Download Points to note for DSE English Exam

Points to note for DSE English Exam
Paper 1 (Reading)
Part A:
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Grammar rules (tenses, parts of speech, prepositions)
Part B2:
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MC, True/ False/ Not Given ✓
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Matching ✓
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Fill in the blanks: pay attention to grammar (e.g. countable and uncountable
nouns, parts of speech)
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Look for context clues to help with understanding of passage (e.g. footnote)
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For long questions, read between the lines and answer with your understanding.
Pay attention to grammar
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Infer (guess) the meaning of the vocabs if you are not familiar with them
Paper 2 (Writing)
Part A:
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Write clearly and concisely
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Cater to register, tone, and style
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Follow required format
Part B:
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Do a 10- minute drafting
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Write clearly and coherently
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Organise paragraphs well
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Use a variety of vocabs with accurate meanings
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Cater to register, tone, and style (appropriacy). Use formal style.
Do not use exaggerated phrases.
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*Pay attention to grammar (tenses, parts of speech, spelling, capital letter)
Paper 3 (Integrated Skills)
Part A:
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Must follow grammar rules (parts of speech, tenses, etc.)
Part B:
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Skim through the situation and tasks
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Highlight the points in the data file in 10 – 15 minutes
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Follow required format
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Report: subheadings (match problem with recommendation)
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Proposal: subheadings
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Speech: Begin with greeting (Hello ladies and gentlemen/ everyone!),
Introduction (Today I will talk about...), provide background, end with ‘Thank
you!’
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Email: Subject (Re: main points), sender’s name on bottom left
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Letter: Begin with ‘I am writing to (inform/ inquire/ apply/ complain etc.) …'
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Cater to register, tone, and style (appropriacy)
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Pay attention to grammar
Other tips:
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Bring some extra pens and highlighters
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Follow time-management
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Read the questions and answer them carefully
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Relax and have confidence
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Wish you all the best!
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