If the trend of PSLE questions taking up airtime on TV channels and space on parenting forums has not alerted you to this yet, the PSLE papers are getting more challenging. Students are increasingly expected to think out of the box instead of relying on rote memorisation to ace the PSLE.
Here are some recent noteworthy PSLE English questions and methods TLL students use to tackle them effectively.
Why it’s tricky:
As students would have been taught that the climax of their stories should feature a clear problem, they might have been stumped by this title. However, titles that have a non-problem-based plot have been a recent trend in the PSLE. 2017’s topic was ‘A Special Gift’ and in 2018, students wrote a story on ‘Teamwork’. In 2019, the given title was ‘A Celebration’ and in 2021, students tackled ‘A Promise’.
How TLL students tackle this:
Students use Writing = Ideas + Structure + Expression (WISE) to attempt composition topics in class. Upon learning effective strategies to tackle non-problem-based plots, students can confidently generate story ideas relevant to the title and picture(s).
Students then flesh their ideas out using a structured decision tree. Analysing each picture using the 5Ws1H method, students determine the trigger, complication, resolution, and conclusion. After planning out the structure of the story idea they wish to go with, students are pushed in class to adopt the best expressions in their composition by adopting relevant Show-not-Tell phrases and slow-motion techniques they are introduced to in class.
Now let’s look at some other PSLE English questions from 2021 that required students to apply skills and content knowledge to specific contexts instead of relying on rote memorisation:
As semicolons can be used in a variety of ways, students must be discerning and address how the semicolon is used in the context of the stimulus by looking at the structure of the sentence which contains the semicolon.
Apart from referring to different sections of the stimulus to answer this question, students are required to play out all four scenarios in the given options by noting down the directions of the entrances leading to the food court.
As the PSLE English papers get more challenging each year, The Learning Lab’s focus remains on arming its students with the knowledge, skills and conditions to tackle the various exam components with confidence. Find out how our structured PSLE success blueprint is designed to get your child PSLE-ready today.
In this English PSLE comparison guide, our P6 teachers examine and demonstrate how the composition and comprehension components differ in difficulty and complexity throughout the years.
At The Learning Lab, we have a wealth of resources you and your child can benefit from to gear up for success in the PSLE. Read our other articles that break down each PSLE component in detail and impart strategic advice and study tips.
The complete overhaul of the PSLE scoring system from 2021 onward is doubtlessly daunting. But with our detailed breakdown in hand, you can ensure that both you and your child will be more than prepared for the challenges coming your way.
Ever find yourself constantly nagging at your child to study for the PSLE? We understand your frustration. However, your child may have valid reasons for "slacking off". Read on to gain an insight into your child's mind.
Find valuable tips on ways to help your child master the content covered in exams, hone key exam skills and how to exercise the right habits and attitudes to make this road towards the PSLE as rewarding as it is meaningful for your child.
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The PSLE is a huge milestone in your child's academic life. Ensuring that your child has everything they need in the lead-up to the major exams will allow them to focus on effective, efficient and productive learning.
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The Learning Lab is now at locations. Find a location that suits your needs.
If you have any questions about our programmes, please email us at enquiry@thelearninglab.com.sg or call us at 6733 8711 and we will be happy to assist you.