1. Use the title as the central idea of the whole story
The most important Primary 5 writing skill is to write the story according to the title. This means that when the marker reads the story, he must fully agree that the storyline reflects the title.Once the marker is not quite convinced that the story reflects the title, the marks in the content section drops significantly.
Example
Title: A Big Surprise
Central idea: The entire story builds up to a surprise and ends with a satisfying reveal.
2. Highlight the title in the introduction
Emphasize the title right at the start of the story. Introduce a hint, mood or clue related to the title early on.This could be done by using a story hook in the flashback introduction
Example
For A Narrow Escape:
“I had no idea that my usual walk home would turn into the scariest five minutes of my life.”
This puts the reader in the correct context immediately.
3. Identify and elaborate the right scenes
Learn to identify the scenes most relevant to the title. Then, make an effort to write more and describe in detail the scenes.
If the title is A Difficult Decision, the scene that shows the character actually making a tough choice must be written in detail.
Example
Upon reaching the shopping centre, I made a beeline for the bookshop. When I was about to walk in, I noticed that there was a clothing shop right next to it. It pricked my conscience, as I remembered the old man. Bearing in mind that the elderly man was still in the rain, I stared at my wallet as I deliberated on what I should do. “I think I should buy the jacket for him; it had been raining for quite a long time, will he get sick, or will he faint?” all these thoughts went running through my mind. Faced with a dilemma, I agonised over the decision I had to make. “I can save up my money again to buy the book. I don’t really need it now and that is actually what I want but not what I need. The elderly man really needs a jacket now, I should use my money wisely,” I decided.
4. Showing versus Telling the title
Although showing the title through actions and emotions is a more artful way of telling the story, students often struggle with this form of description. An easier way for most students is to tell the title is to insert the title at suitable points at the start, middle and end of the story.
5. Emphasize the title in the conclusion
A satisfying conclusion should address the title. In this way, it draws the marker’s attention back to the title and reiterates the story’s relevance to the title.
To learn and master the writing skills for the English exams, come join us for our Primary 5 English and Writing class or Primary 5 Writing class.
