Notes for Paper 1 (Composition)

Dear all,

Here are some notes for the upcoming Paper 1 Examination.

1. Remember to plan your composition first. 
- Place (Where)
- Time (When)
- Characters involved (Who)
- Feelings (important!!!)
- Main event
- Problems
- Resolution (Conclusion)

2. Introduction to your composition
- We have learnt three techniques which are flashbacks, conversations and sounds.

Flashbacks
This is always a good technique to start your introduction. Using an item which reminds you of a particular event, flashbacks recalls the memories of a character. Do not forget that for flashbacks to work effectively, your last paragraph should always go back to the present day and recap about the flashback and any lessons to be learnt.

e.g
Looking at the picture of my family lying on my table, a wave of horrifying memories flooded my mind. It reminded me of a Tsunami incident a couple of years ago. It was an incident which I had almost lost my family and it served to remind me of the importance of family.

.........................................

Back in the present day, my mother's shouting jolted me from the horrific memories. I took another glance at the family photo and hoped that such an event would never happen again.

Conversations
Using conversations in the introduction builds up the story / actions / feelings. It also introduces you to the characters involved.

e.g
"Mum! Look over there! What are those huge waves?" I shouted hysterically while pointing at the waves. "Quick! Let's tell Dad and get out of here. There is no time to waste," Mother cried out as beads of perspiration trickled down her forehead.

Sounds 
Sound effects add to the suspense and will set the tone for the introduction. It can also explain about the setting and what is happening.

e.g
"Splash! Splash! Splash!" The deafening sounds of the tidal waves resounded through the air as the waves came crashing down towards the shore. "Dee. Dum. Dee. Dum." My heart palpitated wildly against my chest as trepidation filled me. I stared at the waves with my mouth agape. It was like a giant shadow covering me.

** Build up your story and explain what is happening leading up the main event and problem.

3. Main event / Problem
- 5 W 1 H
- Focusing on what happened? Why it happened? How did it happened?
- Remember to show and not tell (that means to not just describe but to show the actions plus the emotions)
- Expand on your ideas and details

4. Resolution / Conclusion
- How was the problem resolved? Any lessons to be learnt? What did the characters do? How do they feel?

5. Vocabulary words and phrases
- It is important to include many good words and phrases to make your composition stand out and to score well for your language component. Also, please do remember how to use the words and phrases to the correct setting. Do not use for the sake of using.

- You must make a conscious effort to remember and store your own set of words and phrases to be used. Look at the sample compositions and the show not tell activity that we do together in class for your revision.

6. Grammar 
- Watch your tenses. (Mainly past tense)
- Be mindful of singular / plural nouns and the accompanying verbs.

Work hard and study hard for your Paper 1. We have done our listening comprehension practice today. Key skills are to highlight key words for the importance of what the questions are asking, jot down notes along the way and recheck upon the second hearing.

Looking forward to seeing you do well. :)

Sincerely,
Mr Nelson Ong