essay example spm 2021

SPM Essay Writing Guide – Format, Examples

The SPM exam is a challenging time for Malaysian students. It’s an opportunity to showcase their knowledge and skills, but it can also be confusing as the requirements are constantly changing. For example, this year there is no essay marking scheme provided by the Ministry of Education or any other official source on how essays should be assessed. This blog post will guide how to write an engaging essay that is sure to impress your teacher and get you top marks.

What is SPM?

The Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM), or the Malaysian Certificate of Education, is a national examination taken by all fifth-form secondary school students in Malaysia. It was created to test what they have been learning over their course of study and aspires them for higher education opportunities abroad.

Malaysians take the SPM exam that is set and examined by a Malaysian Examinations Syndicate. This Syndicate is also known as Lembaga Peperiksaan Malaysia. The education system in Malaysia can be completed after passing this test, which is equivalent to O-levels at the secondary school level. It’s compulsory for those seeking tertiary education before taking it; only then will they have an idea of what field of study suits them best. The age for completion of this public examination is 18 years old and students must pass it to be eligible for higher education.

The syndicate has made Bahasa Malaysia, English (Bahasa inggeris), Islamic studies, moral studies, history, and mathematical reading a compulsion for the students.

The Islamic studies subject is a compulsion for Muslim candidates. And moral studies are compulsory for non-Muslim candidates. The science coursework is common and compulsion to all students, but you can choose your elective subjects from these core courses below:

• Arts And Health- Music education, visual arts education, and sports science knowledge.
• Language And Literature- Malay literature, English literature, Chinese language, Arabic language(advanced), Chinese, Tamil, Iban, Arabic language for communication, English for science and technology, Chinese literature, Tamil literature, French language, and Punjabi language.
• Technical And Vocational- Agricultural science, home economics, engineering drawing, mechanical engineering studies, invention, food management, fashion design, engineering technology, domestic constructions, automobile servicing, etc.
• Science and Mathematics- additional Mathematics, chemistry, physics, biology, additional science, information and communication, and applied science.
• Social Science And Religion- Business, entrepreneurial studies, principles of accounting, basic economics, Islamic worldviews, AL-Quran and As-Sunnah education, bible knowledge, etc.

SPM Essay Format

SPM essay writing is divided into two parts, part A and part B

Part A- This section is where you’ll be writing an essay, a report, or a letter. You’re given 45 minutes to answer this and it’s compulsory for you as only one question will bring in 35 marks- so make sure not to skip over the questions! Your examiner may award 3/35 points for your format, 12/35 points on content, and 20 out of 35 if they think that your language (grammar) is good enough.

Part B – This is the section where you apply all your knowledge of writing skills. It’s also a place to study grammar rules and how they work. Take some time now before we dive in so that by taking this bird’s eye view of it, you’ll know what to expect from this portion of our coursework.

• You will be given five options and you have to opt for only one.
• 60 minutes will be given to students to read all the questions thoroughly and plan key points for the same.
• This part carries 50 marks.

How to Write SPM Essay

Introductory paragraph:.

• Always write general information to write an introductory paragraph.
• Write at least 6-7 sentences.
• Use proper grammar, punctuation, and correct spelling.

Body Paragraph:

• Write at least the main idea
• 3-4 supporting details
• One conclusion paragraph
• Write 40-50 words
• Use correct grammar, correct spellings, and punctuation marks

Concluding Paragraph:

• Restate all the main ideas in a brief
• Write synonyms to restate your idea

SPM Essay Writing Tips

• Read all the questions wisely, some students make mistakes while selecting the question and later regret that they could have handled the other questions with much ease.
• Must choose a topic you are familiar with.
• Plan your essay like outline/ideas/thoughts/supporting points etc.
• Write sentences of different lengths a short sentence looks better after the long one.
• Always write neat and clean must use bullet points etc.
• Pay strict attention to the length of an essay, you have to write no less than 350 words if you write less than that, then you will be penalized, also never write extend your essay from 600- to 1000 words the more you write, the more the mistakes will happen.
• Always spare 10 minutes to proofread and edit an essay.
• After opting for a topic for an essay you can either write descriptive, narrative, reflective, descriptive, argumentative/persuasive, or factual/expository), but according to my suggestion always choose a narrative essay because another one requires a lot of knowledge of current issues.

Types of SPM Essays

The types of essays in SPM are:-

• Narrative essay- To write an interesting narrative essay often needs the right ingredients – just as cooking up a plate of curry masala does. The first thing about writing such essays is one’s creative imagination; so long as they are imaginative enough and think out of their box, then any story becomes more exciting than ever.
• Descriptive essay- a descriptive essay is an essay that aims to describe one’s viewpoint of the world through observations and feelings. The goal of this type of essay is to provide a vivid portrayal of the subject to get readers excited about what they are reading.
• Factual Essay- A factual essay is a non-fiction form of writing that is typically used when discussing some point relating to science or history. Factual essays are very similar to research papers in structure and format; however, they both vary in the use of citations and footnotes.
• Reflective Essay- A reflective essay is a personal essay that focuses on the writer’s reflection about an event, experience, or topic. The goal of this type of essay is typically to think critically and deeply about something which has been experienced by the writer.
• Persuasive Essay- Persuasive essays are a common way to voice opinions and sway readers. Readers will often disagree, which is why writers need to present their point of view as persuasively as possible with evidence from research or arguments that the reader can’t refute.

Topics for SPM Essay

• Illustrate an adventurous activity that has been done recently. Describe the preparation you have done before that and how was your experience?
• Describe your College reunion of yours; explain how memorable for you it was?
• Describe the project conducted at your school and you have played the most important role, what was your experience with that?
• Should parents give freedom to children? Discuss
• Write a story about a neighbour who is very popular in your neighbourhood. Discuss the reasons that make the neighbour popular and what other residents think of the popular neighbour.
• Write a story about a young successful farmer who is very generous. End your story with: “My friends and I learned a lot, especially the meaning of generosity.”

SPM Essay Example for Malaysian Students

Schools and universities have turned to online classes during this pandemic. Your teacher asked about your experience with online classes.

In the wake of an infectious disease outbreak, Malaysia has had to change how its students are getting educated. The COVID-19 virus is spreading rapidly in schools and villages across Asia; as a result, many Malaysian children have been forced into remote learning for fear that they will come into contact with someone infected by this highly contagious pathogen. These changes force educators all over the world to switch from traditional teaching methods– instructing pupils face-to-face or via webcam–to online coursework where the distance between teacher and student is not just social but physical too. Some Malaysian kids accept these new conditions readily while others may be struggling with adapting because it’s difficult adjusting without close human interaction on a day today.

I reap the benefits of Online education, first of all, you will spend less than in traditional classrooms, you can easily communicate with your teacher, you will gain new technical skills, you can gain better self-motivation, and enjoy a broader perspective.

The demerits of Online learning are that it can cause social isolation, it also needs strong self-motivation and time management skills, lack of communication skills, preventing mischievous activity can be complicated, teacher-focused only on theoretical knowledge, not on practical, E-learning lack face to face communication.

With the unprecedented virus covid-19, safe to say that online learning is the best alternative we have now. In the future, I would opt for classroom learning it has various plus points that E-learning cannot replace.

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Superb 2021 Model Essays for SPM

SuFpEMeOSrObRSDASEYPLSMNEWSPM Assessment Format 2021 • Step-by-step guide for different 4 5Form essay types •• KSSM • Word Bank & Idioms for Vocab Enrichment Christine Tan Yong Fui Yin • Tips & Techniques for each section Ch’ng Teik Peng • Wide Scope of Model Essays Zeti Aqmar PREFACE Superb Model Essays for SPM English is targeted at students in Form 4 and Form 5 preparing for the Bahasa Inggeris Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination. It can also be used in class under the teacher’s guidance or by students studying and writing on their own. Students at other levels are welcome and encouraged to use this book. The book is divided into three main parts: Part 1 focuses on Short Communicative Message, Part 2 focuses on Guided Writing and Part 3 focuses on Extended Writing Task. Time given for the whole paper (1119/2) is 90 minutes. Part 1: Short Communicative Message (20 marks) Students are advised to spend about 10 – 15 minutes for Part 1. The number of words should be about 80 words. The task is writing a short communicative message through emails. Part 2: Guided Writing (20 marks) Students are advised to spend about 20 – 25 minutes for Part 2. The number of words should be between 125 and 150 words. The task is writing an essay or elaboration of points for or against an idea, plan or arrangement based on a guided stimulus. Part 3: Extended Writing (20 marks) Students are advised to spend about 50 – 60 minutes for Part 3. The number of words should be between 200 and 250 words. The task is writing a composition based on a choice of three questions: article, review, report or story. The best way to use this book: It is recommended that pupils use this book for the practice of writing messages/emails and short or extended compositions. Interactive and active learning would help them apply the tips and techniques in order to improve their personal writing styles. Read the models. Connect the tips and techniques to the topics in short messages and longer compositions. Draw guidance factors from the composition outline. Memorise the phrases and parts that appeal to you. Substitute them with apt and suitable vocabulary of your own to personalise them. Write your message and composition from the model outline. Base your composition on your personal experiences, thoughts and feelings. Where there is genuineness, there is uniqueness. Happy writing! The Authors iii THE WRITING SECTION OF 1119 SPM ENGLISH 1119/2 Time: 90 minutes PAPER 1 Short Communicative Message Marks: 20 Message length: Stimulus provided: 80 words Email Marks: 20 PAPER 12 Types of Genre: Marks: 20 Guided Writing Idea, plan or arrangement Writing length: 125 – 150 words Types of Genre: Article / Report / PAPER 13 Extended Writing Task Review / Story Writing length: 200 – 250 words iv CONTENTS PART 1 Educational Pull-outs 44 Part 1: Short Communicative PART 2 Message Tips and Techniques 2 Part 2: Guided Writimh A Informal Emails Tips and Techniques 2 Introduction 3 Step by Step Step by Step 3 15 Pros and Cons of Studying Overseas 5 1 Advising a relative 5 16 Endangered Species 7 2 Reviving memories of childhood 17 Bullying in Schools 10 games 7 18 Online Games 12 3 Compliment and encourage 19 Welfare of the Aged 15 volunteerism 10 20 Social Networking Sites 17 4 Consolation and Advice 12 21 Scholarship Awards: Accept or Decline 19 5 Invitation to plan and participate in camping trip 15 22 Buying a Car 21 6 The Tragic Flood 17 23 Importance of Movement Control 23 Order (MCO) 7 Steps to Efficient Learning 19 24 Depression among Teenagers 26 8 For Tastier Green 21 25 Flash Flooding 5 9 Dining Together as a Family 23 26 Trend of Online Business in 10 Reading Maketh A Man 26 Malaysia 7 B Formal Emails 27 Computer Literacy among Malaysian Teenagers 10 Introduction 34 28 Effectiveness of Online Class 12 Step by Step 34 29 Issue of Student Couples 15 11 An Email to the Editor of a local tabloid: Community Field 36 30 Problem of Peer Pressure 17 12 Applying for a Scholarship 39 31 If You Were a Billionaire 19 13 A Formal Email to Readers Write 32 Plan to Start an Online Business 21 to the Editor : Demolition of Local 33 Mental Health 23 Library 42 34 Saving Money for the Future 26 14 An Email Requesting 35 Importance of Music 5 Complimentary Copies of 36 Playing Video Games 7 Newspapers in Education and 37 Showing Appreciation to Mothers 10 v English  SPM  Section A – Formal Emails   Part 1 Short Communicative Message 1 English  SPM  Section A – Formal Emails When writing informal and formal emails, Use Grammatical Devices appropriately: think about: (a) how you begin and end emails to set (a) The grammar should reflect the tone you want to convey.Avoid using the tone of the message – there are contractions such as ‘don’t” or “won’t” two parts to begin the email : the in formal emails. Use the full word like greeting and the way you address the “do not” or “will not”. reader. (b) Contractions are acceptable in informal • Informal Emails emails when portraying a casual tone. – Convey a much more casual tone (c) While writing about specific terms, be – address reader as a friend on a aware of colloquial terms and slang first name basis. which might be appropriate for informal – More personal – relay a writing but not in formal emails. tone similar to face-to-face conversation (d) Regardless of the email’s style, do pay – Examples: Hey Johan / Hi / Hi, attention to using correct grammar and Hani punctuation and follow best practices for formatting • Formal Emails – To convey respect by politely (e) Ensure that the email is easy to read and convey a professional tone, addressing the reader regardless whether it is formal or – Examples: Dear Professor Yanni informal. Ismail / Dear Marketing Manager (f) To ensure readability, divide content / To whom it may concern into paragraphs (b) the same rules apply to the end of the (g) Organize information to ensure it is not email. muddled or confusing to reader. Ideally, a paragraph should not be longer than – Use the same tone you started the four lines in length. mail, whether casual or professional. – Thank the reader for their time and keep the context of the email in mind. 2 Short Communicative Message A Informal Emails Introduction Informal emails are friendly mails that we send or receive from friends and family members on a personal basis. The subject matter in informal emails is usually on matters of personal interest between the sender and the receiver or receivers. One can make and respond to simple requests and suggestions, explain simple processes, narrate factual or imagined events and experiences or express and respond to opinions and common feelings such as happiness, sadness, surprise and interest. SStteeppby ➢ How to write an informal email 1. Start your email with ‘Hi’ followed by name of receiver, 2. Use relevant expressions appropriate to the purpose of the email  • e.g. ‘Would you like to + verb ..’ when making an invitation  • ‘We could ..,’ when making a suggestion  • ‘Could you .. ‘ when making a request 3. Give details of your invitation, suggestion or request clearly. Leave out unnecessary details. 4. End with ‘See you soon. / Hope to hear from you soon. / Hope to get a favourable reply soon. 5. End with your name. Sample of an informal email You received an email from a friend who wants to study together for an upcoming exam. Hi, The mid-year exam is around the corner. Would you like to study together in preparation for this exam? We could do it in my house as my parents will be away for the fortnight before the mid-year exam. I don’t mind if you want to bring two of your friends.as long as they are serious about their studies. Looking forward to hearing from you. Bye for now. 3 English  SPM  Section A – Formal Emails Reply to the email from your friend. New Message To : Zahara Subject : Group study Hi, Zahara Thank you for the invitation to do group studying for the mid-year exam. Group studying is a good idea as the exam formats for three subjects have been changed. We need to put our heads together to fully understand the new formats and how to answer the questions. I would like to bring two friends from my neighbourhood. They are from another school and might be able to give us new ideas or approaches as taught by their teachers. Please forward the schedule soonest possible. Siew Hwa ➢ How to write a formal email 1. Begin with a greeting / salutation. Open with a greeting such as ‘Dear Sir/Madam/Ms/Mr/Mrs/Dr/Surname’. If you do not know the name of the person, use ‘To whom it may concern’ or ‘Dear Sir / Madam’. 2. Thank the recipient. If you are replying to an inquiry, begin with a line of thanks. - for question about your company, “Thank you for contacting ABC Company”; for a reply to one of your emails, ‘Thank you for your prompt reply’ or ‘Thanks for getting back to me’. 3. State your purpose. If you are starting the email communication, begin by stating your purpose, ‘I am writing to enquire about …’ Make your purpose and the main text clear. Keep your sentences short and clear. Pay careful attention to grammar, spelling and punctuation for a professional impression. 4. Add your closing remarks. Before you end your email, it’s polite to thank your reader one more time and add some polite closing remarks like ‘Thank you for your patience and cooperation’. Follow up with ‘If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to let me know” and ‘I look forward to hearing from you’. 5. End with a closing. The last step is to include an appropriate closing with your name. ‘Best regards’, ‘Sincerely’, and “Thank you” are all professional. Finally, review and spell check your email one more time to make sure it’s truly perfect! 4 English  SPM  Section A – Formal Emails   Format of a formal email: From: (sender’s email – yours) Date: (date and time) Cc: (friends’ emails you want to include) Subject: (message topic) Sample of Formal Email: A Thank You Email From: To: [email protected] Date: Cc: Thank you – Assistant Account Executive Interview Cc: Bcc: Subject: Subject: 13 November 2021 Dear Encik Johan, It was very kind of you to grant me an interview. I enjoyed learning about the Assistant Account Executive position at the JK Company. The job seems to be an excellent match for my skills and interests. The creative approach to account management that you discussed confirmed my desire to work with you. I will bring to the position strong writing skills, assertiveness and the ability to encourage others to work co-operatively with the department. I appreciate the time you took to interview me. I look forward to hearing from you regarding this position. Thank you. Yours sincerely, Amar Iqbal [email protected] 5 English  SPM  Section A – Formal Emails 1Model Advising a Relative Model Question You receive an email from your aunt who is concerned about your cousin brother who looks depressed most of the time. She wants you to help her by talking to your cousin brother. Dear Alan, I’m sorry to disturb you at this time when you’re preparing for your finals. I’m worried about Ben who looks depressed most of the time. The two of you are very close so please talk to him. I’m sure he’ll tell you the reasons for his present behaviour. I suspect it is cyberbullying but he refuses to talk about it. I’m sure he will open up to you. Bye! Now write an email to your aunt in about 80 words. Write your answer below. Model Answer To : [email protected] Subject : Ben and his problem Dear Aunt Clara, Thank you for your faith in me. I met up with Ben. He opened up in no time – a victim of cyberbullying. The fact that he talked so openly means he needs support and help especially from his family. The problem is in the early stage. So, nip it in the bud and help Ben get over it. Talk to him gently. Don’t make him feel guilty. With encouragement, he can get his life back on track. Get back to me if you need further help. Bye. Love, Alan IDIOMS nip it in the bud – to stop something in the early stages before it becomes a serious problem opened up – talked willingly about one’s problem back on track – back to the original or normal a stitch in time saves nine – if you sort out a problem immediately it may save a lot of extra work later 6 WORD Bank English  SPM  Section A – Formal Emails   faith – trust INFO CORNER victim – one who is acted on and usually adversely affected Cyber bullying – the use of technology to harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person. Online threats and mean, aggressive, or rude texts, tweets, posts 2Model Reviving Memories of Childhood Games Model Question You received an email from a friend who wants to know about a childhood game you like very much. She wants to share some knowledge of Malaysian traditional games with an overseas friend. Hi, I have a request which you may think odd but I really need your help. An overseas friend is asking for information about our Malaysian traditional games. She has to present a paper to her class. She can get information from the Net but prefers to get it from people who have or are still playing the games. I used to play batu seremban and kunda kundi. You preferred congkak. Please give me the necessary details. Thanking you in advance. Now write an email to your friend in about 80 words. Write your answer below. Model Answer To : [email protected] Subject : Remembering a childhood game Hi Leena, Childhood games? Congkak was and still is my favourite. For your friend’s info, in the past, they dug holes in the ground and played with tamarind seeds. Nowadays, we play with marbles on a wooden board with two rows of five, seven or nine holes and two holes at both ends called home. The aim is to collect the tokens for our home. I used to shout and jump about whenever I won - to irritate my opponent, my grandmother. I would say, nenek I won fair and square! Love, Sara 7 English  SPM  Section A – Formal Emails INFO CORNER Malaysian traditional games are usually played during free time. Traditional games are very popular among people who live in rural area. They have been played by our ancestors. Nowadays, most of traditional games are not being played anymore by the children as they are more attracted to play computer games. Malay traditional games are one of the cultural heritages that are priceless and cannot be replaced because it symbolize our customs, culture, and identity of one nation. WORD Bank IDIOMS tamarind seeds – seeds of a fruit popularly used in Indian fair and square – honestly and cuisine to add a tangy flavour. straightforwardly – shiny black in colour and are said to be used for various medicinal purposes. tokens – marks irritate – to provoke impatience or anger 3Model Compliment and Encourage Volunteerism Model Question You received an email from a friend who is waiting to go oversea for further studies in about three months’ time. She wants to spend the time fruitfully like doing voluntary work with a worthwhile organisation. She hopes that you can help her out. Hi, As you know, I’ll be going for further studies in Australia in about three months’ time. I would like to spend the time fruitfully but I’m not sure what I can do or which direction to go. I could do a short course or get involved in voluntary work in a worthwhile organisation. I would be most obliged if you could help me out so that I can put my time to good use. Waiting for your good news. Nora Now write an email to your friend in about 80 words. Write your answer below. 8 English  SPM  Part 2 – Guided Writing   Part 2 Guided Writing 1 English  SPM  Part 2 – Guided Writing 1. This part is aimed at teaching students 8. Use the correct format that is required. to write an essay or elaboration of points for or against an idea, plan 9. Be sure to include the information or arrangement based on a given provided. stimulus. 10. Students are required or encouraged 2. The question can be based on to provide relevant information to following genre: make the composition interesting.  • an idea, plan or arrangement 11. Remember to keep to the task stated in the question for example to discuss,  • the format of the essay can be explain etc. – argumentative – points for and 12. Use your general knowledge where against are tabled necessary. – letter writing – formal/informal 13. Make sure your composition has Letters a smooth flow with appropriate expressions. – expository – an account of a topic of general or current interest 14. Use the style that is suitable for the question – either formal or informal. – speeches/talks – pass on Different genres require different information on a certain occasion styles. – reflective – express personal 15. Plan and organise well for it to be well opinion perceived by the examiner.  • the themes are varied 16. Writing a good ending or conclusion gives your composition an edge over 3. The question and stimulus or others. information are provided in the question. 17. Check your composition before handing it in. 4. The stimulus or information may be in the form of short notes, a graphic 18. To recapitulate – RUPOWC presentation or a series of pictures. Read/Study – Understand – Plan – 5. Read the question and study the Organise – Write – Check stimulus/information carefully. 6. Break the stimulus or information into parts if necessary, to have better understanding. 7. The question and stimulus / information given are student friendly in that they provide adequate information and instruction to answer the question. 2 Guided Writing Introduction Guided Writing is writing a composition based on a given stimulus. It is tested in Part 2 of the SPM English paper. It is compulsory to answer this question and students are advised to spend about 20 – 25 minutes for Part 2. The number of words should be between 125 and 150 words. SStteeppby 1. After studying the question and stimulus, work out your points. 2. Prepare an essay layout. Study the expel provided below. 3. Make sure there are five paragraphs - introduction, paragraphs 2 – 4 and conclusion Essay Layout 5 Paragraphs Paragraph 1 Introduction Rephrasing Question Overview/Outline Stand Paragraph 2 Body 1 Opinion 1 Supporting fact/Explanation example Paragraph 3 Body 2 Opinion 2 Supporting fact/Explanation Example Paragraph 4 Body 3 Opinion 3 Supporting Fact/Explanation Example Paragraph 5 Conclusion Summary/Restatement 4. Now, you are ready to answer question for Part 2 for the SPM English 5. Remember – RUPOWC 3 English  SPM  Part 2 – Guided Writing 15Model Pors and Cons of Studying Overseas Model Question Write your answer in 125 – 150 words in an appropriate style. Your class has been discussing the pros and cons of studying overseas. Your English language teacher has asked you to write an essay about the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad. In your essay, you should write about: PROS AND CONS OF STUDYING ABROAD Advantages Disadvantages • New Experiences • Alien Environment • Independence/Responsibility • Cultural Shock : Homesickness • More Courses • Expensive • Reputable Universities • Irrelevant Disciplines Write your essay using all the information and giving reasons for your point of view. Model Question Introduction Pros and Cons of Studying Overseas Re-phrase question There are pros and cons in studying overseas. This essay will look at both the advantages and disadvantages. Opinion 1 The first advantage is the student gains new First Advantage experiences, independence and responsibility. When he Supporting Fact learns time and financial management, he budgets and lives Example within his allowance. The second advantage is the numerous courses Opinion 2 available in many reputable universities. He could study Second Advantage in Ivy League institutions. If he graduates from Harvard or Supporting Fact Cambridge, he would be headhunted and offered a highly Example lucrative position. On the other hand, there are disadvantages. He is Disadvantages 1, 2,3 thrown into an alien environment, experiences cultural Supporting Facts shock and is homesick. Overseas courses are expensive. Examples Besides, he might enroll in an irrelevant degree course that has no value to his home country. 4 Conclusion English  SPM  Part 2 – Guided Writing   Stand Suggestion In conclusion, I think that there are more advantages in studying overseas than studying locally at tertiary level. Should finances be an issue, study for the first degree locally then study abroad for postgraduate qualifications. 16Model Endangered Species I P Model Question S Write your answer in 125 – 150 words in an appropriate style. C You watched a television programme about animals and learnt about animal extinction. E Write an essay expressing your opinion and feelings in the increase in number of E endangered species. C Causes contributing to Animal Extinction E E • Poaching – illegal international trade, increase in demand for exotic animal parts [trophies, fashion accessories], sale of live C animals E • Loss of habitat – water, food sources E • Overharvesting marine life – environmental issues C O F Write the essay using all the notes and giving your opinion and feelings from your point of view. Model Answer Introduction Endangered Species Problem Man is in danger of destroying his own species and Stand that of Mother Nature. A prevalent problem is the growing extinction of animal species. Animal lovers are unhappy that Cause 1 certain animal species are becoming extinct. Explanation & The illegal international animal trade has prompted Examples poaching and sale of exotic animal parts to make trophies and fashion accessories like crocodile skin bags, rhino talismans and medicinal concoctions. Even captured live animals become exotic human pets. 5 English  SPM  Part 2 – Guided Writing Cause 2 Forests are cleared for economic development Explanation & resulting in loss of habitats and tree cover. Wild animals Examples are bereft of food and water sources. Marine life is also threatened by overharvesting Cause 3 marine resources. The oceans and seas are environmentally Explanation & polluted by both industrial and human waste. Examples I am afraid the global eco-system and the drastic climate change would be unable to meet the food and Conclusion water demands for both human and animal survival. I fear Opinion for the end of the human race. Feeling WORD Bank INFO CORNER prevalent – existing, current Seven Animal Species Going Extinct in Malaysia : The extinction – disappearance Malayan Tiger, Black Shrew, Malayan Tapir, Orangutan, bereft – loss Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Proboscis Monkey and Sunda Pangolin. The loss of a single species can alter the biodiversity of the eco-landscape it inhabits. 6 English  SPM  Section A – Articles   Part 3 Extended Writing 1 English  SPM  Section A – Articles Extended Writing A Articles Introduction Articles are formal and informative accounts of specific topics. They give information about current or social issues. In Part 3 SPM English, writing an article is one of the choices for the extended writing. Marks allocated are 20 and students are advised to complete the answer in 50 – 60 minutes. The number of words should be between 200 and 250 words. 1. Articles can be in the following genre:  • Name of writer  • School magazine  • Write in paragraphs to emphasise the facts or points.  • Newspapers 8. Articles are exercises in formal writing  • Health magazine so avoid using colloquial and slang expressions.  • Nature magazine 9. Use simple clear and formal language.  • Food magazine 10. In your article:  • Travel magazine  • include details to make your article  • Social digest interesting 2. A stimulus in the form of an  • details should be based on the advertisement, notes, itinerary or notes provided brochure may be provided. 11. Give actual or reasonable and 3. Read the question and notes carefully. acceptable facts. Do not exaggerate. Study the stimulus – advertisement / brochure / itinerary - provided in detail. 12. Make sure the ideas flow into one another. 4. Identify the format required in the question before you start writing. 13. There must be a smooth flow 5. The question may be a report, an 14. Check through your article for article or a review. grammatical and spelling errors. 6. Be clear about the purpose of the 15. Give your personal reaction or opinion article. only if necessary. 7. Format for Articles:  • Heading or title for article 2 English  SPM  Section A – Articles   43Model Good Parenting Model Question Write your answer in 200 – 250 words in an appropriate style. You come across the idiom, ‘blood is thicker than water’, and you mull over the meaning of the idiom and decide to write an article on ‘Good Parenting’. In your article, include the following: • Introduction – parents and child – special bond • Parenthood follows marriage – prospective parents – role – make sacrifices • Parental love- not pampering – instil good qualities for future • Love and understanding – wholesome not blind - strong familial bond • Be themselves – love wisely Write your article. Introduction – Good Parenting parents and child by special bond Zaidi Zain Parenthood Parents and children have a special bond of love and follows marriage affection. This bond can never be replaced by any other – parent accept form of relationship. As the saying goes, ‘blood is thicker responsibilities than water’ - family relationships and loyalties are the strongest and most important ties. Parenthood requires Parental love – not dedication and sacrifice. So, what qualities should parents synonymous with impart that would considered good parenting? pampering – set Parenthood is a natural consequence of marriage and good example – prospective parents should recognise their responsibilities. right atmosphere The father might resent the children as rivals for the mother’s attention. The mother finds her time is not her own anymore as household routine changes. Both parents should be willing to make sacrifices, including their career and accept their responsibilities. It is a universal truth that parents love their children. The children are the apple of the parents’ eyes and without doubt their pride and joy. But, love should in no way or at any time be considered as synonymous with pampering or spoiling the child. They should instead, instil qualities that can help the children face life with integrity and courage. Parents should set good examples and provide the right 3 English  SPM  Section A – Articles Good parenthood atmosphere conducive to growth of good character traits. – love and A child learns good virtue or otherwise from the parents understanding – not as like father like son. blind In general, good parenthood requires love and understanding. These two qualities can build a strong Conclusion familial bond. Love must be wholesome but not blind and Be themselves – ignore discipline and moral values. Understanding means love wisely giving the child the opportunity to know what he wants and support when needed. Parents should be themselves and allow the children to be themselves, too - good parenting, love wisely. WORD Bank IDIOMS impart – convey, give or grant blood is thicker than water – family ties are the strongest universal truth – a statement apple of the parents’ eyes – favourite or most cherished that relates to reality person regardless of time and space pride and joy – that makes one proud and happy synonymous – equivalent to like father like son – a child’s character or behaviour can conducive – helpful be expected to be similar to that of the father 44Model Study Well and Do Well Model Question Write your answer in 200 – 250 words in an appropriate style. You are a student counsellor and have attended a seminar on how to be an A-Star student. Write an article on what you learnt for the school magazine. In your article, include the following: • exams – internal and public – school life – tedious and stressful • study smart – positive attitude – understand exam format • attentive and focussed – punctual and review • study techniques: • read aloud • short notes • schedules – short bouts of study • during exams: • choose – understand question • focus – thorough answers – keep tabs on time Write your article. 4 Title English  SPM  Section A – Articles   Writer Study Well and Do Well by Introduction exams – internal Anne Lee and public – How to prepare and do well for examinations, an schooling years best integral part of school life, haunt us throughout our times – learning schooling life. There are examination, internal and external enjoyable or public to contend with. They are the bugs that make school days tedious and stressful. Yet, we are always told study smart the best times of our lives are our schooling years. This can be true provided we make learning enjoyable. be attentive and Study smart. To be able to do this, stay healthy and stay focussed - positive. Eat well, exercise and rest enough to stay healthy. study techniques – This helps to keep the mind alert. A positive attitude is read aloud – short always important – say positive things like ‘I can do it…’ notes and revision Read through used textbooks, past year exam papers and cards – study notes to give you an insight into the exam format. schedule Pay attention in class and stay focussed rather than attend tuition classes. Try not to miss the first and last few exam time minutes of class as important tips and announcements are - practise self- usually made at these times. Immediately after a lesson, discipline – organise review the notes even if it is only for a few minutes. Follow time - thoughts a few study techniques – read aloud and use short notes Conclusion and revision cards. Reading aloud helps to keep the sleep Go forward with away. Short notes and revision cards help the facts to be determination transferred from short memory to long-term learning. so, you are learning and not cramming facts. Also, plan a schedule and study in short bouts rather than long hours of cramming. During exams, practise self-discipline – choose questions carefully, understand essence of question and keep tabs on the time. Organise your time and thoughts quickly and decisively. Get a grip on yourself and go forward with determination. Faint hearts never win fair ladies. 5 English  SPM  Section A – Articles IDIOMS WORD Bank keep tabs – keep track faint hearts never win fair ladies – timidity integral – important and necessary will prevent you from achieving your bugs – burdens objective keep the mind alert – keep the brain working insight – idea review – go over and read through not cramming – not pushing everything into a small space short bouts – short periods of time 6 SupMerbODEL ESSAYS FOR JC108221 SPM 4 5Form • Superb MODEL ESSAYS FOR SPM This book is designed to help students improve their writing skills. From the interpretation of the question to the planning and writing process, the reader is guided step by step in three main parts called Short Communicative Message, Guided Writing and Extended Writing. Each Model Essay illustrates the process of developing ideas into an essay by putting into practice simple yet invaluable principles of essay writing. Though aimed at SPM students, this book is also suitable for anyone who wants to write well. www.PelangiBooks.com • Online Bookstore • Online Library • WM:RM0.00 / EM:RM0.00 JC108221 ISBN 978-967-2930-59-4

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Thursday, June 26, 2014

46 good spm english model essays / free essay samples for o-level, ielts, toefl & muet writing.

46 Model Essay Samples for SPM English, O-level, IELTS, TOEFL & MUET Writing

        descriptive essays.

• My Best Friend
• Describe an afternoon at the bus station
• A Horrifying Swim
• A Prominent Malaysian Leader
• A Demonic Gold
• My Favourite TV Programme
• The Night Market

Narrative Essays

• A Horror / Tragic Story
• Finally, A Voice Message
• That is the reward for my patience and hardwork
• A Holiday I Would Never Forget
• Couple Foils Robbery Attempt
• Write a story starting with: “The widow had to work hard to bring up her little son alone...”
• My Most Embarrassing Situation
• A Road Accident
• Autumn on Sugarbush Street
• Of Bombs and Ice-Cream

Argumentative / Persuasive Essays

• Haze: A Danger to Health
• Cell phones - One of Our Greatest Technologies Misused
• Importance of Studying English

Reflective Essays

• Are undergraduates ready for the real world?
• Does School Prepare Us for Life
• What would you do if you had a lot of money

Factual Essays

• Social Networking Website

Directed Writing

• Anti-Smoking Campaign Speech
• Informal Letter
• Informal Letter Sample
• Formal Letter: Letter of Application
• Formal Letter: Letter of Complain
• Complain Report About School Canteen
• Book Report
• Police Report on Accident

48 comments:

Is there any chinese language essay?? can recommend??

lol u retarded?

Why are you so mean? Which part of it is retarded?

Maybe he lack of attention in his life

Dude, there are really chinese essay in spm. What's wrong with you guys

Are you lost mate? This webpage is for english essays, not chinese retard

Cmon he just asking if theres any chinese language essay... nothing wrong with it... sorry i think u are the one who is retarded here... no one r supporting ya...

what is naratif composition

Lol retarded 9 yr olds hating over a single question

WTH????? He is just asking. FGS he is not even asking u man..That question were asked to the admin. Pls just mind your own bussiness..

Senyap ar semua

Ahaha. Retarded indeed.

Ni nk buat rujukan ke gaduh?

Spm around the bout

guys i think,personally that this site helps you a lot in your studies.Amazing essays which are wonderfull

This is a fabulous site , helps me a lot😍

hey there.. im just here looking through the comments

i honestly thought that no one gonna be on this blog in 2021

bunch of pointless people arguing about an idiot

The test score works as a proof of their language proficiency and knowledge. Finding the Best TOEFL Coaching it self is a task because the objective of TOEFL classes is to give you interactive examples of TOEFL test questions.

Good Work for English learnes

This is important to remember while you are browsing IELTS or TOEFL preparation course, if you are planning on applying for citizenship or collage and intend to use your results as an entry requirement.

klau tuk repeat bi spm ngan st ada x ?

After attemting for my IELTS five times I had to get professional help and nothing like enrolling in Insearch I had an amazing support team that helped me clear and achieve my required target.

The MBA is a master's degree in business administration which helps people attain a better understanding of the scientific approach in management.

With such programs it will be more easy for the students to get the good writing ideas and the techniques, looking forward to most important among them.

Transferring to a four year university may actually be a cheaper way to get a high quality education. This article provides tips for students who wish to transfer in.

That's really huge list of sample essays for students those need to write essay and facing difficulties. I am sure that will be very helpful for students studying in various level.

To be honest All the 46 Model essays are uncomparable to the O level English Standard. In fact,writing such a essay in o level english will guarantee a fail

Woah,these essays are actually good for SPM level. Seeing this comment,I wonder how am I going to survive after SPM with my own level of English. HUhu..T-T

totally useful for me

thank you much for the God's sake who had done this blog :) You pretty had aid me much in essays

thanks for the essay samples! I was struggling what I want to write about for my mid term examination.. But not anymore :)

Hey I would like to get in touch with you about publishing one of my articles here? Any way to do that??

Click here for email address to submit your article.

Thank you for sharing. This is a good material for the development of creative thought. I'm writing an essay for more than five years. Sometimes creative crisis comes. In this moment you need to distract yourself with other thoughts. Good luck to all with essay writing.

Oh, thanks! It is very useful information! Right now I have to write an essay. But I haven't decided yet will I write it alone or with the help of this writing service.

Thank you for the useful samples of the essay. But if we are talking about the uniqueness of I prefer this service. Cuz the professionals guarantee the quality of written works. In addition, I like the price and the system of discounts. So I advise you!

Do you have any doubts on the result of online writing service? Visit us and learn more about our reliable writing service and eliminate all the fears you have. Take professional help and relax!

Any spm 2020 candidates here?. How's your life going?. Mine is cursed

Same and im goin through mid year exams rn...smh

Me, a 12 year old that wants to write longer than the word limit in primary school: wow, this is cool

Malaysia Students Blog is a team blog on Malaysian major examinations, secondary, pre-university & tertiary education, scholarship Malaysia , student resources, students' thoughts and everything relating to students & undergraduates at schools, colleges & universities in Malaysia - Student Education Malaysia Comment Policy: Comments posted at Malaysia Students blog should be on-topic, constructive and add value to the discussion . Comments that are off-topic, one-sentence, abusive or offensive will be removed. Please use proper English with correct spelling and grammar in your comment. For general questions, please post them at SPM Student Malaysia . For enquiries, please email the administrator of this blog: Student at Malaysia-Students dot com.

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How to Score Essay writing for SPM English 2021

25 March 2021

7 minutes to read

• 01. Read, Read, Read for SPM Essay Writing
• 02. Understanding SPM Essay Questions and the Writing Format
• 03. Writing Tips for SPM Essay Writing
• 04. How to Answer Your SPM Essay Writing Paper
• 05. Get Help From SPM Essay Writing Expert

I believe most students often turn away from writing essays. This is the hardest part for us non-native English speakers. However, essay writing is the most common form of assessment in any subject at the school and university level. How do you think you will survive in your journey of seeking knowledge?

You will soon find out that there are even essay questions in mathematics. What? Trust me, essays will be applied across almost all disciplines. Essentially, writing an essay is one of the academic pieces to gather the writer’s point of view or simply to know the depth of understanding in certain concepts that would only suffice by an explanation.

The student would be assessed on their comprehension of the topics by assigning an essay writing task to them. But writing an essay is not hard if you know how to decode or analyze the question well.

At the end of the article, you will be able to have more confidence in your writing.

Click here for the latest English Paper marking scheme here .

Read, Read, Read for SPM Essay Writing

I know reading has never been one of the Malaysian cultures and habits. Currently, the statistics of reading in Malaysia per person is only 6 books a year. This is not a good number. However, you as a youth, the new generation of Malaysia, can change this perception.

Reading is a better way after traveling to know about the world. When you are absorbed in reading, you’ll be able to learn so many things. The only way to increase your vocabulary is through reading and seldomly through communication. You can also improve your grammar and sentence construction through reading.

If you only depend on communication, that won’t help you a lot due to the broken English that is widely used in Malaysia. Not to mention, our favorite type of English, ‘ Rojak English’ or “Manglish” . You can only obtain confidence in speaking but not the writing styles and perfect tenses.

Come and let me show you how to understand further on the SPM Latest 2021 format and tips of writing SPM Bahasa Inggeris (1119/2) Paper 2.

Understanding SPM Essay Questions and the Writing Format

All SPM examination papers are regulated by the Ministry of Education (MOE) In all examinations, reading and understanding the question’s need is very important. Most students tend to deviate from the main ideas of the question due to their lack of ability to understand the question properly.

Most questions can be divided into 3 major parts, directive words, content words, and limiting words.

Discuss the difference between two idols that you like according to the nature of work.

The bold ‘ Discuss’ is the directive or instructional word that you need to follow. Another example of directive words can be, compare and contrast, critical evaluation, reflection, discussion and etc.

The word to limit the scope is the italic ‘difference’, ‘two idols’, and ‘you like’ . The question specifically asks you to write about the particular purposes whether time, place, person, or demographic.

The content words are the underlined ‘nature of work’. This is the subject of your essay that you will need to discuss. The content word can be very narrow or broad depending on the cases.

Once you have understood the question, you will need to determine the format of the essay to be written. There are many different types of continuous writing for SPM English paper such as,

• Story with purpose
• Usually, first-person but can be the third person too
• Explain, illustrate, describe
• Written in a debate format
• Can be first person or third person
• Thoughtful, reasoning
• Describing information
• Written in the first person

Meanwhile, the format and types of directed writing for the SPM English Paper are listed below.

• Letter (Informal or formal)
• Informative letter
• Talk or speech

Writing Tips for SPM Essay Writing

Drafting for spm essay writing.

As a student, we always thought that drafting is such a waste of time. But, NO! Drafting will allow you to manage your writing well. So you will know that you have your main ideas, supporting reasons, and examples constructed well in a paragraph.

During the examination, you do not need to make a proper, colorful, and complicated draft just like you learned in class. You just need to scribble on the question paper regarding the ideas. This is when you should adopt the concept of 5 wives and a husband. Remember?

Essay Construction for SPM Essay Writing

While constructing your essay, you will need to bear in mind that you would want to reduce the mistakes and not waste time. This is why you will need to refer to the essay draft that you have made. Make sure you have a good construction of the essay complete with an introduction, main ideas, and conclusion.

You should use a simple word to construct your sentences. You can use jargon or complicated word but make sure it’s not more than 3 words. Why? This is to minimize the risk of a misunderstanding from the marker who perhaps does not know the word and you might lose some marks there. Besides, the chances for you to use it wrongly is very high too as you rarely use the word.

Next, make sure your writing is neat. This is very important not only for the examiner but also for yourself to easily spot your spelling mistakes. Moreover, take note of your grammars, especially the tenses. Make sure it is consistent.

Last but not least, DO NOT OVERWRITE your essay. Try to minimize the words that you use but exceed the word requirements. Remember the more sentences you write, the higher the chances are for you to make more mistakes. So, keep your writing minimal and you can reduce the chances of you losing more marks.

Time Management for SPM Essay Writing

You need to set a proper and reasonable time for you to complete answering your SPM Paper 2 in writing an essay. Remember that you will only have 90 minutes to answer a total of 3 questions.

• First Questions – 80 words
• Second Questions – 120 – 150 words
• Third Questions – 200-250 words

As I have said in the previous part, keep your writing minimal so as to avoid making more mistakes. So here, you have a total of 480 words (I counted the maximum words you will need to write as a buffer), and you have only 90 minutes to finish your writing.

Let us do some math.

• First Questions - 90 minutes divide by  480 and multiply with 80 = 15 minutes
• Second Questions – 90 minutes divide by 480 and multiply with 150 = 28 minutes
• Third Questions – 90 minutes divide by 480 and multiply with 250 = 47 minutes

So, from the math above, we know the allocation of the time needed to answer all three questions. However, you will also need to remember that you should always proofread your answer. Thus, you would need to spend at least 10 minutes on that.

How to Answer Your SPM Essay Writing Paper

Let me show you how to draft your essay.

Bahasa Inggeris (1119/2) - Kertas 2

Answer one of the questions 3 – 5 in this part. Make sure your writing is between 200 – 250 words with the appropriate format according to the question. Place the question number in the box at the top of the answer sheet.

Article Wanted

My School Canteen

• What types of food would you like to be served at the canteen?
• What kind of special facilities should your canteen have?
• How can you improve your school canteen?

Write us an article answering these questions.

The best article will be displayed in the school magazine.

Identify the format of the essays and how many words you should write. Then you will need to set a reasonable time to write the draft, writing and proofread (checking).

• Format: Article
• Length: 200-250 words
• Draft – 5 minutes
• Writing – 30 minutes
• Proofread – 5 minutes

Start to draft.

• Introduction: 10 % of the writing

Where is your school located,

How student like/dislike current food sold at the canteen,

Why is it important to have good food

• Main Ideas: 80 % of the writing

What kind of foods would you like to be served? Why? Who will get the benefit? Or What?

What special facilities should your canteen have? Why? How to implement it?

How can you improve your canteen? Why? Who should take charge?

• Conclusion: 10 % of the writing

Wrap up the essay. What and Why students need a good canteen and food to be served. Give a final recommendation.

Find out more on  How to Get A in SPM 2021 English .

Get Help From SPM Essay Writing Expert

If you are still confused and lack confidence in writing your essay, you can always find help from an expert. Take a look at the SPM English Format and SPM Past Papers to understand further what is the exact SPM format, SPM Example Questions, and where you can score and improve.

Besides, go and find your teacher. They are the most expert as the 2021 SPM Latest Marking Scheme shows that 3 over 4 of SPM English papers will be marked internally. Therefore, you should start to do good for your teachers!

Nonetheless, if all the above is still not enough for you, you can contact Superprof essay writing expert. All of them have excellent track of experience and high records at providing guidance to students for over a decade!

I sincerely hope that all the tips above will help you achieve a good result in your essay writing!

All the best.

Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!

Alia Jamaludin

Alia Jamaludin is known as a passionate environmentalist and animal lover. By being both educator and writer, she can reach out her positive thought to almost every being on this planet.

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How many marks are deducted if didnt follow the format? For instance, we forgot to write the title for article essay for part 3 of paper 2.

this really helps me, thank you so much, may Allah bless you always for sharing the knowledge :)

thankyou for sharing this useful tips ! may allah bless you always <3

thank you for sharing this useful tips !

How to write a story, choice no 3?

thank you sharing the knowledge ❤️, its really help me. Doakan saya straight A’s

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Global Energy Crisis

How the energy crisis started, how global energy markets are impacting our daily life, and what governments are doing about it

• English English

What is the energy crisis?

Record prices, fuel shortages, rising poverty, slowing economies: the first energy crisis that's truly global.

Energy markets began to tighten in 2021 because of a variety of factors, including the extraordinarily rapid economic rebound following the pandemic. But the situation escalated dramatically into a full-blown global energy crisis following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The price of natural gas reached record highs, and as a result so did electricity in some markets. Oil prices hit their highest level since 2008. 

Higher energy prices have contributed to painfully high inflation, pushed families into poverty, forced some factories to curtail output or even shut down, and slowed economic growth to the point that some countries are heading towards severe recession. Europe, whose gas supply is uniquely vulnerable because of its historic reliance on Russia, could face gas rationing this winter, while many emerging economies are seeing sharply higher energy import bills and fuel shortages. While today’s energy crisis shares some parallels with the oil shocks of the 1970s, there are important differences. Today’s crisis involves all fossil fuels, while the 1970s price shocks were largely limited to oil at a time when the global economy was much more dependent on oil, and less dependent on gas. The entire word economy is much more interlinked than it was 50 years ago, magnifying the impact. That’s why we can refer to this as the first truly global energy crisis.

Some gas-intensive manufacturing plants in Europe have curtailed output because they can’t afford to keep operating, while in China some have simply had their power supply cut. In emerging and developing economies, where the share of household budgets spent on energy and food is already large, higher energy bills have increased extreme poverty and set back progress towards achieving universal and affordable energy access. Even in advanced economies, rising prices have impacted vulnerable households and caused significant economic, social and political strains.

Climate policies have been blamed in some quarters for contributing to the recent run-up in energy prices, but there is no evidence. In fact, a greater supply of clean energy sources and technologies would have protected consumers and mitigated some of the upward pressure on fuel prices.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine drove European and Asian gas prices to record highs

Evolution of key regional natural gas prices, june 2021-october 2022, what is causing it, disrupted supply chains, bad weather, low investment, and then came russia's invasion of ukraine.

Energy prices have been rising since 2021 because of the rapid economic recovery, weather conditions in various parts of the world, maintenance work that had been delayed by the pandemic, and earlier decisions by oil and gas companies and exporting countries to reduce investments. Russia began withholding gas supplies to Europe in 2021, months ahead of its invasion of Ukraine. All that led to already tight supplies. Russia’s attack on Ukraine greatly exacerbated the situation . The United States and the EU imposed a series of sanctions on Russia and many European countries declared their intention to phase out Russian gas imports completely. Meanwhile, Russia has increasingly curtailed or even turned off its export pipelines. Russia is by far the world’s largest exporter of fossil fuels, and a particularly important supplier to Europe. In 2021, a quarter of all energy consumed in the EU came from Russia. As Europe sought to replace Russian gas, it bid up prices of US, Australian and Qatari ship-borne liquefied natural gas (LNG), raising prices and diverting supply away from traditional LNG customers in Asia. Because gas frequently sets the price at which electricity is sold, power prices soared as well. Both LNG producers and importers are rushing to build new infrastructure to increase how much LNG can be traded internationally, but these costly projects take years to come online. Oil prices also initially soared as international trade routes were reconfigured after the United States, many European countries and some of their Asian allies said they would no longer buy Russian oil. Some shippers have declined to carry Russian oil because of sanctions and insurance risk. Many large oil producers were unable to boost supply to meet rising demand – even with the incentive of sky-high prices – because of a lack of investment in recent years. While prices have come down from their peaks, the outlook is uncertain with new rounds of European sanctions on Russia kicking in later this year.

What is being done?

Pandemic hangovers and rising interest rates limit public responses, while some countries turn to coal.

Some governments are looking to cushion the blow for customers and businesses, either through direct assistance, or by limiting prices for consumers and then paying energy providers the difference. But with inflation in many countries well above target and budget deficits already large because of emergency spending during the Covid-19 pandemic, the scope for cushioning the impact is more limited than in early 2020. Rising inflation has triggered increases in short-term interest rates in many countries, slowing down economic growth. Europeans have rushed to increase gas imports from alternative producers such as Algeria, Norway and Azerbaijan. Several countries have resumed or expanded the use of coal for power generation, and some are extending the lives of nuclear plants slated for de-commissioning. EU members have also introduced gas storage obligations, and agreed on voluntary targets to cut gas and electricity demand by 15% this winter through efficiency measures, greater use of renewables, and support for efficiency improvements. To ensure adequate oil supplies, the IEA and its members responded with the two largest ever releases of emergency oil stocks. With two decisions – on 1 March 2022 and 1 April – the IEA coordinated the release of some 182 million barrels of emergency oil from public stocks or obligated stocks held by industry. Some IEA member countries independently released additional public stocks, resulting in a total of over 240 million barrels being released between March and November 2022.

The IEA has also published action plans to cut oil use with immediate impact, as well as plans for how Europe can reduce its reliance on Russian gas and how common citizens can reduce their energy consumption . The invasion has sparked a reappraisal of energy policies and priorities, calling into question the viability of decades of infrastructure and investment decisions, and profoundly reorientating international energy trade. Gas had been expected to play a key role in many countries as a lower-emitting "bridge" between dirtier fossil fuels and renewable energies. But today’s crisis has called into question natural gas’ reliability.

The current crisis could accelerate the rollout of cleaner, sustainable renewable energy such as wind and solar, just as the 1970s oil shocks spurred major advances in energy efficiency, as well as in nuclear, solar and wind power. The crisis has also underscored the importance of investing in robust gas and power network infrastructure to better integrate regional markets. The EU’s RePowerEU, presented in May 2022 and the United States’ Inflation Reduction Act , passed in August 2022, both contain major initiatives to develop energy efficiency and promote renewable energies. 

The global energy crisis can be a historic turning point

Energy saving tips

1. Heating: turn it down

Lower your thermostat by just 1°C to save around 7% of your heating energy and cut an average bill by EUR 50-70 a year. Always set your thermostat as low as feels comfortable, and wear warm clothes indoors. Use a programmable thermostat to set the temperature to 15°C while you sleep and 10°C when the house is unoccupied. This cuts up to 10% a year off heating bills. Try to only heat the room you’re in or the rooms you use regularly.

The same idea applies in hot weather. Turn off air-conditioning when you’re out. Set the overall temperature 1 °C warmer to cut bills by up to 10%. And only cool the room you’re in.

2. Boiler: adjust the settings

Default boiler settings are often higher than you need. Lower the hot water temperature to save 8% of your heating energy and cut EUR 100 off an average bill.  You may have to have the plumber come once if you have a complex modern combi boiler and can’t figure out the manual. Make sure you follow local recommendations or consult your boiler manual. Swap a bath for a shower to spend less energy heating water. And if you already use a shower, take a shorter one. Hot water tanks and pipes should be insulated to stop heat escaping. Clean wood- and pellet-burning heaters regularly with a wire brush to keep them working efficiently.

3. Warm air: seal it in

Close windows and doors, insulate pipes and draught-proof around windows, chimneys and other gaps to keep the warm air inside. Unless your home is very new, you will lose heat through draughty doors and windows, gaps in the floor, or up the chimney. Draught-proof these gaps with sealant or weather stripping to save up to EUR 100 a year. Install tight-fitting curtains or shades on windows to retain even more heat. Close fireplace and chimney openings (unless a fire is burning) to stop warm air escaping straight up the chimney. And if you never use your fireplace, seal the chimney to stop heat escaping.

4. Lightbulbs: swap them out

Replace old lightbulbs with new LED ones, and only keep on the lights you need. LED bulbs are more efficient than incandescent and halogen lights, they burn out less frequently, and save around EUR 10 a year per bulb. Check the energy label when buying bulbs, and aim for A (the most efficient) rather than G (the least efficient). The simplest and easiest way to save energy is to turn lights off when you leave a room.

5. Grab a bike

Walking or cycling are great alternatives to driving for short journeys, and they help save money, cut emissions and reduce congestion. If you can, leave your car at home for shorter journeys; especially if it’s a larger car. Share your ride with neighbours, friends and colleagues to save energy and money. You’ll also see big savings and health benefits if you travel by bike. Many governments also offer incentives for electric bikes.

6. Use public transport

For longer distances where walking or cycling is impractical, public transport still reduces energy use, congestion and air pollution. If you’re going on a longer trip, consider leaving your car at home and taking the train. Buy a season ticket to save money over time. Your workplace or local government might also offer incentives for travel passes. Plan your trip in advance to save on tickets and find the best route.

7. Drive smarter

Optimise your driving style to reduce fuel consumption: drive smoothly and at lower speeds on motorways, close windows at high speeds and make sure your tires are properly inflated. Try to take routes that avoid heavy traffic and turn off the engine when you’re not moving. Drive 10 km/h slower on motorways to cut your fuel bill by around EUR 60 per year. Driving steadily between 50-90 km/h can also save fuel. When driving faster than 80 km/h, it’s more efficient to use A/C, rather than opening your windows. And service your engine regularly to maintain energy efficiency.

Analysis and forecast to 2026

Fuel report — December 2023

Europe’s energy crisis: Understanding the drivers of the fall in electricity demand

Commentary — 09 May 2023

Where things stand in the global energy crisis one year on

Commentary — 23 February 2023

The global energy crisis pushed fossil fuel consumption subsidies to an all-time high in 2022

Commentary — 16 February 2023

Fossil Fuels Consumption Subsidies 2022

Policy report — February 2023

Background note on the natural gas supply-demand balance of the European Union in 2023

Report — February 2023

Analysis and forecast to 2025

Fuel report — December 2022

How to Avoid Gas Shortages in the European Union in 2023

A practical set of actions to close a potential supply-demand gap

Flagship report — December 2022

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