UNIT 1 – READING
DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE SUMMARISATION SKILLS
Secondary 3
OBJECTIVES - AT THE
END OF THIS UNIT,
YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
• identify paragraph topics
• select summary points
• write a summary point
SUMMARY WRITING
2
LEADING QUESTIONS
• How do we determine the main idea or topic of a paragraph?
What strategies can we use to identify the key points that
should be included in a summary?
• What are the essential components of an effective summary?
How can we concisely capture the central themes and
important details of a passage in your own words?
• When writing a summary, what is the balance between
conveying the core information and keeping the summary
concise? How can you ensure you are not omitting crucial
details or including unnecessary information?
3
PART A
IDENTIFYING PARAGRAPH TOPICS
DEFINITION
In reading both fiction and non-fiction texts, a paragraph topic
refers to the main idea or subject matter of a particular paragraph.
It encapsulates the central theme or focus of the information
presented within that paragraph.
IMPORTANCE
Identifying paragraph topics enhances comprehension, aids
in understanding the text's organization, and serves as a
crucial guide for summarizing reading materials effectively.
OVERALL
SIGNIFICANCE
Being able to identify paragraph topics helps the examinee
create a well-structured and accurate summary. It ensures
that the main ideas are included while omitting unnecessary
details or tangential information. By organizing the
summary around the paragraph topics, the examinee can
provide a clear and concise overview of the text's content.
4
IDENTIFYING PARAGRAPH TOPICS IS
IMPORTANT FOR SEVERAL REASONS:
• Comprehension: By identifying the paragraph topic, readers can gain a better
understanding of the content within the paragraph. It helps them grasp the main point
being discussed and how it contributes to the overall message or argument of the text.
• Organization: Recognizing paragraph topics aids in understanding the structure and
organization of the text. It allows readers to discern how ideas are presented and
connected throughout the writing, enabling them to follow the author's logic and flow of
thought.
• Summarization: When an examinee is tasked with writing a summary of a text or a group
of texts, identifying paragraph topics becomes crucial. It serves as a guide for condensing
the material into a concise and coherent summary. By identifying the main topics of each
paragraph, the examinee can focus on the essential information and effectively capture the
key points of the reading materials.
5
CRISPR-Cas9: A Revolutionary Gene-Editing
Te c h n o l o g y
CRISPR-Cas9, a groundbreaking gene-editing technology, has revolutionized the field of genetic
engineering. Derived from a bacterial defense mechanism, CRISPR-Cas9 allows scientists to
precisely target and modify genes with remarkable accuracy and efficiency. This article explores the
potential applications, ethical considerations, and future implications of this powerful tool.
The CRISPR-Cas9 system consists of two main components: a guide RNA that directs the Cas9
enzyme to the desired DNA sequence, and the Cas9 protein, which acts as a pair of molecular
scissors, cutting the DNA at the targeted location. This precise gene-editing mechanism has opened
up new possibilities in various fields. In agriculture, CRISPR-Cas9 can be utilized to develop diseaseresistant crops, enhance nutritional content, and increase yields. By modifying specific genes
responsible for disease susceptibility or environmental stress tolerance, scientists can create plants
with enhanced traits and reduced reliance on pesticides or other harmful chemicals.
In the field of human health, CRISPR-Cas9 holds immense potential for treating genetic disorders.
Researchers can use this technology to correct disease-causing mutations at the genetic level,
offering hope for individuals affected by conditions that were previously considered incurable. By
precisely targeting and editing specific genes, CRISPR-Cas9 could lead to revolutionary
advancements in personalized medicine. However, it is crucial to address concerns surrounding offtarget effects, potential unintended consequences, and ethical considerations associated with
germline editing. Careful regulation and thoughtful decision-making will be essential to navigate
these complex issues.
As CRISPR-Cas9 continues to evolve and be refined, its impact on science and society is expected
to be profound. The ability to edit genes with precision and efficiency offers exciting opportunities
for advancements in agriculture, biotechnology, and healthcare. However, ethical considerations
surrounding its use, particularly in germline editing, require careful and responsible oversight.
CRISPR-Cas9 represents a powerful tool with the potential to transform our world, and as we
embrace its capabilities, it is vital to strike a balance between innovation and thoughtful ethical
deliberation to ensure its responsible and beneficial application for future generations.
SUGGEST A PARAGRAPH TOPIC
FOR EACH:
1. CRISPR-Cas9 is a Revolutionary
Gene-editing Technology (Thesis)
2. CRISPR-Cas9 System and its
Potential Applications in Agriculture
3. CRISPR-Cas9’s Potential
Applications in Human Health and
the Associated Ethical
Considerations
4. The Profound Impact of CRISPRCas9 and the Need for Responsible
Oversight and Ethical Deliberation
6
KEY CONCEPTS
• A thesis statement is a concise sentence or sentences at the end of the introduction that expresses the author's
main argument, outlines the main points to be discussed, and helps the reader understand the author's stance
and purpose.
• Paragraphs are logical divisions of a text.
• A paragraph consists of sentences grouped to express a thought or idea.
• Paragraphs in a text are different ideas, concepts and information that support the thesis (central theme) of the
entire text. Each paragraph represents a topic, thought or idea that supports the thesis.
• A break between paragraph shows a change of topic, time or place.
Paragraphs are a courtesy to the reader to aid their understanding.
7
THEREFORE…
• When a test question prompts you to respond using ‘your own words,’ avoid lifting (or copying) the entire phrase
on sentence from the original text. This signals that you did not understand the text and that you have limited
vocabulary to express your thoughts and understanding of the text. Lifting the original text is called mechanical
writing and does not hold a bearing in earning some points/scores.
• Instead, build your response around or on top of the paragraph topic(s) of the particular part(s) of
text that the prompt or question is referring to.
• Use synonyms to express your thoughts and ideas instead of mechanically writing the answer.
• Employ different sentence structures and syntax to express the complexity (or simplicity) of your
thoughts.
8
SUMMARY WRITING BASED
ON THE PARAGRAPH TOPICS
• A summary is a shortened version of the text, and its objective is to inform. We can say that
summaries are very informative.
• If you are tasked to summarise a text, you need to identify the words and phrases which can
help you understand what each part/paragraph is all about. After doing so, write the paragraph
topics in bullet points; one bullet point represents one paragraph.
• This can be done through skimming & scanning. Skim the text to get the gist (the genre, the
main ideas and style features), and scan for specific information or details. Both skimming and
scanning are done in a very swift manner as if your eyes and fingers navigate through the text
in the speed of light.
• Build your summary writing based on and/or around the paragraph topics that you have
written.
• To show originality, use complex sentences to express extensive thoughts and parallel ideas.
9
COMPLEX SENTENCES
• A complex sentence is a sentence that contains two or more clauses, where at least one clause is dependent on
the main clause. It combines multiple ideas or pieces of information in a way that shows a relationship between
them.
• Unlike the subordinate clause, the main clause can stand alone as a sentence by itself.
Although she had studied diligently, Sarah felt nervous before the exam because she wasn't sure if she had fully grasped the
challenging concepts.
In this example, the sentence contains a main clause ("Sarah felt nervous before the exam") and a dependent clause
("Although she had studied diligently"). The dependent clause adds additional information and provides the reason
for Sarah's nervousness. It showcases the use of a subordinate conjunction ("Although") to connect the two clauses
and create a more complex sentence structure.
IDENTIFY THE MAIN CLAUSE & THE SUBORDINATE CLAUSE ON THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE:
The team celebrated their victory with joyous cheers after they realized their hard work and dedication had paid off.
In this example, the sentence consists of a main clause ("The team celebrated their victory with joyous cheers") and
a dependent clause ("after they realized their hard work and dedication had paid off"). The dependent clause
explains the reason or condition that led to the team's celebration. The use of the subordinating conjunction "after"
establishes the relationship between the two clauses and makes the sentence more complex.
It is a good style, saves time and words, and avoids repetition to use complex sentences when writing.
10
SYNTAX
SYNTAX sentence.
refers to the structure and arrangement of words in a
Why is it important to employ different syntax in writing & speaking?
• Say what you mean and mean what you say. (What should it mean by this?)
• Syntax governs word order and relations, enabling precise expression of
thoughts and ideas. Varied syntactical structures alter a statement's meaning
or emphasis.
• For example, the sentences "The dog chased the cat" and "The cat was
chased by the dog" convey the same information, but the syntax places a
different focus on the subject and object.
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SYNTAX CHANGE
• [The little girl played with the toys.] [With the toys, the little girl played.]
• [The student completed the assignment on time. ] [The assignment was completed on time by the student.]
• [The large, red apple fell from the tree.] [From the tree, the large, red apple fell.]
Can you tell the difference between the two of each pair? Are there any changes in meaning or shifts in
implications?
• "The little girl played with the toys" - focuses on the girl as the active agent carrying out the action. "With the
toys, the little girl played" - places more emphasis on the toys being involved in the girl's play, potentially
suggesting the toys were more central to the activity.
• "The student completed the assignment on time" - highlights the student as the one responsible for completing
the work. "The assignment was completed on time by the student" - shifts the focus to the assignment itself
being completed, with the student in a more passive role.
• "The large, red apple fell from the tree" - presents the apple as the subject that fell, making it the main focus.
"From the tree, the large, red apple fell" - brings the tree into more prominence as the origin point of the
apple's fall.
12
VERSION 1
• The first sentence is inverted,
The Hubble Space Telescope is one of the most famous and influential scientific instruments of the
leading with the launch date and
modern era. Launched in 1990, Hubble has observed the cosmos from its orbit around the Earth,
telescope name rather than "The
capturing breathtaking images and making groundbreaking discoveries about the nature of galaxies, stars,
Hubble Space Telescope is..."
and the evolution of the universe. Hubble's powerful optics and advanced instruments have • The second sentence places
more emphasis on Hubble's
revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos, allowing astronomers to peer deeper into space than
location in orbit around the
ever before and shed light on some of the most fundamental questions about the origins and structure
Earth.
of the universe.
• The third sentence uses a more
VERSION 2
passive
construction,
with
In 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope was launched, becoming one of the most famous and influential
Hubble's capabilities as the
scientific instruments of the modern era. From its orbit around the Earth, Hubble has observed the
subject rather than Hubble itself.
cosmos, capturing breathtaking images and making groundbreaking discoveries about the nature of
galaxies, stars, and the evolution of the universe. With its powerful optics and advanced instruments,
Hubble has revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos, enabling astronomers to peer deeper into
space than ever before and shed light on some of the most fundamental questions about the origins and
structure of the universe.
A Student’s Research Writing Project Version
In the annals of modern scientific achievement, few instruments have had as profound an impact as the
Hubble Space Telescope. Launched in 1990, this revolutionary astronomical observatory has been pivotal
in advancing our understanding of the cosmos through its unparalleled observations from the unique
vantage point of low-Earth orbit. The Hubble's powerful optics and sophisticated instrumentation have
enabled groundbreaking discoveries about the nature of galaxies, stars, and the evolution of the universe
on the grandest scales. Indeed, the breathtaking images captured by this venerable telescope have not
only captivated the public imagination, but have also provided invaluable data to astronomers seeking to
shed light on some of the most fundamental questions about the origins and structure of the universe.
As a testament to its lasting legacy, the Hubble Space Telescope continues to operate and make new
observations even decades after its initial deployment, solidifying its place as one of the most influential
scientific instruments of the modern era.
T h e
H u b b l e
S p a c e
This version adopts a more formal,
academic tone and structure typical of a
university-level research paper or essay. It
provides a more detailed and expansive
overview of the Hubble's significance and
accomplishments, framing it within the
broader context of scientific achievement
and the quest to understand the universe.
The syntax is more complex, with longer,
more elaborately constructed sentences
that convey a sense of scholarly depth and
authority.
T e l e s c o p e
13
OBJECTIVES - AT THE
END OF THIS UNIT,
YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
• identify paragraph topics
• select summary points
• write a summary point
SUMMARY WRITING
14
ANNOUNCEMENT
HOMEWORK & PROJECT
• Language and Skills Practice Book
• Unit 1: Rocket Science (pg. 1 – 8)
• Allocate 30 minutes each afternoon, Monday through Thursday, to complete this task in the comfort of
your own home.
• Please ensure that you hand in all of your workbooks to your homeroom teacher by Friday morning, June
28, 2024.You can expect to receive them back the following week.
•
Homework will be assigned to activities B, C, D, E, and F, whereas activities G and H will be designated as
projects for assessment purposes.
• For activity H, select a writing prompt of your choice. You have the option to either engage in narrative
writing or a descriptive writing task. Ensure that you write your response on a separate sheet of paper,
which should then be inserted into your workbook. Finally, submit your completed work to your
homeroom teacher.
• Non-compliance with the submission requirement will result in a complete absence of marks for both the
assigned homework and project.
15
In not less than 125 but not more than 150 words, write a summary
of the reading passage entitled Taking a Trip Round Tenerife (pages 3
& 4) answering the question Why is Tenerife worth a visit?
Before writing your summary, write the paragraph topic of each of the eight paragraphs of the
passage in bullet points.Then, build your response on these paragraph topics.
In your response:
• Make sure to use your own words; avoid lifting (mechanical writing).
• Use complex sentences.
• Employ correct grammar and convention (spelling, punctuations and indentions)
• Distribute the 125 – 150 words in two to three paragraphs.
Up to 10 marks are available for your content and another 10 marks for the quality and accuracy
of your writing.
CET – QUESTION 1 (20 MARKS)
SECTION B
SELECTING & WRITING SUMMARY POINTS
READING COMPREHENSION TECHNIQUES
C O N T E X T
C L U E S
WATCH - PAY ATTENTION – TAKE NOTES
Using context clues to figure out new words through inference, definition, example, antonym, and synonym
strategies.
18
INFERENCING
• Inferencing is the cognitive process of drawing logical conclusions or making educated guesses based on
available information, evidence, and reasoning. It involves using clues, context, and prior knowledge to fill in
gaps and make connections that are not explicitly stated in the text or situation.
The hiker traversed through the dense foliage, carefully avoiding the thorny brambles that obstructed the path.
Inference: Based on the context and clues in the sentence, we can infer that "foliage" refers to a dense
growth of plants or trees. We can make this inference because the hiker is navigating through it and
encountering thorny brambles that obstruct the path. The word "traversed" indicates movement through an
area, and the mention of "thorny brambles" suggests the presence of plants or trees. Therefore, we can infer
that "foliage" in this context refers to the dense vegetation or plant life in the hiker's surroundings.
Draw inferences on the meaning of the underlined words in the following sentence:
The detective scrutinized the suspect's alibi, searching for any inconsistencies that would cast doubt on his innocence.
Inference: From the context and clues in the sentence, we can infer that "alibi" refers to the suspect's claimed
explanation or evidence of their whereabouts during a particular time. The word "scrutinized" indicates that
the detective is carefully examining or investigating the alibi, looking for inconsistencies that may raise doubts
about the suspect's innocence. Therefore, we can infer that "alibi" in this context refers to the suspect's
stated account of where they were at the time in question.
19
LET’S PRACTICE
BY WAY OF INFERENCING TECHNIQUE, TELL WHAT SHOULD IT MEAN BY THE
UNDERLINED WORDS IN EACH OF THE FOLLOWING SENTENCES. FURTHERMORE ,
EXPLAIN HOW WERE YOU ABLE TO DEDUCE THE MEANING.
1. The scientist observed a sudden spike in temperature, indicating a potential anomaly in
the climate data.
2. The CEO's decision to downsize the company was met with widespread criticism, leading
to a decline in public trust.
3. The historian meticulously analyzed primary sources, unearthing hidden details about the
ancient civilization.
4. The government implemented stringent measures to curb the spread of the contagious
disease, prioritizing public health over economic considerations.
5. The philosopher pondered the existential nature of human consciousness, investigating
into the complexities of identity and existence.
20
DEDUCING THE MEANING OF WORDS
USING THE STEMS & PREFIXES
Example:Autobiography
• To identify the stem, we need to look at the core part of the word, without
any prefixes or suffixes. In this case, the stem is "auto", which means "self"
or "own.”
• The prefix "bio" means "life", and the suffix "graphy" means "writing".
• So, the stem "auto" provides the core meaning of "self" in this word.
• By understanding that the stem "auto" means "self", we can deduce that an
autobiography is a "self-written" account or story of someone's life.
21
KEY WORDS & PHRASES
Key words and phrases refer to the important concepts and language used in
reading comprehension and summary writing. For reading comprehension, these
include identifying the main idea, supporting details, inferences, and the author's
purpose.
For summary writing, the key words and phrases focus on being concise, objective,
and capturing the central points of the original text in your own words.
Understanding these key terms is essential for effectively comprehending what you
read and communicating the core meaning in a clear, focused summary.
NOTE:
• Do not confuse summary with a commentary. Do not express your opinion when
your task is to write a summary, just summarize and avoid injecting your opinion.
• You are not required to present information in the same order as in the passage
or original text.
22
IDENTIFYING THE KEY WORDS & PHRASES
T H E
H U B B L E
S PA C E
T E L E S C O P E
The Hubble Space Telescope is one of the most
famous and influential scientific instruments of the
modern era. Launched in 1990, Hubble has observed
the cosmos from its orbit around the Earth, capturing
breathtaking images and making groundbreaking
discoveries about the nature of galaxies, stars, and the
evolution of the universe. Hubble's powerful optics
and advanced instruments have revolutionized our
understanding of the cosmos, allowing astronomers to
peer deeper into space than ever before and shed light
on some of the most fundamental questions about the
origins and structure of the universe.
These words and/or phrases are the keys because they…
•
•
•
•
What are the key words or phrases in the paragraph about
the Hubble Space Telescope?
• Hubble Space Telescope
• One of the most famous and influential scientific
instruments
• Launched in 1990
• Observed the cosmos from its orbit around the Earth
• Capturing breathtaking images
• Making groundbreaking discoveries
• Nature of galaxies, stars, and the evolution of the universe
• Powerful optics and advanced instruments
• Revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos
• Peer deeper into space
• Shed light on fundamental questions
• Origins and structure of the universe
Introduce and describe the Hubble Space Telescope, which is the central focus of the passage.
Highlight the significant impact and achievements of the Hubble, including its groundbreaking observations, discoveries, and contributions to our
understanding of the cosmos.
Convey the advanced technological capabilities of the Hubble, such as its powerful optics and instruments, that have enabled new insights into the
nature and evolution of galaxies, stars, and the universe.
Emphasize the Hubble's ability to peer deeper into space and shed light on fundamental questions about the origins and structure of the universe.
23
PARAPHRASING
What is paraphrasing?
Paraphrasing is the act of restating a piece of information or a passage of text using different words while preserving the
original meaning.
Except for the technical terms, paraphrase the key phrases to express understanding of the text.
ORIGINAL
• One of the most famous and influential scientific
instruments
• Launched in 1990
• Observed the cosmos from its orbit around the Earth
• Capturing breathtaking images
• Making groundbreaking discoveries
• Nature of galaxies, stars, and the evolution of the universe
• Powerful optics and advanced instruments
• Revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos
• Peer deeper into space
• Shed light on fundamental questions
• Origins and structure of the universe
PARAPHRASED
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Acclaimed scientific tool
Deployed over 30 years ago
Observes the cosmos from Earth’s orbital vantage
Captures awe-inspiring imagery
Achieves unprecedented discoveries
Concerning galaxies, stars, and cosmic evolution
Sophisticated optics and advanced technology
Transformed our understanding of the universe
Facilitates deeper space examination
Answered some essential questions about…
The genesis and configuration of the universe
Write a paraphrased version of each of the above-given original key phrases.
24
SEQUENCING
• When you are in an examination situation, you may not have the luxury of
writing your draft due to time constraint.
• To save time, order your material (in any way you want) by bracketing and
numbering your points.
• Write your summary according to the sequence you have devised.
25
SEQUENCING
The Humble Lessons of Mathematics
In our modern world, where specialization and expertise are highly prized, it can be easy to develop an
inflated sense of our own knowledge and capabilities. We may find ourselves falling into the trap of
believing we have all the answers, or that our understanding of a subject is truly complete. However,
the study of mathematics provides a crucial antidote to this tendency – [the cultivation of intellectual
humility.]
At its core, mathematics is a language for describing the patterns and structures underlying our
universe. As we dig deeper into its theorems and proofs, we inevitably encounter [the limits of human
understanding.] No matter how skilled a mathematician becomes, there will always be unsolved
problems, open questions, and realms of mathematical inquiry that remain mysterious and beyond our
current grasp.
This humbling realization is not a weakness, but a strength. It teaches us to approach intellectual
pursuits with [a spirit of curiosity and a willingness to be surprised.] In mathematics, there is always
more to learn, always new perspectives to consider. [The very nature of the subject demands that we
remain humble, flexible, and open-minded.]
Moreover, [the practice of mathematical reasoning itself fosters intellectual humility]. When tackling a
complex problem, we must be willing to make mistakes, test hypotheses, and revise our thinking. We
learn to embrace uncertainty, to seek out contradictory evidence, and to change course when our
initial assumptions prove inadequate.
In this way, mathematics serves as a powerful tool for [developing the mindset of the lifelong learner].
It reminds us that expertise is not a destination, but a journey - one that requires constant selfreflection, revision, and a deep respect for the limits of human knowledge.
As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, this lesson in intellectual humility may be one of the
most valuable gifts that mathematics can offer. By cultivating a humble and open-minded approach to
learning, we equip ourselves to tackle complex problems, engage in meaningful dialogue, and
continually expand the frontiers of human understanding.
TASK: Write a summary of the article
entitled
The
Humble
Lessons
of
Mathematics based on the question – How
does the study of Mathematics help
individual cultivate intellectual humility? Use
100 to 120 words.
1. The very nature of the subject
demands that we remain humble,
flexible, and open-minded.
2. The
limits
of
human
understanding
3. A spirit of curiosity and a
willingness to be surprised
4. The cultivation of intellectual
humility
5. The practice of mathematical
reasoning
itself
fosters
intellectual humility
6. Developing the mindset of the
lifelong learner
26
SUMMARY
HOW DOES THE STUDY OF MATHEMATICS HELP INDIVIDUALS CULTIVATE
INTELLECTUAL HUMILITY?
The study of Mathematics cultivates intellectual humility by constantly exposing the limits of
human understanding. The very nature of the subject demands that we remain humble,
flexible, and open-minded, as there will always be unsolved problems and open questions. The
practice of mathematical reasoning itself fosters humility, requiring us to make mistakes, test
hypotheses, and revise our thinking. In this way, Mathematics develops the mindset of the
lifelong learner, reminding us to approach intellectual pursuits with curiosity and a spirit of
willingness to be surprised. Mathematics serves as a powerful tool for respecting the bounds
of human knowledge, equipping us to tackle complex problems with humility.
27
INFERENCING EXERCISE
Paragraph 1:
1. What does "pyrophilous" mean in the context of the
paragraph?
2. What does "Pyronema marianum" refer to?
Paragraph 2:
3. What is the meaning of "fruiting bodies" in the context
of the fungus?
4. Why are the fruiting bodies described as being "to
fungi what pears are to trees"?
Paragraph 3:
5. What is the significance of the "rainbow of fungi" that
Monika Fischer observed emerging after fires?
1. "Pyrophilous" means "fire-loving" in the context of
the paragraph, referring to fungi that thrive in the
aftermath of fires.
2. "Pyronema marianum" refers to the scientific
name given by Carl Gustav Carus to the bright
orange "peculiar mold vegetation" he and his
daughter observed growing on burned wood and
charred earth.
3. The "fruiting bodies" are the reproductive
structures of the fungus that emerge above the
ground, similar to how fruits grow on trees.
4. The fruiting bodies are described as being "to
fungi what pears are to trees" because they serve
the same reproductive function for fungi as fruits
do for trees.
5. The "rainbow of fungi" that emerged after fires
indicates the diversity of pyrophilous fungi that
thrive in the post-fire environment.
28
INFERENCING EXERCISE
Paragraph 4:
6. What is the meaning of "pyrophilous fungi" in this
context?
6. "Pyrophilous fungi" refers to fungi that are adapted to and
benefit from fires, able to rapidly colonize and grow on burned
ground.
7. What are "burn morels" and why do they "lure
foragers with dreams of exquisite feasts"?
7. "Burn morels" are a type of edible, fire-adapted fungus that
attracts foragers seeking a delicacy after wildfires.
Paragraph 5:
8. What is the significance of the tip on "cultivating"
mushrooms from the Geoponica?
8. The tip from the Geoponica suggests that people historically
recognized the link between fire and the growth of certain
mushrooms/fungi.
Paragraph 6:
9. What is the "cultural burning practices" that
indigenous communities have a history of using?
9. The "cultural burning practices" refer to indigenous
communities' long-standing use of controlled fires to manage
forests and promote the growth of desired fungi like morels.
Paragraph 7:
10. What are the "molecular tools" that mycologists use
today to study pyrophilous fungi?
10. The "molecular tools" are modern genetic analysis
techniques that allow mycologists to study pyrophilous fungi in
ways not possible with just microscopes, as was done
historically.
29
In not less than 125 but not more than 150 words, write a summary of the reading
passage entitled Day 5 - Luxor (pages 6 & 7) answering the question Why is Luxor
might be an exciting place to be visited by adventure seekers, historians as well
as Geography afficionados?
• Scan the text to find the materials (pieces of information) that can help you answer the
question.
• Place the pieces of information in brackets and number them according to the sequence that
you want.
• Write your summary answering the question based on the sequence of information that you
have designed.
• Up to 10 marks are available for your content and another 10 marks for the quality and
accuracy of your writing.
CET – QUESTION 2 (20 MARKS)
SUMMARY WRITING
F O C U S E D
O N
C O M P A R I S O N
&
C O N T R A S T
1. Identify the core ideas and arguments in each text:
• Determine the main topic, purpose, and key points made by the author in each text.
• Avoid getting bogged down in minor details and focus on the central themes and claims.
2. Highlight both similarities and differences:
• Look for ways the texts agree or reinforce each other, as well as where they diverge or contradict.
• Note differences in perspective, evidence used, conclusions drawn, etc.
3. Structure your comparison logically:
• Organize your analysis by moving back and forth between the texts, comparing/contrasting each
major point.
• Use transition words like "similarly," "conversely," "on the other hand" to guide the reader.
4. Support your observations with textual evidence:
• Cite specific details, quotes, or examples from each text to back up your comparative analysis.
• Avoid making claims without pointing to relevant support from the sources.
5. Maintain objectivity and balance:
• Aim to present a fair, unbiased assessment of both texts' strengths and weaknesses.
• Avoid letting personal biases or opinions overshadow the actual content of the works being
compared.
31
SAMPLE ARTICLE
Divergent Trajectories: A Comparative Analysis of Myanmar and Thailand
Despite their geographic proximity as neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, Myanmar and
Thailand have followed strikingly divergent trajectories in recent decades. One key distinction lies in
their political systems. While Thailand has maintained a constitutional monarchy for generations,
Myanmar only recently transitioned from a repressive military dictatorship to a quasi-democratic
government after years of authoritarian rule. Consequently, the two nations have developed vastly
different economic models, with Thailand embracing a more open, market-driven approach, while
Myanmar continues to grapple with the legacy of state control and international sanctions.
In addition to their political and economic differences, Myanmar and Thailand exhibit stark
contrasts in their religious and cultural landscapes. Theravada Buddhism dominates the Thai
landscape, profoundly shaping the country's art, architecture, and traditions. Conversely, Myanmar's
population is ethnically diverse, with the Bamar/Burmese people comprising the largest group but
significant minorities, such as the Shan, Karen, and Rakhine, practicing a mix of Buddhist, Christian,
and animist faiths. This diversity is reflected in Myanmar's rich multiplicity of cultural expressions,
from its ornate Buddhist pagodas to its vibrant traditional festivals.
Despite these distinctions, the two nations do share certain commonalities, such as their tropical
climates, agrarian-based economies, and the importance of the Mekong River basin to their
respective histories and development.
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LIST OF USEFUL TRANSITION WORDS
Using a variety of these transition words can help create a more cohesive and logical flow when comparing and
contrasting different concepts or ideas in an essay. The specific words chosen will depend on the context and
the relationships you want to highlight between the points being made.
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VENN DIAGRAM
DIFFERENCES & SIMILARITIES
TENERIFE
LUXOR
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Read the guidebook extract entitled Taking a Trip Round Tenerife on page 3 and the
travel writing extract entitled Day 56 – Luxor on page 6.
Write a summary highlighting the similarities and differences between the two
destinations for a travel and tours agency with the purpose of helping their clients in
making an informed decision for their next destination.
•
•
•
•
•
Give it a good title. Make it as interesting as possible.
Use transition words.
Use 250 – 300 words. distributed across two to three paragraphs.
Use appropriate syntax and varied sentence patterns.
No lifting allowed. Mechanical writing earns zero (0) mark. Use the proper techniques in
summary writing.
• Up to 10 marks are available for your content and another 20 marks for the quality and
accuracy of your writing.
CET – QUESTION 3 (30 MARKS)
WRAP-UP QUIZ
1. How do we determine the main idea or topic of a paragraph? What strategies
can we use to identify the key points that should be included in a summary? [2
marks]
2. What are the essential components of an effective summary? How can we
concisely capture the central themes and important details of a passage in your
own words? [2 marks]
3. When writing a summary, what is the balance between conveying the core
information and keeping the summary concise? How can you ensure you are
not omitting crucial details or including unnecessary information? [3 marks]
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EXIT TICKET
With not less than 150 but not more than 200 words, write a reflective essay based on
the following questions:
• What have I expected to learn and what have I actually learned?
• What have I found compelling? What worked well? Explain.
• What did I find difficult or problematic? How can I help myself to improve and solve
these obstacle/obstacles?
Up to 10 marks are available for the relevance of your content and 10 marks for the
quality of your writing.
UNIT 1: SUMMARY WRITING