End of Week 2 + Grammar Notes

Dear all,

As we come to the end of week 2, do note that you have to memorise your PSLE index number for next week's prelim oral examinations (Tuesday and Wednesday). Start practising.

Oral examinations tips

For reading of passage, we have gone through a few samples today. Things to take note of:

• Reading with clarity and accuracy. Make sure that you read all the words carefully and do not miss out on the words or the right meaning of the word. 
• Slow your pace and do not rush through your reading. Pause at the right moments  to stress on the key words. 
• Read with expression, especially in the conversations. 

For your picture description:

• Introduce the picture with "This picture depicts a scene at ............"
• Use present tenses throughout. 
• Talk about the weather, characters involved and event. 
• Go to the main points and use the D (Describe characters and actions), I (Interpret feelings), E (Elaborate on the feelings and actions, why and how?) and O (Opinion) method. 
• Give a conclusion with a summary of the picture and lessons to be learnt. 

For Conversation:

• Answer the question given to you first. 
• Talk about the question with at least 2 examples to support.
• Elaborate and link back to the question given. Give your feelings. 
• Conclude with a summary and lessons to be learnt. 

English Grammar Tips 

None of, Neither of, One of, Each, Every, Either of ---> These words are in the singular form!

Prefers ________to _________
Rather ________than ____________

Not only (verb) (noun) (verb), ................ also .....................

After the words 'Not only', it is followed by a verb which takes the form of either:

• has/had/have
• did/do/does
• was/were
• are/is
• can/could/shall/should/will/would/may/might/

example: Not only could John lift the table, he could also lift the heavy rocks. 

(Person) whom (Person) 

Besides .......... Due to.................. In spite of ............. Despite ................ ----> we can use 'the fact that' after these word. 

(Noun) as well as (Noun) .................

(Noun) together with (Noun) .....................

LOOK AT THE FIRST NOUN for whether is singular or plural. 

e.g John as well as the boys IS going to the party. We look at John only, the first noun! 

For direct to indirect speech, remember the key rules!

• Look at the tense of the verb OUTSIDE the speech first to decide if you need to change the tenses inside the speech!
• Then, check for punctuation. If a question mark is involved, remember to write your answer with the NOUN (SUBJECT) FIRST then followed by the VERB.

"Are you hungry now?" asked Mother. 

Ans: Mother asked if   I         was hungry then. 

                              (noun)   (verb)

Homework:

• Science prelim revision paper booklets A and B (Due on Tuesday) 

Videos for revision of Science 

Have a good weekend,

Sincerely,

Mr Nelson Ong