Comprehension Foundations

A Activity 1: Skim for the Gist

Passage: “Stage Nerves” (180 words)

Leila stood backstage, staring at the heavy curtains that separated her from the crowd. Her
costume was perfect, and she had rehearsed every line until she could say it in her sleep. Still, her
hands trembled and her mouth felt dry. She peeped through a gap in the curtain and saw rows of
seats filling up fast. Her parents were waving at her excitedly.

This was the night of her first school play, and she had landed the lead role after many auditions. At
first, she had been thrilled, but now all she felt was fear. What if she forgot her lines? What if she
tripped and fell?

Suddenly, her teacher placed a hand on her shoulder and whispered, “You’re ready.” Leila took a
deep breath, nodded, and stepped into the light.

Task:

1. What is the main idea of the passage? (1 sentence)

2. What type of text is this? (Narrative / Report / Argument)

Activity 2: Scanning Challenge

Passage: “The Science Fair” (170 words)

The annual Science Fair at Riverside Secondary was held on Saturday, starting at 9:00 a.m. sharp in
the school hall. Students from Forms 1 to 5 took part in the event. Projects ranged from solar-
powered ovens to robot arms made from recycled materials.

A crowd of parents, teachers, and even a few local journalists attended. The guest of honour, Dr.
Hassan Lim, gave a short speech about the importance of innovation and creativity. Form 4 student
Aisyah won first prize for her water-purifying prototype made from charcoal, sand, and plastic
bottles.

By noon, most of the exhibits had been viewed, and winners were announced. Certificates were
handed out and photographs were taken. The event ended with a group photo on stage and loud
applause from the crowd.

Task: Scan to answer the questions below.

1. What time did the Science Fair start?

2. What was the winning project about?

3. Who was the guest of honour?

4. Which student won first prize?

5. What materials did the winning project use?

Activity 3: Main Idea vs Supporting Detail

Passage: “City Pollution” (160 words)

Pollution in modern cities has become a serious issue. Every day, factories release smoke and
waste into the air and rivers. Cars and buses contribute large amounts of carbon emissions that
pollute the air we breathe. Noise pollution from traffic and construction also affects people’s health
and stress levels.

Governments around the world are trying to reduce pollution. Some cities have started banning
cars in city centres, while others have improved public transport systems. In Singapore, for
example, heavy fines are imposed on factories that break environmental laws.

While these efforts help, citizens must also play a part. People can walk or cycle more, reduce the
use of plastic, and support recycling programmes. Together, small actions can lead to big change.

Task:
Label each sentence below as MI (Main Idea) or SD (Supporting Detail):

1. Pollution in modern cities has become a serious issue.

2. Factories release smoke and waste into the environment.

3. Some cities have banned cars in certain areas.

4. People can help by recycling more.

5. Noise pollution affects health.

Activity 1 – Skimming for Gist

Passage: “A Morning Routine” (170 words)

Every morning, Hamzah wakes up at 5:30 a.m., even before his alarm rings. He enjoys the quiet
moments of the early morning, when the world is still and peaceful. After brushing his teeth and
washing his face, he goes outside to water the plants in his small garden.

Once the sun rises, he jogs around the block for twenty minutes. It helps him clear his mind and
prepare for the day. When he returns home, he makes a simple breakfast—usually toast, eggs, and
a glass of warm tea. After that, he spends ten minutes reading the newspaper headlines online.

By the time his younger siblings wake up, Hamzah is already dressed and ready for school. His
organised routine keeps him calm and focused throughout the day, and he rarely feels rushed or
stressed.

Task:

1. What is the main idea of the passage?

2. What type of text is this? (Narrative / Recount / Report / Article)

Activity 2 – Scanning for Detail

Passage: “Book Club Meeting” (180 words)

The Seria Young Readers Club held its monthly meeting last Saturday at 3:00 p.m. in the town
library. Thirteen members attended, ranging from Form 2 to Form 5 students. This month’s featured
book was The Giver by Lois Lowry.

The session began with a short quiz based on the novel, followed by a lively group discussion about
the book’s ending. Some members felt the ending was hopeful, while others found it confusing. The
club leader, Miss Liyana, encouraged everyone to share their views respectfully.

Snacks such as curry puffs and orange juice were served during the break. Before leaving, members
voted on next month’s book: Holes by Louis Sachar. The meeting ended at 4:30 p.m.

Task: Answer the following questions.

1. Where was the meeting held?

2. What time did it start?

3. How many members attended?

4. What was the title of the book discussed?

5. What snack was served?

Activity 3 – Main Idea vs Supporting Detail

Passage: “Online Learning” (160 words)

Online learning has become increasingly popular among students. It allows them to access lessons
anytime, anywhere. This flexibility is helpful for those with busy schedules or long commutes.
Students can also learn at their own pace.

However, online learning also presents challenges. Some students feel lonely without classmates
around them. Others struggle with distractions at home or lack of stable internet. Teachers may
also find it difficult to keep students engaged during online lessons.

To overcome these problems, schools are offering training for teachers and providing students with
better access to devices and data plans. Parents are also encouraged to create quiet study spaces
at home.

Task: Label each sentence as MI (Main Idea) or SD (Supporting Detail)

1. Online learning has become increasingly popular among students.

2. Some students feel lonely without classmates.

3. Students can learn at their own pace.

4. Schools are offering training for teachers.

5. Parents should create quiet study areas at home.

C Activity 1 – Skimming for Gist

Passage: “The Mountain Trip” (175 words)

Last weekend, Ali and his cousins went on a hiking trip to Bukit Pagon, the highest mountain in
Brunei. They left early in the morning and arrived at the base just after sunrise. Excited but slightly
nervous, they tightened their shoelaces and followed the trail uphill.

As they climbed, they passed waterfalls, thick forests, and even spotted a wild monkey swinging
through the trees. The path became steeper, and their legs began to ache, but the view kept them
motivated. By noon, they reached the peak. A cool breeze blew across their faces as they stood in
awe of the breathtaking scenery below.

They took photos, ate lunch, and rested before beginning their descent. Tired but happy, they
reached the car by late afternoon, already talking about their next adventure.

Task:

1. What is the main idea of the passage?

2. What type of text is this? (Narrative / Recount / Report / Opinion)

Activity 2 – Scanning for Detail

Passage: “The Lost Phone” (170 words)

Last Tuesday, during recess at Sekolah Menengah Rimba, a student named Farhan misplaced his
phone. He had placed it on a bench while playing football and forgot about it. When he returned ten
minutes later, it was gone.

Farhan reported the missing phone to the school office at 10:45 a.m. The school staff made an
announcement and checked with the duty teachers. Luckily, a kind student named Aiman had
found the phone and handed it to the librarian.

Farhan was relieved to get his phone back and thanked Aiman in front of the class. The principal
praised Aiman for his honesty and gave him a certificate during morning assembly the next day.

Task: Answer the following questions.

1. What was the student’s name who lost the phone?

2. When did he report it missing?

3. Who found the phone?

4. Where was the phone returned to?

5. What reward did the honest student receive?

Activity 3 – Main Idea vs Supporting Detail

Passage: “The Importance of Sleep” (165 words)

Getting enough sleep is essential for good health. Experts recommend that teenagers get at least 8
hours of sleep each night. During sleep, the body repairs itself and the brain processes information
from the day.

Lack of sleep can lead to problems such as poor concentration, bad moods, and even weaker
immune systems. Students who stay up late on their phones or watching TV may struggle to stay
awake in class and perform poorly in exams.

To improve sleep habits, students should follow a regular bedtime routine. Avoiding caffeine,
limiting screen time, and creating a quiet environment can all help with falling asleep more easily.

Task: Label each as MI (Main Idea) or SD (Supporting Detail)

1. Getting enough sleep is essential for good health.

2. Experts recommend teenagers sleep at least 8 hours.

3. Lack of sleep causes poor concentration.

4. Limiting screen time helps improve sleep.

5. Sleep helps the brain process information.

SET A

Stage Nerve Answer Key:

1. Main idea: A girl overcomes stage fright before her first performance.

2. Type: Narrative

Activity 2 answer Key:

1. 9:00 a.m.

2. Water purification

3. Dr. Hassan Lim

4. Aisyah

5. Charcoal, sand, and plastic bottles

Activity 3 Answer Key:

1. MI

2. SD

3. SD

4. SD

5. SD

Set B Act 1 Answer Key:

1. Main idea: Hamzah follows a peaceful and organised morning routine.

2. Text type: Recount

Act 2 Answer Key:

1. In the town library

2. 3:00 p.m.

3. Thirteen

4. The Giver by Lois Lowry

5. Curry puffs and orange juice

Act 3 Answer Key:

1. MI

2. SD
Comprehension Foundations

3. SD

4. SD

5. SD

SET C Act 1 Answer Key:

1. Main idea: A group of hikers climbs a mountain and enjoys the experience.

2. Text type: Recount

Act 2 Answer Key:

1. Farhan

2. 10:45 a.m.

3. Aiman

4. The librarian

5. A certificate from the principal

Act 3 Answer Key:

1. MI

2. SD

3. SD

4. SD

5. SD