Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 PSLE English Exam Format

As we near PSLE Examination, it is essential for students and parents to understand the changes in the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) English Language format. Knowing what to expect can shape effective preparation strategies and reduce exam anxiety. This guide breaks down the exam structure, weight of each component, and additional information to help everyone navigate the changes confidently.

Preparing for the PSLE is all about understanding the exam format and planning strategically. Whether your child is taking English, Mathematics, Chinese or Science, familiarising yourself with the PSLE exam format is the first step toward success. Here is the examination format for PSLE 2025 according to the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board (SEAB).

Changes in the PSLE 2025 Exam Format

One of the key change in PSLE 2025 is the adjustment in the English examination’s weightage. This change aims to better assess students’ oral communication skills while balancing the overall assessment components. Here’s a breakdown of the updated English paper weightage:

• Oral Examination: Increased from 15% to 20%

• Paper 1 (Situational & Continuous Writing): Decreased from 27.5% to 25%

• Paper 2 (Written Paper): Decreased from 47.5% to 45%

With a greater emphasis on oral communication, students should consider dedicating more time to improving their speaking skills. Reading aloud, practicing articulation and engaging in structured discussions can help them excel in this area.

English

Paper 1 - Writing (50 marks)

Situational Writing (14 marks): Students need to write a short functional piece such as an email or a letter as per the given situation. Students will be assessed based on their ability to express and put forth situational ideas like writing emails/reports and compositional skills will be assessed.

Continuous Writing (36 marks): Students must write a composition on a given topic in continuous prose of at least 150 words. Three pictures related to the topic will be provided for students to come up with their own interpretation of the topic. Usage of grammar, vocabulary, sentence formation, paragraph writing with an introduction, a middle and an end, and punctuations will be taken into consideration.

Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes

Weightage: 25%

Paper 2 - Language Use and Comprehension (90 marks)

Students are assessed based on their ability to write grammatically correct language. There will be two booklets for this exam and the students will be tested on the following:

Booklet A

Grammar (MCQ. 10 questions. 10 marks)

Vocabulary (MCQ. 5 questions. 5 marks)

Vocabulary cloze (MCQ. 5 questions. 5 marks)

Visual text comprehension (MCQ. 5 questions. 5 marks)

Booklet B

Grammar cloze (OE. 10 questions. 10 marks)

Editing for spelling and grammar (OE 10 questions. 10 marks)

Comprehension cloze (OE. 15 questions. 15 marks)

Synthesis and transformation (OE. 5 questions. 10 marks)

Comprehension OE (OE. 10 questions. 20 marks)

Duration: 1 hour and 50 minutes

Weightage: 45%

Paper 3 - Listening Comprehension (20 marks)

This paper judges a student’s ability to understand spoken English. There are 20 multiple-choice questions — the first seven questions will be based on pictorial representations. The written material may be as varied as announcements, advertisements, conversations, instructions or stories. Each text will be read twice.

Duration: Maximum 35 minutes

Weightage: 10%

Paper 4 - Oral Communication (40 marks)

Reading Aloud (15 marks): Students are expected to read a passage aloud with proper pronunciation, fluency in the language, and articulation.

Stimulus-based Conversation (25 marks): Students will be assessed on their ability to provide a personal response to a visual stimulus with fluency and proper diction. Students will also be expected to engage in a conversation on a relevant topic.

Duration: 5 minutes to prepare; 5 minutes to answer

Weightage: 20%

Tips from Our Teachers for Getting Ready for the PSLE English Exam

Preparing for the PSLE English exam demands a careful focus on all aspects of language usage. Here are some useful strategies. Before exploring the preparation tips, it's important to clearly understand the PSLE English exam's structure. The exam generally includes various components such as comprehension, composition, grammar, and oral communication. Understanding the requirements and expectations of each section will lay a strong foundation for your study plan.

1. Developing a Study Schedule

   • Creating a well-structured study schedule is essential for effective preparation. Allocate specific time slots for each component of the English examination, ensuring that you cover all areas thoroughly. Incorporate regular breaks to avoid burnout and maintain your focus. A balanced schedule not only enhances retention but also builds confidence as you progress through your materials.

     
     

2. Enhancing Vocabulary Skills

   • A rich vocabulary is a pivotal aspect of excelling in the PSLE English examination. To improve your vocabulary, consider reading a variety of texts, such as novels, newspapers, and academic articles. Make a habit of noting down unfamiliar words, looking up their meanings, and using them in sentences. Engaging in word games and quizzes can also make vocabulary building enjoyable and effective.

   
   

3. Practicing Comprehension Techniques

   • Comprehension questions often test your ability to understand and analyze texts. To enhance your comprehension skills, practice reading passages and answering related questions. Focus on identifying main ideas, supporting details, and the author's tone. Discussing the passages with peers or teachers can provide different perspectives and deepen your understanding.

   
   

4. Mastering Composition Writing

   • Composition writing is a significant component of the PSLE English examination. To excel in this area, practice writing essays on various topics. Pay attention to structure, including an engaging introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion. Use descriptive language and varied sentence structures to make your writing more compelling. Additionally, seeking feedback from teachers or peers can help identify areas for improvement.

     
     

5. Improving Grammar and Language Mechanics

   • Strong grammar skills are essential for achieving a high score in the PSLE English examination. Regularly review grammar rules and practice exercises to reinforce your understanding. Consider using grammar workbooks or online resources that offer interactive activities. Additionally, writing and editing your compositions with a focus on grammar will help you apply these rules in context.

     
     

6. Preparing for Oral Communication

   • The oral component of the PSLE English examination assesses your speaking and listening skills. To prepare, practice reading aloud to improve your pronunciation and fluency. Engage in conversations with friends or family members to build confidence. Recording yourself while speaking can also provide insights into areas that need improvement, such as pacing and clarity.

     
     

7. Utilizing Past Papers and Mock Tests

• One of the most effective ways to prepare for the PSLE English examination is to practice with past papers and mock tests. These resources not only familiarize you with the types of questions you may encounter but also help you manage your time effectively during the actual examination. After completing practice tests, review your answers to understand your mistakes and learn from them.

8. Seeking Help and Resources

   • Don't hesitate to seek help if you encounter difficulties in your preparation. Teachers, tutors, and online forums can provide valuable support and resources. Joining study groups can also create a collaborative environment where you can share knowledge and strategies with peers. Utilizing a variety of resources, such as educational apps and websites, can further enhance your learning experience.

     
     

9. Staying Positive and Motivated

   • Lastly, maintaining a positive mindset throughout your preparation is vital. Celebrate small achievements and progress to stay motivated. Engage in activities that help reduce stress, such as exercise, hobbies, or mindfulness practices. A balanced approach to studying, combined with a positive attitude, will not only enhance your learning experience but also prepare you mentally for the PSLE English examination.

The 2025 PSLE English Language Examination format offers students the opportunity to showcase their language skills across various components. Understanding the structure and specific requirements of each exam part is vital for effective preparation. By employing solid study strategies and practicing regularly, students will feel well-equipped to tackle the PSLE English exam with confidence.

We hope this information supports parents and students on their journey to English language success. With the right tools and teamwork, achievement is absolutely within reach! All the best the upcoming examination.