DW 101 Module

SMKDSA English Language Panel
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TABLE SMKDSA English Language Panel

OF CONTENTS

FAQ: How-To-Use Instructions …4
…5–6
Marking Scheme … 7 – 32

Directed Writing: … 33 – 61

 Informal Letter … 62 – 89

 FAQ Notes … 90 – 119
 Format Template
 Sample Essay … 120 - 147
 Sample Questions
… 148
 Formal Letter … 149 - 156

 FAQ Notes
 Format Template
 Sample Essay
 Sample Questions

 Report

 FAQ Notes
 Format Template
 Sample Essay
 Sample Questions

 Speech/Talk

 FAQ Notes
 Format Template
 Sample Essay
 Sample Questions

 Article

 FAQ Notes
 Format Template
 Sample Essay
 Sample Questions

Evaluation Checklist

Vocabulary Tracker

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WORDS SMKDSA English Language Panel

OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

In the name of God the Almighty, the Merciful.

For many years, I went through several bookstores in search of good reference books for SPM
writing but I could not find any that I was satisfied with, so I began to develop my own materials to
teach my students how to write compositions. However, my materials were not organised so I finally
decided to compile everything into one place – this module.

This module contains notes and questions which I have either developed or gathered, edited
and adapted, from various sources.

*
A special thank you I dedicate to these wonderful persons without whom, this module would
never come into existence:

- Ms Nurfarah Zawani binti Mohd Zamil (SMKDSA Head of Panel), for giving her full support
and aides for this project, as well as for providing invaluable sample essays.

- Ms Wan Hasniza binti Othman (SMK Kelibang), for inspiring me with her REXAMPFIT
THREADVICE tool which I used in this module.

Hafizuddin bin Yahaya,
SMK Dato’ Syed Ahmad,
06300 Kuala Nerang,
Kedah.

Disclaimer:
I do not own any of the questions used in this module. Some questions are used in their

original forms, while some other questions have been modified by the author due to a number of
reasons, e.g. incorrect format, to improve contents, or to adjust the level of difficulty.

This module is developed for the use of SMK Dato’ Syed Ahmad students.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

FAQ HOW DO YOU USE THIS MODULE?

(if you think you know how to use this module, please skip this page)

1. Always read the FAQ pages.
The fact that you are reading this shows that you are on the right track. Keep on
reading!

Note: FAQ stands for “Frequently Asked Questions.” It explains to you the important
things you need to know about each format of DW composition.

2. Analyse the format template
There are five (5) formats for DW writing. For each format, one comprehensive
template is provided. The template will highlight important components of each
composition’s format. You will also find useful phrases suitable for each template –
make full use of them!

3. Benefit the useful connectors
This module also provides a handful of useful connectors which you can use in your
writing. Analyse the samples and practise how to use them!

4. Track your vocabulary learning
At the back of this module, you will find a few blank pages for vocabulary. How do you
use it? When you go through the questions in this module and you found words you
do not understand, jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker. On your free time, look
up the meaning of these words in this

5. Keep your ideas organised!
For each question, there is a page where you can brainstorm/map your ideas.
Following the suggestions on that page, you will learn how to expand and organise
your ideas through brainstorming and mind-mapping.

6. Finally, write your essay…
Yes, now that you already have your ideas expanded and organised, it is time to turn
them into a piece of writing. Be confident. You can do it!

7. Your teacher is your best guide!
If you are ever in doubt, refer to your teacher because he or she always knows what
and how to do things (even when he or she does not follow the instructions in this
module. They may have their own approach, you know).

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

MARKING SCHEME

Total mark for Directed Writing (DW) is 35 marks.

The marks are divided into 3 parts: Format, Content points, and Language.

In general,

Format + Content points : 15

Language : 20

Total : 35

Note: Normally, there are 3 marks for format and 12 marks for content. However, some questions
only have 2 marks for format.

Band Descriptors for Language

Band & Description of Criteria
Mark Range
• Language - accurate with only occasional first draft slips
A • Sentence structures - varied
19 - 20 • Vocabulary - wide and precise
• Punctuation - accurate
B • Spelling - accurate
16 - 18 • Paragraphs - have unity and are well-linked
• Style - relevant to the format
C • Tone - appropriate
13 - 15 • Language - almost always accurate with more first draft slips
• Errors - found in more complex structures
• Sentences - some variation in length and type (with some complex structures)
• Vocabulary - wide enough
• Punctuation - almost always accurate
• Spelling - almost always accurate
• Paragraphs - linked and show some unity
• Style - relevant to the format
• Tone – appropriate
• Language - largely accurate
• Simple structures - used without errors. Mistakes occur in more complex
structures
• Sentences - some variety of length and type but some repetitive structures give
a monotonous effect
• Vocabulary - adequate
• Punctuation - generally accurate
• Paragraphs - have some unity but links may be absent or inappropriate
• Style - quite relevant to the format
• Tone - still appropriate

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

D • Language - sufficiently accurate
10 – 12 • Sentence structures - Patches of clarity seen in simple structures
• Mistakes in more complex structures
E • Vocabulary - adequate but lacks precision
7-9 • Punctuation - generally correct
• Spelling mistakes - may be found in unfamiliar words
U (i) • Paragraphs - show some unity
4–6 • Style - relevant and informative but may not be sustained
• Tone - may not always be appropriate for the format
U (ii) • Meaning - never in doubt
2-3 • Single word errors - sufficiently frequent and serious to hamper reading and
precision
U (iii) • Sentence structures - mainly simple but accuracy is not sustained
0-1 • Vocabulary - limited
• Punctuation - sometimes not correct
• Spelling mistakes - found in more difficult words
• Paragraphs - do not show unity and links are incorrectly used
• Style and tone - may not be relevant to the format
• Meaning - fairly clear
• Single word errors - numerous and impede reading
• A few simple structures - used accurately
• Vocabulary - very limited
• Punctuation - sometimes used correctly
• Spelling errors - more frequent
• Style and tone - may not be appropriate for the format

• Sense - decipherable
• Content - generally comprehensible
• Some errors - multiple in nature
• May have only one or two accurate sentences
• Style and tone - hidden by too many errors

• Errors - mostly multiple in nature (meaning is not clear)
• Structures - distorted and ambiguous
• Whole sections may make no sense at all
• Award ‘1’ mark if some sense can be obtained
• Award ‘0’ mark if the writing makes no sense at all from beginning to end

Note: You may want your teacher to explain this mark scheme and provide necessary examples.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

INFORMAL LETTER

 FAQ Notes
 Format Template
 Sample Essay
 Sample Questions

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

FAQ INFORMAL LETTER

Q: What is an informal letter?
A: An informal letter is a letter, using a certain format, written in a friendly manner to

people you are familiar with.

Q: When do you write an informal letter?
A: Informal letter are written for several purposes:

1. To convey message, news or information.
2. To give advice or suggestions (on certain issues).
3. To congratulate recipient (on certain occasions).
…and a few other purposes. Basically, if the letter is not for official purposes, then
write an informal letter.

Q: Who is the audience?
A: Informal letters are written to people you are familiar with, for example, your friends

and relatives/family members.

Q: Are there any important tips to remember?
A: When writing informal letters, remember to,

1. Use the appropriate format (refer the notes on DW Template page).
2. The language used can be less formal and more casual, so idioms and proverbs

are allowed if suitable.
3. Contractions (e.g. I’m, you’re) are allowed but for exam purposes, please avoid

using it.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW TEMPLATE INFORMAL LETTER

Just write your ________________,
home address. ________________,
________________,
Don’t waste ________________.
time here.
XX MONTH 201X.

Dear [name of recipient],

How are you and your family? I hope everyone is in the best of health. I am alive and kicking
here. How was your [mention something from previous letter]? I heard it was great. Keep it up!
Anyway, I have something to tell you. [Identify the topic of the question, then copy here].

Body of your essay where you write the content points. Minimum 3 to 4 paragraphs.
Must use ALL content points given.

That is all for now. I have some work to do [you may mention what work you have to do]. I
am looking forward to your reply.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely,
[your signature]

Helpful Phrases

Phrases for introduction Phrases for ending
 I have to stop now.
 How are you (and your family)?  That is all for now.
 How are things (for you and your  I am looking forward to hearing from you

family)? again.
 What have you been up to?  Write back soon.
 How was your ...(mention the topic

discussed in previous letter)?
 I hope you are well/ in good health.

Commenting on Something Moving on to Another Topic
 It’s great to hear about...  I thought I’d write to tell/ask you about...
 I’m so pleased to hear about...  In case you did not know, I would like to tell
 I’m so glad to know that...
you about...
I’m sorry to hear/learn about...  Anyway, the reason I’m writing to you is...
 Anyway, I was wondering about...

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Kelantan, 2017
A–1 (Giving Opinion/Making Choice)

Your cousin is sitting for her SPM examination this year. She asks for your opinion whether
to stay at the hostel or at home in order to study better. Use the notes below to write your
letter.

In your letter, you should:

 describe all the details of the two places
 state your opinion
 give a reason for your choice

Which place to choose?

Staying at home Staying at the
hostel

longer study hours follow hostel rules
do on your own homework discuss in groups
internet access
unlimited social interaction limited
parents and siblings many friends
outing once a fortnight
anytime

When writing the letter, you must:

 lay out your letter correctly (address, greeting, closure)
 use all the notes given
 give your own ideas when needed
 remember that your letter is to your cousin

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

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SAMPLE SMKDSA English Language Panel

ESSAY

No 120, Taman Jati,
06300 Kuala Nerang,

Kedah.

Dear Melissa,

How are you? I hope you are in the best of health. I am alive and kicking here. How
was your study? I heard you are confused whether to stay at the hostel or at home in order
to study better. I write this letter to share my opinion with you. I hope it would help you to
study better for the upcoming SPM examination.

First, it is about study hours. If you stay at home, you will have longer and flexible
study hours. You can study whenever you want. You do not have to rush because there is no
particular rule forbidding you from staying up late. If you stay at the hostel, you must follow
strict hostel rules. For example, hostelites must study from 8 until 10pm every night during
prep session. You also need to think about how you do your homework. If you stay at home,
you have to do your homework on your own even though you can still search information on
the Internet. If you stay at the hostel, you can discuss in groups. For instance, you can ask
your friends about your homework and exchange information.

Next, you need to consider about Internet access. If you stay at home, you can have
unlimited access to the Internet. You can search information from various websites or connect
to friends on social media to exchange information. However, if you stay at the hostel, you
may have limited access to the Internet. It will be hard for you to search for information and
you will get bored without entertainment. Another factor you need to look at is social
interaction. If you stay at home, you can share your problems with your parents or siblings.
For example, you can tell them if you have problem at school and they will listen to you. If
you stay at the hostel, you have many friends to talk to when you are bored. You can also
share gossips about your crush with them.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Finally, it is about outing. If you stay at home, you can go wherever and whenever you
want. For example, you can go out to watch movie at cinema with your friends or family
members. You can relieve your stress by spending time with your loved ones. However, if you
stay at the hostel, you can only go out only once every fortnight. In fact, you are only allowed
to go out to places near the school. It would be no fun!

In my opinion, I would suggest that you stay at home. This is because you can have
longer study hours. You can also do your homework on your own while listening to music.
Other than that, your access to the internet is also unlimited. You also have your parents and
siblings who can listen to you when you have problems.

That is all for now. I hope you can study better. Good luck for your SPM examination!

Thank you.

Yours sincerely,

Fathihah

Written by:

Nur Fathihah binti Norizan
5 PA2, 2018.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Kelantan, 2016
A–2 (Conveying Information)

You are a school prefect and while on duty, you witnessed two students breaking flower pots
in the school garden outside the classroom. Write a letter to your best friend about the
incident.

Use the following notes to write your letter.

 Day of the incident
 Date
 Time
 Students involved
 Reasons

 problematic students
 unhappy with class monitor
 Actions taken
 advised students
 informed class teacher
 reported to discipline teacher
 consulted school counsellor
 Personal opinions
 opinion 1 (your opinion of the students)
 opinion 2 (your opinion of the incident)

When writing the letter, you must:

 lay out your letter correctly (address, greeting, closing)
 use all the notes given
 give two personal opinions
 remember that your letter is to your best friend.

Note:

For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Sabah, 2016
A–3 (Conveying Information)

One of your friends is worried about the dengue cases reported in his/her neighbourhood.
Write a letter to your friend to inform him/her about the symptoms of dengue and what
he/she could do to treat and prevent it.

Use the notes below to write your letter:

Symptoms

 sudden high fever
 pain behind the eyes
 nausea – vomiting
 skin rash

Treatments

 a lot of rest
 plenty of water
 clinic or hospital

Precautions

 mosquito net and repellent
 long sleeved shirt when outdoor
 rid of breeding areas

When writing your letter, you should remember:
 to lay out the letter correctly (address, date, closing)
 use all the points given
 suggest two other precautionary actions
 that the letter is to your friend

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Terengganu, 2005
A–4 (Conveying Information)

You have a cousin who lives in Singapore. You have decided to organize a trip there for you
and your classmates during the second term holidays. Write a letter to your cousin informing
him or her of your plan and ask your cousin to help you rent rooms at a hostel.

You should include the following information in your letter:

Details of your visit

 date
 reason of your visit
 number of people going
 number of days you intend to stay
 number of rooms required
 budget for the rooms per day

What you plan to do

 visit the Singapore Science Centre
 shopping at Orchard Road
 mode of transportation
 street food at Balestier Road
 (give your own idea)
 (give your own idea)

When writing the letter, you should remember to:
 lay out the letter correctly (address, greeting, closure)
 use all the information given
 give your own ideas when needed

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Terengganu, 2015
A–5 (Sharing Tips)

Your friend has planned to go travelling during the upcoming school holidays. Since it is
his/her first time travelling abroad, you have decided to write a letter to give him/her tips on
travelling.

Using the information in the poster below, write your letter.

TRAVELLING TIPS

Before

 tickets and passports
 important documents
 bags with wheels
 wrinkle-free clothes

While

 less cash in hand
 secure personal belongings
 family
 Malaysian embassy
 public transportation
 travel in groups

When writing your letter, you should remember:
 to lay out the letter correctly (address, date, closing)
 use all the points given
 suggest two other travelling tips regarding health
 that the letter is to your friend

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Pahang C3, 2018
A–6 (Sharing Tips)

Your cousin had recently fainted during the school assembly due to poor health and overall
body weakness. You are worried about him/her who is going to sit for the SPM examination
later this year, so you have decided to write a letter to your cousin on how to stay fit and
healthy.

Write your letter based on all the notes below.

STAYING FIT AND HEALTHY

Eating healthily Getting enough sleep

 eat a balanced diet  9 to 10 hours every night
 drink plenty of fluids  don't stay up too late
 avoid junk food

Exercising Benefits of staying fit and
healthy
 3 times a week
 choose fun workouts  (give your own idea)
 outdoor activities with friends  (give your own idea)

Meditating

 at least once a day
 find a quiet spot

When writing the letter, you should remember:
 to lay out your letter correctly (address, greeting, sign-off)
 to write in paragraphs
 to use all the notes given
 to add two benefits of staying fit and healthy
 that your letter is to your cousin

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Pahang C1, 2018
A–7 (Giving Advice/Tips)

Your friend has been transferred to another state to follow his or her parents. He or she has
written to you sharing his or her difficulty getting new friends and coping with school
environment. Write a letter to give him/her some advice and tips to get new friends and
suggestions to fill his/her free time.

Tips to get new friends Ways to occupy time

 Give compliment  Write journal
 Show confidence  Voluntary work
 Start a study group  Catch up on reading
 Smile – make eye contact  Learn to play a musical instrument
 Pursue common interest  (Give your own idea)
 Connect with them via social media  (Give your own idea)

When writing the letter, you must remember:
 to lay out the letter correctly (address, greeting, closing)
 to add two more points
 to use all the notes given
 that your letter is to a friend

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Terengganu, 2018
A–8 (To Persuade)

Your friend wrote to you telling that he/she felt unhappy to join a school camping. Write a
letter to him/her to encourage him/her to go camping. Share with your friend the benefits of
joining a camping and the challenges he/she may face during the activity.

Use the notes below to write your letter:

Benefits Challenges

 enjoy nature  limited water
 exciting activities  insect bites
 survival skills  no social media
 socialise  [give your own idea]
 discipline
 character building
 less stress
 [give your own idea]

When writing the letter, you must:
 lay out your letter correctly (address, greeting, closure)
 use all the notes given
 give your own ideas when needed
 remember that your letter is to your friend

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Perak LMS, 2018
A–9 (To Persuade)

You heard that your cousin has started smoking. You are concerned and want to advise him to stop
this habit before it is too late. Write a letter to your cousin to persuade him to stop smoking by telling
him about the negative effects of smoking and what he can do to stop this harmful habit.

Use the notes below to write your letter:

 How you found out he started smoking
 How you felt
 Negative effects

- bad breath
- cause lung and mouth cancer
- waste of money
- air pollution
- [give your own idea]
 How to stop smoking
- set goals
- physical exercises
- eat healthily
- counselling sessions
- [give your own idea]

When writing the letter, you must:

 lay out your letter correctly (address, greeting, closure)
 use all the notes given
 give your own ideas when needed

Note:

For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Penang, 2018
A – 10 (Giving Opinion/Making Choice)

Your family is planning to go for a holiday at the end of the year. Your brother/sister has asked
you to choose either to stay in a hotel or at a homestay. He/She has given you some
information about the two places. Write a letter to your brother/sister stating your choice.

In your letter, you should:

 describe all the details of the two places
 state which place you think is more suitable

 in town  in village
 RM150 per person  RM80 per person
 complimentary breakfast  own cooking
 swimming pool  barbecue pit
 close to shopping complex  closer to nature
 (suggest one more idea)  (suggest one more idea)

When writing the letter, you must:
 use the appropriate format (write your address, use a proper salutation and include
an appropriate closing)
 develop all the points given
 give your own ideas when needed

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION INFORMAL LETTER Ref: Johor BP, 2018
A – 11 (Giving Opinion/Making Choice)

Your cousin has received his or her SPM results. He or she is asking for an opinion whether to
further studies or to look for a job. Write a letter to your cousin telling him or her about the
advantages and disadvantages of furthering studies and working.

Use the following points to write the letter:

Further Studies Working

Self-development  Independent
Financial support  Broaden experience
Social life
Job opportunities  Parents’ money or study  Own money
loan

 Meet more friends
 Learn about other cultures

Degree Qualification SPM Qualification

Others  Better chances  Lack of chances
 High income  Lower income

 Suggest your own idea  Suggest your own idea

When writing the letter, you must:
 lay out your letter correctly (address, salutation, closure)
 use all the notes given
 remember that your letter is to your cousin

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

32

SMKDSA English Language Panel

FORMAL LETTER

 FAQ Notes
 Format Template
 Sample Essay
 Sample Questions

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

FAQ FORMAL LETTER

Q: What is a formal letter?
A: A formal letter is a letter, written in formal language using a certain format for official

(e.g. business and professional) purposes.

Q: When do you write a formal letter?
A: Formal letters are written for several purposes:

1. To complain (about an issue, service, etc.)
2. To inquire information (on a particular issue or details)
3. To request (permission, sponsorship, etc.)
4. To explain or give opinion (about a particular issue or details)

Q: Who is the audience?
A: Since formal letters are written for official purposes, the audience is usually the head

of organisations which must always be addressed with “Sir/Madam.” However, since
the audience is not somebody you are familiar with, it is always safe to use “Sir” for
salutation (i.e. Dear Sir).

Q: Are there any important tips to remember?
A: When writing formal letters, remember to

1. Use the appropriate format (refer the notes on DW Template page).
2. Keep your language formal, simple and straightforward.
3. Passive voices are used more often.
4. Avoid using informal language such as idioms and proverbs.
5. Avoid using contractions (e.g. I’m, you’re, it’s).
6. Make sure the ideas are well-planned and well-organised.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW TEMPLATE FORMAL LETTER

________________, Just write your address
________________, here. Don’t waste time.
________________,
________________.

__________________________________________________________________________________

________________, Write the address of the XX MONTH 201X.
________________, person who receives your
________________,
________________. letter here.

Dear [madam/sir],

[Title: Identify the topic in the question]

I am writing this letter to [complain/inquire/ask permission – read the question carefully, then

decide which one] about [mention the topic you mentioned in title].

2.
- The body must be numbered with 2. and

3. so on. FIRST and LAST paragraphs are
4. NOT NUMBERED.

- Write in short and simple sentences.
- Remember to use ALL content points.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to receiving your reply / I hope swift actions
will be taken (only for letter of complaint).
Thank you.

Yours truthfully,
[Your signature]
(YOUR FULL NAME)
[Position, if relevant. Not compulsory]

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

Helpful Formal Phrases

Phrases for Introduction
 I am writing this letter…

…to seek permission for…
…to complain about…
…to inquire about…
…to request information about…
…to inform you about…
…to apply for…
 I am a resident/representative of…

Phrases to Express Concern
 I am really concerned/worried about…
 I am bothered about…
 I am very much disturbed by the fact that…

Phrases to Express Anger/Dissatisfaction
 I am deeply saddened by the fact that…
 I am completely unhappy with…
 I am utterly disappointed with/by…
 I am unimpressed with the fact that…

Phrases to Give Suggestion
 In order to resolve this matter, I suggest that…
 I would be grateful if you could…
 I would appreciate it if you could…
 Could you possibly…
 I wonder if you could…
 I strongly recommend that…
 I believe the best course of action is to…
 I would advise you to…
 You need to consider to…
 it would be a good idea for you to (pay attention to)…

Phrases for Ending
 Thank you for your time and cooperation/consideration.
 Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.
 I look forward to receiving reply from you.
 I hope swift action(s) will be taken immediately.

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION FORMAL LETTER Ref: Sarawak Kapit, 2018
B–1 (Letter of Complaint)

You went to a restaurant near your housing area and were disappointed with the service and
conducts of the workers there. Using the information in the notes below, write a letter of
complaint to the restaurant manager.

In your letter, you should:

 describe all the details of your visit
 give two more suggestions on how the restaurant can improve itself

Complaints Suggestions skilled
Workers: Workers:

- slow service - employ more workers
- rude when serving - choose disciplined and
- noisy and unprofessional
- incompetent cashier workers
- unsuitable attire - send workers for training
Restaurant: Restaurant:
- greasy cutlery - [own idea 1]
- dirty surrounding - [own idea 2]

When writing the letter, remember to:
 lay out the letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 state the purpose of the letter
 develop all the notes given
 give your own ideas when needed

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

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SAMPLE SMKDSA English Language Panel

ESSAY

No.8055, Taman Ali,
06300 Kuala Nerang,
Kedah Darul Aman.

Manager, 31 March 2019.
Najibah Restaurant,
Lot 46, Kompleks Kasturi,
06300 Kuala Nerang,
Kedah Darul Aman.

Dear Sir,

Complaint about the Service of Najibah Restaurant

I am writing this letter to complain about the service and conduct of the restaurant workers
as well as about the condition of your restaurant.

2. First, I am bothered about your workers’ attitude. Not only were they slow in serving the
customers, they also made the customers felt angry with their lack of manners. I had to call
out for the waiters a few times before a waiter came to take my order. Besides, they were
also rude when serving the food. The workers were also noisy and unprofessional. One of
them was smoking while serving the food to the customers. They laughed so loud and talked
to each other that made the customers felt uncomfortable.

3. I am also concerned about your cashier. The cashier was incompetent. She made mistakes
when returning balance to the customers. The balance she gave was often incorrect. The
cashier also forgot the price of some of the food and beverages in the menu. As a result, there
was a long queue at the counter. Lastly, I felt uneasy with the workers’ unsuitable attire. The
cook did not wear apron and she did not tie her long hair.

4. Not only were the workers’ service disappointing, the restaurant was also in bad condition.
The greasy cutlery made me regret going to the restaurant. The table was also not properly
cleaned. The cover cloth was dirty and the table top felt sticky. It made me lose my appetite.
Even worse, the surrounding was so unhygienic with spider webs on the ceiling and
cockroaches crawling around on the floor.

5. I believe your restaurant is in dire need of improvements so I am going to lay down some
suggestions so as to improve the services of the restaurant. My first suggestion is that you
should employ more workers. It is because the more workers you have means your customers
will be served more promptly. Furthermore, you should only select disciplined and skilled
workers. It will help the restaurant become more efficient as well as raise your restaurant’s

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

image. In order to improve overall performance of your workers in the long run, you should
send them for training.

6. As for the restaurant, you need to make sure it is thoroughly cleaned at least twice a week.
The workers have to clean the restaurant by mopping and scrubbing the floor before closing
the restaurant. By cleaning, the restaurant every week, you can maintain a standard
cleanliness of the restaurant. Moreover, I think it would be a great idea to renovate the
restaurant in order to accommodate more customers. With new and refreshing look, it can
attract more customers to come to your restaurant. As you might already know, the condition
of a restaurant is another vital factor to attract customers other than the excellent services.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope you can take immediate action to
improve the service and conducts of the workers as well as the condition of the restaurant.

Yours faithfully,

Haiqal Kamarudin

(Haiqal bin Kamarudin)

Written by:

Muhammad Haiqal bin Kamarudin
5 PA 1, 2018

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SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION FORMAL LETTER Ref: SPM, 2013
B–2 (Letter of Complaint)

You have just returned from a visit to Indah Recreational Park. You found the park in poor
condition.

Write a letter of complaint to the Town Council based on the notes you have made.

 Not enough facilities
- no restaurants

 Rubbish everywhere
- not enough dustbins

 Dirty public toilets
-smelly

 Grass not cut
-snakes

 Information lacking
-no signposts

 vandalisms
-public telephones not working

When writing your letter, you must remember to:

 lay out your letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 use all the notes given

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

40

SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

41

SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION FORMAL LETTER Ref: Selangor B, 2018
B–3 (Letter of Complaint)

You have visited the public library in your area recently and are disappointed with the
condition of the place. Write a letter of complaint to the Head of the Library based on the
notes you have made.
In your letter, include the following:

 story books  Internet access
 revision books  operating hours
 newspapers and  lighting
 air-conditioner
magazines  cleanliness
 chairs and tables
 librarians

When writing the letter, you should remember to:

 layout the letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 use all the notes given
 suggest two ways to improve the condition of the library
Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

42

SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

43

SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION FORMAL LETTER Ref: Melaka, 2018
B–4 (Letter of Complaint)

Recently, you visited a wet market with some relatives from out of town. The condition of the
market left you dissatisfied. As a concerned citizen, write a letter to the Town Council to
complain about the unsatisfactory condition.

Use the notes below to write your letter:

Complaints

 Dirty hawkers
 Expensive goods
 Over-crowded with non-food stalls
 Too many foreign vendors
 Pick-pockets
 Parking – cars double park
 [Suggest one other complaint]

Suggestions

 Enforcement officers – check legal vendors
 Check price of goods
 Fine vendors who do not keep their area clean

When writing the letter, you should remember to:
 lay out the letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 state the purpose of the letter
 use all the notes given
 suggest two other ways to improve the condition of the wet market

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

44

SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

45

SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION FORMAL LETTER Ref: Melaka, 2016
B–5 (Letter of Complaint)

You are a resident of Taman Indah. You are concerned about the rise in the crime rate in your
area. Based on the notes provided, write a letter to the Officer In-charge of the Police District
(OCPD) of your city to complain about the matter.

Complaints:

 cases of burglary
- a few cases every night
- armed burglars

 illegal racing
- motorcycles
- nights and weekends

 drugs activities
- outside dealers
- [give your own idea]

Suggestions:

 more police patrols
 [Suggestion 1]
 [Suggestion 2]

When writing the letter, you should remember to:
 address your letter to the OCPD of yourcity
 lay out the letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 use all the notes given
 provide your own ideas when needed.

Note:
For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points, and up to
20 marks for the quality of your writing.

46

SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

47

SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION FORMAL LETTER Ref: Sarawak Kuching, 2018
B–6 (Letter of Complaint)

The area you live in has a serious problem with traffic congestion due to housing
development. On behalf of the residents in your housing area, you have decided to write a
letter of complaint to the authorities to complain about this matter.

In your letter, include the following notes:

Causes:

 narrow roads
 new housing developments

- who is the developer

Effects:

 terrible congestions
- peak hours

 rising number of accidents
- bottleneck road

 dirty neighbourhood
- muddy tracks

Ways to overcome:

 build separate access road
 [suggest your own idea]
 [suggest your own idea]

When writing the letter, you must:

 lay out the letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 develop all the notes given
 give your own ideas when needed.

Note:

For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

48

SMKDSA English Language Panel

Activity 1: Tracking New Vocabulary
Did you find any new words from the question? Jot them down in the Vocabulary Tracker!

Activity 2: Expand Your Ideas!

Brainstorm or mind-map your ideas, whichever you are comfortable with. Use the WH- and
REXAMPFIT tools to help you expand your ideas.

WHo REXAMPFIT
at
en reason / example / benefit
ere

49

SMKDSA English Language Panel

DW QUESTION FORMAL LETTER Ref: Kedah B, 2017
B–7 (To Request Permission)

In conjunction with the Environment Week, your teacher has asked you to organise a recycling
campaign. Write a letter to your Principal, seeking permission to carry out the project.

 Name of campaign
 Dates
 Request permission
 Guest of honour
 Objectives of campaign

- Objective 1: reduce garbage
- Objective 2: [Give your own idea]
 Activities planned
- Activity 1: Collecting recyclable items
- Activity 2: Inter-class poster drawing competition
- Activity 3: [Give your own idea]
 Prizes
- Prize 1: Hampers
- Prize 2: [Give your own idea]
 Sponsor

When writing the letter, you must remember to:

 lay out the letter correctly (addresses, date, salutation, title, closing)
 use all the notes given
 give your own ideas when needed

Note:

For your letter, you will receive up to 15 marks for the format and content points and up to 20
marks for the quality of your writing.

50