In the SEAB MOE English examination, one of the most crucial elements of a well-structured composition is the conclusion. The conclusion should not only wrap up the ideas presented in the composition, but it should also leave a lasting impression on the reader. Here are some tips on how to write an effective conclusion for the PSLE English Composition.
Understand the Purpose of the Conclusion
The purpose of the conclusion is to summarise the main points of the essay and to reinforce the primary theme or message. It’s a way to draw all the threads of your narrative together and make a final statement or observation.
Restate the Main Points
One way to start your conclusion is to restate your main points. This doesn’t mean simply repeating what you’ve already written, but rather, summarizing them in a concise and impactful way. This helps reinforce the points you’ve made in your composition and reminds the reader of what they’ve just read.
Link Back to the Introduction
An effective conclusion often links back to the introduction or the title of the composition. This gives the composition a sense of full circle and provides a satisfying ending. For example, if your composition started with a question or a particular scenario, you could refer back to this in your conclusion.
End with a Personal Reflection or Insight
A strong conclusion for a PSLE English Composition often includes a personal reflection or insight. This could be what the character learned from the events in the story, or how the events changed them. It provides a deeper meaning to the story and makes it more engaging for the reader.
Leave a Lasting Impression
Finally, an effective conclusion should leave a lasting impression on the reader. This could be through a powerful statement, a thought-provoking question, or a memorable image or idea. It should make the reader think and reflect on your composition even after they have finished reading.
Here’s an example of a conclusion based on a story about a character who learned the importance of honesty:
“As the sun set, casting long shadows on the quiet street, John realised the importance of honesty. No longer would he let the temptation of a quick gain lead him astray. As he walked home, he felt a sense of peace and contentment that he hadn’t felt in a long time. Indeed, honesty was not just the best policy; it was the only policy for a fulfilling life.”
Conclusion
In this conclusion, we have restated the main theme of the story (the importance of honesty), linked back to an earlier image in the composition (the setting sun), included a personal reflection (John’s newfound understanding of honesty), and left a lasting impression (the image of John walking home contentedly).
Given that the PSLE English Composition requires at least 150 words, a good rule of thumb is to spend approximately 10 minutes crafting a satisfying conclusion. Remember, the conclusion can make or break your composition, so ensure that you devote enough time to it.
While these guidelines can help you structure your conclusion, it’s essential to practice writing. The more you write, the more natural this process will become, leading to an improvement in your English grades. Practice, feedback, and consistency are the keys to excelling in PSLE English Composition.