SPM English Paper 2: What You Need To Know
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Reading, writing, speaking and listening are the four skills that any language learner needs to master. In the current KSSM SPM English examination, these skills are assessed through four different papers.
We’ve outlined the SPM English Paper 2 format below for your convenience and keep reading on for some useful bonus tips that will help you answer this paper!
SPM English Paper 2: The Basics
Firstly, let’s kick it off with a quick overview of the SPM English Paper 2 format:
The paper is divided into three parts.
You will need to write three essays in total.
The time allocated for this paper is 90 minutes.
As each section is worth 20 marks, the total mark for this paper is 60.
This paper contributes 25% to your overall SPM English mark.
Now, let’s look at the three individual parts that make up the SPM English Paper 2.
Part 1
In this section, students must respond to the email given in less than 80 words. The suggested time for this essay is 20 minutes.
You will write your email reply in the prepared writing space. Before you begin writing, it is important to be clear about these three things:
Who are you writing to?
What is the email about?
What must you include in your reply?
As it is the shortest essay in the SPM English Paper 2, you will need to address all of the required points while being concise. Once you’ve written your response, don’t forget to sign off the email with your name at the bottom!
Part 2
This question will ask you to write an essay between 125 to 150 words. The suggested time for you to spend on this essay is 30 minutes.
As this is a guided writing task, you will be given some background and points on what to write about so make sure you include everything that is mentioned.
The notes given will act as an outline for your essay which makes it easier for you to get started! All you need to do is think of examples and explanations to expand on in your essay.
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Part 3
This is the only section in the SPM English Paper 2 where you get to choose which question to answer from the three options given. The suggestion is for you to spend 40 minutes on this part.
This SPM English extended essay is a form of continuous writing which could be in the format of an article, report, review or story. Once you’ve chosen which question to answer, make sure you write your essay in the relevant format, style and tone.
It is the longest essay in this paper as you will need to write between 200 to 250 words. While that may sound daunting, planning and breaking down your essay into smaller chunks will make your task much easier. For tips on how to structure your essay as well as other tips to improve your English essay writing, click here.
SPM English Paper 2: Bonus Tips
Now that you’re familiar with the SPM English Paper 2 format, here are some useful tips to keep in mind when you’re answering the paper.
Tip 1: Understand the Question
Read all questions in the SPM English Paper 2 carefully to get a good and accurate understanding of the task at hand.
To ensure that you don’t miss anything, underline or highlight all the key points before you start writing. Once you’ve finished writing, refer to the question again to check if you’ve responded to all of the key points in your essay.
Tip 2: Keep Track of Time
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With the SPM English Paper 2, you need to be mindful of time as it can be easy to lose track of time when you’re absorbed in writing. Keep in mind that the suggested time should include the drafting, writing and checking process.
Remember, the word count and suggested time is there for a reason. You should be able to complete all the questions sufficiently within the time given. When you’re doing SPM English Paper 2 practice questions, time yourself for each section to get a better idea of your pace.
Tip 3: Check Your Essays
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After you’ve written your essays, spend some time checking your essays by proofreading them. You can ask yourself these questions:
Is the format correct?
Is the content relevant to the task?
Is the essay well-organised?
Are the grammar and spelling accurate?
If the answer is no to any of the above, don’t worry, simply edit your essays accordingly. Once the answer is a yes to all of the above, give yourself a pat on the back! You should be proud of the solid essay that you’ve just written!