A summary is a reduced version of a text, focusing on a specific idea(s). In KS3, your summary skills will be tested in the reading section. You will be awarded marks for both selection of relevant points as well as writing a coherent summary using the ideas.
Here are some helpful tips when navigating this section.
Note making
- Always start by reading the question to know what the passage is about.
- Underline the relevant points in the text which you feel are important or relevant.
- All your points must be relevant to the question. You must also obtain them from the text provided.
- Sometimes, the examiner will ask you to write a specific number of points. If the number is not mentioned, be sure to utilize all the bullets provided.
- Make sure that each of those points are clear and can make sense on their own. Simply said, that point must be a complete thought.
Summary writing
- Make sure to use at least 5 relevant points. If the question mentions the number of points to utilize, make sure to do the same.
- Use connectives to form complex sentences and group points that are similar.
- Do not give opinions, direct speech or conclusion.
- Do not use first person.
- Stick to the word count. For instance, when asked to write 50 words, do not exceed that amount bit again, do not write too little. In this case 45-50 words should be good to go.
Here is a sample question 👇👇