Summary
We will now proceed to Section B in S.P.M. English Paper 2- Summary.
General Requirements
Summary needs you to read the question carefully, then pick out the relevant points from
the whole passage. Subsequently, you have to rewrite the points. As compared to Section
A Directed Writing, summary requires more efforts. Although both sections cover 30%
each out of 100% of Paper 2, the Examination Board suggests that students should take
45 minutes to do the summary while only 30 minutes for directed writing.
Some advices to our cousins in time management to tackle with summary:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
5 minutes- read the question first.
10 minutes- read the passage carefully.
10 minutes- organise your points.
15 minutes- start writing your summary!
5 minutes- double check your writing.
Total time taken: 45 minutes!
(More on the steps will be discuss later.)
Summary- Sample Question
Section B: Summary
Read the following passage and then answer the question that follows.
Please Speak Proper English
1. "Lu think I don't know how to do this sinang job is it?"
"Ask you to study, you go lepak pulak!"
Have you ever heard of the above conversations? These are some of
the informal dialogues that we can hear in our daily life......
......
2. This phenomenon is also observed in our neighbour countrySingapore. Instead of mixing proper English with Malay words,
"Singlish" is the miture of Engilsh and Hokkien dialect......
......
3. One of the reasons why proper English is not used for conversation
is that......
4. Secondly, many think that the interaction between individuals will
become closer......
5. However, there are some disadvantages of not using proper
English......
6. One way to encourage the usage of proper English is......
7. Government should organise some campaigns such as......
8. In conclusion, .....
(Adapted from ABC Magazine, Please Speak Proper English,
published by Berjaya Sdn. Bhd. 2000)
The passage may look something like the above. The numbers on the left are to indicate the
paragraph numbers. There should be line numbers on the right too. Sorry that I couldn't include
them here.
Start Summarising
Steps:
Read the Question
5 minutes Repeat reading so that you understand what is the
requirements of the question.
Read the Passage
Take note of the relevant points required in your summary.
10 minutes Highlight them for easy reference later. This will help you
save some time in revising the passage again to look for those
points.
Organising your points
Make sure you do not miss any points. (All necessary
information are from the specific line numbers given in the
question.) Also, please make sure there is no redundant
10 minutes points.
At the same time, organise all your points to answer the
question. For example, if the question asks for the reasoning
first, then you should mention about it in the beginning.
Start Writing
Try to use your own words to write the summary.
15 minutes
The format and techniques of answering will be discussed
soon.
Double Check the Answer
5 minutes Do not make any spelling or grammar error. Check whether
you are answering the question.
Total time taken: 45 minutes!
Techniques on Summarising
English summarising skills are almost the same like for the Malay. Anyway, I still have
to emphasise some of them here so as to recall you all my dear cousins.
The format of your writing:





must be in one paragraph. Point or note form is not accepted.
must not be more than 160 words. (This is the normal maximum length of your
summary. Just be careful if the question states a lower limit.)
must write in full sentence.
give a title to your summary! It can be as simple as just "Summary", which is still
better than nothing.
count the number of words written and state it at the end of the summary.
Summary of the passage "Speaking Proper English"
Many people do not speak proper English because...... (reason #1).
Also, many think that......(reason #2). However, there are some negative
consequences such as ......(implication #1). Besides, ......(implication #2).
Moreover, it is said that ......(implication #3). To promote the usage of
proper English, ...... (step #1). Secondly, ...... (step #2). Government plays a
role ......(step #3). In conclusion, ......(Conclusion).
(159 words)
Directed Writing II - Giving Instructions
Directed Writing II - Giving Instructions
Giving Direction
This is another popular type of questions. The question may ask you to give direction to a
place using a map or a series of pictures describing the steps to bake a cake. Refer to the
following example:
Example:
You are to give instructions to your sister, Susan, who wants to visit grandma.
Below is a map of Kampung Kuchai. Assuming Susan reaches Kampung
Kuchai at the bus station, give clear instructions to her using the information
available.
Please include the following points in your writing:
1. ...
2. ...
3. ...
Directed Writing 2 - Dialogues and Conversations
Directed Writing 2 - Dialogues and Conversations
Dialogues and Conversations
A telephone conversation may have the common format as below:
Lee Mei
Charles
Lee Mei
Charles
Lee Mei
: Hello, may I speak to Charles please?
: Yes, Charles's here. May I know who is speaking?
: Hi Charles, I'm Lee Mei. Remember me?
: Oh, Lee Mei! How are you?
: ...
For face to face conversations, the format would look like this:
Chee Keong
Abu
Chee Keong
Abu
Chee Keong
: Good morning, Abu.
: Good morning, Chee Keong.
: You look pale. Where have you been these few days?
: I am sick.
: ...
Some tips to help you:




Use simple, everyday English for informal conversation.
Use formal tone for situations such as interview.
Remember to include pleasantries like: Good morning,
Remember to have a suitable closing at the end of the conversation.
Directed Writing 2 - Speeches
Directed Writing 2 - Speeches
Speeches
Situations:




debate competition
speech on the stage
seminar/talk
presentation
Inter School Debate Competition and you are in the propose team:
You are the first speaker in the propose team in a debate competition on a topic of
"Privacy, Consumers are to be blamed". Prepare your speech based on the points below:



...
...
...
Consumers Are to be Blamed for Software Privacy
Mr. Chairperson, honourable judges, members of the opposing team,
ladies and gentlemen.
Speech competition in your school:
A Speech on How to Spend Your Holiday Wisely
Good morning headmaster, honourable judges, teachers and all my dear
friends.
Directed Writing I
Directed Writing I
We will start from Section A- Directed Writing.
General Requirements
Give a title for your writing, no matter what the type is! You must read the question
carefully. Try to make full use of the points given, don't leave out any information. Give
also some extra information of your own that is relevant. This is because:
1. You will get full mark for content if you use all points given in the directed
writing.
2. Extra points will give you bonus marks.
3. There are some marks left for the organisation of your writing, your grammar and
some other subjective factors.
Steps
1. Read the Question Carefully....
This is to understand question's requirements.
2. Highlight important points...
Highlight or underline the important instructions or points. The question will give you
enough guide. Understand the type of writing, for example, is it a formal writing or
informal writing?
3. Draft Out the Content... (Brainstorming)
Think of what you are going to write. Recall the format of the writing. Organise the
points given and fit them into your writing logically. Insert also some extra but relevant
points.
4. Start Writing...
Write neatly, eligibly and carefully. Make sure you can finish writing in about 20 minutes
as some times are used to do the planning and checking at the end. Practice more to help
yourself to write faster.
5. Double Check...
Check your grammar, spelling and the fluency of your writing. Have you used all the
points given in the question? Have you put a title for your writing? Do not leave any
careless mistake that can bring down your grade.
Types of Directed Writing
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Formal Letter
Informal Letter
Report
Newspaper
Note
Direct/Indirect Speech
Figure Analysis
Others
Newspaper
Newspaper report has a simple format as shown. The title, the place of occurrence, the
date/day and the author are the essential elements. The newspaper report gives
information to reader. So, what you write shouldn't be a story, like what you will write in
Section C- Continuous Writing. Read some articles from newspaper and you will be able
to catch it.
Section A: Directed Writing- Newspaper Report
Give a title for your writing!!!
2 couples died in an accident
This is the important title for a newspaper report. Don't left out!
(Klang, Wed)- An accident...
By Yvonne Yip The author's name...
Practice - Directed Writing 1
***For your own practice only. No submission required.
Directed Writing 1
Question 1: (Formal Letter Writing)
You read the following advertisement in Sunlight Press on 10 November 2000. Write a
letter of application giving the necessary information.
Temporary Technicians and Salesgirl Needed
We urgently looking for 2 temporary technicians and a salesgirl to
help up in our computer shop. Requirements for a:
Technician
Salesgirl
 minimum S.P.M.
 male only
 good command in English
 minimum S.P.M.
 computer skills essential
 computer skills essential
 pleasant looking
 able to drive a car
 able to work in public
 able to work on Sunday
holiday
 duration: 1/12/2000 duration: 1/12/200031/3/2001
31/3/2001
We will pay at attractive rate. Any enquiries please contact 0377302032. Please write with full particulars to:
Mr. Edmund Lee,
The Human Resource Manager,
MiniHard Computer Sdn. Bhd.,
P.O. Box 4050,
50740 Kuala Lumpur.
Dateline: 17/11/2000
Hints and Tips:


There are two jobs here. One is for male while the other is for female. You can
choose either one but not both. Just be careful of the name used.
Some guidelines for you:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Mention where and when you found the advertisement.
Tell the manager about yourself. (Name, gender,
educational qualification. You can assume that you have sat
for S.P.M. examination.)
Tell him about your qualification for the job you are
applying. (For technician: computer skills, driving license,
availability to work on Sunday... etc. For salesgirl: good
command in English, computer skills, pleasant looking... etc.)
Tell him any extra important and relevant information
about yourself that can help you to get the job. (E.g.: Any
working experience?)
Mention that you have enclosed a curriculum vitae
with the letter.
Show your confidence.
Thank him for taking you into consideration.
Mention that you can attend any interview to his
convenient.
Question 2: (Formal Letter Writing)
Assuming you are Christine Goh, the Secretary of English Language Society (E.L.S.) of
S.M. Raja Abdullah. Your society is going to host an inter-school debate competition in
the coming holiday. The Chairperson asks you to write a letter to seek approval from the
Administration Officer of the school to use the school's multi-purpose hall for the event.
Below are some guides:





Millennium Inter-School Debate Competition
Date: 4 Dec 2000 (Preliminary round), 8 Dec 2000 (Semi-Final), 11 Dec 2000
(Final)
10 schools participate, total 16 teams
Special Guest- Professor Kassim, is invited on Final.
Add any other relevant information
You are requested to send a copy of the letter to the teacher advisor of E.L.S..
Hints and Tips:


Again, this is a formal letter writing. For this type of application (looking for
approval), reasons must be given.
Some guidelines for the contents:
1.
Mention the activity that is going to be held. Mention
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
that when it is approved.
Mention the details of the debate competition. (Title,
date, time, parties involved, special event/guest...)
Give reasons why the society needs the hall. (Capacity
of it, do not have to pay...etc)
Mention that your society will be responsible for every
facility in the hall.
Show your responsibilities.
Thank the officer for considering.
Mention that reference can be made through the
teacher advisor.
Remember to include one line in the end of the letter,
after the signature, stating that a copy is sent to the teacher
advisor.
Question 3: (Informal Letter Writing)
Your family is planning to travel to Australia in December. You decided to ask your
friend, Charles who is staying in Australia to clear some of your enquiries. You have to
write a letter to him as you do not have his phone number and email address. Below are
some questions arise when you are planning the trip:




places of interest in Australia
accommodation
food
estimated cost
Tell Charles when is your trip and include also your email address for fastest reply from
him. You are to add in any other relevant matters.
Hints and Tips:



Obviously, this is an informal letter writing. Format shall follow as taught in
lecture generally.
Remember that you are only required to ask your friend some questions. So, ask
wisely, not silly question.
Content wise:
1.
Tell Charles about your plan, the details of your plan
and your budget.
2.
Remember to make use of the points given as
questions.
3.
Ask some constructive question. (You may try to show
off some of your general knowledge about Australia to
"impress" the marker. But please remember that you are
supposed to ask question, not giving suggestions.)
4.
Last but not least, remember to give him your email
address.

Formal/Informal Letter
Formal/Informal Letter
Letter writing is the most popular type of Directed Writing. The format is quite standard
for both formal and informal type of letter.
Formal Letter
The following is the basic format of a formal letter. Letter for job application, letter of
complaint and letter for approval of an activity belong to the formal type of letter. We
will discuss the content of each type of letter in exercises.
Section A: Directed Writing- A letter for job appplication
Give a title for your writing!!!
12, Jalan Bunga Raya,
Taman Star,
31650 Ipoh,
Perak Darul Ridzuan.
This is the address of the writer. (In this case the
writer is Michael Chen.) It should be at the left hand
side.
Draw a horizontal line after the writer's address.
This block contains the name (if possible), position
Mr. Henry Chia,
and address of the person this letter is writing to. It
The Manager,
is also at the left hand side of the letter.
CompuTech Sdn. Bhd., Underline the last line of this block.
123, Jalan Iskandar Shah,
The date is written at the right hand side, same line
Taman Industri,
as the last line of the address block at the left.
30500 Ipoh,
Perak Darul Ridzuan.
25 NOVEMBER 2000
Salutation to the reader, followed by the topic/subject of your
Dear Mr. Chia, letter.
APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF TEMPORARY ASSISTANT
The content of your letter...
In response to your advertisement in The Sun Press dated...
My name is...
For your information, ...
I'm ready for any interview...
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
Michael
Write your full name after your signature. (The
question may prompt you to use another name.)
Michael Chen Teck Seng
Formal/Informal Letter
Informal Letter
The following is a sample of informal letter.
Section A: Directed Writing- A letter to my cousin in U.K.
Give a title for your writing!!!
This is the address of the writer. (In this case
the writer is Mussa.) This time it is at the right
hand side. Notice the difference.
The date is just below the address block.
21, Jalan Saroja,
Taman Bunga,
31650 Ipoh,
Perak Darul Ridzuan,
Malaysia.
25 November 2000.
Dear Kathi,
How are you, Kathi? ...
...
That's all for the time being. Bye!
Yours sincerely,
Write your full name after your signature. (The
question may prompt you to use another name.)
Mussa
Mussa
Report
Report
A report does not have a fixed format. It can vary, depending on the type of report. At
most of the times, the question will guide you about the format, by telling you some
essential elements required and numbers of paragraph needed. For report on minutes of
meeting, there are time, date and venue of the meeting, who are present, time when the
meeting ends and when is the next meeting etc..
Report of Minutes
Minutes for a meeting.
Section A: Directed Writing- Minutes for meeting
Give a title for your writing!!!
English Language Society of S.M. XXX
Minutes for the 3rd Committee Meeting 2000
This is the important title for the report. Don't left out!
Date: 24 November 2000 (Friday)
Time: 2 p.m.
Venue: Class room B12
Attendance:
Present:
Thong Kah Leong
President
Yap Wee Hiong
Secretary
Fatimah
Treasurer
Baljit Singh
Project Coordinator
Lee Tze Kiat
Committee Member
Hashim Bakar
Committee Member
Absent with Apologies:
Timothy Leong
Committee Member
1.0 Opening Address
1.1 The meeting was called to order by the Chairperson at 2 p.m..
2.0 Confirmation of the Past Minutes
2.1 Baljit Singh proposed that the minutes of the 2nd meeting be passed.
Hashim Bakar seconded the proposal.
3.0 Secretary's Report
3.1 ...
4.0 Matter 1
4.1 ...
4.2 ...
4.3 ...
5.0 Matter 2
5.1 ...
5.2 ...
5.3 ...
6.0 Matters Arising
There were no new matters discussed. The meeting adjourned at 3 p.m..
The next meeting will be on next Friday at 2 p.m.
Prepared by,
WeeHiong
Yap Wee Hiong (secretary)
Report of Book Review
Book Review is another type of report. It keep a record of the book you have read. The
question may ask you to write a book review of a book, with some descriptions about it.
It is not a very popular type. You won't get wrong if you follow the question's
instructions. (It will tell you what other elements you need to put in your book review.)
Below is just a sample format of a book review.
Section A: Directed Writing- Book Review
Give a title for your writing!!!
Book Review 2000
Number of Books Read:
Duration:
Type of Book:
Number of Pages
Title of the Book:
Writer:
Publisher:
Character (if any):
4
10/11 - 24/11/2000
Horror Story
311
The Bones
Stephen Queen
ABC Printing Pte. Ltd. 1999
Mary (a student)
Peter (an archeologist)
...
Summary of Content:
The story is about....
A summary of what you have read.
Comment:
In my opinion, the story is very interesting....
Write your opinion about the book, good and bad points of it.
Others:
Highly recommended for a secondary school student.
Worth to read?
Idioms
Idioms I
Why Idioms?
Let us take a break all cousins! We are now going to do some revision on idioms.
Examples of idioms are "one's true colours", "an eye for an eye", "read between the lines"
etc. Why idioms are important?



to express your points implicitly.
to show your strength in mastering English.
to score higher marks in your essay writing!
In this section, 10 idioms will be taught. I'll give each of them an explanation and how to
use them to construct sentence(s). Dear Cousins, are you ready?
Idioms
1. "one's true colours"
Meaning:
the true character of someone; what a person is really like
Usage:



Esther will not even show her true colours in front of her good friends.
He showed his true colours once he became the chairperson.
You will only know Benjamin's true colours after knowing him for more
Comment:
It normally describes the negative character of a person.
Idioms I
2. "practice makes perfect"
Meaning:
You will be able to become very good in doing something if you do it repeatedly and
continuously.
Usage:

Practice makes perfect, therefore you must work hard consistently in order to
succeed.
Comment:
NA
Idioms I
3. "with flying colours"
Meaning:
with great success
Usage:


It's unbelievable that she can passed her exam with flying colours!
After all the hard work, Kassim finally came through his exams with flying
colours.
Comment:
Normally used for examination results.
Idioms I
4. "have something at one's fingertips"
Meaning:
know something very well
Usage:

Francis feels fearless towards the test because he has all the Mathematics
formula at his fingertips.
Comment:
NA
Idioms
"the gift of the gab"
Meaning:
the ability to speak fluently
Usage:

She was selected to participate in the debate competition as she has the gift of the gab.
"read between the lines"
Meaning:
discover a meaning in something written or spoken that is not directly explained
Usage:

Only students who can read between the lines are able to understand the hidden meaning of this
passage.
"work one's fingers to the bone
Meaning:
work very hard
Usage:


Due to financial problems, Mrs Koh has to work her fingers to the bone in order to bring up her
children.
He work his fingers to the bone merely for the little pay from his stingy employer.
"pour/throw cold water on something"
Meaning:
be discouraging about something
Usage:


"
You have better come out with your own opinion instead of just pouring cold water on others'
ideas.
Laurence purposely throw cold water on the plan.
kill two birds with one stone"
Meaning:
achieve two aims with a single action or simultaneously
Usage:

If you follow her instruction, you can kill two birds with one stone
Idioms and "Either...or & Neither...nor"
Idioms





the gift of the gab
read between the lines
work one's fingers to the bone
pour/throw cold water on something
Grammar - Subject-Verb Agreement
Either...or & Neither...nor
"the gift of the gab"
Meaning:
the ability to speak fluently
Usage:

She was selected to participate in the debate competition as she has the gift of the gab.
"read between the lines"
Meaning:
discover a meaning in something written or spoken that is not directly explained
Usage:

Only students who can read between the lines are able to understand the hidden meaning of this
passage.
"cross one's fingers"
Meaning:
hope or pray that something would happen; pray for success
Usage:


Let us cross our fingers that the world will stay in peace and harmony forever after.
I have done my best to study. What I can do now is just cross my fingers that I can pass the test.
"work one's fingers to the bone
Meaning:
work very hard
Usage:


Due to financial problems, Mrs Koh has to work her fingers to the bone in order to bring up her
children.
He work his fingers to the bone merely for the little pay from his stingy employer.
"pour/throw cold water on something"
Meaning:
be discouraging about something
Usage:


You have better come out with your own opinion instead of just pouring cold water on others'
ideas.
Laurence purposely throw cold water on the plan.
Grammar- Subject-Verb Agreement
Many students make mistake on subject-verb agreement. Be sure of the correct usage of the plural or
singular form of verbs.
EITHER...OR & NEITHER...NOR
See the following examples:


Either the boys or the girls like the teacher.
(Both "boys" and "girls" are plural, so plural verb is used.)
Neither Helen nor Vincent has this idea.
(Both "Helen" and "Vincent" are singular, so singular verb is used.)
When the subject differs in PERSON or NUMBERS, the verb agrees with the SUBJECT NEARER to it:


Either you or she is wrong.
Neither this car nor those motorbikes are his.
"Either...or" and "neither...nor" are different from "either of" and "neither of". "Either of" and "neither of" take
SINGULAR VERBS.


Either of the students (this subject should be in plural form) wears spectacles.
Neither of us knows the way home.
Directed Writing 1 - Self Practice
***For your own practice only. No submission required.
Directed Writing 1
Question 1: (Formal Letter Writing)
You read the following advertisement in Sunlight Press on 10 November 2000. Write a letter of application
giving the necessary information.
Temporary Technicians and Salesgirl Needed
We urgently looking for 2 temporary technicians and a salesgirl to help
up in our computer shop. Requirements for a:
Technician
Salesgirl
 minimum S.P.M.
 male only
 good command in English
 minimum S.P.M.
 computer skills essential
 computer skills essential
 pleasant looking
 able to drive a car
 able to work in public
 able to work on Sunday
holiday
 duration: 1/12/2000 duration: 1/12/200031/3/2001
31/3/2001
We will pay at attractive rate. Any enquiries please contact 0377302032. Please write with full particulars to:
Mr. Edmund Lee,
The Human Resource Manager,
MiniHard Computer Sdn. Bhd.,
P.O. Box 4050,
50740 Kuala Lumpur.
Dateline: 17/11/2000
Hints and Tips:


There are two jobs here. One is for male while the other is for female. You can choose either one
but not both. Just be careful of the name used.
Some guidelines for you:
1.
2.
Mention where and when you found the advertisement.
Tell the manager about yourself. (Name, gender,
educational qualification. You can assume that you have sat for
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
S.P.M. examination.)
Tell him about your qualification for the job you are
applying. (For technician: computer skills, driving license,
availability to work on Sunday... etc. For salesgirl: good
command in English, computer skills, pleasant looking... etc.)
Tell him any extra important and relevant information
about yourself that can help you to get the job. (E.g.: Any
working experience?)
Mention that you have enclosed a curriculum vitae with
the letter.
Show your confidence.
Thank him for taking you into consideration.
Mention that you can attend any interview to his
convenient.
Question 2: (Formal Letter Writing)
Assuming you are Christine Goh, the Secretary of English Language Society (E.L.S.) of S.M. Raja Abdullah.
Your society is going to host an inter-school debate competition in the coming holiday. The Chairperson
asks you to write a letter to seek approval from the Administration Officer of the school to use the school's
multi-purpose hall for the event. Below are some guides:





Millennium Inter-School Debate Competition
Date: 4 Dec 2000 (Preliminary round), 8 Dec 2000 (Semi-Final), 11 Dec 2000 (Final)
10 schools participate, total 16 teams
Special Guest- Professor Kassim, is invited on Final.
Add any other relevant information
You are requested to send a copy of the letter to the teacher advisor of E.L.S..
Hints and Tips:


Again, this is a formal letter writing. For this type of application (looking for approval), reasons must
be given.
Some guidelines for the contents:
1.
Mention the activity that is going to be held. Mention
that when it is approved.
2.
Mention the details of the debate competition. (Title,
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
date, time, parties involved, special event/guest...)
Give reasons why the society needs the hall. (Capacity
of it, do not have to pay...etc)
Mention that your society will be responsible for every
facility in the hall.
Show your responsibilities.
Thank the officer for considering.
Mention that reference can be made through the teacher
advisor.
Remember to include one line in the end of the letter,
after the signature, stating that a copy is sent to the teacher
advisor.
Question 3: (Informal Letter Writing)
Your family is planning to travel to Australia in December. You decided to ask your friend, Charles who is
staying in Australia to clear some of your enquiries. You have to write a letter to him as you do not have his
phone number and email address. Below are some questions arise when you are planning the trip:




places of interest in Australia
accommodation
food
estimated cost
Tell Charles when is your trip and include also your email address for fastest reply from him. You are to add
in any other relevant matters.
Hints and Tips:



Obviously, this is an informal letter writing. Format shall follow as taught in lecture generally.
Remember that you are only required to ask your friend some questions. So, ask wisely, not silly
question.
Content wise:
1.
Tell Charles about your plan, the details of your plan
and your budget.
2.
Remember to make use of the points given as questions.
3.
Ask some constructive question. (You may try to show
off some of your general knowledge about Australia to
"impress" the marker. But please remember that you are
supposed to ask question, not giving suggestions.)
4.
Last but not least, remember to give him your email
address.
Conjunctions
Conjunctions
Connectives, joining words or linking words, as they are sometimes known, Conjunctions are words that join
words, phrases and clauses. Some conjunctions are more frequently used than others, e.g. "and", "but",
"then" etc.. Following are a list of conjunctions. Try not to over-use only some conjunctions.
furthermore
further
moreover
in addition
instead
yet
although
though
even though
rather than
even if
despite
in spite of
however
in contrast
on the contrary
on the other
hand
nevertheless
unlike
notwithstanding
in fact
indeed
above all
unless
if
if then
as long as
for
so
because
as
as a result
consequently
therefore
thus
hence
in conclusion
in this way
accordingly
after
before
when
while
until
since
ever since
first, second...
subsequently
next
meanwhile
where
wherever
Some advices:

One very common error with the usage of the conjunctions although and but is illustrated below:
XXX Although the question is easy but students still cannot answer it.
Answer: Although the question is easy, students still cannot answer it.
Answer: The question is easy but the students still cannot answer it.
Answer: Although the question is easy yet students still cannot answer it.
Grammar- Parts of Speech 2 (Conjunctions)
Choose the best answer.
1. You have better start revising your homework
it is too late.
A. while
B. until
C. before
D. even though
2. Rain brings freshness to the earth.
, rain causes disaster.
A. Meanwhile
B. On the other hand
C. Unless
D. In addition
3.
Ali is not as smart as Suzy
he can answer this simple question faster than her.
A. -, because
B. Even though, but
C. Although, but
D. Although, 4.
you have the determination, you will be able to master the language.
A. Despite
B. As long as
C. In addition
D. Rather than
5. It's party time! Many of them are having fun playing games.
their meal.
, some are enjoying
A. Meanwhile
B. Consequently
C. Furthermore
D. Indeed
6. He won't blame you for this.
A. Nevertheless
B. Moreover
, he is willing to excuse you if you apologize to him.
C. However
D. Indeed
7. Halim couldn't finish his task on time
all the hard work he had put in.
A. in addition to
B. in contrast of
C. in spite of
D. in fact of
8.
the economic crisis, the nation's standard of living is improving from year to year.
A. Notwithstanding
B. On the other hand
C. Nevertheless
D. Since
1|C |2 | B | - On the other hand - used to show contradictory statements.
3 | D | - <i>"Ali is not as smart as Suzy <b>because</b> he can answer this simple question faster than
her."</i><br>The sentence sounds grammatically correct but the reasoning is confusing.
4|B |5|A |6 | D | - Indeed = In fact
7 | C | - In spite of = Despite
8 | A | - Notwithstanding = Inspite of
Grammer - "One Of", "None", "All"
"ONE OF"
It takes a SINGULAR VERB or a PLURAL VERB according to the sense required.



One of the players is well.
This is one of the books that were torn that day.
This is the only one of the books that was torn.
(Note the words THE ONLY in this usage.)
"NONE"
It is also used with either a singular verb or plural verb.


None of this business concerns me.
None of the players are ready.
"ALL"
It is used with a SINGULAR VERB when it means "everything" or "everyone".


All is well.
All has been done.
When "ALL" refers to A NUMBER OF ITEMS mentioned previously, A PLURAL VERB is used.

The girls are not here. All have gone home.
Conjunctions
Conjunctions
Connectives, joining words or linking words, as they are sometimes known, Conjunctions are words that join
words, phrases and clauses. Some conjunctions are more frequently used than others, e.g. "and", "but",
"then" etc.. Following are a list of conjunctions. Try not to over-use only some conjunctions.
furthermore
further
moreover
in addition
instead
yet
although
though
even though
rather than
even if
despite
in spite of
however
in contrast
on the contrary
on the other
hand
nevertheless
unlike
notwithstanding
in fact
indeed
above all
unless
if
if then
as long as
for
so
because
as
as a result
consequently
therefore
thus
hence
in conclusion
in this way
accordingly
after
before
when
while
until
since
ever since
first,
second...
subsequently
next
meanwhile
where
wherever
Some advices:

One very common error with the usage of the conjunctions although and but is illustrated below:
XXX Although the question is easy but students still cannot answer it.
Answer: Although the question is easy, students still cannot answer it.
Answer: The question is easy but the students still cannot answer it.
Answer: Although the question is easy yet students still cannot answer it.
Answer:
1. C
2. B On the other hand - used to show contradictory statements.
3. D "Ali is not as smart as Suzy because he can answer this simple question faster than her." The
sentence sounds grammatically correct but the reasoning is confusing.
4. B
5. A
6. D Indeed = In fact
7. C In spite of = Despite
8. A Notwithstanding = Inspite of
Prepositions (Part 1)
Prepositions
It seems that little words are the ones that confound people most. Using the right prepositions at the right
place and knowing when one is needed
Prepositions (Part 2)
Prepositions
Phrasal Verbs
Sometimes when the wrong preposition is used, it will result in a change in meaning. For example:


XXX He put of the fire.
Answer: He put out the fire.
when you actually mean that he has extinguished the fire, you are now saying that he has postponed it! The
correct phrase is "put out". Such phrases are called Phrasal Verbs:
agree to
agree with
agree
about
angry with
angry
about
anxious
about
anxious for
compare to
compare
with
break down
break in
break up
break up
with
carry on
early out
agree on
break off
break out
carry off
carry
through
come by
come down
with
come out
come round come to
come up to
come up
with
cut down
cut into
cut off
get away
get on
get along
with
get through get by
give away
give in
give off
give over
give up
look after
look down
on
look up
look into
look to
look up to
look for
put off
put on
put out
put up with
put down
come about come
across
Some examples of the usage of these phrasal verbs will be given in future lecture.
Exercise
Grammar- Parts of Speech 2 (Prepositions 1)
Choose the best answer.
1. The boy is running
the road to meet with his father opposite.
A. on
B. across
C. along
D. down
2. Please do not lean
the wall. The paint is still wet.
A. over
B. by
C. behind
D. against
3. He is the smartest student
his classmates.
A. between
B. among
C. within
D. in
4.
the arrival of Prime Minister, everyone in the hall stands up and claps to
welcome him.
A. Without
B. Since
C. After
D. Upon
5. I could see a little boy crying in the
A. midst
B. middle
C. between
of the crowd.
D. among
6. After 3 years of marriage, Jessie was divorced
her husband.
A. with
B. by
C. from
D. for
7. He was found guilty
shoplifting in the supermarket.
A. in
B. of
C. for
D. by
8. The examiner said, "You may start writing now. Please be sure that you can
finish answering the paper
two hours."
A. by
B. within
C. for
D. between
9. She works
that Japanese firm
a clerk.
A. for, as
B. at, from
C. at, for
D. in, for
10. He looks sad everyday. I wonder what is he worrying
A. on
B. about
C. of
D. off
.
Answers:
1. B
2. D
3. B
4. D
5. A
6. C
7. B
8. B
9. A
10. B
Interjections
Interjections
Many single-word or single-phrase expressions that express sudden emotions such as
surprise, shock, happiness, excitement, disappointment, etc. are categorised as
lnterjections. Examples include: "Oh!" "Goodness gracious!", "Help!", "Oh dear!" and
"My goodness!".
Some advices:

Try not to use extremely vulgar interjections in your writing. Use alternative ones
to show how well educated you are. (As this is quite subjective, I won't give any
example here.)
Grammar- Parts of Speech 2 (Prepositions 2)
Grammar- Parts of Speech 2 (Prepositions 2)
Choose the correct answer from the list to fill in the blanks below. Each choice can only
be used once.
down off on
out
1. The manager says, "Let's put the machine
and start working!"
2. After 2 hours of effort, the firemen successfully put
the fire.
3. Here is the reminder for tomorrow practice. Please put the timing
you forget.
4. The host has to put
after down
the match as it is raining heavily.
forward
out
5. We shall never look
on people who are less fortunate.
6. My aunt helped to look
7. " Look
Susan.
my house when my family went overseas.
for any pickpocket around when you are in the concert," said
8. All students are looking
back down into
in case
to their holidays after S.P.M. examinations.
out
9. It is not a good manner to cut
others' conversation.
10. A technician is repairing the photocopy machine that has cut
11. Aminah decided to cut
her expenses to save money for her school fees.
12. The gardener is cutting
the bougainvillea bush.
Answer
1 | on | put something on - operate something
2 | out | put something out - stop something from burning
3 | down | put something down - make a note of something
4 | off | put something off - postpone
5 | down | look down on somebody - despise somebody
6 | after | look after something - be responsible for something
7 | out | look out - be careful; wactch out
8 | forward | 10 | looking forward - anticipating
9 | into | cut into - interrupt
out | cut out - stop working/functioning
11 | down | cut down on something - reduce the amount of something
12 | back | cut something back - shorten the branches of trees
Summary Writing
Summary Writing
1. Summary means a shorten version of a full text article or passage
2. In summary writing, only the main points are to be mentioned, and must be kept
in within the word limit.
3. Exclude all examples, explanations, repetitions, description, elaboration,
conclusion and introduction.
4. Use of conjunctions become essential in combining two ideas into a sentence.
5. Summary should be in ONE paragraph only.
6. Write down the number of words used to write the summary at the right end of the
passage.
7. The number of words allowed will be +/-10 words of the words mentioned in the
instruction. Marks will be deducted if you exceed or do not match up t the number
requested.
8. Recheck summary for grammatical, spelling and detail error, and correct them
before handing up
Adverbs
Adverbs
Adjectives are used to describe Nouns. The Adverbs are used to describe Verbs!
When a person walk, you may ask," How does he walk? Slowly or gently?"
Generally, adverbs are usually end with 'ly'.
Position of Adverbs
The trickiest part of Adverbs is their positioning. An adverbial can appear at up to seven
places in a clause. Here is the example:
^ The car ^ must ^ have ^ been ^ washed ^ in that car park ^
(The adverb "recently"; can be inserted at any of the points marked "^" in the sentence.)
However, freedom of position does not apply to every adverbial. And positional
differences would often be accompanied by differences in meaning. We will not discuss
this here.
Verbs
Verbs
Tenses
One common problem with verbs is tenses. A verb would have different tense forms:
present, present participle, past and past participle. Many verbs word acquire the
inflection 'ed' when they are in the past tense and past participle form. However, there are
verbs that do not follow this rule. These are called Irregular Verbs.
Present Tense
Past Tense
Present
Participle
Past Participle
can
canned
canning
canned
cane
caned
caning
caned
kick
kicked
kicking
kicked
awake
awoke
awaking
awoken
beat
beat
beating
beaten
eat
ate
eating
eaten
lay
laid
laying
laid
steal
stole
stealing
stolen
cut
cut
cutting
cut
-'ed' is added to the verb in past tense and past participle form.
-irregular verbs: changes in spelling take place.
-irregular verbs: no change in spelling at all.
Verbs
Subject-Verb Agreement
Another problem lies with subject-verb agreement. Consider the following examples:
1. They goes to the swimming complex everyday.
2. They go to the swimming complex everyday.
The second sentence is correct. We will discuss more soon.
Some advices:

Many students will still have problems and therefore make mistake in SubjectVerb Agreement. More practice will be given in the coming lecture.
Verbs
Modal Auxiliaries
Modals are a special type of verbs that are auxiliary and cannot be the main verb in a verb
phrase.
There are several marginal modal auxiliaries, i.e. they can behave like modals.
Commonly Used Modal Auxiliaries
can
could
will
would
shall
should
may
might
must
Marginal Modal Auxiliaries
ought to
dare
need
used to
One rule to remember is that the verb that comes straight after a modal auxiliary will
always be in the infinitive form (i.e. the form of verb that follows the word "to"). For
examples,
1. I shall study study study now as examination is around the corner.
2. He will travel to Japan for a few days.
3. Peter used to read articles from that writer.