PSLE Reading Aloud 2: A Message to a Friend
This passage helps you practise sounding excited without rushing. Read the situation first, then read the passage aloud twice.
The situation
You are telling a friend about an exciting school trip you are about to go on. Read the passage aloud.
You are talking to a friend, and you are excited. Sound bright and eager. Do not sound calm or flat.
The passage
Guess what? Our class is finally going on the trip we have been waiting for all term! Next Friday, we will visit the science centre, and I honestly cannot wait. There will be a giant walk-through model of the human heart, a spectacular lightning show, and even a special section where you can build your own tiny robot and take it home afterwards.
Mrs Lim says we should bring a water bottle, a cap, and plenty of curiosity. I have already packed my bag, three days early! The best part is that my two closest friends are in my group, so we will get to explore every exhibit together and try out all the hands-on experiments. I have heard the lightning show is so loud that you can actually feel it in your chest. I have a feeling this is going to be the most exciting day of the whole year. I really hope Friday comes quickly!
How it is marked
Examiners listen for clear pronunciation, a natural pace, expression, and a tone that suits the situation.
| What to do | How to do it |
|---|---|
| Sound excited | Make "Guess what?" and "I honestly cannot wait" sound truly happy. A flat reading loses expression marks. |
| Lift the question and exclamations | Let your voice rise at "Guess what?" Keep the energy in "I really hope Friday comes quickly!" |
| Keep a steady pace | Excited does not mean fast. Stay clear and let your tone show the excitement. |
| Pause in the list | Take a small pause after the heart model, the lightning show and the robot section. |
Hard words
| Word | Say it | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| honestly | ON-est-lee | The "h" is silent. |
| curiosity | kyoor-ee-OSS-i-tee | |
| exciting | ek-SY-ting | Say a clear "ks" sound. The same goes for "excited". |
| science | SY-ence | It has 2 syllables. |
Practise
- Say the situation aloud: "I'm excited, and I'm telling a friend."
- Read the passage once for accuracy.
- Read it again with energy.
- Ask someone at home if they could hear that you were excited. If not, read it with more feeling.
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