Spotlight A+1 Form 4 & 5 English

Extra Features of This Book

UNIT

6 Introduction to Writing

SMART SCOPE SMART Important tips
1 Paper 2 of the SPM English 1119 consists of questions on the following:
Contains guidelines on each How to master each exam
exam section or language skill Paper 2 section or language skill

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 English Unit 8 Directed/Guided Writing
Guided writing
Short communicative Continuous writing
message Expand short notes (extended writing task)
and/or based on graphic
Respond to a stimulus given Writing based
letter/email on a number of
tasks/topics given

2 The student will be tested on the following writing skills: Important Tips

Using appropriate language Skill in explaining concepts/ Study the notes and/or pictorial stimulus provided.
with correct grammar ideas/processes

Using a wide range of Skill in comparing Elaborate on the notes or information with examples.
vocabulary and expressions and contrasting ideas Remember to use all the notes or information provided.

Using correct mechanics ESSENTIAL Skill in establishing cause You may add relevant information to make your writing more interesting.
(correct spelling, WRITING and effect relationship
punctuation, etc.) Skill in responding to Link your points or paragraphs together with the use of sentence
SKILLS linear and non-linear texts connectors, e.g. Next, Meanwhile, Afterwards, Therefore, Finally, etc.
Skill in accessing,
English Skill in developing collating, organising and You are to write between 125 and 150 words in an appropriate style.
ideas and paragraphs presenting information
Unit 2 Text Completion (Rational Cloze) 8.1 Writing an Essay based on Group Discussion
Introduction
Important Tips Skill in writing an introduction HowSktoilTl ackinle a dCrlaofzteinTge,st 1 In this part, you are required to write an essay or an article based on a group discussion or
and an ending (conclusion) revising and editing
notes given.
1 First read the passage right through to get a general idea of what Read passage right through 2 You are to write the answer in 125–150 words in an appropriate style.
it is about.
Fill in blanks one by one
2 Then read the passage again to answ21e0r the questions.
Look at words before and
2UNIT 3 When choosing the answer for each numbered blank, read the words after the blanks
relevant part of the passage.
4 Pay special attention to the words or sentence preceding the blank
and also the words or sentence after the blank.

Example Choose smartly: Tips on writing an essay or article based on notes given
– correct part of speech
Sentence preceding the blank – same tense 8UNIT 1 Use the notes provided.
2 Elaborate on the notes with more details and examples.
If you have never ridden a bicycle or do not enjoy good health, Sentence after the blank 3 Keep one main point to one paragraph where possible.
the ride. Problems or complications are not 4 Give suitable reasons for your point of view.
Example 5 Use link words, sentence connectors, phrasal verbs, short idiomatic phrases, etc.
worth it. 6 Provide a suitable title for your essay if possible.
Question example or A value
sample practice with B imagine Sample Practice
comment and answer C remember
D forget

Comment and Answer Write you answer in 125–150 words in an appropriate style.

The sentence before the blank and the sentence after the blank provide English Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials Your class has been discussing how to improve the atmosphere and the surroundings in your school.
you an idea about the right answer. Option A (value) doesn’t fit in Write an essay about what can be done and how much to spend on it.
at all. Neither is option B (imagine) nor option C (remember). The In your essay, you should write about:
logical answer is option D (forget). • what should be done, e.g. mural painting, landscaping with small gardens and planting more trees

5 The word you have chosen must ‘fit’ in with the other words so that 1.3 Understanding Short Texts, Notices, Dialogues, Reports, etc. • which part of the school are the activities to be done
1 In this section, you will be tested on the understanding of short texts and notices o•r how much budget you need
the completed text makes sense. UNIT common signs. Write your essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.
1Example
2 In tpThohesesrseibhleorwtaotreredxstsf,omryaothnuey may be tested on the vocabulary too.
The rhino’s breeding has to be determined so Sampleb‘plaa1tnt:ke,Srnlhik’,oe‘cr‘ytticmTleee’’,x, e‘thtca.bit’, 242

that the vets can decide when rhinos can stay in the paddock for
USEFUL Tipsdisplay and when the facility has to be closed for breeding.

A circle
B circulation
Local mooncake producers should export their seasonal delicacy • First read the short text or
to take advantage of the high prices for them in foreign countries. notice to get a general idea.
Their efforts would enable them to earn foreign exchange and • Then read the question to find
C cycle assist in the country’s economic downturn. It is reported that out what is asked.
D cyclone the cost of mooncakes in Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia is
Comment and Answer more than 100 per cent higher than the local price. • Then check the short text or
notice again to find out the
correct answer to the question. USEFUL TIPS

What is being referred to is the breeding habit of the rhino that is Example

regularly repeated. Therefore the logical answer is C (cycle). Local producers are encouraged to export mooncakes

6 Ensure that the word you have chosen is of the correct part of speech A to get a higher profit. Useful Vocabulary
when it becomes part of the text. B to push up the prices in local markets.
C to help improve the quality of mooncakes. • delicacy
D to prevent the country’s economic downturn. a very special type of food
Useful tips to answer
38 Comment and Answer • downturn the question
a fall or slowdown
The question requires you to pick out the option which is the reason in economy
for exporting mooncakes. Option A is one of the reasons (perhaps
the main reason) for exporting mooncakes, so it is the answer. • foreign exchange
Option B is obviously not the reason; neither are options C and D. the system of exchanging
the money of a country with
that of another country

Sample 2: Dialogue USEFUL Tips

“Jenny, shall we go to the mall tomorrow? I need to buy a new pair Read the conversation carefully.
of shoes.” Make sure you know who is
“Oh Wan Bee. Why can’t you order online? Try not to expose going to buy and who is advising.
yourself in public especially during the CMCO.”
“I’m not sure of the size. What if I receive the wrong size?”

Example

Pick the correct answer. Useful Vocabulary
A Wan Bee discourages Jenny from going to the mall.
B Wan Bee does not know how to buy shoes online. • online
C Jenny advises Wan Bee not to go out unnecessarily. using the Internet to order

Comment and Answer a product
• CMCO
A is incorrect as it is Jenny who discourages Wan Bee. B is not Conditional Movement
correct as we are not sure whether Wan Bee knowEsnghloiswh to Uunsiet 7 Writing aCCoonmtrmoulnOicradteivre Message

online. C is correct as it is the advice for Wan Bee.
Practice 9

16 You received an email from your friend, Amran.

English Unit 10 Grammar and Vocabulary New Email
Hi Din,
2 The Present Continuous How about taking a break by going for an outing? I’m actually planning for one on Merdeka
Day. A few of us including you can go together. Do you think we should go for a hike or a
Usage Example picnic? If so, what shall we bring? Any special preparation? I’ll be waiting for your reply.
Bye,
(a) To show an action that is happening now • Dad is sleeping at the moment. Amran
• The plumber is repairing the pipe now.

(b) To show an action that is often repeated • He is always arguing with us about freedom. Now write an email in about 80 words to respond to your friend.
• Roy is always talking about his project.
Useful Vocabulary
(c) To express a future action which has • We are eating out this evening. USEFUL Tips
been planned • Matthew is leaving for Canada tonight. • timely suggestion
Introduction : Give an affirmative reply • a time to unwind and to meet up
(d) To show an action happening about this • Our soccer team is playing against Thailand. Paragraph 1 : Compare the two spots – pros and cons – budget, • a picnic – relaxing, fun,
time but may not be at the moment of • Joanne is conducting a seminar in Penang.
conversation mode of transport, food, etc. fellowship
Paragraph 2 : Make a final choice – give suitable reasons; • hiking – more challenging,
(e) To express your feelings, emotions, • We are thinking of the incident again.
common errors thoughts, senses, etc. at the present. • I am feeling great after a good sleep. confirm date, time and where to meet exciting, adventurous
• I’m afraid Theeba is imagining again. Conclusion : To see all of them for a happy outing • sense of achievement

3 The Present Perfect Practice 10

Usage Example 7UNIT You received an email from your friend, Esther.
New Email
Common wrong grammar (a) To show an action that has completed • Aida has sent the form to us.
usage and its correct usage • Nor has passed her driving test. Hi Mylene,

(b) To show an action that started in the • We have known the manager for five years. I know that you are involved in recycling with a recycling centre. I’m thinking of starting a
past and is still continuing • Sheila has left her hometown for sometime. recycling activity in my school. Our Club wants to promote awareness to conserve our
environment. Please tell me how to go about it. What are the items suitable for recycling?
(c) Used in the passive voice • The case has been reported to the police.
• The news has been banned. Looking forward to your advice.

4 The Present Perfect Continuous Regards,
Esther
Usage Example

(a) To show an action which started in the • The writer has been writing his
past and is still continuing autobiography for the past few months.
Now write an email in response to your friend’s queries in about 80 words.

(b) Used to show a repeated action • The telephone has been ringing since USEFUL Tips Useful Vocabulary
this morning.
Introduction : Congratulate Esther for taking up recycling; • a noble idea
Common give some encouragement • to reduce global warming
• to conserve natural resources
UNIT Wrong Usage Correct Usage Paragraph 1 : Inform her how to start: collect items; • to promote environment awareness
✓ I’m afraid I have a cold now. separate them; pack in bags or tie them up • biodegrable and non-biodegradable
10 1 I’m afraid I am having a cold now.
Paragraph 2 : Information on how to sell the items – once useful vocabulary• solving problem of landfill
2 Nita is walking to school every day. ✓ Nita walks to school every day. a month – recycling contractor
• create awareness
Conclusion : Hope/wish her success

3 Don’t disturb Raja. He does his homework at ✓ Don’t disturb Raja. He is doing his
the moment. homework at the moment.
240
4 Have you ever ate this fruit before? ✓ Have you ever eaten this fruit before?

5 Lazarus left the company for sometime. ✓ Lazarus has left the company for sometime. Suggested words/phrases in

6 Don’t worry. The show is starting in a few ✓ Don’t worry. The show starts in a few
minutes’ time. minutes’ time.

308 answering the question

ii

sample spm question English Unit 5 Information Transfer Formative zone

Question example Sample SPM Question Set of practices to
in SPM format with strengthen mastery of
comment and answer Read the film reviews below and answer the questions that follow. the subsection/sub-skill

A – The Extraordinary Sword
A wile and wicked woman warrior, Lin Hui, believes in drinking human blood to increase
her inner strength. She learns about Ming’s possession of an extraordinary sword and his
amazing fighting prowess. She decides to make him her next victim. Starring Linda Mui,
Eve Green and Sean Williams.

B – A Driver in Disguise
This hilarious movie revolves around a tour bus driver who disguises himself as a hot-shot
writer in order to woo an up-and-coming Hollywood actress. It’s a comedy of errors all
along. Find out what happens in the end. Starring Jenny Fenn, Jim Piven and Job White.
UNIT

5

C – The Genetic Race
Imagine a world where one’s life is determined by genetic engineering. The wealthy get
to choose the genetic race of perfect specimens known as ‘Valids’ while ‘In-Valids’ are the
natural-born majority viewed as inferior to the pre-planned perfect specimens. Starring
Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman.

D – Ruby Unit 3 Reading Comprehension English
This musical features Ruby as Asia’s Artist for the month of September. It highlights some of 3.2
her most popular video clips. Ruby’s fans are reminded not to miss this one-hour show at
11 a.m. and 7 p.m. on 9 September.

E – A Boy’s Childhood For Practice 1 to Practice 5, fill in the brackets with ‘M’ for main idea, ‘D’ for supporting details, and ‘X’
Well-meaning saga of a boy’s childhood in a close-knit African-American community on for irrelevant information.
the Mississippi Delta, spanning from the 40’s to the early 60’s. Starring Abe Freeman,
Susan Wood and Isaac Hayes. Practice 1

F – The Hidden World Petty thefts are quite common in flats. You may have to keep the door locked and windows closed UNIT
An introduction to the spectacular rainforests of Malaysia with the amazing diversity of all the times. Your bicycles or motorcycles parked on the ground floor may be vandalised or stolen.
animals, birds and plant life. The jungles are impenetrable. A must for all nature lovers. Your clothes or shoes may mysteriously vanish. 3

176 1 Petty crimes are common in flats. []
2 Bicycles or motorcycles may be stolen. []
3 Petty cash is always missing. []
4 Clothes or shoes may be missing. []
5 Doors and windows are vandalised. []

Practice 2

Do you know how much of the vitamins and mineral content of food is lost in cooking? According
to a nutrition specialist, the amount varies widely. Minerals are quite stable in cooking and their loss
may be quite negligible. However, different vitamins are likely to be lost in varying proportions,
depending on the duration of cooking the food.

1 Vitamins and minerals are important for health. []
2 Loss of vitamins and mineral content of food in cooking. []
3 Different vitamins are likely to be lost in different proportions in cooking. []
4 Loss of minerals in cooking is negligible. []
5 Loss of vitamins depends on the time of cooking. []

Practice 3

Organising a wedding reception or a party for about 300 or more guests can be very taxing and
time-consuming. The list of guests, the invitation cards, the menu, the number of tables and the reply
slips are some of the never-ending tasks that need to be thrashed out. It would be particularly taxing
if you are the bride and groom to be.

English Unit 4 Matching (Gapped Texts) 1 Organising a wedding party can be very exciting. []
2 The list of guests to be invited is never-ending. []
3 Organising a wedding reception can be taxing and time-consuming. []
4 Organising a wedding reception can be taxing for the couple concerned. []
5 It is a matter of time-management to organise a function. []

summative zone 71

Further practices to Practice 1
enhance mastery of the Questions 1–6
overall section/skill
You are going to read an article about Lan and his new job as a drone pilot. Six sentences have been
spm model paper removed from the article. Choose from the sentences A to H the one which fits each gap (1 to 6). There are
two extra sentences which you do not need to use. Write your answers in the boxes provided.
SPM-format test on reading
and use of English, writing, Lan quit his job to return to his family home in Yan, Kedah. His parents were farmers but they
speaking and listening
UNIT had stopped working in the paddy field because of ill health. (1) However, unexpectedly he was

4 given a new job as a drone pilot.
The 24-year-old enthusiast of remote control gadgetry had never imagined having a job

which would be in line with his hobbies. Moreover, he would be able to work close to home.

(2) “After I returned to look after my parents, I heard from friends that a cooperative was looking

for a drone operator, so I applied and was appointed. I never regret quitting my former job. (3) ”

Lan was one of six successful candidates chosen from a pool of thirty applicants to fly the drones

for the purposes of spraying fertilisers and insecticides over the paddy fields. Lan and his fellow young

pilots have jointly made modifications to the drone including battery usage, based on the size of

the paddy field being attended to. (4) They are sprinkled over the fields, with an average plot

measuring about two hectares.

Lan is among the first few pilots of the cooperative. He has operated various drones including the

model used for paddy farm in the area. (5) These pilots have learnt to control the flying altitude

of the equipment and to operate the drone from 6.30 a.m. to 11.00 a.m., and 5.00 p.m. to midnight,

when insects are active.

“Many people have asked me why I am working in the paddy field when I have a diploma.
(6) It’s so rewarding to work close to nature. I enjoy every minute of my job. The pay is good
too,” explained Lan.

A He could now look after his elderly parents as well.
B You can say that I was very lucky.
C His intention was to care for his parents.
D Life in the village is rewarding.
E They are not aware of the nature of my work.
F These changes have enabled the drones to carry an optimum amount of fertilisers or insecticides.
G It requires two pilots a time to carry out the task.
H They are well-looked after by the cooperative.

158

SPM MODEL PAPER listening recording

Paper 1 English Unit 11 Oral English Provided as audio in QR code

Part 1 and textTips in listening in Answers
Questions 1 to 8
Read the text carefully in each question. Choose the best answer A, B or C. For each question, circle the 1 To make your listening skills more effective, you may use the following techniques:
correct answer A, B or C. (a) Be ready to listen
Listening for information is different from listening to music for pleasure or enjoyment.
Pristine beaches for nature lovers! 1 The extract from a brochure is ideal for Therefore, you have to direct all your attention to the reader or speaker.
Pulau Besar is a magnificent island with coral reefs A students to carry out nature study. (b) Put aside all your feelings or thoughts
and crystal-clear water for every kind of water sport. B tourists who enjoy crystal-clear This will help you not to lose your focus on what you are supposed to listen.
There is a whole wide range of activities for the water. (c) Listen actively
adventurous and those who love nature. You may C those interested in ecotourism. Active listening involves you in the process of determining the right meaning of what is said.
like to take part in an exciting round the island tour, It includes questioning and paraphrasing.
or just be close to nature with a guided hike. (d) Good listening
Good listening requires full concentration throughout. Do not let your mind wander.
SPM MODEL PAPER KUALA LUMPUR: The Government is launching 2 Fruit sellers have been advised
operations to check sulphur dioxide poisoning in A not to sell imported fruits. 2 Steps involved in listening:
three types of imported fruits—durians, longan, B not to use sulphur dioxide
and lychees. Fruit sellers and importers are advised as preservatives. Listening ˜ Processing ˜ Understanding ˜ Interpreting ˜ Evaluating ˜ Responding
against using sulphur dioxide, which is banned as a C against importing foreign fruits.
preservative. Meanwhile, the public is advised not to
buy or consume the three imported fruits mentioned Sample SPM Question
above. Local fruits are however not affected.

Go for domestic tourism!! Part 1
Examples 1–7
It is really sad that many Malaysian tourists
have been to various countries overseas but 3 To promote domestic tourism, You will hear people talking in seven different situations. For questions 1 to 7, choose the correct answer
not attractive destinations within the country. A hoteliers need to hike up prices. (A, B, or C).
To promote domestic tourism, our hotel pricing B Malaysians need to be patriotic. You will hear each recording twice. Answer all the questions.
needs to be more affordable. More campaigns C much upgrading is to be done.
should be carried out to promote local tourism. Comment and Answer
Of course, the Government needs to upgrade
local places of interest which include improving 1 Both the speakers agree that many fresh Option A is not the answer.
the basic facilities. graduates in Malaysia have The speakers didn’t talk about it. Option B is
Patriotic A a good command of written English. wrong. It’s difficult for them to get jobs because of
B found jobs easily in the private sector. their poor command of spoken English.
“Molly, let your child do things for himself 4 Both mothers are of the opinion that C a poor command of spoken English. The answer is C.
whenever possible. At his age, he wants to children
be in control of his own activities.” A should be role models. 2 According to Ms Green, what drives her to All three options are possible but Ms Green did
“You’re right, Jenny. I also feel that we B should be given the freedom to do writing is mention about ‘passion’.
should give the child the opportunities to their own things. A her passion. The answer is option A.
do more self-care. He should also help out C should be self-taught. B the inspiration that she gets.
in daily chores.” C her love for travelling.
392
3 According to the report, residents staying The expression ‘in shivers’ means ‘in fear’. The
on the foothills
A have been having nightmares. residents were in fear of landslides with the rock
B have been living in fear of landslide.
11UNIT C have been living precariously. coming off.
Answer: B

4 Organisers of telematches should ensure Option B is not the answer as it is not the
that they are objective. Neither is C. Telematches are meant for
A challenging enough for the participants. easy participation.
B easily participated. The answer is option B.
C a test of skill and physical strength.

382

iii

CONTENTS

Unit 1 Short Texts and Revision Unit 4 Matching (Gapped Texts) Revision
Graphic Materials Date Date
Smart Scope
Smart Scope 1 Important Tips 156
1.1 Understanding Advertisements Summative Zone
1.2 Understanding Graphs, Charts, Tables, 1 156
1 156
Manuals, Maps and Brochures 8 158
1.3 Understanding Short Texts, Notices,
16 Unit 5 Information Transfer 175
Dialogues, Reports, etc. 20
Summative Zone Smart Scope 175
Important Tips 175
Summative Zone 178

Unit 2 Text Completion 37 Unit 6 Introduction to Writing 210
(Rational Cloze)
37 Smart Scope 210
Smart Scope 38 Important Tips 211
Important Tips 41 Writing Skills:
Summative Zone 6.1 Obtaining/Outlining Main Points 211
212
Unit 3 Reading Comprehension 66 or Ideas 215
6.2 Expanding Main Ideas or Points 217
Smart Scope 66 224
Comprehension Skills: into Paragraphs 224
3.1 Skills in Skimming and Scanning 66 6.3 Writing an Introduction 226
6.4 Writing a Conclusion 227
for Information 69 6.5 Using Appropriate Language with
3.2 Skills in Identifying Main Ideas and 229
74 Correct Grammar, Vocabulary 230
Supporting Details 79 and Expressions 231
3.3 Skills in Obtaining Meanings of Words 82 6.5.1 Sentence structure
85 6.5.2 Use of sentence connectors
from Context 88 6.5.3 Use of phrasal combinations
3.4 Skills in Making Predictions
3.5 Skills in Making Inferences 90 of verb + preposition and
3.6 Skills in Drawing Conclusions 94 adjective + preposition
3.7 Skills in Reading Critically 6.5.4 Use of infinitives, gerunds
and participles
(Making Appraisals) A Infinitives and Gerunds
3.8 SPM Practice for Reading B Participles
6.5.5 Use of figurative and idiomatic
Comprehension expressions and proverbs
Summative Zone

iv

Unit 7 Writing a Communicative Revision 10.1 The Present Tense 307
Message Date 10.2 The Past Tense 310
10.3 The Future Tense 313
Smart Scope 232 10.4 Articles 314
Important Tips 10.5 Question Tags and Responses 317
7.1 Steps in Writing Your Email or Letter 232 10.6 Gerunds, Participles and Infinitives 319
7.2 Responding to an Email 232 10.7 Prepositions 321
7.3 Responding to an Invitation 232 10.8 Subject and Verb Agreement 324
Summative Zone 233 10.9 Conjunctions 326
234 10.10 Adjectives, Adjective Phrases and
235 328
Adjective Clauses
Unit 8 Directed/Guided Writing 241 10.11 Adverbs, Adverb Phrases and 330

Smart Scope 241 Adverb Clauses 333
10.12 Nouns, Noun Phrases and
Important Tips 242 334
Noun Clauses 336
8.1 Writing an Essay based on 242 10.13 Noun Forms 338
Group Discussion 10.14 Pronouns 341
10.15 Reported Speech (Indirect Speech) 344
8.2 Writing a Story 245 10.16 Active and Passive Voice 345
10.17 Conditionals 348
8.3 Writing Reports 249 10.18 Modals
10.19 Comparatives and Superlatives 350
8.4 Writing an Informal Letter 252 10.20 ‘Used to’/’would’; ‘would’
352
8.5 Writing a Formal Letter 256 (imaginary situations); ‘be able
to’/’can’/’manage to’ 354
8.6 Description of Events, Places of Interest 262 10.21 ‘I wish’/’I had better’/’It’s time’ 355
or People Vocabulary Gallery: 359
10.22 Problem Words 361
8.7 Talks/Views on Current Social and 266 10.23 Words Often Misused
Environmental Issues 10.24 Phrasal Verbs
10.25 Idiomatic Expressions
8.8 Describing a Process/Procedure 270

Unit 9 Extended/Continuous 274
Writing

Smart Scope 274

Important Tips 274

9.1 Writing an Article 275

9.2 Writing a Review 281

9.3 Writing a Story 286

9.4 Descriptive Writing 290

9.5 Argumentative: Giving Views, Opinions 295 Unit 11 Oral English 368
or Suggestions
Smart Scope 368
9.6 Factual Writing 298 11.1 Paper 3: Speaking 368
11.2 Paper 4: Listening 381
9.7 Reflective Writing 301

9.8 Open/Free Writing 304

Unit 10 Grammar and Vocabulary 307 SPM Model Paper 392

Smart Scope 307 Answers 409–433
Important Tips 307

v

8 steps for an effective & successful revision

1. Make a checklist 2. Revise effectively

Create a checklist to ensure that all chapters and Short bursts of studying for about 30 minutes
subtopics are revised. followed by a break is an effective way to revise.
Highlight the key points, and draw mind maps or
flow charts to summarise important facts in a topic.
Learn to draw functional diagrams and do exercises
at the end of each chapter.

3. Boost your memory 4. Practise with past year papers

Use mnemonics, images or flash cards to help Familiarise yourself with the exam format by
memorise important facts or key points of a chapter. doing exercises of past year questions. Analyse
Use these methods repeatedly and frequently to frequently asked questions, highlight keywords in
memorise better. the questions, draft your answers and check them.

5. Handle stress wisely 6. The week before

Prepare for the exam early. Take regular breaks from Allocate time for one final revision during which
revision, exercise, eat well and sleep well. you can go over essential or difficult points.

7. The night before 8. In the exam

Pack the stationery needed for exam – pens, pencils, Follow all instructions. Read the questions carefully
ruler, eraser, sharpener and calculator (if applicable). and answer the required questions. Check the
Most importantly, have a good night’s rest so that you number of marks allocated and answer accordingly.
will be physically and mentally energised. Leave time to read through or check your answers.
vi

UNIT

1 Short Texts and
Graphic Materials

SMART

1 In this section, you will find explanatory notes, guidelines and exercises on the understanding
of short texts and graphic materials.

2 The short texts and graphic materials have been divided under the following:
Short Texts and Graphic Materials

Short Texts Graphic Materials

• Extracts • Advertisements
• Messages • Graphs & Charts
• Articles • Maps
• Dialogues • Brochures
• Reports • Manuals
• Notices • Instructions

1.1 Understanding Advertisements
1 There are various types of advertisements, for example:

Types of advertisements – on sales or services
– on events/talks/seminars
– on holiday tours/trips
– on job vacancies
– on contests
– on educational opportunities

2 When answering questions on advertisements:
(a) read the headlines (normally in big or bold letters);

(b) next read the information provided (normally in smaller letters);
(c) then read the question asked;
(d) study the options provided and select the best answer.

1

English Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials USEFUL Tips

Sample Advertisement 1: Sales/Services Find out what is being offered.
• Is any discount given?
UNIT How much?
• When is the offer period?
1 1166thtthoJuMnaey • How can you be eligible for

A cuddly Hippo or the special offer?
a unique Beach Bag
is yours FREE with Useful Vocabulary
RM30 purchase of Sunny
Swimwear (for the Hippo) • clearance sale
and RM50 purchase of Sunny Swimwear balance stock being sold at
(for the beach bag) while stocks last.
reduced prices
Example • while stocks last
To qualify for the free beach bag, one must buy until all goods are sold out
A a cuddly Hippo. • o.n.o
B Sunny swimwear worth RM30. or nearest offer
C Sunny swimwear worth RM50. • down payment
deposit
Comment and Answer • in mint condition
Option A is not the answer as the cuddly Hippo is not for sale in new or perfect condition
(It is a free gift). • durable
Option B is not correct as the buyer can claim only the cuddly lasting
Hippo. Option C entitles the buyer to claim for the beach bag.
Option C is the right answer.

Sample Advertisement 2: Events/Talks/Seminars USEFUL Tips

16th Dec–18th Dec Find out the following:
• what – type of event
• Gunung Ledang Resort • when – date and
• Learning methods: duration
Innovative camp games, leadership training, • where – venue
• how much – fee payable
adventure learning, environmental walks, • who – the target group
leadership projects, etc. (In this case, it is
• Complimentary pocket-files the students.)
• Tailor-made for students aged 16–24
• RM250 per student
• Limited intake – first come first served

2

Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials English

Example Useful Vocabulary

Which of the following is probably the objective of the camp? • complimentary UNIT
A To promote environmental awareness free
B To promote innovative games • tailor-made 1
C To promote leadership qualities made for a specific purpose
• first come first served
Comment and Answer those who register earlier

Option A is not the objective of the camp. Neither is option B. Both will be accepted first until
are part of the activities. Option C is correct as that is the main vacancy is full
purpose of the camp. • limited intake
the number of students to be
taken in for the leadership
camp is controlled

Sample Advertisement 3: Holiday Tours USEFUL Tips

Blue Bay Resort Find out the following:
• the location of the resort
Enjoy the great outdoors of beautiful Langkawi • the duration of the holiday
3 Days 2 Nights • the fare
• the accommodation
184RM nett pax • services offered
• discount for facilities
Twin-sharing in a Superior Room
• Welcome drinks & homemade cookies Useful Vocabulary
• Buffet breakfast
• Discount on F&B at outlets, laundry, • package tour
a tour in which one pays a
water sports and jeep rental
fixed sum that includes the
Example cost of transport, food and
What is being offered? lodging
A An attractive holiday overseas • twin-sharing
B An attractive holiday at a resort shared by two
C A free tour of a popular resort • itinerary
Comment and Answer record of a route or journey
Option A is wrong as it is not a holiday overseas. Option C is not • subject to
correct as it is not a free tour. The correct answer is option B. depending on vacancy
available

3

English Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials

1.1

UNIT

1 For each of the questions below, choose the best option from A, B and C, or from A, B, C and D.

30th OCT–30th NOV A Career In Health Care

with a brand-new pencil case Susan Anda Health Care Sdn. Bhd. is a rapidly
and colourful carrier bag when expanding company that develops and
you purchase RM25 worth of manages healthcare facilities.
Susan products* RADIOLOGIST
*Get one more Susan sticker Susan Exceptional career opportunity exists with
soon-to-be-opened intensive care hospital
1 A customer is eligible for a free pencil case in rapidly growing Seremban.
when she buys To provide medical direction for
A a carrier bag worth RM25. diagnostic imaging service including CT,
B more Susan stickers. ultrasonography, X-ray and mammography.
C Susan products worth RM25.
3 The radiologist will
A be given intensive training.
B work in a government hospital.
C work in a new hospital.

LEnjoy historic Malacca and our cosy HOW TO ENTCERONSCTERSATTCH-AND-WIN

resort facilities at a history-making price. • Scratch the box with the answer which you think
is correct. The correct answer is indicated by ✓
AGOON BAY RESORT and the wrong answer, X. A card with more than
one scratch for each question is automatically
2D/1N @ RM100 nett per person disqualified.
• If your three answers are correct, proceed to
• Twin-sharing in an Executive Room scratch the prize panel to know your winning.
• Buffet breakfast Fill in your full particulars in the space provided.
• Free shuttle to Malacca town • You can collect your prizes from the agent
• Daily activities at Kancil Club indicated in Coupon A. Ensure agent’s
particulars are complete. Attach Coupon A in
for 3 to 9-year-olds the space indicated in the card.
• Free entry to Fun Pub
• Complimentary newspaper 4 The contestant will win a prize if he
A answers three questions correctly.
2 For the 2D/1N package, the Lagoon Bay B scratches three times for each box.
Resort offers C scratches the correct prize.
A free bus service to town.
B a book on the history of Malacca.
C buffet dinner.

6

English Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials

UNIT Every Thursday

1 PROGRAMMER Kampung-Style
Buffet Lunch
Requirements:
• Diploma/Degree in Information RM16.00 nett per person
Time:12.30 p.m. to 2.30 p.m.
Technology, Computer Science
or related discipline Saturday & Sunday
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in High Tea Time:1.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m.
system development
• Knowledge of Unix, Windows RM13.80 nett per person
NT, Microsoft Exchange and
Windows will be an added November
advantage Promotion
• Good communication and
interpersonal skills Chicken & Lamb

from

RM13.50 nett onwards

9 To apply for the post of programmer, the 10 The Kampung-Style Buffet Lunch is
applicant must have A a special November promotion.
A working experience. B available every weekend.
B a good network of connections. C available once a week.
C a personal computer. D available from 1.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m.
D own transport.

1.2 Understanding Graphs, Charts, Tables, Manuals, Maps and Brochures

1 There are various types of graphs, for example, line graphs, bar graphs and pie charts.
2 When interpreting graphs, charts or tables:

(a) note the heading and sub-heading first;
(b) then look at the vertical scale which normally represents the values or units of an item;
(c) next check the horizontal scale which normally represents the months or years;
(d) then study the data provided and look at the question asked.
3 In manuals, you may be tested on the understanding of the instructions given.
4 In maps or diagrams, you may be tested on the understanding of the location of a certain place,
a process or a procedure.

8

Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials English

Sample 1: Line Graph USEFUL Tips UNIT

Sales of Horizon and South Magazines, 202_ • Study the heading of 1
the graph.
Sales (‘ooo copies) 90 Horizon
80 South • Then look at the vertical
70 scale that indicates the value
60 or units.
50
40 • Next look at the horizontal
30 scale.
20
10 • Then study the graph.
Is there an increase or
decrease? What is the trend?
Is it stable or fluctuating?

• Observe the highest and
lowest values.

0 Useful Vocabulary
J F M A M J J A S O N D
• stable
Month steady; constant
• fluctuating
Example unstable; erratic
• drastic
The graph shows that sharp or big drop/decrease
A sales of Horizon magazine have been declining. • significant
B sales of South have been erratic. considerable
C sales of Horizon magazine more than double the sales • negligible
of South. very little
• majority
Comment and Answer a high proportion
• minority
Option A is not the answer because sales of ‘Horizon’ declined a small percentage
slightly between April and August but picked up again after • gradual
September. Option B is not the answer because sales of ‘South’ have slow but steady
been increasing gradually. Option C is the right answer because • insignificant
sales of ‘Horizon’ are always more than twice the sales of ‘South’. slight; negligible
• erratic
Sample 2: Bar Graph unsteady; unstable
• trend
Breakdown of Cases of Indiscipline in general tendency or direction
SMK Kg. Baru, 202
USEFUL Tips
Cases of Indiscipline 80
70 • Note the heading of
60 Form Form Form Form From the graph.
50 Two Three Four Five Six
40 • Look at the vertical scale
30 (Cases of indiscipline).
20
10 • Look at the horizontal scale
0 Form (Forms).

One • Study the bars. Note the
forms with the highest and
Forms lowest cases of indiscipline.

• Compare the cases of
indiscipline among the forms.

9

English Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials

UNIT “Within a span of a few hundred years, there
have been tremendous technical advances.
1 More people are living in cities. Factories have
mushroomed and modern transportation has
Practice 1 developed. Mechanised farming and use of
chemical fertilisers have become a norm. All these
SAVE WATER! have led to environmental pollution at a gigantic
scale. It is imperative that we put a stop to the
• Don’t leave the tap running when you’re brushing pollution before it is too late.”
your teeth or shaving. You could use 4 The message from the text above is

up to 20 litres more water. A to put a stop to environmental pollution.
• Repair dripping taps. B to put a brake to the rapid development.
A leaky faucet that fills a cup in C to take drastic measures for development.

10 minutes could waste over SMARTCAMP
11,000 litres of water a year!
Come to Malaysia again this December
1 What message does the information (Ages 9–18 years)
above contain?
A Don’t leave the tap running. There will be two camps, one for students of
B Repair dripping taps. 9–12 years, and another for 13–18 years. For 7
C Dripping tap wastes a lot of water. or 10 days depending on the age of your child,
D The public must not waste water. camp participants will be taught to REACH
THEIR HIGHEST POTENTIAL through
Strictly Authorised team building and positive reinforcements.
Personnel Only They will discover that LEARNING IS FUN as
they acquire skills of accelerated learning and
Accounts Department effective communication.

2 Which of the following best explains the 5 Which of the following is not true of
sign above? Smartcamp?
A Only those in uniform are allowed A It caters for two groups of students.
to enter. B If provides opportunities for developing
B Only those with permission are allowed their potential.
to enter. C It is the first of its kind locally.
C Only those who need a rest are allowed
to enter.

Kuching, Mon. – One person drowned and
another missing when a general cargo and
passenger vessel capsized in the Rajang
River. Nineteen of the twenty-two passengers
and crew endured a five-hour ordeal on the
vessel before they decided to swim ashore
when their ship threatened to sink.

3 Based on the news report, what ‘ordeal’ did
the surviving passengers and crew have
to endure?
A The loss of two passengers
B The long fearful wait on the
damaged vessel
C The sinking of their vessel

20

Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials English

Sales of Trend and Horizon Magazines, 2019

7,000 Why should you start saving now? It will come in UNIT
handy in times of emergency, especially for your
Sales (number of copies) 6,000 future education. Now, how do you start saving? 1
Easy! Just open a Young Savers account with us.
5,000 We will teach you how to save your money and
make it grow.
4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Trend RM10 per copy 2019

Horizon RM5 per copy

6 In the graph above, we learn that sales of 8 Opening a Young Savers Account will
Trend magazine are help us
A more unstable than sales of Horizon A get a good job.
B more than 10 times that of Horizon B choose a promising future.
C increasing faster than Horizon C in our future education.
D become rich quickly.

Hari Raya Practice 2
• Promotion •
Sayang Shopping Centre One Per Customer While Stocks Last
Seberang Jaya
January 4–18 1 Which of the following best explains the
On Promotions sign above?
At the Best Price: A Each customer is limited to one unit
Hari Raya fashion and accessories; while stock lasts.
Canned, dried & frozen food; B Customers can buy any amount until
Herbal products; Telecommunication; out of stock.
Educational supplies and many more! C Only one customer is allowed to buy the
last unit.
7 The Hari Raya promotions are meant for
those who wish
A to eat out.
B to buy some sports equipment.
C to have a short holiday.
D to buy some new clothes.

21

UNIT

2 Text Completion
(Rational Cloze)

SMART

1 Text completion or rational cloze tests the students’ understanding of the usage of
language and vocabulary.

2 The main grammatical items to be tested are:



Tenses Sentence Parts of
(Simple, Past, connectors speech (Nouns,

Future) Adjectives, Verb
Adverbs & agreement

Verbs)

Prepositions TEXT Articles
Conjunctions COMPLETION Infinitives

Pronouns Participles

Gerunds Determiners

3 There will be numbered blanks in the passage. For each blank, a word has been left out.
4 The students are required to choose the most suitable answer from the options given.
5 Obviously, the students need to have a good command of grammar and vocabulary.
(For a quick revision, refer to the section on Grammar and Vocabulary)

37

English Unit 2 Text Completion (Rational Cloze) How to Tackle a Cloze Test

Important Tips Read passage right through

1 First read the passage right through to get a general idea of what Fill in blanks one by one
it is about.
Look at words before and
2 Then read the passage again to answer the questions. words after the blanks

2UNIT 3 When choosing the answer for each numbered blank, read the Choose smartly:
relevant part of the passage. – correct part of speech
4 Pay special attention to the words or sentence preceding the blank – same tense
and also the words or sentence after the blank.
Sentence after the blank
Example

Sentence preceding the blank


If you have never ridden a bicycle or do not enjoy good health,

the ride. Problems or complications are not
worth it.
A value
B imagine
C remember
D forget

Comment and Answer

The sentence before the blank and the sentence after the blank provide
you an idea about the right answer. Option A (value) doesn’t fit in
at all. Neither is option B (imagine) nor option C (remember). The
logical answer is option D (forget).

5 The word you have chosen must ‘fit’ in with the other words so that
the completed text makes sense.

Example There are many
possible words for the
The rhino’s breeding has to be determined so blank, like ‘time’, ‘habit’,
that the vets can decide when rhinos can stay in the paddock for ‘pattern’, ‘cycle’, etc.

display and when the facility has to be closed for breeding.
A circle
B circulation
C cycle
D cyclone

Comment and Answer

What is being referred to is the breeding habit of the rhino that is
regularly repeated. Therefore the logical answer is C (cycle).


6 Ensure that the word you have chosen is of the correct part of speech
when it becomes part of the text.

38

Unit 2 Text Completion (Rational Cloze) English

Example An adverb is needed
UNIT
We had blundered twice, and , I had been the
culprit on both occasions. C embarassingly 2
A embarrassed D embarrassment
B embarrassing A verb in the past
tense is needed
Comment and Answer

An adverb is required for the blank, so the only right option is
C (embarrassingly). The others are of different parts of speech,
namely, ‘embarrassed’ (verb), ‘embarrassing’ (present participle) and
‘embarrassment’ (noun).

7 If the answer required is a verb, make sure that it is of the same tense
as the text.
Example

This verb is in the past tense

As most of us felt hungry, we to make a
quick meal.
A prepare C preparing
B prepared D prepares

Comment and Answer

The verb ‘felt’ is in the past tense, therefore the option B (prepared),
being in the same tense, is the correct answer.

8 After filling in all the blanks, read the whole passage again to check
for the last time if all the options that you have chosen are the most
suitable ones.

Sample SPM Question

A gotong-royong was organised to clean up a tourist spot. The voluntary work was carried
1 by about 100 employees of a local tyre factory. Early in the morning, they came 2
rakes, parang, paint and brushes to help clean and beautify the popular recreational park. Their
effort 3 the attention of picnickers, who, while not having armed themselves with cleaning
equipment, gave moral support. Many joined in to pick up litter 4 around the area.

The half-day gotong-royong was part of the community 5 programme drawn up by
the tyre factory. Besides cleaning, the participants also erected new signboards 6 provided a
new coating to some old ones. They also painted the huts and sheds, installed rubbish bins and

7 the toilets. According to the organising chairman, such an activity would instil a sense of
responsibility and belonging among the community.

The gotong-royong is an on-going activity. The company will also carry it 8 in parks,
beaches, botanic gardens and old folks home. 9 activities would be carried out three or four
times a year. It is the company’s way of 10 their public-spiritedness to the community.

39

English Unit 2 Text Completion (Rational Cloze)

1 A on 6 A and
B out B then
C away C but
D up D or

Comment and Answer Comment and Answer
A conjunction is required to join two sentences
UNIT To determine the correct preposition, check
the preceding word ‘carried’. The logical together. The ideal option is A (and).
2 answer is option B (out) as in ‘carried out’.
7 A clean
2 A by B cleaning
B in C cleaned
C with D cleanse
D for
Comment and Answer Comment and Answer
A verb in the past tense is needed, so it is not
A preposition is required. The key words are
‘came’ and ‘rakes’. The correct phrasal verb is options A, B or D. The answer is option C
‘came with’, so the option is C. (cleaned).

3 A drew 8 A on
B took B along
C made C out
D caused D around

Comment and Answer Comment and Answer
The clues lie in the words preceding the blank A phrasal verb is required. The right phrasal

and after the blank. The suitable word should verb here is ‘carried out’. Options A, B and D
be ‘attracted’, ‘captured’ or ‘drew’, hence the are not suitable. Answer: C (out).
option A.
9 A Such
4 A shown B All
B showered C Those
C strewn D Some
D strung
Comment and Answer
Comment and Answer Options B, C and D are not suitable to
A past participle is needed. The key word is
describe the noun ‘activities’ here. Option
‘litter’ that is ‘strewn’ all over, not ‘shown’, A ‘Such’ is the answer. It refers to ‘Similar
‘showered’ or ‘strung’, hence the option C. activities’. Answer: A (Such).

5 A work 10 A extend
B job B extending
C performance C extent
D service D extended

Comment and Answer Comment and Answer
Look at the whole phrase ‘community
A present participle is required, so options
programme’. The logical choice is option D A, C and D are not the answer. Answer: B
(service). (extending).

40

Unit 2 Text Completion (Rational Cloze) English

Practice 1 UNIT
Read the text below and then answer the questions by choosing the answer from the options given.
2

Being a lighthouse guard, life can be lonely yet full of surprises. That’s what Shaiful
experiences often. He is in 1 of a lighthouse at Muka Head in Penang. He often has 2
visitors like snakes, wild boars, monkeys and different species of birds. Of 3 , he comes
across illegal immigrants who are mostly from Indonesia and those trying to escape from the
authorities for one 4 or another.

“Sometimes, the immigrants would hide in the thick jungle 5 days before coming
to the lighthouse for food and water. They demand a lot as they are hungry, 6 they are
quite aggressive too,” recalled Shaiful. “Once, when I refused to open the gate, the immigrants
threatened to pull 7 the gate at the lighthouse. I was worried for my safety as these men are
armed with parangs and sticks.”

The Marine Police has been 8 the situation with close surveillance. This has helped
9 the number of immigrants from encroaching into the light house. Now Shaiful is able
carry out his solitary duty 10 worry.

1 A check C challenge 6 A so C also
B charge D guard B and D thus
C indifferent
2 A unwelcome D noisy 7 A down C over
B friendly C late B up D along
D course
3 A guard C excuse 8 A monitor C monitoring
B now D reason B monitored D to monitor
C by
4 A cause D on 9 A reduce C reduced
B trouble B being reduced D to reducing

5 A during 10 A less C no
B for B without D not

41

English Unit 2 Text Completion (Rational Cloze)

Practice 2

Read the text below and then answer the questions by choosing the answer from the options given.

UNIT Mary’s compassion for animals began about two decades ago after her husband passed

2 away. Having no children and 1 that she had too much free time, Mary began work as a

housemaid. That was when she began to take 2 strays. “I started with the aged and sick dogs
that nobody 3 wanted. After several years, the numbers began to grow after friends and
acquaintances started 4 strays to me,” said Mary.

“When a friend comes by with an abandoned and tortured dog or a motherless puppy,”
added Mary, “there’s much to do 5 buying milk powder and vitamins. The sick dogs need all
the care and love I can give, even 6 only for a few days. Some looked so hungry like they had
not been fed for years, and others were in 7 bad shape that if left to themselves, they would
die a painful death.”

I 8 hope that more people will show mercy and compassion 9 the animals. Do not
ill-treat or abandon them. Give them to your friends or bring them to me. They 10 a proper
home too.

1 A find C found 6 A then C if
B finds D finding B so D in
C in
2 A with D over 7 A that C so
B on C less B very D such
D that
3 A else C bringing 8 A ambitiously C gladly
B who D showing B sadly D fervently
C for
4 A bring D and 9 A on C to
B brought B at D for

5 A as 10 A need C needed
B like B are needing D haven’t

42

UNIT Oral English

11

SMART

1 The SPM oral examination consists of two papers: Paper 3 and Paper 4.
2 Paper 3 is a test on speaking while Paper 4 a test on listening.

11.1 Paper 3: Speaking
Introduction
1 Paper 3 consists of the following components:

Paper 3 – Speaking

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

Four (4) questions for One (1) question for Three (3) questions for
each candidate each candidate each candidate

2 The candidate will be tested on the various aspects of speaking skills. They include skills in
understanding, application, analysis and evaluation.

3 The duration of the test is 13 minutes and the allocation for marks is 24.

Tips on speaking skills

1 Oral exams require careful listening and direct responding with concise or specific answers to the
questions asked.

2 Your oral exam begins the moment you walk in the door. Walk towards the examiner with a
smile and confidence.

3 You may greet the examiners with a “Good morning/Good afternoon!” Most probably the
examiners will greet you first and you must reciprocate.

UNIT E.g. Examiner : Good morning!

11 Answer : Good morning, Sir/Madam.
4 Although the test is on speaking, it requires good listening and intelligent talking. Make sure to
listen, pay attention and stay focused throughout the entire test.
5 Listen attentively to questions and follow instructions given. If a question is unclear, ask your
teacher for clarification with “I beg your pardon, Sir/Madam”. If you don’t know the answer,
say so.

368

Unit 11 Oral English English

6 Pay attention to your visual appearance and your body language. You should appear confident
and ready to begin.

7 Be mindful of your posture. Don’t fold your arms across your chest or slouch. Don’t rest your
hands on your hips.

8 If you wear glasses, don’t push them back constantly. Likewise, don’t keep on pushing your long
hair to the back.

9 Don’t keep checking your watch or the wall clock repeatedly.
10 Before leaving, take a moment to thank your examiners.

Do’s and don’ts in speaking and discussing

Do’s Don’ts
• Be at ease in front of the examiners. • Never feel nervous or panic.
• Speak clearly. • Do not ramble or speak too softly.
• Look up at the examiners when speaking. • Do not look down or elsewhere.
• Observe social convention. • Don’t be too informal.
• Be interested in what is being discussed. • Don’t make sweeping statements.
• Be friendly and courteous. • Don’t be too quiet or passive.

Sample SPM Question

General questions Part 1
3–4 minutes

Phase 1
Interlocutor
Good morning/afternoon.
I’m …… and this is my colleague …… She’ll just listen to us.
First of all, we’d like to know something about you.

Candidate A Main questions Backup prompts UNIT
Should I call you ……?
Candidate B What’s your name? 11
Thank you. Do you come to school by ……?
Candidate A And, what’s your name? Is your house far away from school?
Candidate B Thank you. About how many kilometres?
How do you come to school?
How far is your house from school?

Thank you.

369

English Unit 11 Oral English Suggested answer
Good morning, Sir/Madam.
Comment My name’s Mansor./
You can call me Mansor.
1 Reply to your examiner’s greeting.
2 What’s your name? I live in Taman Sukun./
I live in Taman Sukun, a short distance away.
Give your answer with a contraction.
E.g. My name’s Mansor (instead of My name I walk to school./
I walk to school as my house is near.
is Mansor). It shows your English is at
a higher level with the knowledge of
using contractions.
3 Where do you live?
Both answers are correct.
The second answer provides extra
information and it shows you know how to
use an adverbial phrase.
You will score better marks. However, stop
at that and don’t add any more information.
4 How do you come to school?
Both are correct but the second answer is
better. Don’t add any more information.

Phase 2
Interlocutor
Now I’m going to ask you about what you do daily.
Select one or more questions from the list to ask the candidates.
Use candidates’ names throughout.

Main questions Backup prompts (optional)
What do you normally do after you wake up?
What do you normally do in the afternoon? What type of breakfast do you take normally?
What do you do at home after coming back
Do you help in the household chores? from school?
What do you do when you are free? Do you help wash the dishes?
What do you do during the weekend? Do you watch TV when you are free?
Thank you. What do you do when you don’t go to school?

Comment Suggested answer
UNIT I’ll say a short prayer, then have a quick wash
up and take my breakfast.
11 1 Mansor, what do you normally do after you I’ll normally do some gardening as it’s
wake up? my passion.

2 What do you do when you are free?
Here some extra information is added: as it’s
my passion.

370

Unit 11 Oral English English

PART 2 CANDIDATE BOOKLET 2B
Doing recycling
Talk about a recycling that you took part in recently.
You should say:
• when and where the recycling was carried out
• what you and your friends did
• how you felt about it
• why doing recycling is important

To prevent pollution To conserve wildlife TASK 3
To conserve forests

To prevent global Why people care for the environment To prevent noise
warming To conserve natural pollution
resources – water

11.2 Paper 4: Listening
Introduction
1 Paper 4 is a test on listening which carries a total of 30 marks.
2 The duration of this test is about 40 minutes.
3 The paper consists of four parts.

Paper 4 – Listening

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Seven (7) A talk with eight (8) Five (5) short extracts A passage with
different situations questions with five (5) questions ten (10) blanks

4 This paper tests skills in understanding and application. UNIT
5 During the test, you will hear each recording twice. For each part of the test, there will be time
11
for you to look through the questions and time for you to check your answers.
6 You are to answer all the questions. Write your answers on the question paper.
7 You will have time at the end of the test to copy your answers onto the answer sheet.

381

English Unit 11 Oral English

Tips in listening
1 To make your listening skills more effective, you may use the following techniques:

(a) Be ready to listen
Listening for information is different from listening to music for pleasure or enjoyment.

Therefore, you have to direct all your attention to the reader or speaker.
(b) Put aside all your feelings or thoughts
This will help you not to lose your focus on what you are supposed to listen.
(c) Listen actively
Active listening involves you in the process of determining the right meaning of what is said.

It includes questioning and paraphrasing.
(d) Good listening
Good listening requires full concentration throughout. Do not let your mind wander.
2 Steps involved in listening:

Listening ˜ Processing ˜ Understanding ˜ Interpreting ˜ Evaluating ˜ Responding

Sample SPM Question

Part 1
Examples 1–7

You will hear people talking in seven different situations. For questions 1 to 7, choose the correct answer
(A, B, or C).
You will hear each recording twice. Answer all the questions.

Comment and Answer

1 Both the speakers agree that many fresh Option A is not the answer.
graduates in Malaysia have The speakers didn’t talk about it. Option B is
A a good command of written English. wrong. It’s difficult for them to get jobs because of
B found jobs easily in the private sector. their poor command of spoken English.
C a poor command of spoken English. The answer is C.

2 According to Ms Green, what drives her to All three options are possible but Ms Green did
writing is mention about ‘passion’.
A her passion. The answer is option A.
B the inspiration that she gets.
C her love for travelling.

3 According to the report, residents staying The expression ‘in shivers’ means ‘in fear’. The
on the foothills residents were in fear of landslides with the rock
A have been having nightmares. coming off.
11UNIT B have been living in fear of landslide. Answer: B
C have been living precariously.
Option B is not the answer as it is not the
4 Organisers of telematches should ensure objective. Neither is C. Telematches are meant for
that they are easy participation.
A challenging enough for the participants. The answer is option B.
B easily participated.
C a test of skill and physical strength.

382

Unit 11 Oral English English

Practice 2

Part 1
Questions 1–7

You will hear people talking in seven different situations. For questions 1 to 7, choose the correct answer
(A, B or C).
You will hear each recording twice. Answer all the questions.

1 Why did Mr Choo see the teacher?
A His son has study problems.
B His son is scared of being punished.
C His son has been intimidated by school bullies.

2 When Sid phoned Loke, the latter was
A down with food poisoning.
B recovering from food poisoning.
C trying to get nutritional food.

3 A resident from Jay Gardens complained about
A uncollected garbage.
B unbearable stench.
C the gathering of birds, insects and animals.

4 What had happened at Federal Highway?
A There was a traffic jam.
B There was an accident.
C There was a thunderous sound.

5 Ahmad’s parents are appealing for donations for their son’s
A mysterious disease.
B heart operation.
C inflammation in the lungs.

6 Parents can help their stressed teens to be UNIT
A more courageous.
B more organised. 11
C more disciplined.

7 What has motivated Ms Molly to take up painting?
A Her father’s passion in art
B Her winning the National Poster Competition
C Her love of nature

389

SPM MODEL PAPER

Paper 1

Part 1
Questions 1 to 8
Read the text carefully in each question. Choose the best answer A, B or C. For each question, circle the
correct answer A, B or C.

Pristine beaches for nature lovers! 1 The extract from a brochure is ideal for
Pulau Besar is a magnificent island with coral reefs A students to carry out nature study.
and crystal-clear water for every kind of water sport. B tourists who enjoy crystal-clear
There is a whole wide range of activities for the water.
adventurous and those who love nature. You may C those interested in ecotourism.
like to take part in an exciting round the island tour,
or just be close to nature with a guided hike.

SPM MODEL PAPER KUALA LUMPUR: The Government is launching 2 Fruit sellers have been advised
operations to check sulphur dioxide poisoning in A not to sell imported fruits.
three types of imported fruits—durians, longan, B not to use sulphur dioxide
and lychees. Fruit sellers and importers are advised as preservatives.
against using sulphur dioxide, which is banned as a C against importing foreign fruits.
preservative. Meanwhile, the public is advised not to
buy or consume the three imported fruits mentioned
above. Local fruits are however not affected.

Go for domestic tourism!! 3 To promote domestic tourism,
A hoteliers need to hike up prices.
It is really sad that many Malaysian tourists B Malaysians need to be patriotic.
have been to various countries overseas but C much upgrading is to be done.
not attractive destinations within the country.
To promote domestic tourism, our hotel pricing
needs to be more affordable. More campaigns
should be carried out to promote local tourism.
Of course, the Government needs to upgrade
local places of interest which include improving
the basic facilities.
Patriotic

“Molly, let your child do things for himself 4 Both mothers are of the opinion that
whenever possible. At his age, he wants to children
be in control of his own activities.” A should be role models.
“You’re right, Jenny. I also feel that we B should be given the freedom to do
should give the child the opportunities to their own things.
do more self-care. He should also help out C should be self-taught.
in daily chores.”
392

English SPM Model Paper

Part 2
Questions 9 to 18
Read the text below and choose the best word for each space. For each question, circle the correct letter
A, B, C or D.

Tea—A Popular Drink

One of the most popular drinks in the world is tea. Every day, millions of cups of tea are

(0) drunk around the globe. Most of the world’s supply of tea comes (9)

India, China and Sri Lanka. There have been (10) to grow tea commercially in

Africa and the United States.

It is believed that tea was first (11) in China about 2,000 years ago. From

there, it was brought to Japan in the sixth century. It was probably (12) to

Europe in the seventeenth century. Tea came to America almost as early as (13)

Europe. The US tea trade began in 1784 when the first American vessel sailed for China to

(14) a cargo of tea. What has made tea so popular all over the world?

The ancient Chinese insisted that tea was good for a number of (15) . Even

SPM MODEL PAPER today, many believe that it is a refreshing drink that is good for (16) . They are

ardent believers that tea has such power to (17) as it stimulates, to give much

pleasure while doing little harm. In England, tea was advertised as a cure for headaches, sleepiness

and dropsy.

Whatever the reason, world (18) of tea continues to absorb the entire

output in tea-producing countries. The producing nations themselves have shown a definite

increase in consumption. The leading tea consuming nations are China, Britain, Japan, India and

the United States of America.

0 A drink B drunk C drank D drinking
9 A to B at C from D out
10 A attempts B intentions C instructions D examples
11 A found B cultivated C tested D tried
12 A grown B popularised C introduced D expanded
13 A to B from C for D at
14 A carry up B pick up C ship out D buy out
15 A reasons B health C ailments D theories
16 A stamina B spirit C freshness D health
17 A depress B delight C cheer D calm
18 A consumption B popularity C usage D practice

394

SPM Model Paper English

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.

What we know about events and activities

• Besides book exhibition, one other attraction at the Education Fair is (37)
talks.

• Those who intend to join the Help4U must be prepared to attend (38) .

• The Penang State Symphony Orchestra & Chorus will hold an orchestral concert and a
(39) .

• Participants for the Relay for Life must carry out a (40) activity.

Paper 2 SPM MODEL PAPER
Part 1
You must answer this question.
Question 1
You receive an email from your friend, Arul.

Hi,
I have been retrenched as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown. I need to look for a new job but what
job can I apply for at this time? I think I will start a small business at home, that is, selling nasi
lemak. What do you think? Do you think it is a good idea? How shall I go about it?
I will be waiting for your advice.
Bye!

Now write an email to your friend in about 80 words.

To:
Subject:








399

SPM Model Paper English

Paper 3

General questions Part 1
3–4 minutes

Phase 1
Interlocutor
Good morning/afternoon.
I’m …… and this is my colleague …… She’ll just listen to us.
First of all, we’d like to know something about you.

Main questions Back-up prompts
Candidate A What’s your name? Should I call you … ?
Thank you.
Candidate B And, what’s your name? Do you come to school by … ?
Thank you. Do you live in … ?
Candidate A How do you come to school?
Candidate B Where do you live?
Thank you.

Phase 2 SPM MODEL PAPER
Interlocutor
Now I’m going to ask you about what you do daily.
Select one or more questions from the list to ask the candidates.
Use candidates’ names throughout.

Main questions Back-up prompts
What do you usually do after you wake up? What type of breakfast do you take normally?

What do you normally do after you come back What do you do at home after school?
from school?

Do you help in the household chores? Do you help clean the house?

What do you do during your free time? Do you watch TV when you are free?

What do you do during the weekend? What do you do when you don’t go to school?

Thank you.

1 A family outing Part 2
2 A place of interest that you visited recently 3–4 minutes

Interlocutor In this part of the test, I’m going to give each of you a topic and I’d like you to talk
about it on your own for about a minute. You also need to answer a question briefly
about your partner’s topic.

(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here’s your task.

Place Part 2 booklet, open at Task 2A, in front of Candidate A.
I’d like you to talk about a family outing you had recently. First, you have some

time to think about what you’re going to say.

Candidate A Allow candidate 20 seconds to prepare.

(approx. 20 seconds)

Interlocutor All right? You may start now.

403

English SPM Model Paper Keep fit TASK 3
A form of relaxation
Influence from Why do people take
sports idol part in sports? To bring glory to
the country
Make new friends To become professional

SPM MODEL PAPER Paper 4

Part 1
Questions 1 to 7
You will hear people talking in seven different situations. For questions 1 to 7, choose the correct answer
(A, B, or C).
You will hear each recording twice. Answer all the questions.
1 Both the girls like to watch National Geographic because

A it is a documentary.
B it provides excellent information.
C it is interesting and enjoyable.
2 When told about the aim of the Angels Orchestra, Ron expressed his
A curiosity.
B excitement.
C support.
3 Peter told Don about
A an exciting hunting trip.
B an organised trip.
C an amazing tour.
4 According to the report, the flood situation in Johor
A has not improved.
B has worsened.
C has improved.
5 According to the report, Category 3 Covid-19 patients refer to those
A with slight symptoms.
B with pneumonia.
C with inflammation in the lungs.
6 Parents can help their teens cope pressure by
A telling them not to panic.
B helping them plan what they should do.
C advising them not to waste time.
7 From the interview, we learn that Ms Molly
A has been writing books since young.
B has been reading books since young.
C became a journalist after graduation.

406

ANSWERS

Unit 1 Short Texts and Graphic Materials Practice 10

1.1 1. C 2. C 3. D 4. A 5. B
6. D 7. D 8. A
1. C 2. A 3. C 4. A 5. C
6. D 7. A 8. C 9. A 10. C Unit 2 Text Completion (Rational Cloze)

1. C 2. D 1.2 4. C 5. C Practice 1
6. C 7. B 9. C 10. C
3. A
8. B

1.3 1. B 2. A 3. C 4. D 5. B
6. B 7. A 8. C 9. A 10. B
3. C 3. A
1. B 2. A 8. B 4. D 5. A Practice 2 8. D
6. B 7. C 9. B 10. B 3. C
1. D 2. C 8. C 4. C 5. B
6. C 7. D 3. D 9. C 10. A
8. D
Practice 3 3. A
8. D
Practice 1 1. B 2. A 3. A 4. D 5. A
6. B 7. C 8. A 9. A 10. B
1. D 2. B 3. B 4. A 5. C 3. B
6. A 7. D 8. C 4. D 5. D Practice 4 8. A
3. D 4. A 5. B 3. B
Practice 2 8. C 4. B 5. A 1. A 2. B 8. C 4. C 5. B ANSWERS
3. D 4. C 5. A 6. A 7. C 3. B 9. A 10. B
1. A 2. C 8. D 4. C 5. D 8. D
6. A 7. B 3. C 4. D 5. D Practice 5 3. C
8. D 4. B 5. B 8. A
Practice 3 3. C 4. A 5. B 1. C 2. C 3. C 4. B 5. D
8. B 6. C 7. B 8. A 9. A 10. D
1. B 2. C 3. C
6. B 7. B 8. D Practice 6
3. D
Practice 4 8. A 1. B 2. C 4. D 5. C
3. D 6. B 7. B 9. C 10. B
1. A 2. C 8. D
6. A 7. B 3. D Practice 7
8. C
Practice 5 1. C 2. A 4. C 5. B
6. A 7. C 9. B 10. D
1. B 2. B
6. D 7. A Practice 8

Practice 6 1. A 2. C 4. B 5. C
6. A 7. C 9. B 10. D
1. C 2. A
6. C 7. A Practice 9

Practice 7 1. D 2. A 4. C 5. D
6. A 7. B 9. A 10. D
1. C 2. B
6. D 7. C Practice 10

Practice 8 1. A 2. C 4. B 5. B
6. C 7. A 9. B 10. B
1. C 2. C
6. C 7. B Practice 11

Practice 9 1. C 2. A 4. B 5. A
6. C 7. D 9. C 10. C
1. C 2. A
6. D 7. B

409

English Answers

Practice 12 3. C 4. E 2. English is widely used in the mass media, like
1. F 2. A 6. loyalty television, foreign magazines and novels. Therefore,
5. health 8. easier one who is proficient in English will be able to enjoy
7. camaraderie entertainment or educational programmes on TV, or
3. B 4. F read novels and magazines for recreation. Those poor
Practice 13 6. vouchers in English have to depend on subtitles or dubbing
1. E 2. C 8. Day when watching foreign programmes on TV. They
5. health check will certainly miss out the best parts or finer points
7. pre-school 3. A 4. C of entertainment.
6. camp
Practice 14 8. sloth 3. English is widely used in the private sector. It is not
1. E 2. B surprising that many local graduates find it difficult to
5. Mayang 3. F 4. C get jobs in the private sector for the reason that they
7. twists 6. experience are not able to speak ‘proper English’ at interviews.
8. computer Those fluent in English will find themselves more
Practice 15 employable. It would not be wrong to say that a
1. B 2. A 3. B 4. A good command of English is the stepping stone to
5. independently 6. relegation career advancement.
7. training 8. objection
4. English is important when dealing with business
ANSWERS Practice 16 3. B 4. D transactions and foreign investment. Needless to say,
1. E 2. F 6. guano businessmen well-versed in English will find it easy
5. box-office 8. chamber to get new markets for their products. Furthermore,
7. daunting they will be in a better position to procure foreign
3. A 4. C products for the markets in our country.
Practice 17 6. hygiene
1. E 2. C 8. connected 5. English is important in promoting tourism in our
5. delicacies country. As we know, most foreign tourists who
7. lifestyle 3. D 4. A come to our country speak English. They will be
6. technology very much impressed if we can speak at least some
Practice 18 8. goals intelligible English. This is especially so for tourist
1. F 2. E guides and taxi drivers. Receptionists at hotels and
5. friends 3. D 4. F sales attendants at shopping complexes and hawkers
7. break 6. events at eating outlets may also become little ambassadors
8. appreciation if they speak English.
Practice 19
1. C 2. E 6.2
5. discipline
7. death 1. To sportsmen, playing games is part and parcel
of life. They will readily vouch for the many benefits
Practice 20 derived from playing games.
1. E 2. A
5. seafood 2. Do you have trouble speaking or writing English
7. goodies fluently? If you have, don’t worry. There are many
ways of improving your English, provided that you
Unit 6  Introduction to Writing are prepared to take up the challenge.

6.1 3. Have you ever realised that our existence on
earth depends very much on the forest that we have?
1. If you pursue your tertiary education, you will find A depletion of this important natural resource will
that most of the reference books in universities are affect our life adversely, perhaps irreversibly.
in English. It is the same when you surf the internet
for information. Moreover, English is important in 4. Whenever there is a price increase in goods and
the development of science and technology. If you services, the public will make a hue and cry, urging
do not have a good command of English, you may the authorities to take drastic actions. However, do
have problems in furthering your education or doing the consumers realise that they themselves can play a
your research. more effective role in fighting inflation?

5. “What is this life if, full of care, we have no time
to stand and stare...” (W.H. Davies). Indeed, our life
will be stifled and meaningless if we have no time for
relaxation, or no time to do what we like best.

6. Malaysia is a multi-racial country. It is rich in
history and culture, much of which has become
our national heritage and pride. Every effort should
therefore be taken to preserve this cultural heritage.

418

ANSWERS English Answers Rubric: Question 3. You will hear about a news report.
Listen carefully.
Part 4
21 dull 22 bore Voice 1: A boulder, perched precariously on a hill slope in
23 studies 24 introvert Pantai Acheh, is giving residents the shivers each
25 time 26 concentrate time it rains. Following last Thursday’s landslides,
27 homework 28 opportunity those staying on the foothills fear for their safety.
29 physical 30 training At least three families have moved out from their
house to stay with relatives. It appears that the
LISTENING SCRIPT 1: UNIT 11 ORAL ENGLISH boulder has moved nearer the edge, about a metre
from the original spot. The nearest house on the
Sample SPM Question foothills is about 100 metres away.

Rubric: This is a listening test. There are four parts to the Rubric: Now listen again.
test. You will hear each recording twice. For each
part of the test, there will be time for you to look Rubric: Question 4. You will hear about how to organise a
through the questions and time for you to check telematch. Listen carefully.
your answers. Answer all the questions. Write your
answers on the question paper. You will have time Voice 1: Here are some tips to organise a telematch.
at the end of the test to copy your answers onto the Remember, a telematch is not necessarily a test of
answer sheet. The recording will now be stopped. skill or physical strength. It should be one that is
Please ask any questions now because you must not easily participated by the young and old. Therefore,
speak during the test. it should not be too difficult or strenuous. Decide
on the number of participants. Some simple
Part 1 items are ‘passing the rubber band using a straw’,
Questions 1 to 7 ‘passing ping pong balls using a spoon’ and ‘three-
Rubric: Now open your question paper and look at Part legged race’. If organised properly, a telematch can
provide fun, excitement and bonding.
1. You will hear people talking in seven different
situations. For questions 1 to 7, choose the correct Rubric: Now listen again.
answer from A, B or C.
Rubric: Question 1. You will hear about the standard of Rubric: Question 5. You will hear about a python. Listen
English in our country. Listen carefully. carefully.
Voice 1: Ben, don’t you think that the standard of English
in our country has declined? Voice 1: A 200 kg python, captured while trying to cross
Voice 2: True, Eddy. I read from newspapers that many a road on Monday night, escaped from the cage
fresh graduates are not able to speak English where it was kept pending its transfer to Taiping
fluently. Many have found difficulties in getting Zoo. The 10-metre long python, with a girth of
jobs in the private sector just because of poor about 30 cm, was kept in a cage at the Pantai
proficiency in spoken English. Remis Fire and Rescue Department compound. It
Voice 1: What a pity. I hope that measures will be taken by managed to slither out of the makeshift cage which
the relevant authorities to arrest the decline. was saddled with heavy fencing gates, iron bars and
Voice 2: Well, the youth themselves must be proactive to covered with a thick fishing net. An all-out effort is
improve their proficiency in spoken English. being carried out to recapture the reptile.
Rubric: Now listen again.
Rubric: Now listen again.
Rubric: Question 2. You will hear about an interview.
Listen carefully. Rubric: Question 6. You will hear about the time parents
spend on their children. Listen carefully.
Voice 1: Ms Green, may I know where you get the
inspiration to write books? Voice 1: Parents are not solely to be blamed for spending
less time with their children. Sometimes it is their
Voice 2: Well, it’s not so much about inspiration. It is the children who are too busy to be with their parents.
passion that I have. I just love to write books, The demand to do well in school examinations has
whether it is at home or while travelling. I must seen an increase in the number of tuition centres.
admit that travelling provides a lot of opportunities Many children flock to tuition classes immediately
to write something about people of different after school. When they come home, they are
culture and ethnicity. exhausted mentally and want to be left alone. They
seek solace in their smart phone and video games.
Voice 1: Ms Green, do you have any advice for
budding writers? Rubric: Now listen again.

Voice 2: Don’t be depressed if your first writing is not Rubric: Question 7. You will hear about buying a birthday
well received. Keep on trying and develop your present. Listen carefully.
own style.
Voice 1: Good morning. Can I help you?
Rubric: Now listen again. Voice 2: Good morning. I would like to buy a birthday

present for my sixteen year-old daughter.
Voice 1: What do you have in mind, madam?

426