What Is the O-Level Summary Question?
In Paper 2 of the O-Level English examination, the summary question usually appears in the non-narrative comprehension section. You will be tasked with reading a specified portion of a passage—often spanning 25 to 30 lines—and summarizing the key information in your own words. This might involve focusing on causes, effects, methods, or specific examples.
The summary must adhere to a strict word limit, typically 80 words. This means every sentence matters, and your ability to identify and paraphrase the most important points is crucial.
1. What point should I begin the paragraph with?
2. What are the focal points of the paragraph?
3. What tenses must I write the paragraph with?
Step-by-Step Approach
Once you’ve listed the key points, rewrite them in your own words. Paraphrasing is an essential skill tested in the summary question. To do this well, use synonyms, restructure sentences, and simplify complex ideas. We coach students to develop a robust vocabulary and practice rephrasing techniques to ensure they meet the examiners’ expectations.
Common Grammatical Errors to Watch For
- Tense Consistency: Ensure that the verb tenses align with the context of the passage. For instance, if the passage describes past events, the verbs should be in the past tense unless indicating a general truth or a future event.
Example: “We all wore red and white clothes and sit (sat) down in our seats.” Explanation: The verb “sit” is in the present tense, while the context indicates a past event. It should be corrected to “sat” to maintain tense consistency.
- Subject-Verb Agreement: The verb must agree in number with its subject. A singular subject requires a singular verb, typically ending in ‘s’, while a plural subject requires a plural verb.
Example: “This allow (allows) those waiting for a flight to visit many beautiful places such as the rooftop Cactus Garden and the large Koi Pond.” Explanation: The subject “This” is singular; therefore, the verb should be “allows” to agree with the singular subject.
- Nouns, Adjectives, and Adverbs: Ensure that words are used in their correct forms. A common error involves using an adjective where an adverb is needed, or vice versa.
Example: “She sings beautiful (beautifully).” Explanation: The word “beautiful” is an adjective, but an adverb is required to describe the verb “sings.” Therefore, it should be “beautifully.”
- Pronoun Consistency: Pronouns must agree in number and gender with the nouns they replace. Additionally, ensure that the antecedent of each pronoun is clear to avoid ambiguity.
Example: “Each of the boys must bring their (his) own lunch.” Explanation: “Each” is singular, so the pronoun should be “his” to maintain agreement.
- Logical Connectors: Ensure that conjunctions and transitional phrases accurately reflect the relationship between ideas. Misusing connectors can lead to logical inconsistencies within the passage.
Example: “She was tired, but (and) she went to bed early.” Explanation: The conjunction “but” suggests a contrast that doesn’t exist here. The correct connector is “and.”
Practice and Application
To enhance your Editing skills, consider the following practices:
- Regular Practice: Consistently work on Editing exercises to familiarize yourself with common error types and improve your detection skills.
- Grammar Reviews: Regularly review grammar rules, focusing on areas where you commonly make mistakes.
- Peer Review: Practice editing passages written by peers. This exercise can provide new perspectives on common errors and improve your analytical skills.
- Mock Examinations: Simulate exam conditions by timing yourself while completing Editing sections. This practice can help improve your speed and accuracy under pressure.
By understanding common error types and employing effective strategies, you can enhance your ability to identify and correct mistakes, thereby improving your performance in this section. Remember, attention to detail and a methodical approach are key to achieving a perfect score.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
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WRITERS AT WORK is an excellent option to help your child prepare for their English Language classes at school at any level. WRITERS AT WORK teaches students how to write compositions which are the basic building blocks for all communication, whether it be in school or outside in the workplace.
3. What Skills Should an English Tutor Have?
