ENGLISH TERM II REVISION

Figurative language:

Simile: A figure of speech that compares two different things using the words “like” or “as” to
highlight their similarities.
Example – Her smile was as bright as the sun.

Metaphor: It establishes a relationship between two unlike things, suggesting that they are alike in
some way. Unlike a simile, it doesn’t use “like” or “as”.
Example – Time is a thief.

Hyperbole: Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. It is used for emphasis
or to create an effect.
Example – I’ve told you a million times to clean your room!

Alliteration: The repetition of the same initial consonant sound in a series of words within a phrase
or verse.
Example – Sally sells seashells by the seashore.

Assonance: The repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words, especially in stressed syllables.
Example – The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.

Oxymoron: A figure of speech in which two seemingly contradictory or opposite words or ideas are
combined to create a paradoxical effect.
Example – Jumbo Shrimp.

Personification: A figure of speech in which human qualities are attributed to non-human entities or
abstract concepts.
Example – The wind whispered through the trees.

Hypothetical question: A question posed as a hypothetical situation, often used to explore

possibilities, make a point, or provoke thought.
Example – What would you do if you had the power to change the course of history?

Repetition: The use of repeated words, phrases, or structures in a speech or writing for emphasis,
rhythm, or artistic effect.
Example – We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the
fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills.

Sentence structures:

Simple sentences: A simple sentence consists of one independent clause (a group of words that
expresses a complete thought) with a subject and a predicate.
Example – The cat sleeps.

Compound sentences: A compound sentence is formed by combining two independent clauses with
a coordinating conjunction (such as and, but, or) or a semicolon.
Example – The sun was setting, and the moon was rising.
Complex sentences: A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one
dependent clause (a group of words that does not express a complete thought and cannot stand
alone as a sentence).
Example – While I was studying, the phone rang.

Compound-complex sentences: A compound-complex sentence combines elements of both

compound and complex sentences. It has two or more independent clauses and at least one
dependent clause.
Example – Although she prefers romantic comedies, she agreed to watch the action movies, and we
had a great time.

Article writing

Format:

• Catchy title
• By-line (Name of the writer)
• 1st Paragraph - Introduction
• 2nd and 3 rd Paragraph – More information and details
• 4th paragraph – Conclusion

Language features:

• Use varied, appropriate and subject-specific terminology to express ideas.

• Use the right tenses and incorporate a mix of varied sentence structures. (For example, long
sentences are used to describe and add details to a sentence. Short sentences are used to
create suspense, drama or excitement)
• Use correct punctuation. (Revise the use of comma, hyphen, apostrophe, exclamation mark,
period, semicolon, colon and dash)
• Use sensory details (imagery) to engage the reader.

Structural features:

• Understand the topic and audience to write a catchy title.

• Write the author’s name in the by-line.
• Clearly state the main topic and purpose of the article in the introduction.
• Organise ideas logically in paragraphs.
• Use sub-headings and quotations of people related to the topic if necessary.
• Summarise key points in the conclusion.
• Proofread the article.

Sample article: An article describing an upcoming sport event

The Great Marathon Challenge: Unleashing the Spirit of Unity

- By Sarah Thompson, Sports Enthusiast and Event Correspondent

Gear up for an adrenaline-packed spectacle as the countdown begins for "The Great Marathon
Challenge." In the heart of our vibrant city, Riverside Park is about to transform into a hub of
excitement, welcoming athletes, enthusiasts, and families alike. This event isn't just a marathon; it's a
celebration of resilience, determination, and the unifying power of sport.

"The Great Marathon Challenge is not just about running; it's about pushing boundaries and
discovering the strength within ourselves," says Amanda Rodriguez, a seasoned marathoner. This
event transcends the typical race setup, embracing inclusivity and fostering a sense of community.
Whether you're a professional runner or someone lacing up your shoes for the first time, this
marathon invites everyone to be a part of something extraordinary.

Event details:

Taking place on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, The Great Marathon Challenge
promises a day filled with triumph, inspiration, and the pure joy of movement. The venue, Riverside
Park in the City Center, has been carefully selected to offer both runners and spectators an
unforgettable experience.

"The course is designed not just for the runners but also for the spectators, offering a visual feast of
our city's beauty," says race coordinator, Emma Turner. The marathon course winds through the city's
historic downtown, picturesque riverside paths, and challenging hills that test the mettle of the
participants.

Who is involved:

"It's not just a race; it's a journey we embark on together," remarks Coach David Martinez, head of
the local running club. The event sees participation from elite athletes, schools, families, and
individuals passionate about fitness. The inclusivity of The Great Marathon Challenge sets it apart,
embodying the belief that sport is a universal language that brings people together.

Community engagement:

"More than a marathon, it's a community celebration," adds Mayor John Harris. Local businesses,
schools, and charities actively contribute to the event, setting up cheering zones, live music stages,
and food stalls along the route. The marathon becomes a canvas for local art, with interactive
exhibits showcasing the city's vibrant culture.

As the excitement builds, Riverside Park awaits the pounding of a thousand footsteps, echoing the
spirit of unity and triumph. "This marathon is more than a competition; it's a shared experience that
bonds us all," says event organizer, Michael Patterson. So, mark your calendars, join the cheering
crowd, and be part of The Great Marathon Challenge – where every step is a testament to the
strength of the human spirit.

Useful phrases for article writing

To begin with
In the first place
Initially
At the outset
Firstly

Moving on to the specifics

Now turning our attention to
Let’s delve into
Exploring the details
Examining the events particulars

A key aspect is
Crucial to the event is
Central to the significance is
Integral to the experience is
Highlighting the importance

Shifting focus to
Considering the diverse involvement of
Taking a closer look at
The event draws in
Examining the…

Turning our attention to

Now, let’s explore the route
___ takes us through
A noteworthy feature is
Examining the specific highlights

Moving beyond,
Further enriching the experience is
Noteworthy is the active engagement of
Extending beyond ___, we find

Concluding our exploration

In conclusion
To wrap things up
Ultimately
Bringing focus back

Practice question:

Write an article for a local magazine describing a cultural event that is about to take place in your
city.

Choose a specific cultural celebration, such as a festival, parade, or exhibition.

Provide details about the date, time, and venue of the event.

Describe the unique elements of the event, the participating communities, and the significance of
celebrating diversity.

Highlight any special performances, activities, or exhibits that attendees can look forward to. Use
engaging language, vivid descriptions, and a compelling narrative style to capture the essence of this
cultural extravaganza.

Punctuation:
Comma: Used to indicate a pause or separation within a sentence. They have various functions,
including separating items in a list, connecting independent clauses, and setting off introductory
phrases or elements.
Example – I went to the store, bought some groceries, and then headed home.

Semicolon: It is used to connect two closely related independent clauses that could stand alone as
separate sentences.
Example – The sun was setting; the sky was painted in warm hues.

Colon: It is used to introduce or emphasize information. They often precede a list, explanation, or a
quotation.
Example – Please bring the following items: a notebook, a pen, and your laptop.

Apostrophe: It serves to indicate possession, create contractions, and form plurals for certain letters
or numbers.
Example – Sarah’s book is on the shelf. (Possession)
We can’t go to the party. (Contraction of “cannot”)

Hyphen: Hyphens are used to join words together, indicating a compound term, or to separate
syllables in a single word.
Example – The well-known actor received an award. (compound term)
He recovered from his injury quickly. (separating syllables)

Dash: It can be used for emphasis, to set off information within a sentence, or to indicate a sudden
change in thought or tone.
Example – Her excitement – uncontainable – filled the room. We were planning to go to the beach –
until it started raining.

Ellipsis: It is used to indicate the omission of words, a pause, or a trailing off of thought in a sentence.
It creates a sense of suspense, suggests an incomplete statement, or represents a pause in speech.
Example – The mysterious stranger entered the room, his intentions unclear…
The road not taken…has made all the difference.

Story writing

1. I have carefully considered the prompt and narrowed down the theme which aligns with the
given topic.
2. I have identified the type of conflict that will drive my narrative. (Internal conflict, external
conflict, combination)
3. I have included key elements of a narrative – described the setting, introduced characters,
presented the main problem, introduced additional obstacles, provided resolution and
resolved the conflict.
4. I have used vivid descriptions, using imagery and shades of meaning to use appropriate
vocabulary.
5. I have organised events of the story logically into paragraphs to improve the structure.
6. I have included dialogue to advance the plot and reveal character traits.
7. I have used a variety of sentence structures.
8. I have used appropriate punctuation while using dialogues.
9. I have followed CUPS rule.
Practice question:
In a world where magic is forbidden, a young adventurer stumbles upon an ancient artifact that
could change the fate of their realm.

Write an adventure fantasy narrative based on the given prompt. Develop a story around the young
adventurer's discovery of the ancient artifact and the challenges they face in a world where magic is
forbidden. Explore the consequences of possessing such a powerful object and the impact it may
have on the protagonist's journey. Create a vivid fantasy world, introduce magical elements, and
build a suspenseful plot that keeps the reader engaged. Use imaginative language to transport the
reader to this enchanting realm.