Why is comprehension so difficult nowadays?
The new MOE English syllabus (also known as the new 1128 EL paper) is unlike the English Language papers in the past in many respects. Today, let us explore the most profound change made to the comprehension paper.
On the surface, it appears as if nothing much has changed. Just like its predecessors, it contains two passages (a narrative text and an expository text) and a summary. Obviously, there is the new Visual Text component where students need to analyse not only words but also images. However, few notice the most significant change made to the new syllabus: inclusion of literary elements.
After years of consultation with education experts, Cambridge decided to take on a more holistic approach towards assessment of the English Language.
To improve critical thinking skills, the examination board has included components that require “deep reading”. Students are tested on writer’s choice of words, intention and many language features such as punctuations, pronouns and literary devices. The English Language Examination today is imbued with questions previously asked in . This means that if your child is not a Literature student (probably the case since very few students opt to study Literature today according to the Ministry of Education) , he/she may struggle to understand what is required in the O Level 1128 English Language paper.
To prove my point, let’s have a look at some of the questions asked in the GCE O Level 2015 Paper 2 Section B
Which one word suggests…
Why does the writer use the word X?
“X is like Y (simile)”/ In what two ways is the expression particularly effective?
Over half of the questions in Section B are literary in nature, adding to the confusion many students have about the English paper.
So what does that mean to you as a parent (or student)?
You can no longer rely on the axiom that
"Well, you just have to read more!"
Here are a few things your child can do:
Read deeply, constantly trying to uncover hidden messages and writer's purposes in writing.
Read slowly. Understand that every bit of words, even the most inspecting words, are used to deliver certain effects.
Learn about literary devices. At least a few questions in comprehension Section B assess students on their ability to analyse literary devices (check out our post on literary devices).
Seek help early. It takes time to master the skills to ace your paper 2. The earlier you seek help, the easier you will find the paper.
In a nutshell, as with many things in Singapore, the English Paper has evolved. It is important to know the changes made and understand what it means to you.
If your child is struggling with comprehension and would like to learn how to effectively tackle the new type of literary questions in paper 2, drop us a message and sign up for a trial lesson. It is free and we can assure you - as our other students can testify - your child will learn a great deal!