Online Reporter
TODAY, we start this discussion with the familiar aspects of the English language. For example, in comprehension, you need to read carefully. You underline key points, identify the tone of the passage you read and determine the purpose and audience presented in the chosen page.
Experts advise that you answer comprehension questions following this structure. Use PEE (Point, Evidence, Explanation) for answering questions. Tackle vocabulary by learning tricky words, especially in context. Learning new methods does not mean that you should negate the old methods of learning.
Use old methods wherever possible.
Reading passages is always emphasised. Read and understand so that you can produce the correct answers required for comprehension. Explain vocabulary as used in the passage, you might know the general meanings of words, but they may have different meanings in context.
Always remember the instructions provided in comprehension exercises. Advice on summary writing includes reading the passage two or three times. I presume this is only possible for fast readers. Some students are slow readers and cannot read more than once.
Such students need constant reading practice. Reading and more reading should be encouraged for slow readers so that they can achieve higher grades in examinations.
While reading the passage, students need to highlight main points and identify key ideas. Answer the following questions: Who, what, why, when and how. Remember to answer the questions. There are two different approaches to tackling questions that require you to use your own words when responding to a summary question.
This is known as a précis. It is the same as a summary, a shortened version of a speech or written text that contains only the most important points.
Different examination bodies require different summary responses. One emphasises avoiding copying chunks of text but requires that you use your own words. Another may not mind; you only need to shorten the original text. In any case, follow what your examination body prescribes. Do not follow my advice blindly — follow what is best for you and will help you pass.
In all situations, stick to the word limit, usually 10-15 percent of the original text. The word limit is usually specified in your examination. Do not guess where it is specified. Repeat: stick to the word limit.
Do not exceed the stated number of words. The examiner will only deduct marks if you go over the limit.
Focus on main ideas and skip examples and details. By concentrating on these, you are likely to exceed the required number of words.
Composition: How can you improve your composition writing? It is surprising that, in English Language, we learn from primary school up to high school but still fail to master certain areas. We have been writing creative stories all along but still produce mediocre work.
However, we should not give up or say we have failed or passed, instead, we need to persist and read more about composition. Reading good compositions written by others will also help improve yours. Listen to good speakers and emulate what you hear — you are bound to enhance your public speaking skills.
You need to structure your essay with an introduction, body and conclusion. The introduction is the beginning of your composition; think carefully about what you are going to write. It should not be long but should provide a summary of what your story is about. Although brief, it should indicate what is to come.
After the introduction, fully develop your essay. Consider the body — what exactly are you saying about your story? Provide details about your points. Once you have fully developed your essay, think about the conclusion. How do you conclude? The conclusion is the grand finale.
In the conclusion, you should summarise the main points, tie up loose ends, and restate your stance. You have presented your point of view throughout your essay; now, restate it at the end. Reinforce your argument if it is argumentative.
Bring in your final thought, leaving a lasting impression — perhaps a call to action based on what you discussed. There is no need to introduce new information in the conclusion. Do not introduce new points. Keep the conclusion concise, about 5-10 percent of the essay length.
For example: Should schools in Zimbabwe use digital textbooks instead of physical books? In Zimbabwe’s fast-evolving education landscape, the shift to digital textbooks is a hot topic. While some argue that physical books are irreplaceable, I believe digital textbooks offer more benefits for students and schools.
Body: They are cost-effective and eco-friendly. Digital textbooks reduce printing costs and save trees. Given Zimbabwe’s economic challenges, schools can allocate funds elsewhere. Accessibility and updates: e-books are portable, searchable and easily updated. No more lugging heavy books or dealing with outdated content.
Interactive learning: digital tools (videos, quizzes) boost engagement. Students grasp concepts faster. Counterargument — critics say e-books strain eyes and lack tactile feedback. But, with proper settings and balanced use, these issues are manageable.
In conclusion, digital textbooks align with Zimbabwe’s tech-forward vision, offering practical, engaging learning. Schools should embrace this shift to empower students for a digital future.
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Bongani Ndlovu