https://lilbutmightyenglish.com/primary-school-english-tuition/



Understanding PSLE English Paper 2025 Formats
The PSLE English paper has always played a key role in the Primary School Leaving Examination. As
students prepare for 2025, it helps to understand what to expect from the revised formats. This guide
explains the structure of the English papers, shares tips to tackle each section, and helps parents and
pupils build confidence.
The English paper checks four skills: writing, reading, listening, and speaking. These come through in four
different papers. Together, they assess how well a student can use the language in real-life situations.
Let’s explore each paper, step by step.
Paper 1 – Writing
Paper 1 has two parts. Part one tests
grammar through sentence writing.
Part two asks pupils to write a
composition based on given pictures
or a theme. Good writing requires
strong ideas, clear structure, and
correct grammar.
1. Situational Writing
In this section, students must write a short text. It could be a letter, email, message, or notice. The task
comes with a scenario and key details. This section tests writing purpose, clarity, and proper format.
Tips to succeed:
● Read the prompt carefully.
● Find the purpose, audience, and tone.
● Stick to the format—greet, close, and use paragraphs.
● Keep the language simple and polite.
● Use linking words to connect ideas smoothly.
Marks focus on how the message gets across. Grammar, tone, and structure also count. Writing should be
natural, not forced.
2. Continuous Writing

https://lilbutmightyenglish.com/blog/composition-writing-3-ways-to-write-a-good-line-of-dialogue/



This is where pupils write a composition. They get three pictures and must build a story using at least one.
Sometimes, there’s a theme, like “A Difficult Choice” or “An Unexpected Gift”. Writing should be engaging,
structured, and creative.
To do well:
● Pick a picture that sparks ideas.
● Plan the story before writing.
● Start with a strong hook.
● Use vivid verbs and clear actions.
● End with a full conclusion.
● Show emotions, thoughts, and a clear flow of events.
Good stories balance action, description, and feelings. Language must stay clear and direct, avoiding
overly complex words.
Paper 2 – Language Use and Comprehension
Paper 2 checks grammar, vocabulary, and understanding of passages. It has multiple sections, each with
its focus. Good comprehension requires careful reading and logical thinking.
1. Grammar and Vocabulary
The first part test:
● Correct word forms
● Sentence structure
● Word order
● Use of prepositions and connectors
● Understanding synonyms and antonyms
Each section includes blanks to fill, words to pick, or sentences to fix. Pupils must read each sentence
closely and apply correct grammar rules.
How to improve:
● Practise grammar drills.
● Read short texts daily.


● Keep a notebook of new words and their use.
● Use words in real-life conversations.
● Play word games to build vocabulary.
2. Comprehension
Later sections contain longer passages with questions. Students must:
● Pick key ideas
● Understand word meaning
● Infer from context
● Explain actions and feelings
● Compare and contrast information
There are both MCQs and open-ended questions. Answers must stay short but complete.
Advice for this part:
● Read the passage once to grasp the story.
● Underline keywords.
● Answer in full sentences where asked.
● Avoid lifting entire lines unless they fit.
● Check answers for clarity and relevance.
3. Visual Text Comprehension
One part gives a poster, webpage, or signboard. Questions focus on layout, meaning, and purpose.
This tests how well students read non-story texts. Look at headings, images, and text boxes.
Skills to focus on:
● Identify main messages
● Notice how images support meaning
● Understand different fonts and colours used for emphasis
Paper 3 – Listening Comprehension


In this part, pupils hear short recordings. These may be news reports, phone calls, stories, or
conversations. They then answer questions based on what they heard.
Key skills tested:
● Identifying facts
● Noting details
● Understanding opinions
● Matching spoken and written words
● Following key transitions in speech
There are 20 multiple-choice questions. Pupils must listen attentively and think critically.
To prepare:
● Listen to news clips or podcasts for children.
● Practise short dictations.
● Repeat the audio when possible.
● Focus on signal words like “but”, “so”, or “because”.
● Develop strong listening habits by summarising short audios.
Since pupils only hear each clip once, they must stay alert and focused. Good listening leads to better
understanding.
Paper 4 – Oral Communication
The English oral paper has two parts: Reading Aloud and Stimulus-Based Conversation. This tests
confidence, clarity, and expressive speaking.
1. Reading Aloud
Students read a short passage aloud. Examiners look for:
● Correct pronunciation
● Clear voice and pace
● Expression and pauses at the right moments
To practise:


● Read books aloud at home.
● Mark where to pause.
● Record and listen to yourself.
● Focus on difficult words and tricky phrasing.
Reading with feeling shows the student understands the passage, not just the words. Fluency and
expression matter.
2. Stimulus-Based Conversation
In this part, students view a picture or short text. They then respond to several questions related to it.
Topics may include school life, hobbies, or daily routines.
Examiners check if pupils:
● Understand the topic
● Share personal thoughts
● Build on ideas
● Speak clearly and naturally
● Use complete sentences
The key is to treat it like a friendly chat, not a test. Pupils should feel comfortable expressing their
thoughts.
Practice tips:
● Talk about your day often with others.
● Think aloud about simple topics.
● Use clear, complete sentences.
● Stay calm and focused.
● Expand on answers by explaining "why" and "how".
Parents can help by holding short daily chats on different topics. Confidence grows with practice, not
memorisation.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them


Many pupils feel nervous about the PSLE English paper. Let’s look at common problems and how to fix
them.
1. Struggling to Plan a Composition
● Some students dive in without a plan. This often leads to mixed-up stories.

● Fix: Instruct them to take five minutes to outline the beginning, middle, and end of their story.
Use a simple structure like "Somebody – Wanted – But – So – Then."
2. Weak Grammar
● If grammar mistakes keep piling up, it drags marks down.

● Fix: Focus on one rule each week. Practise it until it feels easy. Use sentence-building games or
worksheets.
3. Speaking Too Softly
● During the English oral, soft speech can hurt marks.

● Fix: Ask your child to practise reading with a soft toy or mirror. Remind them to open their mouth
wide and stand straight.
4. Not Understanding Questions
● Some pupils rush and miss what the question asks.

● Fix: Teach them to underline keywords in both comprehension and oral exercises. Always verify
if the question asks for "how," "why," or "what."
An Insight Into PSLE Exam Format
The PSLE English exam consists of four main parts:

1. Paper 1 – Writing: This paper is worth 27.5% of the total score and has 55 marks.
2. Paper 2 – Comprehension and Language Use: This paper makes up 47.5% of the total score and has
95 marks.
3. Paper 3 – Listening Comprehension: This paper accounts for 10% of the total score and has 20 marks.
4. Paper 4 – Oral Communication: This paper represents 15% of the total score and has 30 marks.


https://lilbutmightyenglish.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-the-o-level-english-oral-examination/


https://livepositively.com/understanding-psle-english-paper-2025-formats/



The entire PSLE English exam is out of 200 marks. The student's total score is then converted to a
percentage out of 100, which is used to calculate the Achievement Level (AL) score.
Final Thoughts
The PSLE English paper in 2025 will test writing, reading, listening, and speaking. Each part builds skills
that pupils will use far beyond the classroom.
Every child can improve by learning the format, practicing step by step, and receiving support at home.
The key is to stay calm, keep learning, and address one task at a time.
Help your child feel ready—not just for the test, but for real-world English. Whether they learn to write a
composition, answer comprehension with care, or shine in the English oral, every small win builds a
stronger future.
Source URL: https://livepositively.com/understanding-psle-english-paper-2025-formats/
Contact Us:
Email- lilbutmightyenglishsg@gmail.com
Phone- +65 96460930
Address- 3 Tampines Central 1, #06-03 Tampines Plaza 1, Singapore, 529540