Section A — Directed Writing (35 Marks)

Rule: 200–250 words. Follow the format exactly. Content + Language + Format = easy marks.

This is the EASIEST section to score if you follow instructions.

Mark Breakdown

⚠️ Word count rule: Less than 200 or more than 250 = marks deducted. Count your words!

5 Formats You Must Know

1. Report

Format:

`

To: [Recipient]

From: [Your name]

Date: [Date]

Title: [Report Title]

[Introduction - 1 sentence]

[Content paragraphs - cover all points]

[Conclusion - 1 sentence]

`

Sentence Starters:

• "This report is about..."
• "The purpose of this report is to..."
• "Based on the survey conducted..."
• "The findings show that..."
• "In conclusion, I recommend that..."

Example Question:

Your school conducted a survey on students' reading habits. Write a report to the principal about the findings.

Template Answer:

`

To: The Principal

From: [Your Name], Head Librarian

Date: 15 March 2026

Report on Students' Reading Habits

This report presents the findings of a survey conducted on 200 students regarding their reading habits.

The survey shows that 60% of students read less than one book per month. Most students prefer social media to books. Only 15% visit the library weekly. However, students who read regularly score higher in exams.

The main reasons for poor reading habits are lack of time and too much screen time. Many students also find books expensive.

I recommend that the school organise a reading campaign every month. The library should also stock more interesting books for teenagers.

Prepared by,

[Your Name]

`

2. Letter (Formal)

Format:

`

[Your Address]

[Date]

[Recipient Name]

[Recipient Address]

Dear Sir/Madam,

[Subject line]

[Body paragraphs]

Yours faithfully,

[Your Name]

`

Sentence Starters:

• "I am writing to complain about..."
• "I would like to request..."
• "I am writing to apply for..."
• "I hope you will consider my request."
• "Thank you for your attention."

Example Question:

Write a letter to the local council complaining about the poor condition of roads in your area.

Template Answer:

`

[Your Address]

15 Jalan Mutiara

Taman Sentosa

56000 Kuala Lumpur

15 March 2026

The Mayor

Kuala Lumpur City Council

Jalan Raja Laju

50050 Kuala Lumpur

Dear Sir,

Complaint About Poor Road Conditions in Taman Sentosa

I am writing to complain about the poor condition of roads in Taman Sentosa. The roads are full of potholes which are dangerous to drivers and motorcyclists.

Last week, two accidents occurred because of the potholes. The situation becomes worse during rainy days when the holes fill with water. Many residents have damaged their car tyres.

I hope the council will repair the roads as soon as possible. This matter is urgent for everyone's safety.

Thank you for your attention.

Yours faithfully,

[Your Name]

`

3. Letter (Informal)

Format:

`

[Your Address]

[Date]

Dear [Friend's Name],

[Body paragraphs]

Your friend,

[Your Name]

`

Sentence Starters:

• "How are you? I hope you are fine."
• "I am writing to tell you about..."
• "You won't believe what happened!"
• "I hope to hear from you soon."
• "Take care and write back soon."

Example Question:

Write a letter to your friend telling them about a memorable trip you recently went on.

Template Answer:

`

[Your Address]

23 Jalan Ceria

Taman Bahagia

68000 Ampang

20 March 2026

Dear Sarah,

How are you? I hope you are doing well. I am writing to tell you about an amazing trip I went on last weekend.

My family and I visited Cameron Highlands. The weather was so cool and fresh. We went to the tea plantation and strawberry farm. The strawberries were so sweet!

The best part was the sunrise at Gunung Brinchang. We woke up at 5 a.m. and drove up the mountain. The view was absolutely breathtaking.

I wish you could have been there with us. Maybe we can plan a trip together during the school holidays. Let me know what you think.

Take care and write back soon.

Your friend,

[Your Name]

`

4. Article

Format:

`

[Title/Catchy Heading]

By [Your Name]

[Introduction]

[Body paragraphs]

[Conclusion]

`

Sentence Starters:

• "Have you ever wondered about..."
• "In this article, I will discuss..."
• "Did you know that..."
• "It is important to realise that..."
• "In a nutshell..."

Example Question:

Write an article for your school magazine about the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Template Answer:

`

Healthy Living: A Guide for Students

By [Your Name]

Have you ever wondered why some students always seem energetic while others feel tired? The secret is a healthy lifestyle.

First, eating balanced meals is important. Many students skip breakfast, but this is the most important meal. Eating fruits and vegetables gives us energy to study.

Next, exercise is essential. Just 30 minutes of exercise three times a week can improve our health. We can jog, cycle, or play sports with friends.

Lastly, getting enough sleep is crucial. Students need at least 7 hours of sleep. Without enough rest, we cannot focus in class.

In a nutshell, a healthy lifestyle is not difficult. Eat well, exercise regularly, and sleep enough. Start today for a better tomorrow.

`

5. Speech

Format:

`

[Salutation]

[Opening - greet audience]

[Body paragraphs]

[Closing]

`

Sentence Starters:

• "Good morning, teachers and fellow students."
• "Today, I would like to talk about..."
• "First of all, let me explain..."
• "Ladies and gentlemen, we must understand that..."
• "Thank you for your attention."

Example Question:

You are the head prefect. Write a speech to deliver during assembly about the importance of discipline in school.

Template Answer:

`

Good morning, teachers and fellow students.

Today, I would like to talk about the importance of discipline in school. Discipline is the foundation of a successful student life.

First, discipline helps us manage our time well. Students who follow a schedule complete their homework on time and still have time for revision. Without discipline, we tend to procrastinate.

Second, discipline builds good character. When we follow school rules, we learn to respect others. This habit will benefit us in the future when we enter the working world.

Third, discipline creates a conducive learning environment. A quiet and orderly classroom allows everyone to focus. Disruptions only waste valuable learning time.

In conclusion, discipline is not about punishment. It is about self-control and respect. Let us all practice discipline for a better school experience.

Thank you for your attention.

`

Quick Checklist Before You Submit

• [ ] Did you write 200–250 words? (Count them!)
• [ ] Did you use the correct format?
• [ ] Did you cover ALL points from the question?
• [ ] Did you check grammar and spelling?
• [ ] Did you use formal language (for formal letters/reports)?
• [ ] Is your handwriting neat?

Tip: Section A is about following instructions. Read the question carefully, cover every point, use the right format. You can score 20+ marks easily with practice.