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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?”

Don’t worry — you’re definitely not alone.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to approach composition writing step by step, share a model story, and highlight common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re aiming for that AL1 or just want to get better at telling a good story, this is for you.

What’s Expected in the PSLE Composition?

In the PSLE English Paper 1, you’ll 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’s 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 doesn’t 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’s the main character?

What’s 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, don’t 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

Don’t 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 didn’t 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 recognized 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 doesn’t 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 – Don’t 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 isn’t about using big words or complicated plots. It’s 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!