or badlooking can be
replaced by the word ugly.

Problem 5
There is no
cohesiveness.

Use linkers such as but, therefore, so, however,

next, finally, etc. to link the sentences.

Problem 6
It is still exceeding the
number of words
allowed.

Study it again and try to cross out words that are

unnecessary.
Should there be no possible way of doing it, resort to
crossing out non content words such as be
verbs or articles.

Problem 7
How should it be
written?

In one paragraph.
Count the number of words and write it on the right
hand side a few lines after the paragraph

Problem 8
How to make it easy to
count?

Draw grids. For example 10 x 13 = 130 words.

It will be easy for you to count and the examiners to
recount.

ANSWER KEY
EXERCISE 1
1. There are many advantages of habitually studying in the same place.
2. Firstly, our books and other material will be at hand. Secondly, the familiar room
provides the right atmosphere for studying.
3. Firstly, they may not realize that you need quiet and privacy for studying. Secondly,
you may be distracted by the mere knowledge that other people are enjoying
themselves.
4. (a) They waste our time by dropping in for idle conversation or tempt us to go out for
a drink or other activities.
(b) He should be firm about keeping set hours for work and making sure that his friends
know what these hours are.
5. Firstly, the sight of others studying makes it easier to do the same. Secondly, there
are library rules which ensure behaviour is disciplined.
6. To study effectively, one should be free from distractions like noise or music.
Students living in the lodgings, may be distracted by the noise of other lodgers. To
combat these distractions, students must set specific study times and keep them
strictly. It is advantageous to study in the same place as the familiarity of the
environment will create a good atmosphere and stimulus for studying. Furthermore,
ones books and materials can be kept here. Thus, a personal study is usually the
best place for serious students. However, some students find it hard to concentrate
when studying alone. They may find it more conducive to study in a library where
they are encouraged by the sight of others studying.

EXERCISE 2
26. She is a body painter./She paints picture on peoples faces and hands.
27. (a) All proceeds are given to the zoo for the animals upkeep
(b) passion
28.

i. (Some people have) slippery skin

ii. (Some people have) hairy skin/hairiness

29 (a)i.
ii.

bird-watching

look out for frogs/snakes/reptiles

iii. snorkelling
(b) They have been declared turtle sanctuaries.

30. Examples
She stills paints on peoples bodies.
She watches birds.
She studies frogs/snakes.
She snorkels.
Any possible answer.
31. Content points
1. is her love
2. all the proceeds are for the zoo animals upkeep
3. is satisfied/enjoy seeing children jumping up and down after getting the faces
painted
4. the challenges she faces as a hand-and face artist trill her
5. she is/became a member of the Malaysian Wildlife Society
6. goes bird-watching
7. look out for frogs/snakes/(other) reptiles
8. goes snorkelling/snorkels
9. support the World Wildlife Fund for Nature
10. patrolled the beaches of Terengganu/Melaka
11. which have been declared turtle sanctuaries
12. is a volunteer with the National Association of Stroke of Malaysia
13. goes line dancing
14. travelling
EXERCISE 3
1. She was giggling when she thought of the next day in which she did not have to go to
school.
2. i.
ii.

It was late in the evening

Due to the weather, the path through the forest was very dark.

3. She did this for it suddenly occurred to her that her dog was following her and not a
stranger.
4. She was worried that the dog might just lead her to a rabbit it was chasing and not
home.
5. i.
ii.

The distant hum of a tractor.

The sight of her fathers straw hat.

Summary
Her shiver was caused by the cold air and the fear that was creeping over her.
She had never walked through the forest that late in the evening. The path looked darker
than ever. The heavy snow blinded her vision and she tripped. The thought of being
trapped in the cold, dark woods made her more scared. When she thought she heard
unfamiliar sounds, she wanted to scream but her dry throat was frozen. In her fear, she
had gone off the path. She must have got lost. However, when she realized that Henson
was following her, she was relieved. Henson appeared and Audrey happily followed it.
On hearing the distant hum of a tractor and seeing her fathers straw hat, she knew that
she had reached home.

LITERATURE
Paper 2 Section D

BACK TO MAIN MENU

POEMS
IN THE MIDST OF HARDSHIP
HE HAD SUCH QUIET EYES
NATURE

IN THE MIDST OF HARDSHIP

STANZA

POEM

MEANINGS

At dawn they returned home

their soaky clothes torn
and approached the stove
their limbs marked by scratches
their legs full of wounds
but on their brows
there was not a sign of despair

It had been raining the whole day

and the couple had been out the
whole night, searching for their
sons albino buffalo. They returned
home soaked and bruised. The
couple headed straight to the stove
for warmth and some food.
Although
the
search
was
unsuccessful, they never felt sad
or dejected.

The whole day and night justpassed

They had to brave the horrendous
flood
In the water all the time
Between bloated carcasses
And tiny chips of tree barks
Desperately looking for their sons
Albino buffalo that was never found

The couple braved the fierce flood

and searched through the dead
animals and floating debris.
Unfortunately, the buffalo was not
found although they tried their
best.

They were born amidst hardship

And grew up without a sigh or a
complaint
Now they are in the kitchen, making
Jokes while rolling their cigarette
leaves

The couple accepted difficulties as

part of their lives. They had grown
up in poverty and had learnt to
accept the challenges in life. At the
end of the day, they enjoy each
others company, feeling neither
sad nor sorry for the lost. It was
part and parcel of life. That is what
their lives are all about, with its up
and downs.

QUESTIONS
01.

What was happening to the village?

02. Why were the couples clothes wet?

03. Where were they the whole night?
04. Describe the condition the couple were in when they returned home after the
search.
05. Why were their limbs marked with scratches and their legs full of wounds
06. Which line shows that they have accepted difficulties as part of their lives?
07. What does the line born in hardship tell you?
08. Why were the couple out in the heavy rain?
09. If you were the couple, would you have gone out searching for the buffalo? Give a
reason for your reply.
10. Why do you think they took a long time searching for the buffalo?
11. Why do you think there was not a sign of despair? Give a reason for your reply.
12. In your own words, describe the flood experienced by the villagers.
13. they are in the kitchen, making jokes while rolling their cigarette leaves.
Why are they doing that? Give reasons for your answer.
14. What is the message found in the poem?
15. In your own words, describe the attitude of the villagers portrayed in the poem.
16. What does the phrase bloated carcasses refer to? What probably happened
during the flood?
17.

Do you think the setting for this poem is a village or a town? Give two reasons to
support your answer.

18. Mention one hardship that is probably faced by the couple in the poem.
19. Why is the flood described as horrendous?
20.

Would you be able to accept the difficulties in life like the villagers? Give a reason
for your answer.

HE HAD SUCH QUIET EYES

STANZA

POEM

MEANINGS

He had such quiet eyes

She did not realise
They were two pools of lies
Layered with thinnest ice
To her, those quiet eyes
Were breathing desolate sighs
Imploring her to be nice
And to render him paradise

The persona is taken up by the

mans quiet eyes which seems
lonely and miserable. She feels
sorry and is made to believe that
she can offer him happiness that his
eyes lack. Unfortunately, she is not
aware that she is being cheated.

If only shed been wise

And had listened to the advice
Never to compromise with
pleasure-seeking guys
Shed be free from the hows and
whys

Now, she regrets not following the

advices given by other who have
warned her not to get involved with
men who are smooth talkers and
seductive. Then, she would not
have to experience the heartache of
breaking up

Now heres a bit of advice

Be sure that nice really means nice
Then youll never be losing at dice
Though you may lose your heart
once or twice

The poet gives a strong advice to all

the ladies. She asks them to be sure
that whoever they meet is really and
truly a gentleman. In the process of
finding a life partner, one may face
some failures but in the end, you will
be a winner in the game of life

QUESTIONS
01.

two pools of lies refers to ..

02. Why are the eyes described as layered with thinnest ice?
03. What were the eyes asking of the lady?
04. Do you think the lady will make the same mistake again? Why?
05. What was the advice given by others?
06. In the last stanza, the persona advices one to be sure that nice really means nice.
What does the persona mean and why?
07. In your opinion, why did the lady fall for the man?
08. Explain the phrase pleasure-seeking guys
09. In your own words, explain the last two lines of stanza 3.
10. What would have happened if she had listened to the advice?
11. To render him paradise means..
12. In your opinion, how did lady feel after she realized her mistake?
13. Why do you think the eyes are described as quiet?
14. What would you do if you meet a person with such quiet eyes? Why?
15. If you were the lady in the poem, what would you do when you realized the
mistake? Why?
16. Give two messages found in the poem.
17. What did the man do to deceive the lady?
18. Do you think the lady was foolish for not realizing the deception? Give a reason for
your answer.

NATURE
STANZA

POEM

MEANINGS

We have neither Summer nor Winter According to the poet, Jamaicas

Neither Autumn nor Spring
weather cannot be categorized in
We have instead the days
to four seasons.

When the gold sun shines on the

lush green canefields
Magnificently.

There are days of glorious

sunshine which helps the canes
in the field to grow tall and
luxuriant.

The days when the rain beats like

bullets on the roofs
And there is no sound but the swish
of water in the gullies
And trees struggling in the Jamaica
winds

However, on wet days, the rain

pours down heavily and in
torrents. The streams and gullies
are full of water. No other sounds
are heard as everyone is indoors.
Strong winds accompany the
rain, beating and bending the
sugar canes in the field.

Also there are the days when leaves

fade from off guango trees
And the reaped canefields lie bare
and fallow to the sun

In between the hot and wet days,

nature
slows
down.
The
canefields are harvested and wait
for the next planting season.
Even the leaves on the trees fall
off.

But best of all there are the days

when the mango and the logwood
blossom
When the bushes are full of the
sound of bees and the scent of
honey
When the tall grass sways and
shivers to the slightest breath of air
When the buttercups have paved
the earth with yellow stars

The best days are when flowers

bloom, filling the air with
fragrance and vibrant colours.
The grass is green, luxuriant,
covering the once bare ground.

And beauty comes suddenly and the Nature comes alive again after a
rains have gone
healthy downpour

QUESTIONS
01. What kind of weather does Jamaica experience?
02. Name four seasons that some countries have.
03. Why is the rain described as bullets?
04. What is magnificent in a hot day?
05. In your opinion, why is there no other sound except the sound of rain?
06. In your own words, explain the last line of the poem.
07. Describe a rainy day in Jamaica.
08. When is the most beautiful time in Jamaica?
09. What do you think is the main crop in Jamaica? Give reasons.
10. In your opinion, why does beauty come suddenly after the rain have gone?
11. What are the seasons experienced by people of Jamaica?
12. What is the meaning of the gold sun shines?
13. When do the canefields lie bare?
14. The line.full of sound of bees and the scent of honey means
15. What do the the yellow stars refer too?
16. Mention two words from the poem that describes the canefields?
17. What happens to the tall grass at the slightest breeze and why?
18. What are words used by the poet to describe the rain?
19. During the flowering season, what can you hear and smell?
20. What does the phrase paved the earth mean?

ARE YOU STILL PLAYING YOUR FLUTE

STANZA

POEM

MEANINGS

Are you still playing your flute?

When there is hardly time for our
love
I am feeling guilty
O be longing for your song
The melody concealed in the slim
hollow of bamboo
Uncovered by the breath of an artist
Composed by his fingers
Blown by the wind
To the depth of my heart

The persona wonders if the person

is still playing the flute. The
persona misses and longs to hear
the song which reminisces the
peaceful, tranquil days of her
childhood.

Are you still playing your flute?

In the village so quiet and deserted
Amidst the sick rice field
While here it has become a luxury
To spend time watching the rain
Gazing at the evening rays
Collecting dew drops
Or enjoying the fragrance of flowers

The persona wonders if her

beloved is still playing
The flute when many have left the
village which has become a
polluted and lonely place there is
no time to enjoy beauty of nature
such as the sunset, the rain or the
smell of blooming flowers from the
place the persona is
.

Are you still playing your flute?

The more it disturbs my conscience
To be thinking of you
In the hazard of you
My younger brothers unemployed
and desperate
My people disunited by politics
My friend slaughtered mercilessly
This world is too old and bleeding

For the third time, the persona

wonders if the person is still
playing the flute in these times of
trouble. The persona feels guilty
thinking of the flutist when there is
much sadness around her like
unemployment, political unrest and
unnecessary killings

QUESTIONS
01. What musical instrument is mentioned in the poem?
02. Who is the artist mentioned in stanza 1?
03. Why is the village quiet and deserted?
04. What has happened to the rice field?
05. What is the persona longing for?
06. How is the song played on the flute
07. Why do you think the rice fields are not healthy?
08. What are considered luxuries by the persona?
09. In stanza 3, why does the persona feel guilty when thinking about the flutist?
10. What does the line this world is too old and bleeding means?
11. Based on stanza 3, mention two problems faced by the country?
12. Name some of the activities that the persona is unable to do?
13.

Why do you think doing these activities is considered a luxury?

14.

In stanza 3, why do you think the personas conscience is disturbed when the flute
is played?

15. What is the message found in this poem?

16. Why do you think the persona keeps repeating the same question in every stanza?
17. What was blown to the depth of the personas heart?
18. Why is there hardly an time for their love?

SHORT STORIES
QWERTYUIOP
THE FRUITCAKE SPECIAL

QWERTYUIOP
Lucy is a shy seventeen-year-old girl who had recently completed her secretarial course
at the Balmont Secretarial College. However, Lucy had poor typing skills and was an
underachiever. Even her principal, Mrs Price, was not sure if she could get a job with her
poor skills. Lucy lived with her mum and her alcoholic Uncle Bert in a small flat. She was
desperately looking for a job so that she could leave her home and have a better life.
Lucy attended a job interview at Ross and Bannisters. She was interviewed by Mr. Ross
himself who immediately offered her a secretarial job. Lucy was very excited and her
mother was elated to hear the good news as their family really needed the money.
Lucy went early on her first day since she wanted to impress her boss. She met the
companys odd-job man who had been with the company for almost 30 years. Mr. Harry
Drake showed Lucy around the office as well as her working station. He also gave Lucy a
bottle of correcting fluid to correct any errors that might occur while typing. According to
Mr. Harry, the electric typewriter in the office is not an ordinary one. So, he told her not to
retype the errors but merely cover them with the correcting fluid.
Lucy started her job eagerly by typing the letters assigned to her by Mr. Ross. As she
was typing, she felt something was wrong. The typewriter was typing on its own
QWERTYUIOP. Every time she erased the error with correcting fluid, the typewriter
printed those letters again. Lucy was confused and shocked. She wanted to run away but
the thought of the possibility of living a poor life, changed her mind.
Lucy decided not to give in and adamantly finished the letters by immediately correcting
the messages that popped up. Finally, she completed all the letters. The next day, Mr.
Ross was surprised to see her with the completed letters. Lucy also, decorated her office
and made it clear she wanted to stay. When asked about the occurrence, Mr. Drake said
that it was the ghost of Miss Broome who was Mr. Bannisters old secretary. She was
asked to leave after working there for 43 years. She was upset and came back to haunt
the secretaries who took her place as she was determined not to give up her position.
Lucy felt sad and decided to contact Miss Broome. She informed her that old Mr
Bannister had died three years ago at the age of eighty-six. He had missed his secretary,
Miss Broome, very much. The only reason he had to stop Miss Broome was because of
her poor health. Lucy suggested Miss Broome to help Mr. Bannister who would most
probably be needing her.
Finally, the spirit of Miss Broome accepted Lucys suggestion and left the typewriter.
Lucy became a good secretary, carrying out her duties diligently.

QUESTIONS
01. What does the word QWERTYUIOP refer to?
02. Why was the principal, Mrs Price, uncertain of Lucys chances of getting a job?
03. Who interviewed Lucy for her job?
04. Who was Miss Broome?
05. How did Lucy send Miss Broome off?
06. What were Lucys feelings when she heard about Miss Broome?
07. If you had a problem like Lucys, what would you do? Why?
08. Who was Mr. Harry Drake?
09. Describe Lucys mother.
10. Why was Lucy angry with her uncle?
11. Why was Lucy eager to search for work after her graduation?
12. What was Lucys reaction towards Uncle Bert after Miss Broomes incident?
13. Why was Miss Broome sacked from her post as the secretary of Mr. Bannnister?
14. Why was Lucy nervous when she went for her first interview?
15. How did Lucy overcome the unwanted messages that were caused by Miss
Broome?
16. In your opinion, why do you think the other secretaries before her did not stay on
the job for long?
17. Give two messages found in the story.
18. What does Mr Rosss enormous enthusiasm tell you about the job offer?
19. Do you feel sorry for Miss Broome? Give reasons for your answer.
20. In your opinion, why did Miss Broome keep typing QWERTYUIOP on Lucys letter?
21. Why was Lucy surprised to see her lunch prepared when she returned home from
work?
22. How did Lucy convince Miss Broome to leave?
23. What did Miss Broome receive as retirement present?
24. Do you think Miss Broomes actions were right? Give a reason for your answer.
25. Do you think Lucy would be a good secretary in the future? Give reasons for your
answer.

THE FRUITCAKE SPECIAL

Anna is a chemist at Amos Cosmetics Factory and creates new perfumes for the
company. One day, she was trying to mix a new perfume as usual when she decided to
include a piece of fruitcake that her mother packed for her lunch. The fruitcake was
bought by her Aunt Mimi. She tried some of it on herself and the rest she kept in her
purse as she was afraid her boss would not accept perfumes made from fruitcakes.
When her boss, David Amos walked by her room, he suddenly took notice of Anna and
complimented her. He found himself attracted to her and asked her out for dinner. Anna
was surprised as Mr Amos had always ignored her. She realized that it was because of
the new perfume that she was wearing.
When she returned home, she found Aunt Mimi and her mother discussing her marriage.
They suggested Armstrong but Anna turned him down because he was just a pizza
delivery man. However later, they were very pleased to see Anna getting ready for her
date with Mr. David Amos and thought that he was good match
Anna did not use her new perfume when she went out with him. At the restaurant, Mr
Amos seemed to have changed his mind and told Anna that he would foot the bill as a
reward for her hard work and the dinner was not a formal date. Anna was disappointed
and embarrassed so she quickly ran to the ladies room. Before leaving the ladies room,
she wanted to refresh herself with some perfume. Since there was only the new perfume
in her purse she put some of it on herself.
The effect was amazing. As she walked pass a waiter, he fell completely in love with
Anna. Upon her return to her seat, Mr. Amos changed immediately and also professed
his love for her. Now, Anna was very certain it was the perfume that was causing the
change. At that moment, Sabina, Davids girlfriend came to the restaurant and was very
angry to see Davids actions. She insulted Anna. Meanwhile, the waiter started to
serenade a love song to Anna Finally, the two men were fighting over Anna and slowly
Anna slipped out during the confusion.
Anna wanted to find out more about the fruitcake and asked Aunt Mimi about it. She said
the baker was an old woman who had used her secret ingredients to bake that special
fruitcake. Unfortunately, the old woman had died.
The next day, David was waiting at her office. He was not acting weird anymore as Anna
was not wearing the perfume. Sabina told her that David would give her compensation
for the misunderstanding last night. Anna felt hurt and insulted hearing that. She quit her
job and in anger, threw the whole bottle of fruitcake perfume at Sabina. She joined
another company.
Much later, when Anna was at home, Armstrong dropped by. He declared his love for her
and wanted to marry her. He said he was in love with Anna for a long time but wanted to
own his own pizza company before he proposed to her. Now that he owned one, he was
ready to ask her out for a date. Anna accepted as she realised that he was actually a
handsome man.

QUESTIONS
01. Describe Anna in your own words.
02. What was the relationship between Anna and David Amos?
03. What were the special ingredients that Anna used in her special perfume?
04. What was Anna working as?
05. Why do you think Anna did not her boss to know about her new perfume?
06. Anna threw the remainder of the perfume at Sabina. Do you think she did the right
thing? Give reasons for your answer.
07. In your own words, describe Sabina.
08. If you were Anna, would you have accepted Armstrongs proposal?
09. Based on the story, what do you think was the effect of the perfume?
10. Give a message found in the story.
11. Did Anna think that Armstrong would make a good husband? Why?
12. Based on the passage, what is your opinion of Mr. Amos? Give reasons for your
answer.
13. What was Annas reaction when Aunt Mimi tried to find her husband for her?
14. Why was the waiter singing a song for Anna?
15. Where did Aunt Mimi buy the cake?
16. Why was the fruitcake special?
17. If you were Anna, what would you do with the perfume? Give reasons for your
answer.
18. Why was Sabina angry at Anna?
19. Who was Armstrong?
20. What was David Amoss reaction at the restaurant before Anna used her special
perfume?
21. How did Anna feel when Sabina mentioned about the compensation?
22. If you were Anna, would you quit your job? Give reasons for your answer.
23. Why do you think Anna wanted to meet the old lady who sold the cake?
24. What was Davids explanation about his behaviour in the restaurant?
25. Why were Aunt Mimi and Annas mother excited about Annas date with David?

NOVEL
THE CURSE

THE CURSE
CHAPTERS SYNOPSIS

CHAPTER 1
Azreen Salleh hurriedly left her studies in London, England to return home to
Malaysia after receiving news about her sisters death. She was reluctant to
leave as there was an exam. She was hoping not to bump into her course
mate, Julian Ng, but she did anyway. Julian Ng tries to offer his sympathy and
condolence but she was not in the mood to talk about the matter. She left in a
hurry.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

What was Azreen Salleh doing in London?

2.

Why was she asked to go home?

3.

Who is Julian Ng?

4.

What kind of person was Julian Ng?

5.

Why did Azreen try to avoid Julian?

6.

How did Azreen feel about going home to Malaysia?

7.

How was Azreen going to the Heathrow Airport?

8.

The suitcase was described as dusty, zippers had caught tiny cobwebs and lint
from the floor. What does this line tell you about Azreens trips to Malaysia?

9.

How was the morning breeze the day Azreen left for Malaysia?

10. What were Azreens feelings as she was leaving her college?

CHAPTER 2
Azreen was on her flight back to Malaysia. She cringed at the thought of going
back home. Flashbacks of her early days with her late sister, Madhuri, and how
Madhuri was well-liked by people came back. She hated her sister because
she was always compared to her. Everyone thought Madhuri was the better
sister prettier, polite and soft-spoken while she was obstinate, the total
opposite of her. She especially hated the fact that she could never be like her.
However, she was fond of her and there were happy memories with her sister
like cycling together and picking fruits from the neighbours plantation.
ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

The stewardess gave her a plastic smile Explain the underlined term.

2.

Why did the green terrain remind her of her home?

3.

What was the age difference between Azreen and Madhuri?

4.

In your own words, describe Azreens sister?

5.

Give two differences between Azreen and Madhuri.

6.

Name some of the activities that both of them used to do together when they were
young.

7.

Why did Azreen despise Madhuri?

8.

Describe those happy days that Azreen recalled?

CHAPTER 3
Back home, on an island south of Langkawi Island, there was a rumour
spreading that Madhuri was dead by murder. This rumour was spread by
Puan Normala and it caused unrest among the villagers.According to her,
Madhuri was murdered and she bled white blood and she believed that the
whole village was cursed. Meanwhile, Azreen arrived and was greeted by her
aunt and uncle, Datin Sharifah and Datuk Zulkifli at the airport in Pulau
Langkawi. They were trying their best not to talk about Madhuris death.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

Why was Pn. Kamisah irritated?

2.

What news was Noor spreading in class?

3.

Who is Siti? Who is Noor?

4.

Why do you think Siti described Pn. Normala as a slimy cobra with a three-forked
tongue

5.

What gossip was Pn. Normala passing around?

6.

Why did Pn. Normala say they were cursed?

7.

How long was the journey from London to Pulau Langkawi?

8.

Who are Datin Sharifah and Datuk Zulkifli?

9.

Why did Datin Sharifah warn Datuk Zulkifli not to talk about Madhuris death?

10. .a village that had its own secrets to keep In your opinion what does the line
imply.

CHAPTER 4
At her house, mourners gathered at Azreen s house to pay their last respects
to Madhuri before burial. The women folk gossiped among themselves that
Madhuri was murdered and she had put a curse on everyone on the island.
Azreen arrived late to pay her last respects to her late sister. However, she
returned home, only to be gossiped and judged by her nosy neighbours. In her
house with Datin Sharifah, she begged her to tell what actually happened to
her sister. Datin Sharifah could only tell her that her sister was found at the
rubber plantation. Azreens father kept her from the fact on how she died.
Azreen believed her father did that to spite her.
Azreen met her mother whose dementia worsened. She had no idea of
Madhuris passing. Azreen was about to bring her mother to the funeral, but
was ordered to go back home by her father, Saleh Abdullah. He didnt want his
wife to know about the death of Madhuri. Azreen was defiant of her fathers
orders and a fight almost erupted. Luckily, Haji Ghani, Madhuris husband
managed to keep the fight out.Azreen met with her ex-schoolmate, Mohd Asraf
for a while. She played hockey with him when they were in school.Later that
night when she was in her room, she caught sight of someone who looked like
Madhuri. But it disappeared when she tried to look for it again.Meanwhile,
Puan Fatihah, Haji Ghanis first wife was feeling bitter about Madhuris
existence in her life with her husband. Now that shes dead, her husband
would hardly talk to her.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

Did Siti know Madhuri? How?

2.

Why did Pn Normala consider Azreen as being rude?

3.

When did Azreen first meet datin Sharifah and Datuk Zulkifli? What was their
relationship?

4.

Name two things that Azreen found in her room when she first entered?

5.

Where was Madhuris body found?

6.

Give two reasons why Azreen was angry with her father.

7.

Why did Sitis parents forbid from being friends with Azreen?

8.

Did Azreens mother recognise her when Azreen spoke to her? Why?

9.

What was Azreens mother suffering from?

10. Was Azreens mother informed of her daughters death?

11. I said, take her home. Now Who spoke those words?
a.

To whom does the word sherefers to in the extract?

b.

What was the emotion of the speaker?

12. In your opinion, why was Azreens father angry at her for bringing her mother to the
graveyard?
13. Who is Haji Ghani?
14. Name two things about Madhuri that was remembered fondly by Haji Ghani?
15. Who is Asraf and what does he work as?
16. Where did Azreen first meet Asraf?
17. Describe Asraf during his school days?
18. During her school days, Azreen felt that everybody hated her? Why did she feel that
way?
19. How did Azreen become Asrafs friend?
20. What does the phrase he only had eyes for one mean?
21. What did Azreen see from her room window?
22. Who is Haji Ghanis first wife?
23. Why did Pn. Fatihah hate Madhuri?
24. How did she show her hatred towards Madhuri?
25. Why did Siti feel that Madhuriwas lucky to have Haji Ghani as her husband?

CHAPTER 5
Azreen went to the market and bumped into Asraf. She enquired about
Madhuris death but was only given vague details of the incident. Normala, the
rumour monger, spread rumours about what had happened to Madhuri.
Awang, the bomoh, made an appearance as he dreamt that a disaster was
about to hit the village soon. Awang recalled the incident when he stole a
chicken at Encik Mohans farm causing a bull to escape. Asraf was blamed for
the fiasco but Azreen bravely took the blame on his behalf. Outside, Saleh was
busy chopping wood when he heard something or someone crying in the
bushes. He went to pounce on it but there was nothing.Azreen went to visit the
Old Lady, a villager who was casted out from her village, to catch up on old
times. The villagers thought her evil and a witch, but Azreen thought otherwise.
In fact, she got along just fine with her. She also begged the Old Lady to tell
her what exactly happened, and finally it was the Old Lady who revealed to her
that Madhuri was actually murdered.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.

Describe the house that she visited in the jungle.

Where did she go after visiting the house in the jungle?
Whom did she meet at the market?
Was Asraf at the village the day Madhuri died?
According to Asraf, what had happened to Madhuri?
What dish did madhuri always make for her mother?
Describe the recollection that Azreens mother had when she saw Azreen cooking
the meal
According to Azreens mother, who was in danger?
Describe Awang, the village bomoh.
Whom did Awang see on his way home?
According to Awang, who actually left the gates of the farm open and who was
blamed for it?
Why do you think Azreen told the farms owners that it was she who left the gate
open?
Why did Noor suspect Asraf was in love with Madhuri?
Describe the Old Lady whom Azreen visited ?
Why were the villagers afraid of the Old Lady?
Based on Azreens recollection, Describe Azreens first meeting with the Old Lady?
What did Azreen do to win the Old Ladys heart?
What was Azreens favourite dish cooked by the Old lady?
How did Azreen describe London to the Old Lady?
On page 72, what does the phrase its eating me up mean?
According to the Old Lady, what had happened to Madhuri?

CHAPTER 6
Awang the bomoh believed something terrible was going to fall upon his
village. He had seen a Pontianak which looked like Madhuri. He suspected
Madhuri had turned into one.The Old Lady related to Azreen that Madhuri was
attacked with a knife. There was no investigation though, as she thought it
would be better for the village since an investigation would reveal more
secrets.
Puan Fatihah reminisced about the time when Haji Ghani married Madhuri. He
fell in love with her beautiful voice, and Puan Fatihahs life changed ever since.
She had lost everything. But now that Madhuri was no longer present, she
wanted her old life back.Azreen found Madhuris photographs torn into pieces.
Before she could think who would do it, her father chased her out of the room.
Azreen started to reminisce on all the things that happened way back.Azreen
reminisced during the time when she took the blame for Asrafs carelessness
while working at Encik Mohans. She claimed that she was the one who left
the gate open, thus the missing bull. However, her parents were riding on a
motorbike when they hit the bull. Her mothers legs were paralysed since then.
Still, she kept loyal to Asraf and took the blame, eventhough she was beaten to
death by her father.Azreen went to seek comfort at the Old Ladys, and she
revealed to her why she was casted out. She murdered her husband because
she was abused and unhappy in her marriage.A year later, Azreen received a
scholarship to study in UK.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

Who found Madhuris body first?

2.

Why did the Old Lady suspect Madhuri was murdered?

3.

Whom did the Old Lady accuse of covering up the Madhuris death?

4.

Where did Haji Ghani first see Madhuri? What captivated him?

5.

When Azreen entered the room, she saw a picture of her sister and began to recall
her childhood?

6.

What was Azreen doing when her sister called her to play?

7.

Why was Azreens father angry at her?

8.

Based on the above childhood incident, describe the

a)

Azreens character

b)

Madhuris character

c)

The fathers character

9.

Why did Madhuris mother refuse to take her medication?

10. How did Madhuris mother lose her leg?

11. Why did Azreen feel it was her fault that her mother had the accident
12. Where did Madhuri meet Asraf for the first time?
13. To whom did Azreen confide in about the accident?
14. What was the Old Ladys advice?
15. Why was the Old Lady treated as an outcast by the villagers?
16. Did the Old lady kill her husband? What happened?
17. What letter did Azreen receive?
18. Why was Pn.Minah at her house?
19. If you were Azreen, would you have done the same to Pn Minahs daughter? Why?
20. What programme did Azreen join? Where did she go and what was the effect on
her?
21. What was the next offer that Azreen had received?
22. Who was helping her finance her studies in London.
23. Where did Azreen and the Old Lady go when Azreen visited her to bid goodbye?

CHAPTER 7
Asraf was worried about Nek, his grandmother. Her fever was getting
worse.Haji Ghani was mourning for Madhuri at her tombstone. Suddenly, he
saw a woman who looked like Madhuri in a flowing white dress but she ran
away.
Azreen was reprimanded by her father for being careless when latching up the
chicken coop. There was a dead chicken with a broken neck right outside of
the coop. Azreen was shocked and wondered how the chicken could break its
neck. When she was about to clean up the mess, the carcass was gone.One
day, when Azreen was checking her mail, she saw a letter from Julian.
Enclosed in the letter was a letter from Madhuri which was sent before she
died. According to her letter, there was secret that she wanted to share with
Madhuri.
Siti was stopped by Puan Normala with more gossips on how the bad
weather was one of the signs of the curse, the spotting of a Pontianak and the
huge argument between Haji Ghani and Puan Fatihah.
Then, Azreen reads Madhuri s letter of her marriage and relationship with Kak
Fatihah (Haji Ghanis first wife). The letter also hints that Madhuri has a secret
to be revealed to Azreen when she returns home for her holidays.
Azreen and Asraf had a chat. He was all bruised. He claimed that he was in a
fight. They talked about their old school times and future plans. Out of theblue,
Asraf jokingly asked Azreen to marry her and run away together. Azreen was
hurt by that joke as she always had feelings for him. She took Madhuris letter
and crumpled and threw it away. When she went back to pick it up, it was
already gone.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

Why was Asraf worried about about his grandmother?

2.

Describe Asrafs relationship with his grandmother.

3.

Where was Haji Ghani when he was informed of Madhuris death?

4.

Whom did he see at his wifes grave?

5.

Describe Azreens relationship with her father.

6.

What happened to the chickens in the coop?

7.

What did Azreen find in the chicken coop?

8.

Why did Asraf feel that black magic was present in the village?

9.

What kind of changes did Asraf expect to seen in Azreens personality when she
returned from London?

10. Azreen received a letter from London. Who was it from?

11. What were the contents of Julians letter?
12. Based on Madhuris letter to Azreen, state two things that you learnt about
Madhuri?
13. List the three reasons given by Pn Normala on why she believed the village was
cursed?
14. What was Haji Ghani and his wife fighting about?
15. Who was Asraf fighting with? Why were they fighting?
16. What were Azreens feelings towards Asraf?
17. Why did Azreen throw away her sisters letter?

CHAPTER 8
Azreens mother passed away peacefully. She mourned her dead mother and
sister in her sisters room. Suddenly, she saw someone outside the window.
She went outside the house and called out to that person but it was in vain. At
the same moment, she smelt smoke coming from Madhuris room.
Fortunately, her father appeared in time to put out the fire.
Puan Fatihah was about to go see the village witchdoctor for a charm for Haji
Ghani when suddenly she saw someone looking like Madhuri reaching out to
her. She passed out as soon as the woman touched her.
Saleh Abdullah found a yellow cord where part of the house was burned. He
charged straightaway to Awangs house to have a word with him. Azreen went
to the Old Ladys house for comfort.
Asrafs grandmothers condition was getting worse. When he ran out of
options, he sought out the Old Lady. He begged the Old Lady to go see his
grandmother.
The Old Lady hesitates at first but after much persuasion from Azreen and
Mohd. Asraf, she finally agrees to go over to Mohd Asraf s house to help his
grandmother.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

Describe the weather at the beginning of the chapter.

2.

When did Azreens mother pass away?

3.

Based on the basket incident, what can you conclude about Azreens sister and her
mother?

4.

Why did Azreen run out of the house?

5.

What happened to the house?

6.

How was the fire put out?

7.

In your opinion, why do you think Pn Fatihah wanted to visit the bomoh?

8.

At the jungle Pn Fatihah saw a shadow of a person. Describe what happened then?

9.

Asraf wanted to send his grandmother to the hospital in the mainland but he
couldnt. Why?

10. Why did Asraf feel it was his responsibility to take care of his grandmother?
11. Who is saleh Abdullah and why was he angry at Bomoh Awang?
12. What did the Old Lady witness as she was in the jungle, collecting herbs and roots?

13. Give two reasons why Azreen wanted to stay overnight at the Old Ladys house?
14. Why did Asraf go to the market on that rainy day?
15. What happened to the crops in the village?
16. Where did Asraf decide to go to get the necessary herbs needed for his
grandmother?
17. What did the Old Lady advise Azreen about life?
18. How did the Old Lady treat Asraf who came for her help?
19. After much persuasion, Azreen finally convinced the Old lady to go to Asrafs
house.
a.

How did Azreen persuade her?

b.

Why was the Old Lady reluctant to go?

20. What did Asraf say to persuade the Old Lady?

CHAPTER 9
Siti keeps an eye on Mohd. Asraf s grandmother (Nek) while he goes out to
get her medicine. He finally came back with the Old Lady. The Old Lady
examined Asrafs grandmother and went out to get herbs for her. Pn. Kamsiah
and Normala are curious at the Old Lady s presence at Mohd. Asraf s house.
They planned to get rid of her. She made a mixture of herbs and gave it to
Asrafs grandmother. The condition of Asrafs grandmother improved, to the
surprise of the Old Lady, in which she felt peculiar of.
Azreen is puzzled to discover a university prospectus that reveals Mohd.
Asraf s intention to pursue his studies in Kuala Lumpur. When Azreen returns
home, she sees the bomoh scampering behind the bushes. He came to tell her
that there was a big crowd on the way to Asrafs house.
Azreen hurriedly went to Asraf s house and saw the angry crowd headed by
Puan Normala. Normala blames Azreen for bringing the Old Lady to Mohd.
Asraf s house and causing heavy downpour to hit the village. An argument
starts and Azreens father intervenes to stop the commotion. Azreen then
made her way to Asrafs house and was told that Nek is beginning to recover.
They thank the Old Lady for bravely coming over to cure Nek and the rain
finally stops.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

Who was left to take care of Nek?

2.

Describe the Old Lady from Sitis point of view.

3.

Why was Pn Kamsiah worried about Siti when she saw the Old Lady entering
Asrafs house?

4.

What were the reasons given by Pn Normala for chasing the Old Lady away?

5.

Describe what the Old Lady did to help Asrafs grandmother?

6.

How should Asraf give the medicine to his grandmother?

7.

What did Azreen do while waiting for the night to pass?

8.

In your opinion, why do you think Pn Fatihah cooked a delicious breakfast for her
husband?

9.

Did Haji Ghani enjoy the breakfast prepared by his wife? Give reasons for your
answer?

10. How was Nek feeling the next morning?

11. Why did Azreen leave Asrafs house that morning?

12. Who did Azreen find loitering around her house?

13. What was happening in Asrafs house?
14. Why were the villagers gathering in front of Asrafs house?
15. Who started the riot?
16. Why were the villagers angry with Azreen?
17. Who broke up the crowd?
18. What Saleh Abdullahs opinion of his daughter?
19. Why did the Old Lady decide to leave Asrafs house?
20.

Theres a present for us already. What was the present that Asraf was referring to?

CHAPTER
Azreen awakes to a flurry of knocks on her door. She finds out that Nek has
passed away suddenly. Asrafs neighbours convinced him that the Old Lady
had poisoned her. Fuelled with anger and loss, Asraf and the mob of people
went over to the Old Ladys with torches for revenge. Azreen tried to stop him
and in a struggle, his torch fell and it set the house on fire. Azreen ran inside to
try to save the Old Lady but found her trapped under a pillar. Barely alive, she
advises Azreen to learn to forgive before it is too late. Azreen s father saves
her before the whole house collapsed. Asraf came to apologise to Azreen. He
was distraught about his grandmother and Madhuris death. He confesses to
Azreen that he loves Madhuri and they were planning to run away together
when he was offered a teaching course in Kuala Lumpur. Madhuri wanted to
confess to her husband, parents and Azreen about her affair with Mohd. Asraf.
However, Madhuri was found dead at a rubber plantation. Azreen couldnt
stomach the revelation so she ran to a cliff. Then she decided to go to the
rubber estate where her sister died.Azreen then meets Awang, the bomoh,
who tells her that Madhuri was not her real sister. He told her that Madhuris
mother had gone mad when her husband left her. She was left in the paddy
field for hours when her mother was looking for scraps. Thats when Saleh
found Madhuri, nursed her back to health and raised her as his own. Her
mother left the village, but came back after Madhuris death. Awang warned
her that Madhuris mother was dangerous. She was the one broke the
chickens neck and started the fire at her house.
Awang also confesses that he was the one who left the gate open that led to
the motorcycle accident that paralysed her mother. Awang also confirms that
he had seen Madhuri and Mohd Asraf together several times in the rubber
estate. The chapter ends with Haji Ghani, the headman thinking about
Madhuri. He remembered the day he was told of Madhuris death. He knew
about her affair with Asraf and he wouldve killed him if he caught them at the
rubber estate. But all there was left was her slashed body. He decided to
make the murder look like an accident to avoid more truth to be revealed that
would bring shame to him and Madhuris innocence.
ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

What did Azreen do as soon as she returned home?

2.

It was a calm amiable silence between father and daughter.

What does this sentence imply?

3.

Why did Siti go to Azreens house in the middle of the night?

4.

In your own words, describe what had taken place in Asrafs houe?

5.

Did the villagers enter the Old Ladys house? Give reasons for your answer.

6.

Why do you think Asraf dared to go nearer, compared to the other villagers?

7.

Describe what Azreen did to stop Asraf from hurting the Old Lady.

8.

How did the Old Lady die?

9.

Who pulled Azreen out of the burning house?

10. Why do you think Asraf decided to attack the Old Lady?
11. Based on Asrafs confession, describe the relationship between Asraf and Madhuri.
12. Give two reasons why Asraf wanted to move to Kuala Lumpur.
13. What was Madhuri planning to do about their relationship?
14. Name two things Madhuri wanted to do before leaving the village.
15. When and where was the last time Madhuri and Asraf met?
16. Where did Azreen go to find peace and comfort?
17. Describe what Azreen saw at the plantation.
18. Whom did Azreen meet at the plantation?
19. What was the shocking news she heard from Awang?
20. Where did Saleh find the baby whom he named Madhuri?
21. What happened to Madhuris birth parents/
22. Who was the woman who was always following Azreen?
23. Why was Awang indebted to Azreen?
24. Name two things that Awang did to help and protect Azreen.
25. In Awangs opinion, why did Haji Ghani cover up his wifes death?

CHAPTER 11
Azreen was on her way back home when she heard footsteps following her
behind. She saw a shadow of the woman whom Awang said was Madhuris
mother. She pointed at something near the woodpile. At the same moment,
Saleh appeared. Azreen and her father walk towards the woodpile and see a
parang that Saleh used to chop wood. Madhuris mother was actually pointing
at the parang There is white and sticky stain at the edge of the parang. Azreen
immediately recalls Normalas words She had white blood and she stares at
her father in disbelief. The white blood that the neighbours claimed to see was
actually latex that spilt on her when she was killed. She then realised that it
was her father who had killed her. Saleh recalls how fond he was with Madhuri
and how he found her as a baby at the paddy field. He stumbles upon Madhuri
and Mohd Asraf together at the rubber plantation. In his fury, he kills Madhuri
and her body knocks over the latex-filled container. Upon hearing this
revelation, Azreen runs away from her father. Saleh realised he had lost both
his daughters. Suddenly, he saw Madhuris mother coming towards him with
the parang. She killed him in an instance. Saleh suffers a heart attack and
dies. Meanwhile in the village, a rumour spreads like a wildfire that a woman
who looks suspiciously like his dead daughter had been wandering about at the
time of his death.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

What was Azreen,s reaction when she learnt about Madhuri?

2.

Who did Azreen see standing outside her house?

3.

Where was the woman pointing to?

4.

What was Salehs reaction when Azreen told him what she knew?

5.

What was behind the woodpile?

6.

Describe the parang found behind the woodpile.

7.

How do you think Saleh must have felt when threw the parang on the ground?

8.

In your opinion, what is the white substance found on the parang?

9.

What came to Azreens mind when she saw the white sap?

10. What conclusion did she make after she saw the white sap?
11. Why was Madhuri so special to Saleh Abdullah?
12. Whom did he see when he entered the plantation?
13. he saw red Who does he refer to? What does the phrase mean?
14. Did Saleh kill his daughter on purpose? Give reasons for you answer.
15. What was Azreens reaction after realising that her father was a murderer?

16. Who was watching Azreen and her father from the bushes?
17. In your opinion, who was the woman who was always watching them?
18. Describe what happened to Saleh after Azreen left the place?
19. What did the villagers say Saleh died of?
20. List two reasons given by the villagers for Salehs heart attack?

CHAPTER 12
Azreen Azreen visits her family s graves. She leaves a flower on each grave
and leaves quietly. She leaves a flower at the hillside where the Old Lady was
buried, too. As Azreen leaves, she sees a smiling figure which resembles
Madhuri s smiles.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS :1.

What happened to Azreen after the death of her father?

2.

Why do you think the woman smiled at Azreen?

3.

What happened to Asraf at the end of the novel?

EXAM FORMAT QUESTIONS

Using the details from the novel that you have studied answer the following questions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.

Write about a character that you dislike. Give textual evidence to support your
answer.
Describe one event in the novel that you find interesting. Give reasons for your
answer.
What is the significance of the title to the novel?
Explain some conflicts that the main character had to face. How did the character
cope with it?
Compare and contrast two different characters in the novel with reference to the
text.
Choose an incident in the novel which changes the lives of the characters.
Elaborate with close reference to the text.
Choose an event which is sad or happy. Explain how this event has affected a
character in the story.
Based on the novel you have read, describe one event that has touched your
feelings. Give reasons for your choice. .
Based on the novel above, write about an interesting relationship between two
characters.
Based on the novel, write the positive and negative qualities of a character found in
the novel.
Write about how the characters help each other in times of difficulties.
Using the details from the novel, describe what happened at the end of the novel.
Explain why you find the ending happy or sad.
Write about one moral value that is portrayed in the novel you have read.
Based on the novel write about some of the challenges faced by a character in that
novel.
Write about the superstitions found in the society and how it affected the villagers
Write about any character that you admire
Which character do you sympathize with in the novel you have studied?
Give reasons for your answer.
Describe the setting in the novel you have studied? Give reasons for your answer
Write on one of the themes found in the novel you have written.
Learning to forgive is important in life. Do you agree this is true in the novel you
have read. Give textual evidence to support your answer.
What important lesson did you get from the novel you have studied?

NOVEL
MARKING SCHEME

MARKING METHOD
1. For this question, marks are awarded as follows ;
Content
10 marks
Language
5 marks
Total
15 marks
2. Read the script and decide which band it fits well. If the script fits all ornearly all
thedescriptors given in the band, the answer should be on the top of the band.
3. Next, evaluate the quality of writing using the Language band.
4. No answer will fit perfectly thus examiners must judge which fits the best.

Content and Language Descriptors

MARK
RANGE

CONTENT

10 9

a consistently relevant and

convincing response to the task
almost always provides textual
evidence with details and welldeveloped

8-7

a relevant response to the task

usually provides textual
evidence (some development)

largely
accurate
wellorganised

frequent
errors but
meaning is
never in
doubt
fairly
organized

some
blurring in
meaning
poorly
organised

makes little
or no sense
at all
lacks
organisation

6-5

an intermittently relevant
response to the task
provides some textual evidence

4-3

a response of very little

relevance of task
hardly any textual evidence

2-1

shows barely any understanding

of the requirement(s) of the task
response has no relevance to
the task

MARK
RANGE

LANGUAGE
accurate
very wellorganised

ANSWER KEY
IN THE MIDST OF HARDSHIP
1.
2.
3.
4.

The village was experiencing a very bad flood due to the heavy rain.
They were out in the heavy rain the whole night.
They going around the village, searching for their sons buffalo.
Their clothes were wet and torn. Their bodies were covered with scratches and
wounds.
5. The wounds and scratches on their legs were caused by bits of wood and debris that
were floating around in the water.
6. Line 2,stanza 3 (and grew up without a sigh or a complaint)
7. The couplehad faced hardships all their lives and had learnt to accept it as part and
parcel of their lives.
8. They were out searching for their sons albino buffalo.
9. - Yes, I would. I do not want to disappoint my son. I would try my best fo find
my sons buffalo as I love my son very much and do want to see him sad.
- No, I would not. The rain was coming down heavily , so I would wait for the
rain to stop and then ask someone to help search for the buffalo..
(accept any logical reason that is appropriate for the answer given)
10. The night was dark and it was raining heavily. They gave their best in searching for
the buffalo.
11. The incident was just one of their hardships faced and for them, life went on.
12. It was a terrifying flood, which caused damage to properties and lifestock.
13. The couple had tried their best but the search was not successful. However, they
were not affected by the lost. They went on through their daily routine, while enjoying
each others companies.
14. Life is full of challenges. One must try the best to overcome hurdles but do not be
dampened by failure.
15. Resilient, tough with a care-free attitude towards life.
16. The phrase refers to the dead animals. The animals were probably swept away by the
flood water and drowned.
17. It is a village because
a. the couple went searching for a buffalo which is normally found in a village.
b. rolling cigarette leavesdescribes what people in villages do.
18. The flood resulted in loss of properties and lifestock.and most probably causing
poverty and hunger among the villagers.
19. The rain was heavy and non-stop. The flood water was strong, washing away
properties and other valuable things .
20. - Yes. Because as a villager, those difficulties would be a part of my life.
- No, I do not think I can live a difficult live as I am used to living comfortably

HE HAD SUCH QUIET EYES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.

15.

16.

17.
18.

The mans eyes which were deceiving.

The eyes were deceiving as they looked reliable but actually dangerous just like
stepping on thin ice.
The eyes were asking her to be nice to him and to love him.
No. she regretted not following the advice given by others regarding her relationship
with the man.
Not to fall for men who pretend to be nice and loving.
The persona advices others to be sure that the one they love is truly a gentleman,
because it would avoid future heartaches.
I think, she was deceived by the mans behaviour and manners.
Men who have relationships for fun without committing themselves.
We may face many failures and uncertainties, but those experiences will eventually
help us to choose the right one.
She would not have to suffer the heartache and disappointment of failed
relationship.
To bring him happiness that can be equated with paradise.
I think she was disappointed and regretted being so lovestruck until she could see
the real situation.
It probably means that the eyes did not reveal much. It was expressionless, hiding
his real emotion.
If I met a person like that, I would not trust him without finding out more about him.
It is difficult to judge a person if he does not reveal his emotions.
(accept any logical answer)
I would break off our friendship as I would not want to waste my time being with a
liar and a conman.
(accept any logical answer)
a. We should learn from our mistakes and do not repeat it.
b. We should not trust anyone immediately before finding out first about
him/her
He pretended to love her by being a perfect gentleman, loving caring and
pretending to be really dependant on her.
- Yes. She should have been careful as there many cases of ladies being
cheated by conman in the media.
- No, maybe she thought he was a good man and was really in love with her.

NATURE

1.
2.
3.
4.

Jamaica experiences hot as well as rainy weather.

The other countries have summer, winter, autumn and spring.
The rain comes down heavy and makes a lot of noise as it hits the roof.
The sight of the sun shining on the lush green canefields.

5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.

Most probably everyone is in their house as it is raining heavily, thus there is no

other sound.
After the rain, the plants and flowers bloom in vibrant colours, painting a beautiful
picture of nature.
On a rainy day, sheets of water come down hard everywhere, creating a lot of noise
while the gullies are full of water.
The best days are went the flowers and trees begin to blossom and the air is full of
insects such as bees going for the honey.
The main crop would be sugar cane as the poem talks about cane fields always
Once the rain is gone, the earth is soft and rich in minerals so it is an ideal condition
for plants to grow well
Jamaicans only two distinctive seasons that is hot days and rainy days.
The gold sun refers to the beautiful sun rays that shine brightly on the cane fields.
The fields are bare after the crop has been harvested and waiting for clearing and
replanting.
The air is full of insects searching for honey as the place is full of flowers and young
shoots.
It refers to the buttercup.
Lush and green
The grass sways and shakes to the breeze.
Beats like bullets on the roof.
We can hear the bees buzzing around and we can smell the fresh honey present in
the flowers.
The petals have fallen down and covered the pavement.

ARE YOU PLAYING STILL PLAYING THE FLUTE?

1.
2.
3.

A flute
The person who plays the flute.
All the younger generation have more to other places, most probably searching for
job and better life.
4.
It is left unattended and abandoned.
5.
The persona longs to hear the songs played by the flutist.
6.
The flutist plays the flute with his/her fingers and by blowing into the flute to produce
beautiful songs.
7.
There is no one to take care of it or to work on the land. It has been left to rot.
8.
- watching the rain fall
- gazing at the sunset
- collecting the dew drops in the morning
- smelling the fragrance of flowers
9.
He/She feels guilty of thinking about something she enjoys when people around
her/him are facing difficulties.
10. It describes the earth that is facing turmoil and bloodshed.

11. Unemployment, political unrest, killing/bloodshed

12. - unable to watch the rain coming down
- unable to enjoy the sunset
- unable to enjoy the fragrance of flowers.
13. Because according to the poet, these things are rarity and time is also limited.
14. The song most probably reminds the poet of life in the village which was the
opposite of what the poet was experiencing now.
15. - Changes can be traumatic, affecting the person.
- Be aware of the happenings around you and should take responsibility to
overcome/solve them.
16. To show the poet different intentions. Initially, the poet missed the flutist and her
village but in the last the poet was upset that the poet was ignorant of the serious
situations their country was facing..
17. The music of the flute went deep into her heart.
18. The poet is busy with her life and is engrossed with her surroundings so she had no
time for other things.
SHORT STORIES
QWERTYUIOP
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

It refers to the alphabets on the first row of the typewriter.

Lucy had poor typing skills and an equally poor qualifications
Her boss, Mr. Ross of Ross and Bannisters
A former secretary who used to work for Mr. Bannister.
She managed to convince Mr. Broome that Mr. Bannister really missed her
expertise and would most probably be needing her to organise his things in the
other world.
Initially, she was shocked but later felt sorry for Miss Broome.
I would try my best to chase Miss Broomes ghost from the typewriter so that I could
work without any disturbances. I would not quit as it was hard to get good jobs.
Mr. Drake is an odd-job man who had been with the company for a long time
She was a quiet man who does not throw tantrums. She loves her unemployed
brother and took him in.
He was always spending their hard-earned money on his drinks.
She wanted to leave her home and stay on her own as she was fed up with her
poor way of life.
She understood what Uncle Bert was going through and felt sorry for him.
She was getting old and of poor health.
She was uncertain about the possibilities of getting her job because of her poor
qualifications and skills.
She immediately covered them with correcting fluid and continued to type.
Most probably, they scared of Miss Broome who haunted the typewriter.

17. - We should have the courage and perseverance to accomplish what we started.
- We should to empathise and understand the needs of others if we want to help
them.
18. The job had been vacant for a long time and Mr. Ross was desperate to hire a
secretary.
19. - Yes because she felt unwanted and unappreciated after devoting most of her life
to the job
- No. She was dead so she should let go of her job. She was being very selfish.
20. She was angry at Lucy for taking her place and wanted to cause trouble so that
Lucy would quit the job.
21. Uncle Bert never did anything in the house except to drink. So, she was surprised
that Uncle Bert had cooked for her.
22. Lucy informed Miss Broome that Mr. Bannister had died 3 years ago and would
most probably be needing his old secretary to help organise things for him.
23. A brass clock
24. -Yes, she needed to understand why she was sacked suddenly so by
haunting the typewriter, she could get answers for her uncertainties.
- No. let bygones be bygones. She was dead so she should just accept the facts
and have a peaceful afterlife.
25. Yes. She had shown courage and determination when handling Miss Broomes
problems. So I think she would strive to be a good secretary in the future.
THE FRUITCAKE SPECIAL
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Anna was a simple girl who did not attract much attention from the opposite sex.
David Amos was her boss.
She added a piece of fruitcake that was packed by her mother for her lunch.
Anna was working as a chemist at the Amos Cosmetics factory.
She thought that he would laugh at her if he found out about her secret ingredient.
- Yes. Since Sabina was so rude to Anna, let her experience the headache of
having all the men fall for her.
- No. She should not have wasted the perfume on Sabina. She could have used
again some other time.
7.
Sabina is a rich girl who is used to getting what she wants. She is arrogant and
snobbish.
8.
- Yes. Obviously Armstrong loved Anna very much since he had waited until he had
a stable job before proposing to her.
- No. She should not have made the decision so fast. Maybe she can wait first
before rushing into it.
9.
The perfume was intoxicating and had a strong effect on men.
10. We should always look beyond the physical appearance when searching for a
friend.
11. Yes. He had shown that he was a responsible, rational man.

12. Mr. Amos is a man who sees the status before befriending someone and not at the
character. He turned down Anna just because she was only his employee and not
rich enough for him.
13. She was upset and irritated at the thought of Aunt Mimi finding her a husband.
14. He was head over heels in love with Anna and was singing a love song for her.
15. She bought the fruitcake from a little place in the market.
16. It had the ability to change ones feelings towards others.
17. After knowing the secret behind the perfume, I would have kept the perfume
carefully for future use.
18. She felt that Anna was trying to take David Amos away from her.
19. Armstrong was the pizza delivery boy who used to deliver pizza to Annas house.
20. He was uncomfortable about the situation as he was not attracted to her anymore.
He wanted to cancel the date.
21. She felt hurt and angry because Sabina had insulted her. It was as if she was not
worthy of David and could be pacified with money.
- Yes. I would work for a man like David who had no principles and looked down on
his employees.
- No. I would continue to work there so that David Amos would always be reminded
of the blunder he made every time he saw Anna.
23. I think she wanted to find out the ingredients of the fruitcake that caused it to have
such an effect on the men.
22. He couldnt understand how he became attracted to Anna who was a simple girl
when he was in love with the rich Sabina.
25. They thought that David Amos was a good catch and would be a
good husband for Anna
NOVEL
CHAPTER ONE
1.
Continuing her studies.
2.
Her sister had passed away
3.
Her course mate.
4.
Liked by all as he was friendly.
5.
She felt obliged to tell him the reason for her leaving London.
6.
Sad and unsure of what to expect in Malaysia.
7.
By the tube.
8.
She seldom made trips to Malaysia because the suitcase had noy been used for
two years.
9.
Cold morning breeze.
CHAPTER 2
1.
A regular smile without feelings.
2.
The green terrain reminded her of the lush, green fields of her kampong.
3.
Madhuri was 4 years older than Azreen.

4.
5.

6.
7.

A charming girl who is pretty and well-liked. She is a good daughter to her parents.
a) Azreen - short and wears spectacles
- fury-tempered, speaks her mind
b) Madhuri- pretty, charming
- well-liked by all
a) Walking/cycling around the village.
b) Pluck rambutans and durians from the fruit plantation.
Madhuri is well- liked and her parents always compared her to her sister.

CHAPTER 3
1.
Irritated because Pn. Normala was spreading untrue rumours about Madhuri to the
villagers.
2.
Noor said that Madhuri had been murdered.
3.
Siti is Pn. Kamsiahs daughter while Noor is Pn. Normalas daughter. Siti and Noor
are classmates.
4.
Pn. Normalas words and actions are vicious and malicious.
5.
According to Pn. Normala, Madhuri was murdered and her blood was white.
6.
Pn. Normala thinks that they were cursed because Madhuris blood was white just
like the legend of Mahsuri.
7.
12 hours on the plane to KL and two hours to Langkawi. A total of 14 hours.
8.
They are Azreens sponsors and almost like 2nd parents.
9.
She did not want to upset Azreen who would most probably be tired after her long
journey.
10. A warning which implies that something mysterious had happened , unknown to
most
CHAPTER 4
1.
Yes, Madhuri gave Quran lessons when Siti was six or seven years old.
2.
Azreen entered the house and went straight to the back of the house without
greeting anyone.
3.
Azreen met Datin Sharifah and Datuk Zul in students exchange programme when
they became her adoptive parents. They were close almost a family.
4.
A mattress/a chair / a few boxes of clothes.
5.
In a rubber estate.
6.
- Her father did not allow her to see Madhuris body
- Her father regarded Datuk Zul and Datin Sharifah as outsiders and ignored them.
- Her father did not inform her mother about Madhuris death.
- Did not allow Madhuris mother to attend the funeral.
7.
According to them, Azreen was a troublemaker, spiteful and bad-tempered.
8.
No, she suffers from memory lapse.
9.
Alzheimers disease (memory loss)
10. No , she was not.
11. Azreens father/ En.Saleh Abdullah.
a) Azreens mother

12.

13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.

b) Angry
He did not want his wife at the graveyard because of his wifes poor health and
memory loss. She would not be aware of what was happening or it could be very
hard on her.
Madhuris husband.
- She loved to put flowers on her silky hair.
- Her laughter as the flower gently falls on her lashes.
Ashraf is a teacher in a nearby school. He was Azreens schoolmate.
In school while she was sitting in the empty school hall waiting for her friends.
A smart and handsome prefect who was admired by girls in the school.
She felt that others think she was weird, a bookish bespectacled girl who had a fury
personality.
She joined the hockey team and helped to win the games.
He was in love with only one person.
A dark shape/a movement that darted across the gate and disappeared down the
pathway.
Pn. Fatiha.
She cut the curtains that Madhuri had bought with a keris belonging to her husband.
Haji Ghani was very much in love with his second wife. Madhuris presence
dominated their home.
Haji Ghani was a rich village headman who was respected by all. He dotes on his
wife.

CHAPTER 5
1.

The walls were dark brown covered by creepers.

- A tiny stream flowed past the house
- It smelt of flowers and herbs
2.
She went to the market.
3.
Mohd. Ashraf.
4.
He was about to go to Kuala Kedah for some business when he heard about the
news.
5.
He said Madhuri was killed in an accident that was covered up by Madhuris
husband.
6.
Chicken porridge.
7.
She remembered when Azreen was eight. Madhuris hand was burnt because
Azreen could not keep quiet. Mother recalled how Madhuri defended Azreen from
her fathers beating too.
8.
Madhuri.
9.
Awang was the village bomoh. He was a stubby little man, his left leg was shorter
than his right so he walked with an unsteady gait.
10. A woman, with a long thick hair and pale gaunt face. She looked like a Pontianak to
him.

11. He left the gate open and Ashraf was blamed for it.
12. She wanted to protect Ashraf and keep him from trouble.
13. She saw how Ashraf was looking at Madhuri during her wedding. He looked
dejected and sad.
14. A tall woman with greyish hair with deep wrinkles that spoke of strength and
wisdom.
15. She had murdered her husband. They believed she had the power to turn anyone
into a squirrel or a rat.
16. Azreen took up a dare to go to the house. She managed to talk to the Old Lady and
she showed that she did not believe in the rumours. The next day, she repaired the
damaged bed of vegetables and was able to win her heart.
17. Curry Kapitan
18. The weather was cold, a lot of places to visit, tasty food, can travel by doubledecker bus.
19. Azreen is curious and irritated that nobody explained to her about the accident.
20. She was murdered.
CHAPTER 6
1.
2.

A young Indian boy who works at the estate.

She saw a gash across Madhuris side which could only be made with a large
blade.
3.
Haji Ghani and a few of his relatives.
4.
One of the kenduris held at the village. Her beautiful voice and rendition of syair
which was flawless.
5.
a) trying to bury a frog in the mud
b) she was muddy and wiped all the dirt on herself.
c)
I. adventurous, playful
II. caring, protective of Azreen
III. gets angry very fast, jumps into conclusions without investigating
6.
The medication made her sleepy.
7.
In a motorcycle mishap. Her father had collided with a bull, causing the motorcycle
to fall Azreens mothers legs. She lost the use of her legs her because of that.
8.
Azreen was loyal and protective of her friend. She accepted the blame bravely as
she did not her friend to get into trouble.
9.
Madhuri met Asraf for the first time at their house when Asraf came over to enquire
about Azreens mothers condition.
10. She confided to the Old Lady.
11. She advised Azreen to tell the truth.
12. The villagers isolated her because they accused her of killing her husband in cold
blood

13. Yes. She murdered her husband who was abusive. She stabbed him with a knife, in
self-defense as he was physically abusing her.
14. It was a letter from her school informing her that she had been chosen to participate
in an exchange programme which required her to stay at mainland with a foster
family.
15. To complain about Azreen who had slapped her daughter.
16. - Yes because her daughter had said nasty thing about Azreens mothers
physical disability.
- No as slapping the girl would not solve any problem but instead would make
matters worse
17. She joined a two-month students exchange programme. She went to Georgetown
to stay with Datuk Zulkifli and his wife Datin Sharifah. She had a wonderful time and
she was more calm and composed at the end of her stay with them.
18. She received a scholarship offer to further her studies overseas.
19. Her foster parents, Datuk Zulkifli and Datin Sharifah.
20. They would go to a rocky limestone cliff overlooking the crystal clear sea. It was a
beautiful and peaceful place.
CHAPTER 7
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His grandmother was not feeling well. She had fever and was coughing for a long
time
He was very close to his grandmother and loved her very much.
He was at a meeting with his village committee members.
Haji Ghani saw a woman in a flowing white dress, walking past the trees. He could
not see the face clearly as it was hidden behind her long black hair.
Her father rarely spoke to her since she came back from overseas. He always
grumbled or scolded her even for the smallest mistake she made.
The door of the coop was unlatched and one of the chickens were missing.
She found a carcass of a chicken with its neck broken.
Pn Normala had told him that she saw bomoh Awang burning something and that
her cat fell sick immediately after it went near the ashes.
He expected her to be proud and self-centered. He thought she would be speaking
Malay with an English accent.
It was from her friend, Julian.
Julian had written about the things that was happening there. He had also enclosed
a letter from Malaysia which was addressed to her but arrived only after she had left
the place
- Madhuri was concerned about her sister.
- Madhuri respected and thought highly of Haji Ghanis first wife, Pn. Fatihah
- It had been raining non-stop for two days.
- She overheard Haji Ghani and his wife fighting and according to her, they had
never fought before.
- She had seen a banshee wondering around the graveyard.

14. Hj. Ghani accused his wife of stealing Madhuris personal belongings and throwing
them away.
15. Asraf fought with Haji Ghani because the latter had insulted his wife as well all the
women in general. Hj Ghani was rude, loud and offensive
16. She had feelings for Asraf since her schooling days
CHAPTER 8
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It had been raining for 4 days and the rivers were almost over flowing.
On the fifith day, Azreens mother passed away.
Madhuri was protective over her sister and always helped her sister solve her
problems.
Her mother was a loving and caring person who valued her childrens efforts more
than the monetary loss.
She caught sight of a face at the window and wanted to find out who it was.
Madhuris house was on fire.
Azreens father came on time and tried to put out the fire by using wet soil. The
heavy rain also helped to kill the fire.
Most probably, Pn. Fatihah wanted the bomoh to give her a charm that would help
her win back her husband.
The shadow she saw was actually a lady with pale face and long black hair. Pn
Fatihah was so scared and she fainted when she saw the lady walking towards her.
The grandmother would not be able to ride the motorcycle to jetty in the heavy rain.
Besides that, the sea was to choppy for any boats to cross over to the mainland.
His grandmother had taken care of him since he was young. His parents died when
he was still young. She had sent him to school, prepared food and lovingly took
care of him when he was sick.
Saleh Abdullah was Azreens father and he accused the bomoh of starting the fire
at his house.
She saw Saleh Abdullah grabbing the bomoh angrily and pushing him into the
bomohs house. She also almost tripped over Pn Fatihah who was just regaining
consciousness.
She felt comfortable staying at the old ladys house.
She had a lot of sad memories back home and she felt no one cared for her
including her father.
He went to the market to buy some herbs to make traditional medicine for his
grandmother.
The crops were destroyed by the flood which was caused by the heavy rain.
He decided to go to the Old Ladys House which was on a hill so her plants would
not be affected by the flood.
She advised Azreen to learn to let go and forgive as forgiveness would set her free
from all troubles.
Initially, she tried to scare him off by pretending to be fierce.

19. a. She reminded the Old Lady that it was she who said a good doctor would never
give out medication without examining the patient.. The Old lady would never
forgive herself if her herbs caused more harm than good to the patient.
Furthermore, the grandmothers symptoms appeared to be more serious than a
simple fever.
b. The Old lady was reluctant to go for she feared the villagers would attack her or
even burn her house down.
20. Asraf gave her the guarantee that he would handle any problems raised by the
villagers. He just wanted the Old Lady to treat his grandmother.
CHAPTER 9
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Siti was left to take care of Nek.

To Siti, the Old Lady was old and had a stern look but her eyes was kind and
gentle. Besides that, she handled Nek gently and with a lot of care.
She was afraid the Old lady would harm her daughter.
She said that evil was spreading causing floods, fires, sickness and deaths. With
the presence of the Old Lady, they would be facing tragedy.
She boiled some herbs, dried roots and leaves to make an infusion. She also
pounded some nuts to be used as medication. She gently rubbed an ointment
made from lemon grass and other oils, into Neks knees, elbows and shoulders.
She also gave Nek a herbal drink.
He was instructed to give the medicine every hour until the tea finished.
She wrote a letter to Julian, informing him of her sisters funeral, her mothers
demise as well as the unceasing rain that was causing flood and lots of crops.
She had stopped cooking since Madhuri took over the duty of preparing food. So, I
think she was trying to win back her husband by serving him delicious food.
No he did not. He felt it was unfair to have such a lavish breakfast when the other
villagers were facing hardship and short supply of food.
She was feeling much better and was able to sit up.
She went home to fetch some eggs which were requested by the Old Lady. The
eggs would be used for further treatment
Azreen found Bomoh Awang moving around her house compound.
All the villagers, led by Pn. Fatihah, had gathered in front of Asrafs house and
threatened to break the door down.
They wanted the Old Lady out of their village.
Pn. Fatihah
They accused Azreen of bringing the Old Lady into the village.They believe this had
brought bad luck to the village and fear someone might die.
Azreens father, Saleh Abdullah.
He knew that Azreen could take care of herself as she was independent and more
like him.
She wanted to leave because she wanted to avoid trouble especially when nek was
getting better and needed the rest.

20. He was referring to the rain which had finally stopped.

CHAPTER 10
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After performing her prayers, she went to the kitchen to prepare dinner.
There was a sense of peace between the two of them. No feeling of anger or
hatred.
She wanted to inform Azreen that the villagers were heading to the Old Ladys
house because they blamed her for Neks death.
After Nek passed away, a few of the villagers managed to convince Asraf that his
grandmother died because of the Old Lady. So, he gathered a few villagers and
decided to seek revenge.
No. they did not go near the house because they were afraid. They believed that
she was a witch and would harm them if they go too near.
Asraf was more daring because he had entered the house earlier when he was
asking for the Old Ladys help. So, he was scared of her.
She placed herself between the crowd and the house. She slow began to inch
herself towards the house. She tried to stop Asraf but he was full of anger and
wanted revenge.
The Old Ladys house caught fire and she was not able to escape. She perished in
the fire.
Azreens father, Saleh Abdullah.
He was convinced that his grandmother died because of the Old Lady and he
wanted revenge.
They were in love.
He was offered a teaching post in KL. He also wanted his grandmother to have
better medical care which can be found in KL.
She wanted to explain to her husband, Hj Ghani, and ask his permission to release
her.
She wanted to break the news gently to her parents and most of all, she wanted to
meet Azreen first before leaving the place
They met the same day that she died. They met at the rubber plantation.
To the place she and the Old lady used to go, to the cliff that looked out to sea.
She saw rows of rubber trees with cups of latex hanging at the side and a soy
where the path has broadened with uneven spots
She met Bomoh Awang wandering in the plantation.
She found out that Madhuri was not her real sister but was adopted at a young age.
He found the baby in a paddy field.
Her father left her mother penniless with a child to care for. She went mad. She left
the baby in the paddy field to search for food. She never did anything to get her
baby back and just disappeared.
The woman was Madhuris birth mother.
Azreen had helped him many years ago. It was Bomoh Awang who had left the
gate open, causing the bull to escape. He would have been caught and punished if

the owners knew. But lucky for him, Azreen had taken the blame and the issue was
forgotten.
24. He had burnt same charms around her house to protect her. He had picked up the
crumpled letter that Azreen had thrown, in order to give back to her.
25. According to him, Hj Ghani knew about Madhuri and Asrafs relationship and
wanted to cover the death so that the villagers would know the truth.
CHAPTER 11
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She was shocked and speechless.

The same lady who was always following her.
The woman was pointing to something behind a pile of woods.
He looked defeated and defenceless, unable to explain anything.
It was a parang .
It was the parang that Saleh uses to chop woods. At the edge of the parang there
was a sticky substance that looked like tree sap.
He was waiting to see Azreens reaction.
I think it was the rubber latex.
She remembered what Pn Normala had said the day she came back from London
She had white blood
She realised that it was her father who had killed her sister.
She was a beautiful and good woman who carried out her duties as a wife and
daughter perfectly.
He saw Madhuri and Asraf.
He refered to Saleh . he saw red means he was fuming mad.
No, he only pushed her to the ground but unfortunately she fell on his parang as he
was going towards Asraf.
She was shocked and could not bring herself to look at him
The same woman with her long flowing hair.
Madhuris birth mother.
He was going towards the house when he saw Madhuris birth mother coming
towards him. To him, she looked like Madhuri. He was terrified when he realised the
woman was holding his parang. He fell and had a heart attack due to the shock.
They said he died of heart attack
He already had a weak heart. The past few weeks, with the death of his wife and
daughter, had brought a lot of stress on him

CHAPTER 12
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She left the village and went back to London to continue her studies.
She was happy that her daughters murderer had died.
Asraf left Langkawi and had taken a teaching post in KL