PSLE Reading Aloud 3: Directions to the Hall
This passage helps you practise a calm, helpful tone. It needs a different voice from an exciting story.
The situation
A new student has asked you how to get to the school hall. You are giving them directions. Read the passage aloud.
You are helping someone find their way. Sound calm, friendly and easy to follow. Here, being clear matters more than sounding lively.
The passage
Don't worry, it's actually quite easy to find. From the front gate, walk straight along the covered walkway until you pass the canteen on your left. Keep going until you reach a large noticeboard, then turn right at the staircase. You will probably smell the food from the canteen as you go by, so you'll know you are heading the right way.
Go up one floor and you will see the library right in front of you. The hall is just beyond it, through a set of double doors. If you reach the music room, you have gone a little too far, so simply turn back and it will be on your right. It usually takes about five minutes to walk there, so give yourself enough time before the assembly begins. If you ever get lost, any teacher along the way will be happy to point you in the right direction. You'll get the hang of the school in no time!
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 |
|---|---|
| Read so the listener understands | Use a slightly slow, steady pace. For directions, that is the right expression. |
| Pause after each step | Pause after "walk straight", "pass the canteen" and "turn right". It helps the listener follow. |
| Stay warm | "Don't worry" and "You'll get the hang of the school in no time!" should sound kind, not robotic. |
| Change your voice for this situation | You should sound different here from an exciting story. Party energy would be the wrong tone. |
Hard words
| Word | Say it | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| canteen | can-TEEN | Stress the second syllable. |
| noticeboard | NOH-tiss-bord | |
| staircase | STAIR-case | Say the "st". Do not say "aircase". |
| library | LY-bruh-ree | Say all 3 syllables, not "ly-bree". |
Practise
- Say the situation aloud: "I'm helping someone, so I'll be calm and clear."
- Read the passage once for accuracy.
- Read it again for clarity, pausing after each step.
- Ask someone to follow your directions as you read. Could they keep up?
Back to PSLE Oral Practice · Next: Reading Aloud 4: A Thank-You Speech · Try an SBC prompt