The 2025 PSLE English Oral examination began with the updated English Language syllabus in effect, and all attention was on the Stimulus-Based Conversation (SBC) section. For many Primary 6 students, Day 1 brought both nerves and opportunities to shine.
In this blog post, we unpack the format of SBC under the 2025 changes, highlight the key themes from Day 1, and offer strategic advice to help your child respond with confidence. We’ve also included sample model responses for each SBC question so you can review and practise with your child. All model responses are available in full video format on our YouTube channel.
What Is Stimulus-Based Conversation (SBC)?
Students must:
• Express opinions and share personal experiences
• Respond appropriately to follow-up questions
• Maintain fluency, clear pronunciation, and appropriate grammar
This is not a test of memorised answers. Instead, SBC rewards students who can think on their feet and communicate clearly and meaningfully.
Exam Format Recap:
• Preparation time: 5 minutes (with the stimulus)
• Exam time: About 5 minutes of live interaction
Picture Stimulus: The picture showed an ice cream kiosk right outside a mall with several people queueing.
Q1: Do you think this is a good place to set up an ice cream store?
Model Response:
Yes, I think this is a great place to set up an ice cream store because it attracts many potential customers, appeals to a wide range of people, and is very conveniently located.
To begin with, the picture shows a steady flow of people walking past the shop. More people passing by means a higher chance of sales. In addition, the mall setting draws shoppers of all ages like families, students and office workers, all of whom might enjoy a quick treat. On top of that, being right at the entrance makes it easy for people to grab ice cream on the go, even if they are not planning to shop in the mall.
I remember visiting a similar ice cream store outside a busy mall during the school holidays. Even those who were just passing by stopped for a cone or cup. The colourful displays and sweet smell made it hard to resist, and the queue hardly stopped moving.
All in all, with its high visibility, variety of customers, and easy accessibility, the location in the picture would be ideal for an ice cream store.
Q2: Do you like to wait in long queues?
Model Response:
I generally do not enjoy waiting in long queues because it can be time-consuming, physically tiring, and a test of patience.
Firstly, long queues take up a lot of time that could be used for other activities. Secondly, standing for a long period can be tiring, especially if there are no seats nearby. Finally, queues can challenge one’s patience, as moving forward slowly requires self-control and a positive mindset.
For instance, I once queued for almost an hour to enter a popular science exhibition. Although the wait was long, I kept myself occupied by chatting with my friends and observing the interesting displays at the entrance. By the time we entered, I was glad we had persevered, but I still felt that the long wait had drained some of my energy.
In conclusion, while I can manage waiting in long queues when necessary, it is not something I particularly enjoy because of the time, effort, and patience required.
Q3: Do you think Singaporeans are orderly?
Model Response:
Yes, I think Singaporeans are generally orderly because they follow rules, respect public spaces, and queue patiently.
For one thing, many Singaporeans obey traffic rules and wait for the green man before crossing the road. This helps to keep everyone safe. In addition, our public spaces such as MRT stations and hawker centres are usually kept clean and tidy because most people dispose of their rubbish properly. On top of that, we Singaporeans are known for our queuing culture. Whether at bus stops, food stalls, or popular attractions, people line up calmly and wait for their turn.
For example, during the National Day Parade that I attended last year, thousands of people streamed into the stadium. Despite the huge crowd, everyone followed the ushers’ instructions, queued neatly for security checks, and found their seats without pushing. This made the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone.
In short, the way Singaporeans follow rules, keep public areas clean, and queue patiently shows that we are generally an orderly society.
👉 Want to watch the model answers in action? Visit our YouTube channel for the full video.
5 Smart Strategies to Tackle SBC with Confidence (PSLE English Oral Exam Tip)
1. Use a Response Framework (Example: PEEL)
Structure responses with:
• Point
• Example & Explanation
• Evidence
• Link back to the question
2. Practise Predicting Questions
After viewing a photo, ask yourself:
• What values does this promote?
• What experience do I have that relates to this?
• How would I react?
3. Vary Your Vocabulary
Common words like “good,” “fun,” or “happy” won’t impress. Use richer vocabulary:
• Rewarding, meaningful, memorable
• Appreciate, contribute, participate
4. Manage Your Nerves
Oral is a performance. Practise with:
• Classmates (mock SBC)
• Parents (daily conversation starters)
• Tutors or oral specialists
What Examiners Look For (Marking Bands)
Assessment Objectives:
AO2: Express personal opinions clearly and appropriately
AO3: Speak fluently with accurate pronunciation and grammar
High-scoring students:
✅ Develop answers thoughtfully
✅ Speak naturally, not like reading a script
✅Maintain eye contact and positive tone
How WRITERS AT WORK Prepares Students for SBC
At WRITERS AT WORK, our Comprehensive English Program include:
✅ SBC drills with trending visuals
✅ Oral technique coaching (MEET framework, tone control, eye contact)
✅ Exam simulation with experience teachers
We teach students to think deeply, speak authentically, and adapt quickly which are skills essential for SBC success.
Explore our Comprehensive English Programs or learn more about our Pure Composition Writing Programs that complements oral skills.
FAQs – PSLE English Oral Exam Tips
Q1: What is the biggest mistake students make in SBC?
Giving one-liner answers or not responding with clear, easy to understand structure. The exam rewards spontaneous, thoughtful conversation.
Q2: How should my child practise at home?
Choose a daily photo, discuss the theme, and practise using the PEEL format to build fluency and confidence.
Q3: Are PSLE oral scores important?
Answer: Yes. Oral makes up 20% of the overall English grade and can be a game-changer.
At WRITERS AT WORK, we believe oral excellence is built on reflection, practice, and real engagement. With our proven SBC strategies and experienced coaching, your child will not just prepare for the PSLE. They’ll speak with impact.
