Model Compositions for Primary 5 and PSLE
For many Primary 5 and PSLE students, writing a good composition can feel like one of the hardest parts of English. You sit there staring at the pictures or topic, wondering, “How do I even begin?”
Do not worry — you are definitely not alone.
In this guide, we will break down how to approach composition writing step by step, share a model story, and highlight common mistakes to avoid. Whether you are aiming for that AL1 or just want to get better at telling a good story, this is for you.
What is Expected in the PSLE Composition?
In the PSLE English Paper 1, you will be given three pictures and asked to write a story based on one or more of them. The story has to be between 150 and 200 words long, and it is assessed on:
Content – Is the story relevant and engaging?
Language – How well do you use vocabulary, grammar, and sentence variety?
Organisation – Are your ideas clear and well-structured?
A strong story does not just describe events — it takes the reader on a journey.
Simple Tips to Make Your Composition Stand Out
1. Always Start With a Plan
Jumping straight into writing often leads to messy plots. Instead, take 3–5 minutes to sketch a quick plan. Ask yourself:
Who is the main character?
What is the problem or challenge?
How does the story end?
You can even create a quick table like this:
Part - What Happens
Beginning - Introduce the character and setting
Middle - Something unexpected happens
Climax - The most exciting or tense moment
Ending - The problem is solved or a lesson is learned
2. Start with a Bang
The first line should make the reader want to read more. Here are some ideas:
Begin with a sound or action:
“CRASH! I stared at the broken vase in shock.”
Use dialogue:
“‘Don’t touch that!’ my sister warned. But it was too late.”
Describe the scene:
“The sun was just rising, casting a golden glow over the quiet playground.”
3. Add Feeling and Detail
One thing that separates a good story from a great one is emotion. Let the reader know how your character is feeling. Were they scared? Excited? Nervous?
Also, show, do not just tell. Instead of saying “I was angry,” try:
My fists clenched, and I could feel my face turning red.
4. Build Up to a Key Moment
There should always be a turning point in the story — maybe a mistake was made, someone got hurt, or a secret was revealed. This is the part that should make readers lean in.
5. End with Meaning
Do not just end with “I was happy.” Try to end with a reflection, like a lesson learned or a change in character. For example:
That day, I did not just find a missing phone — I found the courage to speak up.
Sample Story: “The Missing Wallet”
Introduction
It was just another Monday morning. I was walking to school when I noticed something lying under a bench — a brown leather wallet. Curious, I picked it up and looked around. No one was there.
Middle
Inside was a student card, some cash, and a note. I recognised the name — it belonged to one of the older boys in school. I had two choices: return it or keep it quiet. For a moment, I hesitated. What if no one found out?
But then I remembered what my teacher always said: “Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching.”
Climax
I turned the wallet in at the general office. Later that day, the boy found me and thanked me in front of everyone. I was embarrassed — but proud too.
Doing the right thing felt good. I may not have gotten a reward, but I walked away knowing I’d made the right choice.
What to Avoid in Your Compositions
Trying to sound too “big” – Using huge words does not always make your story better. Be clear and natural.
Forgetting paragraph breaks – Start a new paragraph when a new idea or event begins.
Writing a boring ending – Do not end with “I went home and slept.” Wrap up with feeling or reflection.
Rushing through it – Always leave a few minutes at the end to check for spelling or grammar errors.
At the end of the day, writing a great composition is not about using big words or complicated plots. It is about telling a story that feels real and meaningful — a story that you would enjoy reading.
So practice regularly, read model compositions, and most importantly, write from the heart. You can visit the Mavis Tutorial Centre for more guidance!