BI SEKOLAH MENENGAH

Instead of being on the 13th floor, we actually have a garden. Those days, it was quite
impossible for my mother to have her own garden because of the limited space we had. 30
Now, the garden is just next to the driveway. It is beautifully maintained by my mother, with a
variety of beautiful flowering plants of various colours, a few bushes and a big mango tree. There
is also a small pond with goldfish swimming lazily in it.

The best part with our new house is we even have a covered porch for our car. 31
Everybody just parked their car at any empty space they spotted at that particular moment.
Sometimes, unfortunately, it would be the cause of arguments among the flat occupants.

Finally, comparing it to our old flat, this is a very large and spacious house. 32
I promise to myself that I will repay them both with my good results as that is the only thing I can
do at this moment. This house would indeed be “Home Sweet Home”.

A. We also have two big armchairs into which we can sink and relax.
B. We never had one way back when we lived at the flat.
C. But it was then.
D. There is a whole range of cooking facilities.
E. However, it is different.
F. Besides, I used to help do the household chores too.
G. It has a lot of space and the bathroom is equipped with hot and cold showers.
H. I feel so indebted to my parents especially my father who works so hard to make sure

that all of us live a better life.

51

SET 3
You are going to read a text about lifestyle tips to stay healthy during the Covid-19 pandemic. Six
sentences have been removed from the article. Choose from the sentences A to H the one which
fits each gap (27 to 32). There are two extra sentences which you do not need to use.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

COVID-19: tips to stay healthy during the pandemic

COVID-19 has changed many of our daily routines in a way no one anticipated. Many of
us are at home more to minimize exposure. Isolation and being at home can illicit the temptation
to eat snacks high in sodium, junk food and low-quality meals that provide instant satisfaction for
our taste buds rather than nutrient-dense whole food that can also be delicious. 27.

Previously, our day may include many steps, physical activities such as walking from our

car at our workplace parking lot twice a day, shopping for groceries, outings with the family or

visiting shopping mall are absent for many. 28 We must stay proactive, and in some

cases creative, to maintain an active lifestyle in this era of social-distancing.

What are some things we can do to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle and routine
while the world around us has adapted to limiting exposure to COVID-19?

Firstly, we must stay active. The gyms may not be open, however, there are lots of safe

alternatives to be involved in physical activities without going against the preventive measures.

Aerobics can be done successfully at home. 29 Going for a brisk walk or jog in the park

is still considered relatively safe. Push-ups, sit-ups, jumping-jacks and other types of exercises

are great ways to stay fit away from the gym.

Next, get adequate sleep. Good sleep is essential to our overall health. According to
medical research, “Immune system activation alters sleep, and sleep in turn affects our body's
defence system.” While the amount of sleep needed for good health and optimum performance
mostly depends on the individual. 30

In addition, we need to take care of our diet and nutrition. Practising self-discipline and
avoiding “emotional eating” due to stress is vitally important. Whole food like dark, leafy greens,
oranges and tomatoes—even fresh herbs—are loaded with vitamins, fibre and minerals. Make it
a habit to try to eat more whole nutritious food instead of processed snacks or fast food.

52

Next is about self-care. 31 Be supportive and suggest the same for those close to

us. Meditation, relaxation, quality time with family and personal care promote overall wellness.

The next tip is to stay connected. 32 Take time to utilize technologies and apps

that can help us stay in touch with those we love. Our busy lives before the COVID-19 may have
limited how often we connected with distant loved ones, now’s the time to fully exploit these

modern capabilities for fellowship, companionship, and camaraderie.

A. Take time to take care of ourselves.
B. This is a challenge for many during this time of social distancing and self-isolation.
C. Positive coping mechanisms would include exercise, meditation, reading, further

developing certain skills or hobbies etc.

D. It recommends adults age 18-60 years get seven or more hours of sleep per night.
E. With this lifestyle shift, there is a potential for us to indulge in activities such as watching

television, reading or sitting at the computer longer-than-usual.

F. Another important point to consider is that avoiding crowds does not mean avoiding
nature.

G. Be sure to reach out to our healthcare personnel with any concerns.
H. Talking with loved ones can help reduce the anxiety and instances of feeling down.

53

SET 4
You are going to read a text about lifestyle tips to stay healthy during the Covid-19 pandemic. Six
sentences have been removed from the article. Choose from the sentences A to H the one which
fits each gap (27 to 32). There are two extra sentences which you do not need to use.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

Quarantined On A Ship

Nobody, especially me, wants to be trapped in a tiny windowless room of a cruise ship with their

parents and siblings for two weeks. This is not what you call a dream holiday situation, but this

was exactly what happened to me.

During the coronavirus outbreak, my family and I were in the midst of our travels.

27 Then the ship crew told the passengers onboard that we had to be kept in

quarantine for 14 days. Horror of horrors!

“You’re going nuts over there, huh!” My brother teased, after a few days of our ordeal.

“Relax. 28 Then you’re all set.” What sage advice! He didn’t realise I had already tried

that and went crazy regardless.

We were among the approximately 3000 people, including around 1000 crew members

who were stuck on the ship. Our ship was docked in the port of Yokohama, Japan.

29 I wanted to be off the ship, but nobody was allowed to unless he or she was sick.

Sixty-one people onboard were tested positive for the virus and had to be treated in the hospitals

on land.

We soon lost all sense of time, but I was grateful that we had social media. We could chat

with friends and family to keep us sane. Passengers had to remain in their rooms.

30 I have to say they really stepped up because the dishes were mouth-watering.

On a Friday afternoon, the crew let passengers from interior rooms out. Interior rooms like

ours, without windows to look outside. 31 It was the first time we had been out of our

cramped room since Tuesday.

Luckily, none of my family members displayed any symptoms of the virus. We took our

temperatures every day. My mother contacted our schools to inform them of our status. My mother

talked to my dance teacher too. I had to miss final call-backs for a dance role I really wanted.

32 I was disappointed, but I had to just make the best of it.

54

A. All you need is a pair of headphones and your favourite music.
B. The staff left food and drinks outside our doors for us.
C. Time will pass and we will soon be out of here
D. Land was so near, yet so far.
E. They provided us with extra blankets and first-aid kits.
F. It was for a musical theatre event for public schools.
G. We were not aware of the news until we received messages from our family and friends

about the worldwide pandemic.
H. We took turns for an hour at a time to visit the deck for fresh air.

55

SET 5
You are going to read a text about lifestyle tips to stay healthy during the Covid-19 pandemic. Six
sentences have been removed from the article. Choose from the sentences A to H the one which
fits each gap (27 to 32). There are two extra sentences which you do not need to use.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

Cahaya Institute will conduct a two-day PT3 workshop on 10 and 11 August at SMK Seri
Millennium in Parit Buntar. As the PT3 is around the corner, the institute believes that this is the
right time to conduct the workshop for the students in Kerian district in order to help the candidates
to score in their examination. 27

The workshop will focus on compulsory subjects namely Bahasa Melayu, English,

Mathematics, Sejarah and Science. 28 They come from various states in

Malaysia and are eager to share their knowledge and experiences with all the participants during

the two-day programme. These experienced teachers will also guide students to develop effective

study strategies such as time management and effective note taking.

During the workshop, students will be taught ways to identify common mistakes and how

to avoid them. 29 This will include proper sentence construction and the grammatical

aspect as well. Apart from that, they will also be taught self-motivation skills. This is vital as

students need to be prepared not only academically, but also mentally for the upcoming

examination.

30 The cost is inclusive of lunch, two tea breaks, and some notes. All
participants will also receive certificate of participation. The workshop will start at 8.30 a.m. and
there will be break time at 10.00 a.m. dan 4.00 p.m. The programme ends at 5.30 p.m. on both
days.

Schools wishing to send their students for this workshop have to contact the secretary as

there is a discount. 31 The Cahaya Institute hopes that students will benefit from the

workshop and it will help them to be fully prepared for the PT3 examination. As a famous Chinese
saying goes, “Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.” 32

Late registrations will not be entertained.

56

A. The workshop will be conducted by experienced teachers and examiners.
B. The workshop costs RM60 per person.
C. It will be very useful workshop for PT3 students.
D. The last day for registration is on 5 July
E. Students will get exam tips and techniques on how to prepare for the PT3.
F. To register and make enquiries, please call 03-3341234.
G. A 40% reduction will be given to schools.
H. Only hardworking students can participate in this workshop.
I. Techniques to answer questions correctly and how to score high marks will also be

given.

57

Part 5 consists of 8 questions on information transfer from a text
• Read the texts carefully. Make sure you understand them.
• Read the questions. Make sure you understand what information the questions
require. Circle or underline any keywords.
• Scan the texts to look for information you need to answer the questions. For matching
tasks, remember that the information you’ll be looking for will most likely appear
differently in the text.
• For tasks that require you to complete notes, make sure you do not write more than
the number of words required, i.e. if the questions ask for one word, make sure you
write only one word.
• Check all your answers. Make sure you have copied the answers correctly. Spelling
mistakes may cause you to lose marks.

58

SET 1

Questions 33 to 40
Here’s a look at some fun hobbies for teenagers. Read the texts below and answer the questions
that follow.

Do you enjoy eating? Then you would r mal r ar a
probably love to cook mouth-watering
dishes andservethem to your family and and foster them. Take care of their food,

celebrity chef in the making. r wil r a ar

the value of being responsible.

r r ar pa Plant flowers,vegetablesor ornamental
canvas. Start painting randomly and you plants. Have your very own garden. You
wi r might evenearnsomemoneyfrom doing

your skill will become better as you what you enjoy!
progress.

ar r d wi This can be a fun hobby for teens who
ra
You might even earn some extra pocket
money. them into lasting memories.

59

Questions 33 – 36 Paragraph
Which paragraph (A - F) mentions the following interests?
Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

Statements
33. I just cannot ignore lost animals.
34. I make my own room decorations.
35. I love to entertain my guests with my new dishes.
36. I enjoy capturing special moments.

Questions 37 – 40
Complete the notes below using information from the text. Choose no more than one word from
the passage for each answer.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

Teenagers and their Hobbies

• If you have green fingers, you can have your own (37) filled with plants.

• Sarah has a new hobby. She enjoys painting on (38) .

• Learning to be (39) is a good value that we can get by helping stray

animals. ? Try doing it yourself.
• Feeling bored at home? Needing the extra (40)

60

SET 2
Questions 33 to 40
The following is a brochure on some attractions in Ipoh. Read the texts below and answer the
questions that follow.

5 ATTRACTIONS IN IPOH

A. GERBANG MALAM B. HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS

The Gerbang Malam night bazaar is located just a
short walk from some of Ipoh’s best local eateries.

Vendors here offer a wide variety of goods, from

apparel to footwear, perfume, fashion accessories

and even services such as foot reflexology under

make-shift tents. The Perak Hop-on Hop-off bus (HOHO) operates
every weekend from 8.30 am until 9.30pm,

covering 13 stops from Terminal Meru Raya to Ipoh

Old Town and New Town. The Perak HOHO

service comes with a highly experienced tour guide

along the ride, so this is highly recommended for

tourists who wish to receive detailed information

about city landmarks.

C. GUNUNG LANG RECREATIONAL PARK D. LITTLE INDIA

The spectacular landscape with the natural A small Indian enclave that encompasses three

backdrop of limestone hills roads in the heart of Ipoh

and the man-made waterfall Old Town, one can find

cascades from its peak is various shops selling

definitely a sight to behold. different kinds of Indian

The well-kept children’s goods here. It is the focal

playground and spacious point during festive

camping area are two of the seasons like Deepavali

most sought-after and Thaipusam. Little

features of the park. India also offers the opportunity to savour culinary

delights of the community.

61

E. CONCUBINE LANE F. LOST WORLD OF TAMBUN

Over the past few An amusement and water park rolled into one, Lost
years, many of the World of Tambun is Malaysia's premier family
shophouses here destination. Explore its themed zones with over 80
were once left attractions, including the country's biggest wave
dilapidated. Then, pool and longest man-made adventure river. You
they changed ownership and underwent massive will also meet a variety of
restoration works. Therefore, Concubine Lane is animals at the inhouse
now a mixture of the old and the new, which offers petting zoo, and witness the
picture perfect backgrounds for photography. This awesome Siberian tiger
is made more appealing by tenants offering a good feeding show. When the
range of knick-knacks, adjacent to the F& B outlets. sun goes down, soak your

body in the soothing
natural, mineral hot springs.

QUESTIONS 33 to 36

Which paragraph (A - F) describes the following interests of different people?
Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

No Statements Paragraph
33 I am a nature lover.

34 I want to purchase traditional attire such as sari and
dhoti.

35 I love theme parks and their many attractions.
36 I want to experience the foot massage.

62

QUESTIONS 37 to 40

Complete the notes below using information from the text. Choose no more than one word
from the passage for each answer.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

New Message

To : [email protected]

From : [email protected]

Subject: A visit to Ipoh

Hi Mohan,

I’m glad that you’re coming to visit me for your holidays. The first place we’re going to go

is Concubine Lane to take photos and get some (37) for your mum.

Then, if you want, we can ride the hop-on-hop-off bus for a tour of the city and learn about its
(38) . Next, we’ll visit Gunung Lang Recreational Park and enjoy the

(39) scenery. I would also like for you to experience the local night

bazaar, which is the best place to go shopping for a (40) of wares.

I’m sure we’ll find more things to do while you’re here but this is to give you some ideas.

See you soon.

Regards,

Mohan

63

SET 3

Questions 33 to 40

A website has shared reviews of best-selling books. Read the text below and answer the
questions that follow.

A. THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR
Author: Ruth Sandy ▪ Fiction
The novel is based on the unexpected hurricane that left the whole town in ruins. Renee Perez
was left devastated when her husband became one of the victims. She had to rebuild her life,
coping with her twin children who had helped her in the journey of emotional recovery. A book
recommended for relaxation as well as motivation.

B. THE WHIRLWIND
Author: Carl Mc Closkey ▪ Non-fiction
The Whirlwind discusses the tornado, the most violent storm that can hit the earth. There are
also different names given to this rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a
thunderstorm to the ground with whirling winds that can reach 300 miles per hour. It damages
everything in its path that may include fatalities within seconds. Read the book to improve your
knowledge on this natural phenomenon.

C. THE TREASURES OF LOK MOUNTAIN
Author: David Robinson ▪ Fiction
This book is one of five detective novels written by Robinson. The story starts with mysterious
happenings in a village, at the foothill of the mountain. The presence of Matt Dellan, the
detective character leads to a shocking find that changed the quiet life of the villagers. It is
interesting how the author managed to weave in words on the beautiful view of the volcanic
mountain and the unravelling of the mystery. The book is suitable for teenagers and adults who
love suspense and problem-solving.

D. WILDFIRES
Author: William Kisling ▪ Non-fiction
The book provides details of forest fires. Find out all the facts about their causes, effects,
problems and difficulties in putting them out. Kisling, who is a firefighter by profession, also
wrote on ways of preventing forest fires and some of his experiences in dealing with the fire in
the United States. There are some photographs of past incidents in the country too.

64

E. MEMOIRS OF THE BOXING DAY
Author: Linda Brown ▪ Fiction
She never thought the choice that she and her two friends made while spending their Christmas
holidays in Thailand in 2004, would haunt her for a very long time. She had lost her best friends
while many others lost family members to the tsunami on that day. The book was written based
on personal experience as well as those who had also survived the tragedy, in which the author
had described the harrowing experience in detail.

F. I CAPTURE THE CASTLE
Author: Dodie Smith ▪ Fiction
I Capture the Castle is a journey through the mind of a young writer as she attempts to chronicle
her daily life. Seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain has recently learned to speed-write, and
she decides to work on her writing skills by describing the actions and conversations of those
around her. Capture the Castle should be essential reading for aspiring writers, those looking
for historical fiction or romance, or anyone who loves reading amazing classic books.

Questions 33 to 36

Which paragraph (A - F) describes the following portrayals of people and things?
Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

Statement Paragraph
33 She is a survivor of a real tragedy.

34 A struggle of a woman in bringing up her offspring.

35 A teenager who is into writing.

36 His presence leads to a life-changing discovery to the people at a
place.

65

Questions 37 to 40

Complete the notes below using information from the text. Choose no more than one word
from the passage for each answer.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

To: [email protected]
From: [email protected]
Subject: Books for you!

Hello Irfan,

I am glad you asked me to recommend some books for you to read during the lockdown period.

I have read some interesting reviews recently on both fiction and

(37) . One of the books that I think you would love is the one that

describes the author’s own (38) of a catastrophe in 2004. However, if

you wish to add some knowledge about natural disasters, you should read the book on the

ferocious (39) or the one that (40)

information of forest fires.

66

SET 4

Questions 33 to 40.

Read the movie reviews below and answer the questions that follow.

Movie Synopsis

The Twin

There’s such a thing as the fear of twins. It’s a phobia and believe it or not, some
A people get panic attacks when they see two physically identical persons. It is a

legitimate condition, not some made-up fluff. This movie taps into that fear. A
woman springs into action after the twin brother of her daughter’s boyfriend escapes
from a mental hospital and hatches a twisted plan for revenge.

World War Z

What’s scarier than flesh-eating zombies? Fast flesh-eating zombies. Watch with
bated breath as a visibly-aged Brad Pit traverses the world in a race against time to
B stop the zombie pandemic, that is toppling armies and governments and threatening
to obliterate humanity itself. This 2013 American action horror film is directed by
Marc Foster and based on the title of the 2006 novel of the same name by Max
Brooks.

Finding Dory

A friendly blue tank fish, Dory, suffers from memory loss every 10 seconds or so.

The one thing she remembers is that she became separated from her parents as a
C child. With the help from her clown fish friends, Nemo and Marlin, Dory ventures

out on an epic adventure to find them. The journey brings her to the Marine Life

Institute, a conservatory that houses diverse ocean species where she learns the true

meaning of family.

Captain America: Civil War

After an incident involving the Avengers leads to collateral damage, pressure
amounts for them to follow a system of accountability to oversee and direct the team.
This movie divides members of the Avengers into two teams. Iron Man, siding with
the government, agrees that their actions must be kept in check to avoid further
D damages to the cities but Captain America believes superheroes should remain free
to defend humanity without government interference. As the dispute escalates into
an all-out feud, all the other Avengers including Black Widow and Hawkeye are
forced to pick a side.

67

The Secret Life of Pets

Max, a spoiled terrier, enjoys a comfortable dog life in a New York building with
his owner, Katie. His peaceful life turns upside down when Katie introduces him to
his new brother, Duke, a sloppy giant mutt that she adopts from the pound. During
E their walk outside, they encounter a group of ferocious alley cats and wind up in a
truck that is bound for the pound. Lucky for them, a rebellious bunny named
Snowball saves the doggy duo from captivity. In exchange, Snowball demands that
Max and Duke join his gang of abandoned pets on a mission against the humans
who have done them wrong.

Kong: Skull Island

Inside the Hollow Earth, Kong and the team find an ecosystem similar to Skull
Island. They discover his species' ancestral throne room, where they find remains of
an ancient war with Godzilla's kind and a glowing axe made from another Godzilla's
F dorsal plates. Attracted by Mechagodzilla's activation, Godzilla arrives in Hong
Kong, and sensing Kong, he directly drills a shaft to the throne room with his atomic
breath. Maia and the Apex team attempt to escape in the ensuing mayhem, but their
HEAV is crushed by Kong. Kong engages Godzilla in a final battle. Who will be
victorious?

Questions 33 to 36 Paragraph
Which paragraph (A - F) describes the following preferences of movies?

Statements
33 Dina loves watching movies about love and family.
34 Zack has always been a big fan of superheroes.

35 Lina always watches movies that feature monsters.
36 Josh’s favourite movie is about a pampered dog.

68

Questions 37 to 40
Complete the notes below using information from the text. Choose no more than one word
from the passage for each answer.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

People’s Review

Sara, 17

I watch the movie just to admire Brad Pitt, as he has to race against time to stop the zombies

from destroying (37) .

Tina, 18

The movie leaves me in (38) and having panic attack each time seeing twins
come near me.

Tim, 17

I am totally inspired with Dory, a (39) who bravely ventures through the big sea
determined to find her long lost family.

Sam, 18

I think Snowball is a good leader with a sense of purpose. He makes it his (40)
to go against humans who have done bad things to them.

69

SET 5
Questions 33 to 40
A web article on vehicles of the future was posted recently. Read the text below and answer the
questions that follow.

VEHICLES OF THE FUTURE
A The Hyperloop
It is a futuristic tubular system that shoots pod-like capsules between destinations at speeds of more than 800
kilometres per hour.

B Flying cars
The prototype of a flying car was unveiled in Vienna during the Pioneers Festival in 2014. However, some say
they may not become popular due to safety challenges. Inventors imagine that it will be able to hover above
the ground at any altitude, but they will not zip around like in popular movie depictions.

C Driverless pods
People will be able to get their own “cheap steel box” and control it themselves using a smartphone. These
driverless pods have been visualised to not have wheels, making them even cheaper. The structure will use a
technology that was patented in the early 20th century called magnetic levitation to push them forward.

D Windowless aeroplanes
Aeroplanes will continue to undergo continuous development over the next 30 years to become faster. In order
to do so, it is most likely that the windows of aeroplanes will be removed so that planes are stronger and better
equipped to handle faster speeds. Augmented reality will make it possible to remove all the windows.

E Hypersonic aircrafts
Hypersonic aircrafts will exist in 2040, but only those who are super wealthy will be able to ride one. The U.S.
Patent and Trademark Office has approved a patent for an airbus that could transport you from London to New
York in just one hour.

F Autonomous monorails
Autonomous monorails like SkyTran, could dramatically improve daily commute. It cruises 20 feet above roads
and can travel up to 249 kilometres per hour, helping transform a two-hour car commute into a 10-minute
journey. The tracks and stations are small enough that they could be built just about anywhere, including inside
office buildings and airports.

Adapted from https://www.businessinsider.com/6-predictions-about-the-future-of-transportation-2015

70

Questions 33 – 36

Which paragraph (A - F) mentions the following descriptions of future vehicles?
Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

Statements Paragraph
33. It can be controlled using a smartphone.
34. It can fly you across continents in 60 minutes.
35. It can float around at any height.
36. Its windows are removed to make it stronger and faster.

Questions 37 – 40

Complete the dialogue below using information from the text. Choose no more than one word
from the passage for each answer.

Mark your answers on the separate answer sheet.

Shahril : I hope that I would be (37) someday so I could afford a ride in the hypersonic
Maniam :
aircraft.
Shahril :
Well, even if I were wealthy in the future, I would not want to spend too much on
Maniam :
Shahril : air travel. I would rather ride the autonomous monorail and reach my destination in

(38) minutes.

That is a fair point, Maniam. There are so many options in the future. There is even

one you can manage using a smartphone. It will also be (39) since the pod

does not have wheels.

Well, I would build my own Hyperloop. It (40) pod-like capsules that can

travel hundreds of kilometres per hour!

Come to think of it, if cars could fly, I would not mind driving or flying them myself.

Just as long as it can hover above the ground as high as I want it to.

71

72

OVERVIEW
FORMAT

The Writing paper has 60 marks in total. However, the total weightage is still at 25% in the overall
SPM English paper. The time allocated for Paper 2 is 90 minutes. This paper has 3 parts.

Part Task Type Task Format Marks
20
1 Short A short response (about 80 words) to
Communicative an informal message 20
Message (email) 20
A longer text (125 – 150 words)
2 Guided Writing based on a text stimulus
(essay)
A choice of 3 questions – candidates
3 Extended Writing choose one of:
Task An extended text (200 – 250 words)
based on minimal prompt.
(article / review /
report / story)

TIPS
For any writing task you need to determine three main aspects:

➢ The purpose ~ why are you writing
➢ The reader ~ who is going to read your writing or for whom it is meant
➢ The genres ~ e.g, email, essay, report, article, review and story

In writing tasks, marks are awarded using the following criteria:
1. Content ~ task fulfilment
2. Communicative achievement ~ appropriate tone of the writing
3. Organisation ~ paragraphing and presenting the ideas logically, using connectors and
cohesive devices appropriately
4. Language ~ use suitable vocabulary, varied structures and correct grammar

73

List of useful phrases in writing

Friendly openings Useful phrases Writing a postcard Talking about

Hi! I really miss you, Mum! We’re having a lovely possibility
Hello I love reading your emails.
How are you? Good luck! time. Do you think... might
How are things? I hope things are going be…
How is it going? well. The weather is... good?
It’s good to hear from Sorry for not answering The hotel/campsite is… I don’t think... would
your last email. be a…
you! This place is ... good idea because...
What do you think?
The beach is... Yes, I think... would be
good because...
The food is... No, I don’t think that
We’ve had... would work because...
We’ve been to...
We’ve seen...
We’ve done some

sightseeing.

See you soon!

Responding to news Friendly endings Asking for a reply

What exciting news! Waiting for your reply and Let me know if you can
It’s such good news! tell me all about it. come.
I am sorry to hear Goodbye for now. Tell me if you can come
that. See you soon. or not.
I’m really proud of That’s all for now.
you. Do write soon and take
It’ll be care!
great/wonderful...!

74

List of common logical connectors and cohesive devices

Basic, high frequency connectors Cohesive devices

Meaning Linking words / Simple connectors More sophisticated linking words and phrases
Example and / but / because / first of all / finally furthermore / in other words / as a result

To start First of all First and foremost,..
Cause & Effect Because To begin,..

Comparison So To start with,..
Contrast For In a first place,..
Addition Thus Consequently,..
Like
Illustration Therefore,..
Emphasis Yet As a result,..
Conclusion
Opinion And Similarly,..
Also Even though,..
Next In contrast,..

Such as Despite,..
However,..
Actually Nevertheless,..
Although,..
Finally In spite of..
In addition,..
I think Furthermore,..
Besides,..
Moreover,..
For example,..
As an example,..
For instance,..
In the case of..
Significantly,..

In fact,..
Particularly,..
In a nutshell,..
In conclusion,..
To conclude,..
To sum up,..

In my view/opinion,..
As for me, I think…
Personally, I think…

It seems likely...

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Tips:
1. Read and understand the instructions carefully.
2. Highlight or circle the keywords.
3. Read the given email.
4. Make sure you know the purpose of writing and who the reader is.
5. Plan your answer well, use a mind map and write within the suggested time.
6. Use good opening and closing phrases.
7. After writing, check your answer.

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Part 1
You must answer this question.
Practice 1
You received an email from your cousin, Ayra, whose mother will be celebrating her birthday.

Hi there,
My mum’s birthday is coming soon. I am thinking of buying a present for her. I have saved RM100
for the present. What do you suggest I should buy? How much would it cost and where shall I buy
it?
Waiting for your reply.
Bye!
Now write an email to your cousin in about 80 words. Write your answer below.

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Practice 2
You received an email from your friend, Kayla, who is organising a camping trip.
Hi,
I`ve got good news. I am planning a camping trip for us. Where shall we go? What shall we bring?
Who shall we invite?
Write soon!
Bye!
Now write an email to your cousin in about 80 words. Write your answer below.

_

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Practice 3
You received an email from your best friend, Rayyan, who you have known for years.

Hi there,
Let’s go for an outing this weekend. Where shall we go? What should we do? Who shall we invite?
Please reply soon!
Bye!
Now write an email to your cousin in about 80 words. Write your answer below.

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Tips:
1. Read and understand the instructions carefully.
2. Highlight or circle the keywords.
3. Study the stimulus and the points given.
4. Plan your answer well, use a mind map and write within the suggested time.
5. Use good opening and ending phrases.
6. Make sure you have answered three parts of the question.
7. Use appropriate cohesive connectors.
8. Write in paragraphs.
9. After writing, check your work!

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Part 2
You must answer this question. Write your answer in 125 - 150 words in an appropriate style.
Practice 1
In your class, you have been talking about sports. Your teacher has asked you to write an essay
about playing sport.
In your essay, you should write about:

• what sport would you play
• reasons for your choice
• when would you play
Write your essay using all the notes and giving valid reasons for your point of view.

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Practice 2
In your class, you have been talking about gatherings. Your teacher has asked you to write an
essay about family gathering.
In your essay, you should write about:

• where would you hold the gathering
• reasons for your choice
• what would you do
Write your essay using all the notes and giving valid reasons for your point of view.

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Practice 3
In your class, you have been talking about favourite pastime. Your teacher has asked you to write
an essay about how would you spend your leisure time.
In your essay, you should write about:

• what would you do
• reasons for your choice
• where would you do it
Write your essay using all the notes and giving valid reasons for your point of view.

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Tips:

1. Read and understand all three questions carefully.
2. Highlight or circle the keywords for each question.
3. Make the best choice and stay focused; know the format well.
4. Make sure you know the purpose of writing and who the reader is.
5. Plan your answer well, use a mind map and write within the suggested time.
6. Write in a variety of sentence structures, make your writing as interesting as possible.
7. Use appropriate cohesive devices.
8. Write in paragraphs.
9. After writing, check your work.

ARTICLE
Things you need to know about articles:

• Format ~ Title in the middle of the text
• Writer’s name at the bottom left or below the title
• Complete all tasks given and elaborate on them well

REVIEW
Things you need to know about reviews:

• A review deals with the descriptions, your views and feelings towards the subject.
• We can write reviews on books, movies, restaurants, products, malls and many others.
• Use a variety of adjectives to make your review more interesting.
• Use appropriate tense
• When writing a film review, choose a film you know well. Don’t include too many details

and don’t reveal the ending.

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REPORTS
Things you need to know about report:

• Formal writing
• Address the receiver, write down the name of the recipient and the address.
• Include subject/title, date of the report and name of the sender
• Write your report in paragraphs.
• It is MOSTLY written in PAST TENSE. Do remember that, you are reporting.

STORY WRITING
• A good story comes with settings, characters, the plot and the ending.

Here is a list of useful phrases in creating suspense in your story.

At that point... Without thinking further...

During the minutes/hours/days that followed... There was no sign of...

All of a sudden... He thought of a plan.
Out of the blue… To make things worse...

As quick as lightning/As fast as she could... They were just about to give up when...
He’d never been in such an extreme situation.

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Part 3
Write an answer to one of the questions 3 – 5 in this part. Write your answer in 200 – 250 words
in an appropriate style on this question paper. Put the question number in the box at the top of
the answer space.
Practice 1: Article
You see this notice on your school library notice board.

Today a reader, tomorrow a leader!!!
• What special facilities should the library have?
• How can we attract more students to come to the library?
• How can we instil the love forreading?
Write your article.

-

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Practice 2: Article
You saw this notice on your school notice board.

Health is wealth
o What must one do to ensure good health?
o What must one avoid to ensure good health?
o The importance of good health to oneself.
Your article may be published in the school magazine!!!
Write your article.

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Practice 3: Report
The Prefectorial Board of your school carried out a survey on students bringing handphones to
school. As the secretary of the board, write a report to your teacher advisor.

Report
Bringing handphones to school.
• Details of the survey.
• Advantages
• Disadvantages
Write your report.

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Practice 4: Report
Your school recently held its annual sports day. Your teacher has asked you to write a report on
the event.

Report
Sports Day
❖ When was the event held?
❖ What were the highlights of the sports day?
❖ How did the day end?
Write the report answering these questions.
Write your report.

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Practice 5: Review
You saw this notice in a magazine.

Reviews!!!
Have you recently been to a good restaurant? What is the place called?
Location. Types of food. Prices. Service. Ambiance. Taste. Opening hours.

Would you go back again? Why?
Write your review.

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Practice 6: Review
You saw this notice on your club notice board.

Reviews required!
Have you watched any films recently? Share your opinion on one of the films. Would you

recommend it to your friends? Why?
Send us your review and win attractive prizes.
The best review will be posted on the club’s webpage.
Write your review.

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Practice 7: Story
Your teacher has asked you to write a story. The story must have the title:

A Camping Trip
Your story should include:

• activities at the camp
• how you felt
Write your story.

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Practice 8: Story
Your teacher has asked you to write a story about discovering a hidden talent for the school
magazine. The story must have the title:
Your story should include:

• a description of the hidden talent
• how the talent was discovered and its impact on the character.
Write your story.

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SPM MODEL PAPER

1119/1: READING AND USE OF ENGLISH
[1 hour 30 minutes]

Part 1

Questions 1 to 8

Read the text carefully in each question. Choose the best answer A, B or C. For each question,
mark the correct answer A, B or C on your answer sheet.

There are a lot of interesting things 1. Which of the following statement is
to do in Egypt. My family and I visited true?
Egypt some time back. I think I actUALLy got A. Egypt has transformed the writer of
transformed into a medieval world when I the blog
travelled to Egypt or ‘The Two Lands’. In B. Egypt has some fantastic lands
this blog entry, I am going to list all the C. Egypt is one of the countries which
things yoU can do in Egypt. YoU will be is located in North Africa
fascinated with the alLURE of this North
African coUNTry and it will give yoU an
UNForgettable experience.

Looking for a list of movies & reviews? 2. The reviewer says that the website
offers
Look no further! A. reviews to latest movies
B. links to over 400,000 movies
Well, this website claims to offer links to over C. movie reviews
40,000 titles and more than 400,000 reviews. This
could be the ultimate site for movie buffs. To locate
reviews, all you need to do is click the menu and a
search box will appear. Type the title of the movie.
Another box will allow you to pick reviews from
different categories such as ‘Recent Releases’,
‘Most Popular’ movies and many more.

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Mandarin 3. From the advertisement, the
Communication Classes advantage of being the first thirty
participants is getting
Join our three-month Mandarin classes to A. the fee reduced
speak better and gain confidence. All classes B. a refund
are conducted by tutors with more than 20 C. free materials
years’ experience in the field Free materials are
included.

Hurry! Early birds discount for the first 30
participants! Call 03-2821000 for more
information.

*If you are not satisfied with the results, we’ll
give your money back!

We’re Hiring! 4. The main responsibility of the position
Social Media Manager advertised is to
A. set up an online community
We are looking for a talented and creative B. promote the brand on social media
individual to build social media platform for C. become an influencer for the brand
our brand. He / She will be required to run
advertising campaigns, develop written &
visual content and engage influencers.

If you’re at least 25 years old, has a
Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, IT,
Marketing or other related discipline and an
expert in social media platforms. Please send
your CV to [email protected].

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Blue Moon Café

We are having a Wow Hi-Tea buffet promotion 5. From the advertisement, we know that
from16 September to 16 October in A. the café is promoting local cuisines
B. the price is valid throughout the year
conjunction with the Malaysia Day Celebration. C. there will be a special Merdeka
celebration at the café
The delicious buffet spread will include
delicacies from the Malay, Chinese and Indian
communities including the local delicacies of

Sabah.

The buffet is priced at only RM35 nett during this
promotional period. Please call Mr Adly 05-5270829 for

reservations.

The r e s i de nt s of S e c t i on 13,

Punc ak Al am ar e not happy due t o t 6. What do the residents think about the
rat infestation problem?
he r at i nf e s t at i on pr obl e m i n t A. It affects the cleanliness of their
town.
he i r ar e a. The y c l ai m t he s e r ode B. It is caused by the poor hygiene of
the nearby factory area.
nt s c o me f r om t he ne ar by f ac t or C. It should have been solved sooner
by the authorities.
y ar e a due t o poor hy

gi e ne . Al mos t 2 , 000 r e s i de nt s hav e
to put up wi t h t hi s

i nc onv e ni e nc e f or t he l as t f i v e
y e ar s . The r e s i de nt s hav e

96

Did you recently get a new smartphone and are 7. According to the article, why should you
now wondering what to do with the old one? repurpose your old smartphone into a
Old smartphones have better cameras than security camera?
many surveillance cameras. Why not repurpose A. It can remotely monitor and record
your old smartphone and use it to keep watch video.
over your home? B. It can send audio messages if there
is an intruder.
Install an app such as RazorView to turn your C. Old smartphone has better s camera
old smartphone into a watchful motion than many surveillance cameras.
detector. It will be able to send text messages
or email you if it senses an intruder or use the
TrailView app to remotely monitor and record
video. Home security had never cost so little.

ALOR STAR: A school van carrying ten 8. From the newspaper article, we know
schoolchildren got into an accident at Taman that
Pelangi Indah but luckily no one was seriously A. the intersection was known to be
injured. Kota Star District OCPD Assistant unsafe
Commissioner Azman Bakri said that the B. the schoolchildren were involved in
accident occurred around 3.00pm on Tuesday an accident
(May 10), took place when the school van C. the school van driver had driven
driver, 40, suddenly came out of an very carefully
intersection and was hit by a car. He said the
police have issued a summon to the school
van driver for negligent driving.

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PART 2

Questions 9 to 18
Read the text below and choose the best word for each space. For each question, mark the
correct letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet.

On the first day of my term holidays, I heard the sounds of (0) mewing near the drain of my

father’s shop. Upon investigation, I (9) a scrawny kitten which someone must have

dumped there in the wee hours of the morning.

A little bit of its umbilical cord was still attached to its navel. I suspected it was a new-born kitten.

Dirty as it was, I really felt (10) for it. I knew that it would become minced meat in no time

(11) the road beside the drain was always busy with traffic, especially in the morning.

I (12) the kitten to the bathroom and gave it a quick bath. Then, I (13)

towelled it dry because I did not want it to catch a cold. I (14) some milk, poured it into my

baby sister’s toy bottle and (15) the kitten. It drank hungrily.

Later, I showed my family the kitten which I (16) named Kitty. Mum said that if I

wanted to keep it, I had to look (17) it myself. Dad agreed with her. My kid sister became my

ever willing ‘Kitty helper’. Together, we cared for Kitty and nursed her back (18) good health.

Today, Kitty is a lovely honey-coloured cat. I am glad that my heart had gone out to the scrawny,
little kitten on that early September morning.

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0. A piercing B noisy C pitiful D weird
9. A find B found C finds D finding
10. A pity B mercy C regret D empathy
11. A as B but C for D when
12. A held B fetched C took D brought
13. A slowly B simply C gently D quickly
14. A thawed B dissolve C cooked D warmed
15. A fed B served C nursed D nourished
16. A has B have C had D-
17. A at B for C over D after
18. A for B to C at D in

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PART 3

You are going to read an extract from an article. For questions 19 to 26, choose the correct
answer (A, B, C or D) and mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet.

1 In early March of 2020, my friends and I embarked on an adventurous trek to the Everest
Base Camp in the Himalayas. The nine of us started our trek at Lukla in Nepal.

2 At that time, Covid-19 was already becoming a problem. However, it felt like the
higher up we trekked, the more detached we were from the pandemic. Our worries at
Earth’s highest point were altitude sickness, hypothermia and exhaustion, rather than the 5
coronavirus. Our biggest challenge at that time was the extremely cold temperature. Some
of our friends were getting completely beaten by the effects of the high altitude and freezing
temperature. It was rather frightening.

3 After we finally reached the Everest Base Camp and settled down, five people in our
group were evacuated. Four of us were left behind. At first it wasn’t really a problem as we 10
could just head back on our own. However, after trekking for only 15 km, we hardly had any
energy left. It took us three days overall to descend from 5,364 m to 2,800 m.

4 While on the trek back, we received news that our return flight to Malaysia had been
cancelled. This was because the movement control order (MCO) had begun. Soon after,
Nepal too went into lockdown. All international and domestic flights in and out were cancelled. 15
We were informed that this situation would continue for at least one week. This meant that
we would be stuck in Lukla.

5 All of us had a difficult time living at 2,800 metres above sea level. The lockdown
measures in Nepal included restrictions on trekking and many other activities. Only shops
that sold essential goods were open but even those were limited. We had to pay for all basic 20
necessities such as drinking water, WiFi and even device charging services. We did not
complain as we realized there were very limited in the area. Also, approximately 200 trekkers
were stranded between Lukla and Namche Bazaar

6 The lodge we were staying at was cold. What’s more, the one fireplace it had was
only turned on after 6 pm! Since it was so cold and the water was freezing, it really wasn’t 25
possible for us to shower or wash our clothes. We could only air out our dirty clothes and
reuse them.

7 Thankfully our meals were good. However, we had to begin rationing once supplies
stopped coming to Lukla. Luckily, we received help in many ways. On March 26, the Lukla
municipality announced that they will be covering all expenses. We were so grateful when we 30
heard that. Not long after that, they announced that the Nepali government had arranged
seven rescue flights out of Lukla. We were so glad to be able to finally leave.

8 Unfortunately, my friends and I were unable to secure a flight on the first day due to
the bad weather conditions. Furthermore, there was a very long queue of stranded trekkers.
At the break of dawn on the second day, we went to the airport. Unfortunately, luck was not 35
on our side. The first few chartered planes were reserved for citizens of other countries.
Then at 10 am, the chief of the municipality came to the airport gate. He began reading out
a new list of names and this time, only the mountain guides will be flying out.

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