• Home >>

A Review on the Comprehension Component

I notice that my upper Secondary and GP students still trickle marks away in the Comprehension component, especially in relation to inferential and 'effects of language' questions.

Such questions are the staple in the IP and IB Language Arts papers; and the O Level students face the equivalent in Section B of Paper 2.

During the June holidays and going into the new term, it is important to remind students of the crucial 'nuts and bolts' to doing better in and even acing the comprehension exams.

The following aspects are key:

1. Be an expert in the various techniques to be applied to the different question types.

For example, the question What does the author mean by "soldiering on"? requires a different approach and answer than What does "soldiering on" suggest about the writer's attitude towards his task? While both require the student to explain the phrase "soldiering on", the second question requires a further inference that is the writer's attitude. 

Accordingly, the student must arm himself with the skill sets and tools taught in our lessons to better tackle each question, thereby maximising the marks.

2. Practice applying the techniques

While theoretical knowledge on how to answer each question type is important, each student needs to practice consistently and accurately applying the respective techniques. Only then will the student be able to answer the questions confidently, accurately and efficiently.

3. Actively learn vocabulary and read extensively

A sound vocabulary bank is crucial to the English Language and Language Arts exam papers. The Comprehension and Summary components require precise explanation and often, precise rewording of content points. There is no short cut to building a word bank--vocabulary has to be learnt and used. This is an active process of review, revision and application of words and phrases that are consistently introduced during the lessons.

Comprehension isn't about instinctive--or worse, blind--reaction to the questions. Comprehension answers must convey the student's understanding ('comprehension') of the text as well as the different questions asked.

Go into the exam armed with an arsenal of relevant and highly effective ammunition and artillery, and you will emerge triumphant!

Ms Geraldine Chew

Director: Creative Campus Learning with Latitude

Our 5 Pillars to Building Elite Students for School and Beyond

Attentive and Efficient Operations Team

Well-versed in addressing parental concerns and enquiries

Expertise of a Dedicated Team of Teachers

Bringing their rich experience, passion for teaching and expansive knowledge of the English Language to Creative Campus

Emphasis on Critical Thinking Skills and English as a Life Skill

While we focus on the various school components, we equip students with English competencies beyond school exam needs

Small Classes with a Healthy Teacher-Student Ratio

Where each child’s strengths and weaknesses are addressed personally, because no child is a faceless digit

Rigorous and Engaging Curriculum Developed In-House

Through the expertise of the directors who have each written and supervised English curriculum across all academic levels, and headed the English curriculum department at The Learning Lab since its inception till their departure in 2011

Our belief is that children should be empowered with tools and strategies to excel in today’s world of escalating expectations. Yet, learning should be a joy, and children should always be inculcated with self-belief, and pride in execution and quality of work. That is why Creative Campus was founded: as an oasis where youths are inspired and empowered to learn with latitude.

Reserve Your Child's Spot Today
Attentive and Efficient Operations Team. Well-versed in addressing parental concerns and enquiries

Creative Campus: Learning with Latitude

#14-07/08 Far East Shopping Centre
Next to Wheelock Place

Registered with the Ministry of Education
UEN: 201023391W

Tel: 64553063

www.creativecampus.com.sg

  • Prime Location on Orchard Road. We are located at Far East Shopping Centre, which is a mere three to five minute walk from Orchard MRT Station. Ample parking and numerous bus services
  • Ample parking and numerous bus services
  • Outside the ERP zone