November 2012 MUET Reading 800/3 sample answers

Heya peeps... proud to announce that this time round the MUET reading paper seems more straightforward and less ambiguous. The bad news is that if it is too easy, they might have to adjust the results so that it follows the proper bell curve hence getting a high band becomes more difficult.. haha but let's not worry our lil heads abt this.

Here are MY answers, feel free to leave a comment to query it below, and candidates feel free to agree or disagree with one another.

1. A (more hours put in the better)
2. B (strike a better balance)
3. A
4. B (decrease)
5. A (inferred - support for less face time increased)
6. B (refer to 2nd last line)
7. C (no mention)
8. B (Its findings and THOSE OF OTHER RESEARCH REPORTS)
9. A
10. C (No comparison given)
11. A
12. B
13. B (other two choices are not possible)
14. C (reduce)
15. B
16. C
17. A (allies)
18. A
19. B
20. B (overblown)
21. B (innocent of all charges)
22. A
23. A
24. B
25. C
26. C
27. C
28. B
29. C
30. D
31. C (resonate)
32. D
33. A (adverse - negative)
34. C
35. B
36. C
37. A
38. D
39. D
40. B
41. C (focus is more on water)
42. C (abuse)
43. D
44. A
45. D


 

How to boost MUET students' critical thinking skills

I've received a few messages and emails from fellow MUET teachers about how to increase their students' performance in the writing paper... It would seem that in the July 2012 paper, even the good students did not manage to get 40 marks and beyond (out of 90) for writing.

So every year, one of my MUST-DO lessons is to analyse the Budget Highlights and extract what can be used as back-up in the MUET academic writing question. 

 

Step 1: Before the budget is tabled, give each student a sub-topic to listen out for. ( defence, education, pensioners, youths, sports, taxation, rural development, agriculture, govt servants, environment, SMEs, transportation, scholarship, toursim, health, etc)

Step 2: Students make notes of their sub-topic while listening to the budget or referring to online reports after the budget is announced. 

Step 3: Each student writes out a short paragraph to link general essay topics to specific aspect of the budget. 

Step 4: Students compile a table with as many sample paragraphs as possible. 

Enrichment: Get students to write an academic essay and tell them you will award bonus marks for as many aspects of the budget they can incorporate in their essays.

 

Example paragraph:

The government is serious about helping our society especially through Budget 2013 that was recently tabled. One of the main aspects in which this budget is able to achieve the theme of 'Promises Fulfilled' is through education. Next year's budget is a continuation of last year's effort to help ease the burden of parents and students throughout the country by giving each school-going child RM100 and tertiary education students RM250 book vouchers in order to prepare them for the schooling year ahead. This indeed proves that our Prime Minister is serious about raising the standard of life of each citizen so they may concentrate better on education and producing high quality human capital to drive the country towards greater progress.

 

Anyway.. below is the highlights I got from Bernama published in NST.

Tell me how this activity went with your students if you are a MUET teacher.

If you are a student, please write a sample paragraph of your choice in the comment section below and i will help you to improve your writing. :P

 

 

DOWNLOADED FROM NST:

 

Following are the highlights of the 2013 Budget tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who is also Finance Minister, at the Dewan Rakyat today. The Budget 2013 themed "Prospering The Nation, Enhancing Well-Being of the Rakyat: A Promise Fullfilled"

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak presents the 2013 Budget in Parliament. NSTP/Aizuddin Saad

 

* Economic growth projected to expand 4.5 per cent to 5.5 per cent.

* Nominal GDP expected to surpass RM1 trillion.

* Federal Government's revenue in 2013 is estimated to increase to RM208.6 billion.

* Pivate sector investment is to increase to RM148.4 billion.

* RM251.6 billion allocated for the implementation of development projects, programmes and measures, with focus on the well-being of the rakyat and national development.

* RM201.9 billion is for Operating Expenditure while RM49.7 billion for Development Expenditure.

* RM58.6 billion allocated for Emoluments dan RM33.7 billion for Supplies and Services.

* RM3 billion to implement Entry Point Projects
* RM1 billion for Domestic Investment Strategic Fund under Malaysian Investment Development Authority to leverage on outsourcing opportunities and intensify technology acquisition by Malaysia-owned companies

* RM1 billion SME Development Fund under SME Bank
* SME Bank and Islamic Development Bank (IDB) to provide RM200 million to Halal Industry Fund to finance working capital of participating SMEs

* RM16 million a year group insurance scheme for registered hawkers and small businesses for coverage of up to RM5,000

* Perbadanan Nasional Bhd to provide soft loans of up to RM25,000 for licensees and RM500,000 for licensors under Business In Transformation programme

* Investment Tax Allowance of 100 per cent for a period of 10 years for qualified companies involved in refinery activities on petroleum products

* Global Incentive for Trading (GIFT) programme is enhanced with 100 per cent income tax exemption on statutory income for first three years of operation

* Expenses for issuance of AgroSukuk given double deduction for a period of four years from year of assessment 2012 to 2015

* DanaInfra Nasional Bhd to issue retail bonds worth RM300 million by end-2012 to finance MERT development projects

* RM30 billion allocated to the economic sector for infrastructure, industrial, agriculture and rural development.

* RM11.1 billion allocated to the social sector including education and training, health welfare, housing and community development.

* RM4.6 billion allocated for the development of the Security Sector, RM2 billion General Administration and RM2 billion for Contigencies.
* The Government will continue to accelerate the implementation of the 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs).

* RM3 billion allocated for the implementation of Entry Points Projects (EPPs), including RM1.5 billion for agriculture projects such as oil palm, rubber, high-value herbs and paddy.

* Additional expenses incurred in issuance of retail bonds and retail sukuk to be given double deduction for a period of four years from year of assessment 2012 to 2015

* Individual investors given stamp duty exemption on instruments relating to transactions of retail bonds and retail sukuk

* Securities Commission to introduce Graduate Representative Programme in collaboration with private sector to train 1,000 graduates to meet needs of securities and derivatives industry

* Danajamin Nasional Bhd to get additional RM400 million for next two years, to multiply issuance value between RM4 billion and RM6 billion

* RM100 million to be provided to Capital Market Foundation through Capital Market Development Fund under the Securities Commission

* Allocation of RM75 million to increase the output of food and health products.

* For the plantation sector, RM432 million is allocated under the NKEA for oil palm replanting programmes. * RM127 million is allocated for the development of high-value oleo derivatives to transform the downstream industry towards higher production of derivatives.

* Four new paddy granaries will be developed and expanded in Kota Belud, Batang Lupar, Rompin and Pekan. ith an expanditure of RM140 million, the four new paddy granaries with acreage of 19,000 hectares and involving 12,237 farmers are expected to produce 104,000 tonnes.

* RM230 million to be provided as incentive for fish landing as well as payment for living allowances for the fishermen. Currently, the Government provides a living allowance of RM200 per month, an incentive ranging from 10 to 20 sen per kilogramme and the introduction of Fishermen Insurance Scheme.

* RM2.4 billion is allocated to provide subsidies and incentives to assist farmers in reducing cost of production. The assistance comprises subsidies and incentives for paddy production including subsidies on paddy rice (RM480 million), paddy fertilisers (RM465 million); incentives to increase paddy yield (RM80 million), paddy production (RM563 million) and subsidies on price of rice (RM528 million) and high-quality paddy seeds (RM85 million).

* Introducing a Paddy Takaful Coverage Scheme to benefit 172,000 paddy farmers who own fields less than 10 hectares. The Government will initially allocate RM50 million for this scheme.

* RM41 million to be provided for the Azam Tani project to benefit 6,730 of the poors to increase their income.

* A sum of RM38.7 is allocated to the Ministry of Education for operating and development expenditure.

* An additional allocation of RM500 million to enhance teaching skills in core subjects such Bahasa Malaysia, English, Science and Mathematics through the Higher Order Thinking Skills approach.

* RM6 billion to be allocated under the Private Financing Initiatives (PFI2) to implement projects and programmes to ensure well-being of people and spur nation's development, including refurbishment and maintenance of schools
and health clinics; housing, water tank and flood mitigation projects; and provision of sports facilities

* RM1.9 billion to be allocated to build 123,000 affordable housing units in strategic locations, to be implemented by PR1MA, Syarikat Perumahan Nasional Bhd and Jabatan Perumahan Negara

* Real property gains tax (RPGT) from disposal of properties made within two years of date of purchase to be taxed at between 15 per cent and 10 per cent of disposal of property within a period of two to five years. For property
disposed of after five years from the date of acquisition, RPGT is not applicable

* RM100 million to be allocated to Housing and Local Government Ministry to revive 30 abandoned housing projects, and tax incentives to private sector to encourage its involvement in reviving the projects

Read more: 2013 Budget Highlights UPDATE - Latest - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/latest/2013-budget-highlights-font-color-red-update-font-1.149645#ixzz28695vioQ


From Malaysiakini:

Macro

• Total expenditure – RM249.7 bil, down 1.1 percent, but 7.2 percent higher than 2012 initial budget

• Deficit – Expected to go down by 0.5% to 4% in 2013. Target is to reach 3 percent by 2015

• Federal government debt 2012 – RM502.4 bil (highest in history) or 53.7 percent (highest since early 1990s)

• Government revenue RM208.6 bil, up RM1.4 bil

• Government estimated to have overspent RM19.6 bil in 2012

Small and medium industries

• RM1 bil SME development scheme

• Group insurance for petty traders with maximum RM5,000 coverage

• New loan facilities for petty traders

Tourism

• Target for Visit Malaysia Year 2013/2014: 26.8 mil tourist

• Three-year tax holiday for tourism companies handing 750 foreign tourists and 1,500 local tourists.

Agriculture

• RM705 mil for replanting, technology development, smallholder assistance and product development, particularly for oil palm.

• RM200 monthly allowance, 10 to 20 sen/kilo income support and up to RM100,000 coverage for fishermen

• RM2.4 bil in subsidies and incentives for rice plantations.

Commerce

• 10-year tax holiday for Tun Razak Exchange companies, expected to attract 250 companies related to finance sector

• Skim Jaminan Modal Kerja expanded for companies with shareholdings worth RM20 mil, and offered up to Dec 31, 2013

• RM350 mil for entreprenuers under TEKUN programme, including RM50 mil for the Indian community

• SME Bank bumiputera fund – RM1 bil

• Bumiputera equity holding up: 23%

Education and labour

• RM1 bil to improve school infrastructure

• RM1.2 bil for pre-schools under government programmes including Permata

• RM10,000 launching grants for private pre-school operators

• Five-year tax holiday and building allowance for pre-school operators

• Six pilot pre-schools for the disabled

• RM3.7 bil for vocational training

• Additional allocation of RM500 million for training of teachers in core subjects: Bahasa Malaysia, English, Science and Maths

• Free health checks, twice a year, for Perkeso members

Research and development

• RM600 million R&D grants for five universities. Focus: Nanotechnology, automotive, bio-technology and aerospace technology

• Tax holiday for research and development investment (10-year tax holiday for statutory earnings)

• RM2 billion for green technology scheme

Pensioners and senior citizens

• Minimum pension for those who served at least 25 years up from RM720 to RM820.

• 50 percent off passport fees for senior citizens starting Jan 2013

Armed forces

• RM200 a month incentives for armed forces personnel

• Allowance hike from RM4.00 to RM7.80 an hour for reserve corps and territorial army

• One-off payment of RM1,000 for army veterans who served for at least 21 years, where 224,000 will qualify.

• Insurance coverage of up to RM15,000 for police and army.

Crime

• RM591 million for crime prevention

• 1,000 motorcycles for the police neighbourhood patrol unit.

• Additional 10,000 volunteer police

• 496 CCTV in 25 local councils

• RM10,000 grants for neighbourhood associations for patrols

• New uniforms for 300,000 Rela members

• Incentives for companies that install security systems

• Additional 150 staff for Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC)

• RM20 million for legal aid

Rural development

• RM88 million for Orang Asli development

• 40,000 water tanks for those in the interiors of Sabah and Sarawak

• 19,000 homes to get electricity and 24,000 homes to get tap water

• 441 kilometers of new rural roads

Health

• RM100 million to improve 350 government clinics

• 70 more Klinik 1Malaysia to be established, increasing total number to 240.

Youth and sports

• Velodrom in Seremban, Negri Sembilan and a Badminton Academy in Bukit Kiara,Kuala Lumpur

• Subsidy of two percent of interest rates business loans for young entrepreneurs for loans up to RM100,000

• RM200 rebate for smart phone purchase for those aged 21 to 30 years.

Public transport

• Half price Komunter fares for those earning less than RM3,000 a month.

• Formation of RapidKuantan.

Housing

• Affordable housing – 123,000 units to be built, in areas such as Sungai Buloh and seremban

• First home scheme – income cap raised from RM3,000 to RM5,000. Join income limit is RM10,000. Applies only for houses below RM400,000

• Up to 50 percent stamp duty exemption for first home owners until Dec 14, 2014

• Real property gains tax (RPGT) for properties sold within two years of purchase raised to 15%; 2-5 years 10%. No RPGT for properties sold five years after purchase

• Tax breaks and incentives for contractors and banks who offer loans to contractors to revive abandoned housing projects. Original buyers of abandoned projects will be exempted from stamp duty for loan refinancing or ownership transfer agreements

Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia (BR1M 2.0)

• RM500 cash for households with combined income of RM3,000 or less

• RM250 cash for unmarried individuals who are 21 and above and earning RM2,000 and below

• Disbursement – Early 2013

Subsidi cuts

• Sugar prices to increase as a result of subsidy cuts by RM0.20. New prices are RM2.50 per kilo for Peninsular Malaysia and RM2.60 per kilo for Sabah and Sarawak.

Tax cuts

• 1% tax reduction for those with a taxable income of RM2,500 to RM50,000

• Tax cuts for corporations

Students

• RM10,000 rebates and 2% interest subsidy on loans to purchase new school buses, to replace buses which are 25 years or more. (Capacity 12 to 18 seats)

• RM2.6 bil in welfare aid for schoolchildren

• One-off payment of RM100 for each primary and secondary school student
• Book voucher worth RM250 for tertiary education students

• 20% discount for National Higher Education Fund (PTPTN) loans for those who pay off the entire amount outstanding (valid until Sept 30, 2013)

• 10% discount for PTPTN loan repayment for those who pay consistently

• 100 neighbourhood internet centres

Civil service bonus

• One and a half month bonus, disbursed in three months.

Women, family and community

• 500 women trained as board members under Women Directors’ Programme.

• The Single Mothers Skills Incubator Programme (I-Kit) will be improved to provide advisory services and training for single mothers in entrepreneurship.

• RM1,000 for Get Malaysian Business Online Programme (GMBO) to assist small entrepreneurs, particularly women, to increase online sales.

• RM25,000 for free mammogram examination for women, aged 40 and above.

• RM1.2 billion to 1Malaysia Welfare Programme (Kar1sma) under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. To assist senior citizens, children and disabled workers as well as chronic illnesses.

• RM400 million for 1Azam or Akhiri Zaman Miskin programme for the low-income group to generate income. Programmes under this initiative are Azam Kerja, Azam Tani, Azam Niaga and Azam Khidmat.

• Six more Anjung Singgah centres for senior citizens, street children and those who need temporary shelter. Five Anjung Kasih in Sibu, Miri, Temerloh, Seremban and Ipoh hospitals for poor patients or family members.

Credit to: Malaysiakini

July 2012 MUET Writing 800/4 : What went wrong and how to solve it

Hiya...

Ok.. I've gotten a lot of feedback abt the July 2012 MUET results and basically the results are dire. That means that the entire country did badly this time round because the answers were not accurate enough according to MPM's requirement.

Here's a lowdown from my discussion with various people.

Writing:
For Q1:
Apparently, you can only talk about the 2010 data in the first stimulus because the second stimulus has only 2010 data... therefore, if you include the other info then it would mean that your report content is irrelevant. You must also LINK both stimuli and show the correspondence between the data without giving your own assumptions.

Any examiners out there to verify this?

For Q2:
Most students ended up telling grandfather tales about the BENEFITS co-curricular activities rather than talking about their opinion (agree? disagree?) about CO-CURRICULUM PARTICIPATION AS AN ENTRY REQUIREMENT FOR UNIVERSITIES. Therefore they have skewed way off the main road... and into the ditch and sewer.

Would anyone like to write a sample essay and email to me so I can show everyone what a good essay looks like?


Anyway... if you would like to try, here is another essay topic.... even if you dont write the essay.. think about the 3 key issues...

Young people should be encouraged to join community service. Discuss.

Think very carefully abt the points so that you do not veer out of context. List down the 3 aspects by leaving a comment and i will tell you if you're on the right path or falling off the cliff. :P


Cheerios!


ANSWERS:
If you write about the general benefits of community service you are not answering the question. Zoom in on the word 'YOUNG' and it will become clearer. Give at least 3 reasons why the young people should be the one who takes part in community service.

Your answers should discuss at least 3 of the following:
1. youngsters are physically more energetic, healthy and can achieve more when involved in com service such as planting mangrove trees in protected wetlands etc.
2. young people have fresher and more invigorating ideas to do community service in an effective way, e.g. go green campaigns using ICT/twitter etc. to spread info and gather supporters
3. youths can use the experience to polish skills and for character building. Community service instils good time management, punctuality, softskills, proactiveness etc.
4. the younger generation in general has less burdens and responsibilities like family, career, debts etc. so they can take more active roles in community service including doing overseas volunteerism with MERCY Malaysia.. etc.
5. the young today are the future leaders of Malaysia so taking lead roles in community service like donation drives, running charity bazaars and dinners will give them priceless leadership experiences.

To pass the writing paper with flying colours you need to think above and beyond the norm. You have to show critical thinking skills and give valid and concrete examples to prove your point. Zoom in on the keyword in the question in order to achieve a high band....

DOES ANYONE WANT TO SUBMIT THIS ESSAY TO ME? I'LL TRY TO FIND TIME TO GRADE IT!

 

MUET SEMINARS SEPT 2012

My SMK Pengiran Omar, Sipitang course participants... what a fun bunch!

 

My largest seminar ever! More than 600 students participated in my MUET course... truly impressed with the admin and the enthusiasm of the students in the Kota Kinabalu Politeknik Campus.

I heart you all esp. Ms. Anna Alicia for organising!

 

 

 

These are the recent MUET seminars I've run recently. I've actually been overwhelmed by PMR & SPM courses (students and teachers!) as these two exams are also around the corner. Suffice to say that I've been a very busy bee lately... and I truly hope that whatever I share and keep sharing will benefit everyone and be for the greater good.

 

God bless and hope you will excel in your exams! 

Results are out... pls check!

Check your results in the MPM link here

I would like someone to compare their reading answers with my answers and pls calculate if my answers are same as MPM's or how many questions difference... If you understand what I mean, pls email me or reply here.. so that I know if my answers are reliable enough. If the difference is only 1- 3 questions out, then still reliable.. and if more than that i would be quite worried. :P After all, my answers are just mine, MPM's questions are really tricky!

Anyway, let me know if you have good news! Pls post here so I can celebrate with you or give you encouragement for the next time!
 

MUET July 2012 Report Sample: REVISED

Before looking at the answers try the questions yourself first! Click on this link to get the 

Muet July 2012 Reading & Writing Questions

Primary & Secondary School Enrolment in 3 Regions

              Table 1 depicts the school enrolment by region while Figure 1 shows a bar graph of income level by region. In general, school enrolment corresponds directly to the income level of each region whereby developed countries with higher income have much higher enrolment compared to under-developed countries.

              Based on both stimuli, it can be concluded that school enrolment is greatly affected by income level. Developed countries such as USA with an impressive 85% high income level are the only regions to achieve 100% enrolment in primary school for 2010 while secondary school enrolment achieved a near-perfect 99%. Developing countries such as Thailand which enjoy 80% middle and high income levels in 2010 show a relatively high school enrolment for primary school (90%) and secondary school (82%). Finally, under-developed countries such as Myanmar with majority low income and only a marginal 5% are affluent has directly affected the poor enrolment rates with only 62% enrolment in primary schools and a low of 27% for secondary schools for 2010.

             In conclusion, the rate of school enrolment is directly related to the affluence level of the region where countries that are under-developed and poor have poor school enrolment both for primary and secondary.

What do you think of my answer? :) Similar to yours?
* Take note that the data for 2006 and 2008 is disregarded because it is irrelevant to the report. This is one reason cited by examiners why the July results dropped drastically.

               

MUET JULY 2102 Reading 800/3... My attempted answers... (not MPM's)

Click here for the link to Muet July Reading Paper

Try out the questions yourself first before looking at mine!! hehe

Ok guys... here's mine... but it is not conclusive. Based on feedback, I might change the answers. So get the ball rolling and leave a comment k.. :P

Reading July 2012

1. B (No, it does not answer the question 'why') *revised answer based on feedback

2. A (variety = diversity)

3. C (step up advertising to be more visible, cheaper is not mentioned)

4. A (eg. tobacco)

5. B (false because least affected is staple foods which is consistent)

6. A (brit n usa hv lower brand loyalty, more likely to switch)

7. B (false because it is not the highest for USA)

8. A (yes they are longer, however i dont like the way they worded this sentence, sounds like a trick to me as an inactive lifestyle shortens it, but it doesnt say that an active lifestyle makes it longer. so i would even go with B or C... what do u guys think?)

9. B (false because they were raised together)

10. B (false because they aimed to prove that inactivity leads to diseases and MAY influence ageing, paragraph 1) [u guys chose A right? maybe... maybe not!]

11. A (inconclusive because it doesn't apply to all)

12. B (promotes reg phy activity)

13. C (sample means the respondents to the survey)

14. C (cautious because he says more research is needed)

15. B (he can still improve by pausing longer before turning his head)

16. A (compare n contrast... on the one hand.. on the other etc.)

17. C (without cliche phrases..)

18. B (skilfully = deftly)

19. A (is short of = lacks)

20. B (a more noticeable drawback...)

21. B (analyse his presentation skills)
22. C (children learn, adults apply what they learnt)
23. B (terrific at planning and doing = acting)
24. A (most powerful brain altering technology - school)
25. B (focus on apprenticeship)
26. B (it has extended childhood and delayed mastery)
27. C (argues because he is voicing both sides of the coin)
28. C (no balance, i agree as the first two are definitely wrong)
29. B (a dilemma echoed through the two final questions)
30. B (yes, it depends on the type of fish)
31. D (yes, their measurement was based on how much primary production is needed to make a pound of a type of fish)
32. A (world's biggest seafood print)
33. C (unsustainable = beyond its capacity)
34. D (data that shows it may not be as over-exploited as expected)
35. D (farmed fish are fed with fish from the sea)
36. C (reduce fleets, no catch zones)
37. C (eat tilapia, not salmon)
38. D (no mention of online vs offline friends)
39. B (popular impression = held by most)
40. C (looks very similar to youths in the 1970s)
41. B (he accessed the info on the spot)
42. D (youths used technology to show altruism - helping others)
43. B (II & III are definitely false)
44. C (we view the bad news without feeling anything - insensitive)
45. C (refered to a lot of studies/research)

So guys... how did you do?
To get your component mark:
YOUR RESULT X 120 / 45 = /120

To get your prediction band mark:
YOUR RESULT X 300 / 45 = /300

B1= 0 - 99
B2 = 100 - 139
B3 = 140 - 179
B4 = 180 - 219
B5 = 220 - 259
B6 = 260 - 300

So ... r u happy or not? :P

MUET JULY 2012 ... I can help you pass.. :P

Guys... I hv no time to update my blog recently, but I believe that everything u need to know abt this exam is in my archive.

In the search box.. type
1. GRAMMAR for a grammar quickfix explanation and try out the test!
2. ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT REPORT WRITING... for the latest tips
3. SAMPLE MUET ESSAYS for a collection of essays that will help you get band 3 and above (u hv to write better than me to get band 6)
4. SCRIBD .. for uploaded documents (past year reading/writing questions)
5. POWERPOINT SLIDES for my seminar slides which are ALREADY UPLOADED ON GOOGLE DOCS SO U CAN REVISE ON YOUR OWN (STOP ASKING ME TO SEND TO YOUR EMAIL COS I WONT!)

anyway, fingers crossed for all of you.... sorry if i didnt answer and emails. too busy right now with so much on my plate. plate is piling u high!!!!

as soon as exam is over, pls scan and upload to scribd so i can come up with a set of answers for reading and writing (Q1 n 2). my students r not taking this exam so i hv no access to the questions. 


cheers!

The power of MUET Exhibitions

I'd like to blog about doing exhibitions as part of your MUET syllabus. I've used this technique quite often in my classes... and if you've followed my development over the last few years, you will find that the MUET Colloquium competition which was my brainchild has successfully become an annual event in Sabah.

Anyway, what is the long and short of it?
For MUET teachers, the world is your oyster. You can get the students to do virtually any kind of presentation on powerpoint. For the sample shown below, I realised that most Sabahans and especially school students have no clue about what makes Sabah truly a world class destination so I got my sixth formers to do a "I Love Sabah" campaign. They each prepared 10 slides for their individual project (you can get them to work in pairs as well) with pictures, videos etc on any aspect of the theme. My students worked on 1. Festivals of Sabah, 2. Famous events of Sabah, 3. Endemic animals of Sabah, 4. Eco-tourism in Sabah & so on. 

STEP 1: Select a theme.
STEP 2: Students prepare and practice their powerpoint and 'sales pitch'
STEP 3: Decide on an exhibition date and time. Prepare petition form and doorgifts.
STEP 4: Carry out the exhibition and get as many signatures to support their cause.
STEP 5: Reflect on the challenges/benefits/success of this activity.

In my opinion, this is a great activity to break up the chalk and talk routine, and to give students a chance to use the language in a purposeful and very authentic way.

Just some ideas, you could get them to do awareness campain exhibitions like recycling, organ donation, blood donation, reduce plastics etc...

Or you could get them to develop a product/service for their own company and set up booths to find investors or sell the product. This I did with my adult learners in college and they were great, creating banners and buntings and 'fighting' for investors, all the while making good use of the English language.

Anyway, if you do carry out an exhibition using this as a guideline, please let me know the outcome. :P

   

Even teachers dropped by to have a look at the exhibition.

The ex-form 6 senior assistant and the current one giving their support to this exhibition.

One of my presenters with her powerpoint and bookmarks.

Look at all the lovely effort put into the free doorgifts to attract visitors.

The petition form, they promised to visit and experience all Sabah has to offer before they retire. :P

Students enjoyed stopping by during their recess time just to learn more about the campaign.

 My adult learners with their exhibition booth... they even paid for a bunting and provided drinks and jellies with the company sticker, plus namecards. Like I said, the world is your oyster!

I think it was a success.. what do you think? :P



2ND SABAH INTERSCHOOL MUET COLLOQUIUM

So proud that the 2nd MUET colloquium was successfully organised and you can see from the newspaper spread that it was very well received. Lots of schools took part this year (9) compared to last year's 6. The theme this year was English & Technology. Hopefully, if I dream big enough, I will get to organise it for the 3rd time next year. Schools in Sabah have been advised to do research related to next year's theme: "Fun with English"

Anyway congrats to KK High for winning almost all the wards, to SMK Bandaraya for grabbing 2nd place and 3rd place goes to SM All Saints. :P 

MY 100TH POST ON MUET!

WOW!!! I can't believe that I've posted 100 times now on this blog.. haha.. and that I have so many followers. Thank god for blessing me that I am able to share with students and teachers all over the Malaysia about this interesting and very challenging topic. Anyway, just wanted to drop by and wish everyone taking speaking tomorrow good luck. For those who attended my courses, please use the quadrant (divide the paper into four parts) and write your 3 points using arrow up (reasons) and arrow down (examples). If you dont know what i'm talking about, look up the powerpoint slides on speaking which i uploaded here in the archives. thos who keep asking for the slides, i'm tired to telling everyone to please check the blog archive because i already google document it! hehe.. anyway.. speak confidently and dont stop until the examiner asks u to. good luck all!

Oh n here is a recent pic from my course at Uni Tun Hussien Onn... Batu Pahat, Johore... tqtqtqtqtqqtqtqtq so much for inviting me, I had a blast! 

2nd Sabah Interschool MUET Colloquium 2012

Essay question for you to try: 

"A country's development is dependent on national unity." Discuss in no less than 350 words. 

***

Time has flown by again and the next MUET exam is around the corner. I've not managed to do much with my blog but I hope everything that I've uploaded in the ARCHIVES are still relevant and great samples especially for Bands 3 & 4. If you hope to achieve a higher band, you will definitely need to demonstrate an extensive vocabulary and that your language/grammar is pristine. The speaking part you have to show confidence, maturity and ability to elaborate well with good examples. Anyway, if there are any out there who can send me their essays, I'll happily grade it for you and you can know your band. However, I doubt if I have much time to edit word for word.

Right, so tomorrow is the big day for the 2nd Sabah Interschool MUET Colloquium 2012 and I'm very excited about this. This year we have 9 schools from all around the state participating and this shows an improvement from last year where only 6 schools took part. Will upload pics and a report as soon as it is over, hopefully.... if I'm not drowned in work.

On Fri I shall be flying to Johor for the 2nd time to do a longer workshop with the students there. Thank you University Tun Hussien Onn, Batu Pahat for inviting me and I hope the speaking workshop on Fri night and the fully day workshop on Saturday will be worth your while. Thank you Mahfudzah and the committee for paying my passage and putting in the effort to run this course. Much appreciated. :P Ok so UTHO students.. look out for me! :P 

Anyone wants to send me a sample of March MUET writing question?

“Education is the most important factor in the development of a country.” Discuss.


The above is the question for the March MUET paper. I'm calling for sample essays to be sent to my queendrey@gmail.com email. I'll publish the entries which I think are useful as a point of reference or discussion.

Meanwhile, Kent Pee has sent me an essay which I've edited with notes on what were the lackings/errors he made. If you would like a copy you will have to email him politely (kentpee@hotmail.com) and get him to send it to you cos I'm too busy to send emails to anyone who requests. I've used microsoft word and the review format so I can't upload it properly.. even on scribd it doesn't show my comments. (go to this link: http://www.scribd.com/doc/94380415/As-in-Exam-Reviewed-by-Mdm-Audrey-Koh)

Anyway, waiting for sample essays before I write one myself. Happy studying, guys!

MUET March 2012 Report Writing Sample Answer

Finally! Someone finally took the trouble to email me a typed up copy of the March report. :P

Ah well, better late than never!

Anyway, I've uploaded to google docs, and you can see both samples there and decide for yourself which one is the higher band.

If you want to do effective self-study, discipline yourself to write first before you peek at the answers. Can you do that? Hahahaha.. I doubt. :P

https://docs.google.com/document/d/13rfwLuVoSdTXR5-kvai3ZSM9b89h-f2I4Z1imWZ8jlA/edit


Well tell me what you think. :P

By the way... any comments on the current speaking exam?

Compilation of Speaking questions for year end 2011

Thanks to fellow educator Kandasamy P. for providing me with the transcribed questions. Hope you guys can learn a thing or two from the type of questions given in these 12 sets used last year.


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1t4b9o5QoQKQFu1QDePUdrsNHKJvy5ef0HuyFqgxusnQ/edit

March 2012 MUET answers

Sorry been away n haven't had the time to help out much. Please someone upload the exam papers to scribd or similar so I can give u my answers which are usually quite reliable. Cheers guys n god bless!

March 2012 MUET Reading 800/3 answers

Here are my answers, I'm doing this as I save online, so you'll hv to be patient while I double check my own answers.

1. B (25 topics in total)
2. C (No evidence of media type)
3. B (Can be disproved by mention of UK, Asia Pacific Region etc.)
4. A (refer to linegraph)
5. B (shifted away from pro n anti to more balanced style)
6. B (revised answer: confirmed vs believed)
7. B (adult issue only)
8. B (nearly half, not all)
9. A (yes, refers to sedentary lifestyle)
10. A (yes, get up every half hr)
11. C (moving helps remove wastes)
12. A (contrary to popular belief...)
13. A (cause aching)
14. A (best choice although I think it's still questionable cos they said lying, but not lying for hours until ur back aches for lack of movement)
15. A (to show the huge difference/extent between the two scenarios)
16. C (pollution is a logical answer but NOT explicitly stated in the text)
17. B (main point is that there is not enough protection of the sea)
18. B (ridiculous way to restore fish stocks)
19. C (aquaculture)
20. C (increase fivefold by 2010)
21. C (negative note as there will be no fish left except in history class)
22. A (no dearth means no limit to the amount of advice, hence it can fill volumes)
23. B (unreliable variants)
24. B (A is definitely wrong, I agree with B because the results can be trusted and I disagree with C because there is no specific definition for 'right' as in who's right is really right?)
25. B (def not C, A could be right but I'm leaning towards the word 'inconclusive' because it stated that it 'has not been confirmed' and 'no one knows')
26. B (be skeptical)
27. C (bury = hide the truth = dishonest)
28. C (not hopeless)
29. B (explosion of knowledge based on more studies)
30. A (man has manipulated them for thousands of years)
31. C (the two are similar, hence can be seen as an extension)
32. D (no different in principle = similarities between the two)
33. D (quantum leap means a huge jump ahead = major advancement in this field)
34. C (definitely not A & B, so if u answered C or D it would b a better bet)
35. C (by giving examples)
36. D (no change from past to future)
37. B (I think he was quite neutral, just explaining the facts, but it could be A as well, however, did he really criticize or just describe his points?)
38. A (she reflected on her past)
39. B (I dont think she was stingy, and no mention of not educated or talkative/hardworking)
40. D (sounds of clicking)
41. C (def not A cos she didnt feel like she was poor, n wasnt just about food or their flat)
42. A (awe because he managed to cure someone that American doctors)
43. D (no explanation needed, hahahaha)
44. A (shocking!)
45. A (the first reflection showed the child was IMpatient, crying n demanding the salted plums )


So guys, anything to trash out? :P How did you score?

If you want your marks for this component:
your score x 120 / 45
example 30 x 120 / 45 = 80/120.

If you want a prediction of your band:
your score x 300 / 45
example 30 x 300 /45 = 200/300 (Band 4)
*it's just a prediction ok.. cos it obviously doesnt reflect your performance in the other papers)
Band 1: 0 - 99
Band 2: 100 - 139
Band 3: 140 - 179
Band 4: 180 - 219
Band 5: 220 - 259
Band 6: 260 - 300

Thanks for being patient and staying tuned to my blog! God bless u all.. Now someone please upload the report and essay questions and I will write a sample. Cheers! 9

March 2012 MUET Answers

Sorry been away n haven't had the time to help out much. Please someone upload the exam papers to scribd or similar so I can give u my answers which are usually quite reliable. Cheers guys n god bless!

MUET Speaking 800/2 tips and sample

Speaking exam is around the corner again.. some of you have taken this exam before and some are still virgins (hahahahhaha). What to expect? Well...

1. There will be not one, but 2 examiners at the table, and 4 candidates (ideally as total number of candidates for each session is 5 groups of 4 = 20) whom u can refer to as Candidate A, B C & D (NOT advised to use names, even if they are your friends). If you are the last or second last group and some candidates are absent, the examiners should divide the last 2 groups into 3 members each (3-3) instead of (4-2). If they don't do that, you have the right to request the 3-3 combination because the discussion will be more lively but always remember to ask politely.

2. For task A, expect to speak for a full 2 minutes, regardless of how many points you deliver (no deduction for number of points as MPM does not specify that you have to describe 3 points.) You just need to speak according to the topic confidently, fluently and accurately with good body language.

3. For task B, expect to speak for a full 10 minutes, regardless of if you manage to do a conclusion or not (last I heard, MPM does not require conclusions because natural conversations do not necessarily have conclusions but it is still nice to round up the discussion with a good conclusion). Do not dominate the discussion or on the other hand, do not also be a passenger with nothing to say. Ask your friends their opinions or help them end their sentences/ideas when they are stuck as this shows good management of discussion skills.

4. Smile, talk naturally (not robotic), crack some jokes and give creative ideas instead of boring predictable ones, laugh together and basically have a good time because the examiners are fed up of listening to the same old rubbish. If you make them laugh (in a good way), chances are they will be more willing to award better marks.


Let's analyse last year's speaking question. Here is a sample Band 6 scripts for task A.


Day 1, Session 1 Year End 2011 (not exact words)
People who give the most meaningful contribution to society
a)garbage collectors
b)toilet cleaners
c)road sweepers
d)gardeners
Candidate A:

Good morning to the examinerS and my fellow candidateS. There are many people in this world who contribute meaningfully to society. Some sit in high positions while those who do menial tasks are no less worthy. Likewise, garbage collectors have a significant contribution to our society as not many would voluntarily do this 'stinky' but necessary job.
First and foremost, I think garbage collectors deserve merit because they are the ones who maintain the cleanliness of our neighbourhood. This is because, without them, there would be rubbish strewn around everywhere which is a sight for sore eyes. Moreover, the stench itself would cause unease among citizens who need to go about their daily business. For example, rotten food, soiled diapers and so on would be an unbearable sight if not collected and disposed of properly.
Secondly, garbage collectors should be held in high esteem as their job of maintaining the hygiene of society is a crucial one. This means that without them, diseases would spread rampantly. In addition, the overall health of society would suffer as garbage that is uncollected is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria and insects. For instance, piles of uncollected rubbish is the perfect place for dengue and malaria carrying mosquitos and many more.
Last but not least, a garbage collector's job is very meaningful to society because in this modern era, humans have managed to produce so much rubbish per day that without them, the sheer amount would drown the whole city in a week! Imagine how much plastic packaging each of us throws away within a day. Take for example all the empty plastic bottles, Maggi mee wrappers, plastic packaging from the supermarket and even paper products like cigarette boxes and newspapers among others.
In short, society would be seriously crippled if garbage collectors did not do their job. Therefore, I truly believe that garbage collectors provide a very meaningful contribution to today's society. Thank you.

Candidate B: Toilet Cleaners.

          A very good morning I bid to one and all. Everyone has a role to play in society no matter how high or low their profile is. We should be thankful that we have toilet cleaners because they are the people who give the most meaningful contribution to society. I would like to discuss three reasons for this. (15 secs)

            First and foremost, it is the main duty of the toilet cleaners to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of public toilets. Quite often, we have come across toilets that are in dire need of cleaning where the smell is putrid and there is urine and faeces everywhere, disgusting, right? Without toilet cleaners, people would completely avoid public toilets unless they are so desperate they are willing to endure the horrid stench. These unhygienic toilets are also a toxic zone for bacteria and diseases such as Hepatitis and so on. Thus, toilet cleaners do us a grateful service of maintaining the public toilets so they are safe to use.

          Secondly, toilet cleaners are also instrumental in maintaining the facilities in the public toilets. This is because it is quite common for public property like toilets to be vandalised by irresponsible people. Some trash the place and spray graffiti on the walls, while there have also been cases of breaking toilet bowls, sinks and others. If the toilet cleaners are around, these incidences can be reduced greatly and society can enjoy a better and cleaner image. Therefore, toilet cleaners have a very meaningful job because they help maintain a good impression of our country especially to international tourists.

            Last but not least, being a toilet cleaner is an extremely meaningful contribution to society because not many people want to do this menial task. The responsibility of cleaning toilets is not a glamorous job, in fact, people may be embarrassed to tell others that their occupation in life is a toilet cleaner. However, I completely believe that without them, public toilets would hazardous to our health and they provide us a service that is crucial and necessary for a healthy lifestyle. Hence, we should be thankful to them for their commitment in their profession.

            In essence, the most meaningful contribution to society is by toilet cleaners because they help maintain hygiene, our country’s image and it is a thankless job. Thank you and have a nice day.

So what do you think about this sample? What makes it a high band response?

Now it's your turn, you can try to write your sample script for Candidate C or D below and I'll tell you what band you may get. Happy speaking! :P