Supplementary Materials

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT
FACULTY OF MAJOR LANGUAGE STUDIES

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
BIA 1012
GENERAL ENGLISH
PROFICIENCY
SUPPLEMENTARY
MATERIALS

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
TABLE OF CONTENT
CONTENT
PAGE
Input 1: Language Learning Strategies
4-6
7
Ice breakers
Note taking skills
Input 4: Reading
9-25
26-32
33-36
Identifying main ideas and details

Contextual clues
Inference
Input 5: Writing
38
Introduction to sentence structures

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Input 1:
Language Learning
Strategies

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
ICE BREAKERS
'About you'
Find a partner and tell him/her about the following:
Your family
Your hobby
Your favourite food
Your ambition in the future
Next, imagine that you are to create a town of your name. Sketch the town in a
piece of paper and tell the class about it.

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
E.g:
Nadhirah
can speak English and
Arabic fluently
loves travelling
has a pet
likes journal writing
has working experience
has a family business
prefers study alone
has an interesting blog
is very talkative
Guess who?
Move around the class and ask your friends about the following info. Write down
your friends name in each of the box. Try not to repeat the same name for each
box.

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Lets write!!
Make a sentence by combining the string of words below. You may add extra
information to make it interesting. Then, compare the sentence with your
friends.
1. My mother - birthday - satay and red velvet cake

_____________________________________________________________________________
2. Aqila - brilliant - MRSM Jasin - next month
_____________________________________________________________________________
3. Commonwealth Games - Ridwan - badminton
_____________________________________________________________________________
4. Nasyrah - London - International Hijab Fashion Week 2015
_____________________________________________________________________________
5. Dr. Rinn - researcher - USIM - high-indexed journals
_____________________________________________________________________________
From the above activity, write down any new grammar rules or vocabulary
that you have learned:

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Note Taking Skills

Students are advised to watch YouTube videos on this topic:
For more info, please log on to these websites:

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
http://www2.open.ac.uk/students/skillsforstudy/notetaking-techniques.php
http://sas.calpoly.edu/asc/ssl/notetakingtips.html
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~acskills/success/notes.html
Input 4:
Reading

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Identifying main ideas and details

Read the paragraph below and study the questions and answers given:
Sleep is imperative to maintaining your health. Without it, you increase your susceptibility to
an astonishing array of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity
and depression. Apart from that, not getting enough sleep can compromise your immune
system, says Professor Stanlay Coren, author of Sleep Thieves. You exercise and eat well
in order to keep your immune system up, explains Coren, but if you lack sleep, you undo all
that good work. The immune system works best when you are asleep because that is
when the natural killer cells are generated. Natural killer cells are part of your bodys
defense system against external infections, he says.
(i)
What is the paragraph about?

It is about sleep.

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
(ii)
Which sentence best expresses the main idea of the paragraph?

Sleep is imperative to maintaining your health. This one sentence
which tells the readers what the paragraph is about is known as topic
sentence.
(iii)
Why is the main idea?

It is broad enough to summarize all the essential points of the
paragraph. This paragraph has a single thought the effects of lack
of sleep health and this thought summarizes the other points.
(iv)
Where is the main idea found?

It is found in the first sentence of the paragraph.
(v)
What is the function of the other sentences?

They expand on the main idea by giving details. These sentences are
known as supporting details which contains reasons or details,
examples, facts and ideas that prove, explain, support, or give
examples that develop the topic sentence.
* Finding the main idea and supporting details will help you in many ways:
It is the key to understanding a paragraph or a passage.
It helps you to identify the general point the author is making.
It helps you to perceive the relationship between the main idea and
what is said about the idea.
Definition:
Main idea
: One or more sentences that develop a single thought.

Main Ideas can be clearly stated or implied (the writer
indirectly suggests or hints at what the topic of the
paragraph is)
Topic sentence
: One sentence from the paragraph which tells the readers

what the paragraph is about. Sometimes however, the topic
sentence may be the main idea of the paragraph.
10

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
How to Locate Main Idea, Topic Sentence and Supporting Details?

1. Find the topic sentence in the paragraph. A topic sentence can be:
the first sentence in the paragraph

the last sentence in the paragraph
in the middle of the paragraph
implied rather than stated in the paragraph
2. Sentences which consist of descriptions, explanations, examples,

elaboration and facts are supporting details.
3. Once you have identified the topic sentence and supporting details,
you will be able to write out the main idea of the paragraph.
Remember! The main idea is a summary of the essential points of the
paragraph.
Example 1
Read the passage below and study the notes:
The iguana is found in the tropics,

such as the Caribbean and Mexico.
Iguanas are mostly vegetarian and
can change colour. Iguanas make fine
pets but as with all pets, it is
important to learn about the animal
before buying one. This includes what
the iguana eats, how big it gets and
11

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
how long it lives. Iguanas require a lot

of care and responsibility.
Supporting Details:
Iguanas are found in tropics.
It is important to learn about
the iguana before buying
one.
what it eats, how big it gets
Main Idea: Iguanas which are found in the tropics are vegetarian,
and how longcan
it lives
change colour and make fine pets but they require a lot of care and
responsibility.
Topic
Sentence
Adapted from Koh, S.L . 2009. Effective Text for MUET. Penerbit Ilmu Bakti.Subang Jaya.
Example 2
Read the passage below and study the notes:
The definition of a good employer comes
with a degree of subjectivity. It differs from
individual to individual, depending on the
values most highly prized by an employee.
Many of these attributes however, tend to be
universal. An exemplary employer should
nurture young talent, keep staff constantly
challenged, and help exceptional employees
get ahead fast, says a spokesperson from
Maybanks Resourcing Centre. Apart from
that, company leaders should convey the
organisations message and vision clearly, be
strong in implementing procedures and
demarcate clear roles and responsibilities so
that their staff will feel informed, says Joyce
Soo, the managing director of BRecruit
recruitment service. Employees expect that
good employers to provide a stimulating
working environment, a progressive culture
within the organisation and that the
company brand would add value to their
resume. Nevertheless, a good working
12

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
relationship is a two-way street. If

employees come in on time, be where they
are supposed to be, work hard and smart,
take responsibility for their actions and show
loyalty to the company, the employers will
want to invest in their employees future
development,
adds
Soo.
Therefore,
managers should promote an open-door
policy and foster clear communication flow.
Topic Sentences/Main
Idea: The Universal
Attributes of a Good
Employer
(Adapted from Readers Digest -April 2011, pg T3)
Supporting Details:
TIP!
Examples and
of that
As you can see a good paragraph is generally made upexplanation
of sentences
attributes
good your
develop a single thought. So do remember this tip when
you write
employers should
essays or assignments.
acquire:
Practice 1
help develop
employees career
and skills/talent
provide good
working
1. According to local mythology, Gunung Ledang is the home of a

legendary princess of incomparable beauty while Gunung Chini is
supposed to be inhabited by a serpent which guards the depths of its
famous lake. In addition, Mount Kinabalu is believed to be such
hallowed soil that offerings have to be made to appease the spirits of
the mountain. It is obvious that Malaysias mountains are shrouded in
mystery.
a) Topic Sentence
______________________________________________________________
13

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
b) Supporting Details
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
2. Taking notes is a good way to remember something we read or hear. It
is not always possible to retain large amounts of information in our
memories. When we write down main points and facts as we listen to a
speech or read a textbook, we will be able to use them to recall the
information at a later time.
a) Topic Sentence
______________________________________________________________
b) Supporting Details :
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
(Adapted from Mainstream English II.Pg55-56 .2004. Second Edition.Pearson Malaysia )
3. It seems that certain aromas have the power to stir up strong emotions
and even change our mood. A new study of 4000 people in the UK
looked at the scents that appeal to us most. Freshly baked bread
topped the list followed by clean sheets and freshly mown grass.
Interestingly, while women claim certain smells make them happy
because theyre homely or remind them of someone they love, men
prefer exciting and invigorating aromas. According to Dr Pamela
Dalton, the link between smell and memory is very strong. Smell has
the power to revive the past and transport us to a happy time or place,
or remind us of the special person, evoking feelings of nostalgia and
comfort.
(Adapted from Readers Digest -May 2010, pg 23)
a) Topic Sentence
______________________________________________________________
b) Supporting Details
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
14

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Practice 2
Write down the main idea for each of the following passages:
1. Over a billion batteries are bought around the world every year which
means millions more are discarded. Most are tossed into landfills,
where toxic components from some batteries may leach and vaporise,
polluting the water, air and land. The simplest solution, researchers
say, is to use rechargeable batteries. The newest generation is far
better and more reliable than older generations and is ready to use
right out of the package. Best of all, once the batteries energy is
depleted, theyre recyclable. Equally important: they keep their charge,
losing only 15 percent of stored power per year when not in use.
(Adapted from Readers Digest -March 2008, pg 138)
Main idea:
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
2. If you are any kind of a sports nut, no doubt you are imagining yourself
on the field, running around with your sporting heroes and even
scoring the winning goal for your favourite team. Now dream no more.
Soccer fans are able to create true-to-life commentary of that very
game with themselves in the starring role. Designed as a gift
experience by a British company, the commentaries feature
professional impressions of top soccer commentators and can be
previewed and ordered online within moments complete with a CD,
instant MP3 download and a personalised greeting card. The company
has plans for cricket, snooker, F1 and tennis in the pipeline so now
we just need a budding entrepreneur to set this up here in Asia.
(Adapted from Readers Digest- May 2010, pg 23)
Main idea:
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
15

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
3. It is natural for parents to shield their children from financial hardship

in an economic downturn. Experts, however, believe that the young
can benefit from money management lessons when money is tight.
Aida Ismail, a mother of one, agrees. In fact, the registered financial
planner had designed the Kids Money Games, a programme which
helps children learn about financial management in a creative and fun
way, inspired by her eight-year-old child. It all started when my son,
then aged six, asked for a toy. (Children) just want their toy and do not
see the value of what they had asked for. I knew then that I had to
educate my son on money and how it behaves," says Aida, also a
trained psychologist.
Held during school holidays and the weekends, Kids Money
Games is a programme aimed at children between seven and 17 years.
It introduces the younger generation to financial products such as
bonds and the basics of personal finance such as jotting down
expenses. Other practical aspects of personal finance such as visits to
the bank, learning about banking services and filling in forms are also
included in the course. Some 1,200 students have benefited from the
programme to date. Aida believes that children learn best when they
are given "some room to be free and express themselves." Storytelling
is one method of teaching them to be money savvy. "Kids love stories.
For example, I would give them RM10 and ask them to create a story
about what to buy it. Then it progresses to buying something costing
more than RM10 and what they can do to earn the money," says Aida.
She notices meaningful changes in young people's attitude
towards money after they have attended the course. "One student I
met at a charity programme at Felda Serting in Negeri Sembilan felt
inferior to others because he only had hand-me-down uniform to wear
to school," recalls Aida. After completing the course, the fifth-former
decided to earn some money -- between RM5 and RM10 a week -- by
tutoring other students in his school. He eventually earned RM120,
enabling him to buy a new uniform and save the rest. "He may be 17
but the small step he had made to earn his own money can mean big
things later," adds Aida.
(Adapted from http://www.nst.com.my/)
Main Ideas:
a) First paragraph
_____________________________________________________________________
16

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
_____________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
b) Second paragraph
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
c) Third paragraph
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
Practice 3
Read the passages below and choose the best answer for the following
questions:
I.
17

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Global warming, the result of mans industrial activities, cannot be

stopped or slowed down in a short period of time. Greenhouse gases, such
as methane and carbon dioxide, are in the atmosphere in much greater
concentrations today than ever before. These gases, which have built up
over hundreds of years, are triggering certain reactions in the atmosphere.
One such reaction is the warming of the Earth. Most scientists agree
that the concentration of greenhouse gases will continue to rise for the next
few decades. They further predict that temperatures will rise steadily,
resulting in a hotter, drier world. The resulting climate change from global
warming will have real and serious consequences. For example, sea levels
will rise by 18 to 59 centimetres.
There is a need to prepare ourselves for the inevitable effects of global
warming. Policies need to be put in place in the face of, for example, a rise
in sea level. Flood defences need to be constructed in low-lying areas. In
addition, seaside communities should be relocated and the construction of
buildings close to the sea should be banned.
1. Which of the following effectively summarizes the ideas of the first

paragraph?
A. Greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide and methane.
B. Greenhouse gases cause reactions in the atmosphere.
C. Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere cause global warming.
18

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
2. Which of the following effectively summarizes the ideas of the second

paragraph?
A. The Earth is warming up.
B. Sea levels will rise Setting
steadily.Foundations
C. The effects of climate change are serious.
If Malaysia is to produce scientists who are global thinkers and

innovators, then students have to be taught Science in English the lingua
3. Which of the following effectively summarizes the ideas in the third
franca of the international scientific community. Neuroscientist Professor
paragraph?
Ishwar Parhar, who heads the Brain Research Institute at Monash University
Sunway, says it is a matter of practicality.
A. We should prepare ourselves in the face of global warming.

B. Learning
Building close
to in
theyour
seamother
shouldtongue
be banned.
Science
may allow you to become a
C.
Flood
defences
should
be
constructed.
scientist who does experiments in the lab. But if you dont have a good
command of the English language, you will not be able to publish in good
4.journals
Which and
of the
summarizes
the text?
befollowing
cited, hemost
says.adequately
Every research
needs to meet
three criteria
before being published the subject matter, the language and the discussion
A. subject
Global matter.
warmingThe
is causing
the sea that
levels
rise has is important
of the
first impression
an to
editor
Global
warming
is the
result then
of mans
and B.
if he
is put
off by bad
English,
he isactivities.
likely to conclude that the
C.
Global
warming
is
inevitable.
research done is equally sloppy and would not accept it. You could probably
be published in local journals without good English. But you would have just
(Adapted from Kaur, H. & Jonas, F.2010. Effective Practice: MUET. Oxford Fajar. Shah Alam)
wasted public money because your work would not be cited and you would not
have excited the world with your discoveries, he adds.
Professor Ishwar, who spent 30 years studying and working abroad
before moving back to Malaysia five years ago, knows of Japanese scientists
who pay people to translate their work. However, due to the fact the
translators are not scientists themselves, nuances are lost and the work
becomes less powerful than originally written. The professor stresses that
students cannot challenge the scientific world without a strong grasp of
English, therefore local students need to be taught the subject in the
language.
Furthermore, it takes a long time to translate scientific journals which
are written in English into Bahasa Melayu. In other words, the people who
are referring to the translations would be late to grasp topics that are already
being discussed in the international community. Because of the Internet,
thousands of papers are made available online even before they are published
in journals. How are going to keep up if we were to translate everything
before studying them?
II.
Even in countries such as Japan, Korea and China, where much progress
was achieved in the national language instead of English, the people there are
becoming increasingly aware of the importance of English to remain
competitive. Professor Ishwar notes that Japanese schoolchildren now are
19 as opposed to Form One previously.
exposed to English from kindergarten,
The advantage of teaching Science in English from young is that if
children want to find out more about concepts, they need only go online to get

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
20

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
1. Which of the following statements best summarizes the second

paragraph?
A. Learning Science in English is important because it is a matter of
practicality.
B. There are three important criteria scientists need to consider
before publishing: the subject matter, the language and the
discussion of the subject matter.
C. Having good command of English will allow researchers to
publish their work in good journals and be cited.
D. Good command of English will give the impression that the work
done is of high quality and excite the world.
2. Based on paragraph 3, what is the main problem faced by Japanese
scientist when they pay for translations?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The translated work had many grammatical errors.

It was difficult to find competent translators.
Paying for translations would be very expensive.
The translated work would lose the writers original expression
and tone.
3. Choose the main ideas discussed in the fourth paragraph.

I.
II.
III.
IV.
Translating scientific journals is not practical because it is time

consuming and the high number of papers available online or
published.
Those who are referring to the journals in translated version will
not be able to discuss scientific topics with the international
community.
It is impossible to translate the thousands of papers which are
available online for publication in journals.
Those who refer to the translated journals will be left behind in
their studies.
A.
B.
C.
D.
I and IV
II and III
III and IV
I and III
4. What is the main reason for the increase in awareness of the

importance of English among countries that had achieved progress in
their national language?
21

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
A. The decreasing level of English language proficiency among its

citizens.
B. The change in their education system pertaining to the teaching
of English.
C. The need to be competitive.
D. The inspiration obtained from other more successful countries.
5. Based on paragraph 6, which of the following are the advantages of
teaching Science in English?
I.
II.
III.
IV.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Learn scientific concepts which are available on the Net

Gain Science knowledge
Improve Internet search skills
Enjoy learning process
I, II and III
I, III and IV
II, III and IV
I, II, III and IV
6. According to the article, which of the following is not cited as the

reason for students to learn Science in English?
A. To empower students with the up-to-date knowledge of Science
topics currently discussed by the international community.
B. To be able to publish their scientific discoveries in good journals
which would excite and be cited by the world.
C. To enhance the level of English language proficiency, academic
qualification and employability of the local students.
D. To increase students excitement in learning when they are able
to use of the Web to increase their Science knowledge after they
have understood the key concepts in English.
22

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
III.
Read the passage and answer the questions below:
A Dream Takes Flight
1
Donning AirAsias official cap, Dato Sri Tony Fernandes, speaker at

the first South East Asian Youth Engagement Summit, goes up the stage
of Kuala Lumpurs Putrajaya International Convention Centre followed by
four flight attendants in AirAsias chilli red garb. The casually dressed
CEO of AirAsia announces that the first person to hand him something
red will win a trip to London. Two youth delegates scamper up the stage,
one of them tripping on her own feet before reaching Dato Sri
Fernandes. The 45-year old businessman decides to give both of them
the free trip anyway. This scenario is a good illustration of how Dato Sri
Fernandes built his low-cost airlines from the ground up by enticing
would-be passengers with free trips.
In 2001, Dato Sri Fernandes was the vice president for ASEAN at
Warner Music South East Asia. One night, he saw an Easy Jet television
ad and got interested in the concept of low-cost carriers. He realised this
is what he wanted to do. He called his wife and told her of his plan, and
she couldnt stop laughing. Nonetheless, Dato Sri Fernandes mortgaged
his house and rallied a couple of his buddies in the music industry to set
up Tune Air Sdn. Bhd. The Malaysian government however, turned down
the license application. Dato Sri Fernandes quickly arranged a meeting
with then Prime Minister Dr. Tun Mahathir Mohamad. Dr Mahathir
suggested that, instead of getting a license, Dato Sri Fernandes should
buy the fledgling AirAsia, a heavily indebted subsidiary of a governmentowned conglomerate. With youthful audacity he announced, I will buy
AirAsia for one Malaysian ringgit! He got this reply: Yes, you can buy it
tomorrow.
Dato Sri Fernandes might have gotten the airline at RM1 but he
and his partners also inherited 40 million ringgit worth of debt. His
vision, nevertheless, took flight that same year with 250 employees and
two ageing Boeing 737-300 planes, flying to just one destination. A tragic
event, however, threatened to crash his dream. The September 11
attacks in the United States made people afraid to fly. But Dato Sri
Fernandes saw a golden opportunity in what could have been a major
setback. Airline leasing costs plummeted by 40 percent, saving the
company lot of money. Airline layoffs allowed him to hire experienced
staff at lower costs. The company offered fares that everybody could
afford, routes that people want
23 and need, and high quality basic

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
We Asians have the habit of kicking ourselves and saying it cant

be done. Anything is possible when you put your mind to it, he says. Nine
years later, AirAsia is the fastest growing low-cost airline in the world,
carrying a total of 85 million passengers to date, with 7000 employees
and 90 new airplanes flying to over 130 destinations in Asia, Australia and
Europe. Being Asias leading and largest low-cost airline has enabled the
company top launch AirAsia X, a low-cost long haul affiliate which
demonstrates that the low-cost model can work even on long-haul flights.
AirAsia has proven that not only is the low-cost model sustainable, it is
also profitable.
Dato Sri Fernandes, a London School of Economics alumnus, is a
laid-back CEO. I go to work wearing regular clothes. My pants are
sometimes older than my employees. He also runs AirAsia with a unique
set of principles. For one, the company has a flat structure, where
everybody has access to the big boss. By removing company
bureaucracy, he gets everybody talking and giving invaluable ideas. It is
also less time-consuming. A flat structure makes communication easier.
With everyone in the team able to directly raise an idea or provide
feedback, were able to quickly and efficiently deal with concerns. We
dont lose time climbing the steps of hierarchy just to get an idea across,
he explains.
When the company was still relatively small, Dato Sri Fernandes
used to try his hand working in different departments. He was a bag
carrier, check-in officer and even flight attendant for a day. It allowed him
to get on the ground and see real problems and needs. It also gave him
the chance to spot potential stars in the company. When he learned that
some bag carriers dreamt of becoming pilots, he sponsored their training.
Hes proud of the fact that 18 months later, they are flying planes.
AirAsia also boasts of having 35 female pilots in their staff. If women can
run a country, they can certainly fly a plane! he exclaims. People are
your best asset. Get the best people and let them grow. Let them fulfil
their dreams. Help them discover the potential they never thought they
had.
Dato Sri Tony Fernandes ends his well-applauded speech by
encouraging the summit delegates with his credo: Believe the
unbelievable. Dream the impossible. Never take No for an answer!
(Adapted from Readers Digest -April 2010, pg 39 41)
24

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
1. What is the main point the writer is trying to convey in this passage?
A. Small ailing businesses can be made into big enterprises if it is
managed properly by a team of efficient people.
B. Dreams and ambitions though they may seem impossible at first
can come true if people put their mind to it.
C. The low-cost carrier model is a sustainable and profitable model
which would lead to a successful business venture.
D. Dato Sri Tony Fernandess unique set of principles should be
emulated by other small businesses in order to succeed.
2. Based on the passage, which of the following does not describe Dato
Sri Tony Fernandess personality?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Audacious
Laid-back
Ingenious
Inert
3. How did AirAsia managed to get out of debt?

I. hire experienced employees at lower costs
II. provided high-quality airline services that people wanted
III. increase promotion and publicity
IV. launch AirAsia X for long-haul flights
A.
B.
C.
D.
I and II
II and IV
I, II and III
II, III and IV
4. Which of the following is not cited as a supporting detail for the main
idea in paragraph 4?
A. AirAsia is the fastest growing low-cost airline in the world.
B. AirAsia has carried a total of 85 million passengers to date.
C. AirAsia has 7000 employees and 90 new airplanes flying to over 130
destinations.
D. AirAsia has launched AirAsia X for low-cost long-haul flights.
5. What is the main idea in paragraph 5?
A. Dato Sri Fernandes is a laid-back CEO who goes to work wearing
regular clothes.
B. A flat structure in a company makes communication between the
big boss and the workers easier.
25

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
C. Dato Sri Fernandes runs the company with a unique set of

principles.
D. Removing company bureaucracy would allow everyone to
provide suggestions and feedback.
6. Which one of the following statement best summarizes the points in
paragraph 6?
A. Dato Sri Tony Fernandes started work in different departments
before he built his career to the top.
B. Dato Sri Tony Fernandes believes in investing in people because
the people are the companys greatest asset.
C. AirAsia is proud with its achievement of having 35 female pilots
and training their bag carriers to be pilots.
D. Dato Sri Tony Fernandes worked in different departments to
discover real problems and needs as well as identify potential
workers who could be given further training.
7. Based on the last paragraph, Dato Sri Fernandes speech at the first
South East Asian Youth Engagement Summit was:
A.
B.
C.
D.
inspiring and encouraging

well-received by the audience
informative and helpful
snubbed by the audience
26

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
CONTEXTUAL CLUES
What are context clues?
Context clues are hints that an author gives to help define a difficult or
unusual word. The clue may appear within the same sentence as the word to
which it refers, or it may follow in a preceding sentence. Because most of
one's vocabulary is gained through reading, it is important that you be able
to recognize and take advantage of context clues.
There are at least four kinds of context clues that are quite common:
a synonym (or repeat context clue) which appears in that sentence
an antonym (or contrast context clue) that has the opposite meaning,
which can reveal the meaning of an unknown term
an explanation for an unknown word is given (a definition context clue)
within the sentence or in the sentence immediately preceding
specific examples (an example context clue) used to define the term.
It can be said that contextual clues are words, phrases or sentences within
an article, passage, or sentence, that can help readers to deduce meaning
without referring to the dictionary.
Types of contextual clues
Definitions
Examples
Synonyms
Antonyms (contrast)
Explanation/Descriptions
Restatement
General Context
1. Definitions - the meaning is given in the sentence and the words

below will be the signal for the definition of the word. Words such as:
27

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
that is
or
meaning
known as
is called
in other words
refers
is defined
Consider the following examples:

In math class, Mrs. Harrison explained that a figure with six sides and
six angles is called a hexagon.
Rory annoyed all his classmates by being facetious. In other words, he
always tries to be funny at unsuitable times.
We cannot live like the bourgeoisie, that is, a society of people who
care only for money and high status.
Other than words, dashes, brackets and commas can also be used to show
the definition of something:
The crowd clapped and shouted when they saw the matador -- a
bullfighter who specializes in killing the bull with a sword at the end of
a bullfighter.
The fast-flowing river carries with it sediments (small rocks, stones and
sand) as its water flows towards the sea.
Public schools are all both free and egalitarian; all students are
considered equal and learn the same material.
2. Examples - to illustrate the word.
The lantern illuminated the cave so well that we were able to see
the formations and even the spiders crawling on the rocks.
Wirda is from an affluent family. She drives an imported sports
car and wears expensive clothes and jewellery. She also lives in
a huge house.
28

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
In the movie, the mammoth monster was able to reach the

highest skyscraper, and it towered over all the apartment
buildings.
3. Synonyms - words of the same meaning are given in the article.
The family doctor said that the medication for Noreens sister
was innocuous, that is, it was harmless.
Sheena gave a triumphant shout to celebrate our team's

victorious record.
I will endeavor to work with you as you attempt to solve the

mystery, but please try to be patient!
4. Antonyms (contrast) - words of the opposite meaning are given and

usually introduced by the words below:
but
however
yet
nevertheless
while
rather than
although
whereas
despite
in contrast
Consider the following examples:

Nadya is always
lighthearted.
despondent
while
her
friend
is
always
Thats just one more example of rich people parsimonious ways.

In contrast, many people who have much less money have
donated a great deal to the cause.
In the 1820s, the Southern states of America supported
improvements in the national transportation system, but the
Northern states balked.
29

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
5. Explanation/Descriptions - words that describe the meaning of the

words
The shy girl; insecure and unsure, slowly approached the
interviewer.
A lot of universities nowadays are introducing the Flexi Learning
programme. This programme is a form of self-education because
the students in charge of his own learning. He has to gather
information on his own rather than obtain it in a formal
classroom. He has to discipline himself to keep up with his
studies.
6. Restatement - words that restate the meaning of that particular
words
The village was depopulated, most of the residents dead or
moved, but the livestock remained untouched.
Some people believe that the president is vindictive, and will try
to destroy the representatives who worked to remove him from
office.
7. General Context - information around the words that provide hint on
the meaning
In a desert, vegetation is so scanty as to be incapable of
supporting any large human population.
Using contextual clues is a skill that requires a lot of reading between
the lines and guessing the meaning of words, based on the words,
phrases or sentences that are found in a paragraph or text. Thus, by
using the clues available, a reader is able to infer the meaning of a
certain word, based on what is available.
(Notes adapted from http://fosee.mmu.edu.my/~suhaila/PEN35/contextual_clues.htm)
30

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Practice 1
Try out the following exercises to see if you can identify the correct
answer using contextual clues:
Context Clues: Example Sentences
1. Julie bought a gift for her mom at a 2. I ate a portion of everything on my
cart in the mall. The kiosk sells
plate when I ate a small piece of
special chocolate candies.
meat, a small piece of bread, and
a small piece of chocolate pie.
In this sentence, the word kiosk
means
In this sentence, the word portion
means
car
whole
office
piece
department
spoiled
cart
complete
31

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
3. Birds that migrate, such as some

4. There are many forms of
ducks and geese, leave their home
transportation, such as a bus, a
in the winter.
car, or a train, that can get you to
the zoo.
In this sentence, the word
migrate means
transportation means
swimming
toys
to move
animals
flying
system for moving people or
things
times
5. A limerick is a fun way to use
words. You can make up poems,
rhymes, and songs.
6. Nutritious foods, such as fruits

and vegetables, help our bodies
grow.

limerick means
verse
copy
report
text

nutritious means
healthy
boring
yucky
Practice 2
Context Clues: Synonyms
1. Though Samantha's test was
partially done, she received a low
grade because it was not
complete.
2. The soft pliable wood was easy to

bend.
In this sentence, the word pliable
means
bendable
rough
solid
hard

partially means
badly
finally
completely
incomplete
3. We are planning a picnic for today. 4. My best friend has been a

32

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
It is sunny and warm outside. It will

be an idyllic day - just perfect for a
picnic.
In this sentence, the word idyllic
means
flawed
unsure
perfect
bad
companion to me for five years.

companion means
mother
friend
brother
father
5. Tara watches the TV continuously, 6. The ugly monster's face was

or all the time.
hideous to look at.
continuously means
in the morning
all the time
never
in the country
In this sentence, the word hideous

means
beautiful
scary
funny
lovely
7. Mom had to sterilize, or clean, the 8. The lady sat primly straight in the
baby's bottle.
chair.
sterilize means
dirty
throw out
clean
buy
In this sentence, the word primly

means
proper or tall
slouched
up
down
Practice 3
Context Clues: Contrast Clues
1. I thought the painting of the waves crashing into the shore was very
picturesque, but I thought the one next to it was quite ugly.
Using the contrast clue, the word picturesque in this sentence means
attractive
colourful
large
soothing
2. Brad made a cursory effort to finish his homework. This was unlike him;
usually he worked hard to finish before dinner.
33

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Using the contrast clue, the word cursory in this sentence means
insincere
valid
genuine
actual
3. The omnipotent superhero always won his battles, unlike his weak
opponents.
Using the contrast clue, the word omnipotent in this sentence means
almighty or all powerful
powerless
weak
4. After being ill and unable to eat for three days, Beverly had a voracious
appetite.
Using the contrast clue, the word voracious in this sentence means
satisfied
small
quenched
big
5. We were all pretty apathetic in the movie about animals, but we became
interested when it started showing all the tricks dogs could do.
Using the contrast clue, the word apathetic in this sentence means
gracious
uninterested
angry
sleepy
(Adapted from http://www.edhelper.com)
INFERENCE
When you use reading strategies and apply it to a text or any type of reading
material, you are reading with purpose and meaning:
34

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Drawing conclusions refers to information that is implied or inferred.

This means that the information is never clearly stated.
Writers often tell you more than they say directly. They give you hints
or clues that help you "read between the lines."
Using these clues to give you a deeper understanding of your reading
is called inferring.
When you infer, you go beyond the surface details to see other
meanings that the details suggest or imply (not stated).
When the meanings of words are not stated clearly in the context of
the text, they may be implied - that is, suggested or hinted at.
When meanings are implied, you may infer them.
Inference is just a big word that means a conclusion or judgement. If you

infer that something has happened, you do not see, hear, feel, smell, or taste
the actual event. But from what you know, it makes sense to think that it has
happened. You make inferences everyday. Most of the time you do so
without thinking about it.
Consider the following example:
Suppose you are sitting in your car stopped at a red signal light.
You hear screeching tires, then a loud crash and breaking glass.
You see nothing, but you infer that there has been a car accident.
We all know the sounds of screeching tires and a crash.
We know that these sounds almost always mean a car accident.
But there could be some other reason, and therefore another
explanation, for the sounds.

Perhaps it was not an accident involving two moving vehicles.
Maybe an angry driver rammed a parked car. Or maybe someone
played the sound of a car crash from a recording.
Making inferences means choosing the most likely explanation from the
facts at hand.
Inferencing is a reading skill in which you read between the lines and use
your knowledge and experience to understand what is left unsaid. This skill is
useful because writers often do not tell us directly what they mean. We have
35

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
to use our past experiences, knowledge, and whatever information or clues

given in the text to understand what is not stated.
Sometimes someone will try to tell you something without coming right out
and saying it. He will imply it. When you understand what is implied, you
infer. Sometimes you can infer the truth even when the speaker or writer
isnt trying to be helpful. Thats called reading between the lines.
(Notes adapted from http://academic.cuesta.edu/acasupp/as/309.HTM
http://www.rhlschool.com/read6n3.htm and Getting Ahead With English-Reading .page
102. Ng Keat Siew 2005, Marshall Cavendish (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd)
PRACTICE
Try to infer what happened in the following examples, by using the
information available/stated meaning:
Example 1
When Natasha attended her universitys graduation ceremony and went
onstage to receive an award, her mothers eyes were shining with tears.
The stated meaning contains the following information:
a)
b)
c)
d)
Natasha graduated.
She received an award.
She was a university student.
Her mother had tears in her eyes.
The pieces of information that are not stated but can be interpreted
or inferred are as follows:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Natasha was rewarded for good achievement.

Her age is above 17 years old.
Her mother was there to witness the ceremony.
She was proud of Natasha.
Her daughters achievement caused her to cry, because she was very
happy.
Example 2
36

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Justin had been waiting in line for over two hours. By the time he got to the
ticket counter, disappointment was written all over his face. He had not
expected the cinema to be so crowded as the screening of the show had
been going on for the past three weeks. Justin had been looking forward to
taking Ashley out for their first movie date together.
a) From the words disappointment was written all over his
face.cinemacrowded, we can infer that Justin was unable to buy
the tickets for himself and his date, Ashley, as the tickets were sold out
by the time he reached the ticket counter.
b) From the words, their first movie date together, we can infer that
Justins relationship with Ashley must be quite new (in the early
stages).
c) From the words, the show had been going on for the past three weeks,
we can infer that the movie must have been a box office hit as it had
been screened for three weeks already.
(Adapted from Getting Ahead With English-Reading. page 103. Ng Keat Siew 2005,
Marshall Cavendish (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd)
Practice
See if you can infer an implied or hidden message in each of the following
selections:
Exercise 1
Turner almost wished that he hadnt listened to the radio. He went to the
closet and grabbed his umbrella. He would feel silly carrying it to the bus
stop on such a sunny morning.
Which probably happened?
a. Turner realized that he had an unnatural fear of falling radio parts.
b. Turner had promised himself to do something silly that morning.
c. Turner had heard a weather forecast that predicted rain.
d. Turner planned to trade his umbrella for a bus ride.
37

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Exercise 2
Larry, as your boss, I must say its been very interesting working with you,
Miss Valdez said. However, it seems that our companys needs and your
performance style are not well matched. Therefore, it makes me very sad to
have to ask you to resign your position effective today.
What was Miss Valdez telling Larry?
a.
b.
c.
d.
She would feel really bad if he decided to quit.

He was being fired.
He was getting a raise in pay.
She really enjoyed having him in the office.
Exercise 3
No, Honey, I dont want you to spend a lot of money on my birthday present.
Just having you for a husband is the only gift I need. In fact, Ill just drive my
old rusty bucket of bolts down to the mall and buy myself a little present.
And if the poor old car doesn't break down, Ill be back soon.
What is the message?
a. I dont want a gift.
b. Buy me a new car.
c. The mall is fun.
d. Ill carry a bucket for you.
Exercise 4
Bill and Jessica were almost done taking turns choosing the players for their
teams. It was Jessicas turn to choose, and only Kurt was left. Jessica said,
Kurt.
We can infer that ________
a. Kurt is not a very good player.
b. Jessica was pleased to have Kurt on her team.
c. Kurt was the best player on either team.
d. Jessica was inconsiderate of Kurts feelings.
(Adapted from http://www.rhlschool.com/read6n3.htm)
38

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Input 5:
Writing
39

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
Introduction to sentence structures

Kindly refer to these websites:
http://eslbee.com/sentences.htm
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/englishgrammar/clause-phrase-and-sentence/sentence-structure
http://esl.fis.edu/learners/advice/syntax.htm
40

USIM
SESSION 2014/2015
References
Books:
Kaur, H. & Jonas, F.2010. Effective Practice: MUET. Oxford Fajar. Shah Alam
Koh, S.L . 2009. Effective Text for MUET. Penerbit Ilmu Bakti.Subang Jaya
Mainstream English II.Page 55-56 .2004. Second Edition.Pearson Malaysia
Ng Keat Siew. Getting Ahead With English-Reading. pages 102, 103, 114-116,
128, 129. 2005. Marshall Cavendish (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd
Magazines:
Readers
Readers
Readers
Readers
Readers
Digest -April 2011, pg T3

Digest -May 2010, pg 23
Digest -March 2008, pg 138
Digest- May 2010, pg 23
Digest -April 2010, pg 39 41
Internet:
http://www.nst.com.my/
http://fosee.mmu.edu.my/~suhaila/PEN35/contextual_clues.htm
http://www.edhelper.com
http://academic.cuesta.edu/acasupp/as/309.HTM
http://www.rhlschool.com/read6n3.htm
Pictures:
Yahoo and Google Images
http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/
41

Supplementary Materials

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Supplementary Materials

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

FACULTY OF MAJOR LANGUAGE STUDIES

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

Input 1: Language Learning Strategies

Identifying main ideas and details

Introduction to sentence structures

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

Find a partner and tell him/her about the following:

Your favourite food

Your ambition in the future

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

likes journal writing

has working experience

has a family business

prefers study alone

has an interesting blog

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

1. My mother - birthday - satay and red velvet cake

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

Note Taking Skills

For more info, please log on to these websites:

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

Identifying main ideas and details

What is the paragraph about?

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

Which sentence best expresses the main idea of the paragraph?

Why is the main idea?

Where is the main idea found?

What is the function of the other sentences?

: One or more sentences that develop a single thought.

: One sentence from the paragraph which tells the readers

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

How to Locate Main Idea, Topic Sentence and Supporting Details?

the first sentence in the paragraph

2. Sentences which consist of descriptions, explanations, examples,

The iguana is found in the tropics,

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

how long it lives. Iguanas require a lot

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

relationship is a two-way street. If

(Adapted from Readers Digest -April 2011, pg T3)

1. According to local mythology, Gunung Ledang is the home of a

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

3. It is natural for parents to shield their children from financial hardship

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

Global warming, the result of mans industrial activities, cannot be

1. Which of the following effectively summarizes the ideas of the first

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

2. Which of the following effectively summarizes the ideas of the second

If Malaysia is to produce scientists who are global thinkers and

A. We should prepare ourselves in the face of global warming.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT

1. Which of the following statements best summarizes the second

The translated work had many grammatical errors.

3. Choose the main ideas discussed in the fourth paragraph.

Translating scientific journals is not practical because it is time

4. What is the main reason for the increase in awareness of the