Category Archives: SPM

Tools of the Trade: What are the Best Books for SPM?

There are many SPM material out there, be it reference books, workbooks, smart notes, question compilations, etc. So for students who are looking for good study materials for SPM, especially fresh Form Four students, it can be quite a pain choosing the right study materials because they do not know which ones follow the SPM syllabus correctly. As an example, students will be wasting money buying low quality study materials which they do not like, and then only at the second time, they buy good quality books after they had the proper experience with the subjects. Therefore, it’s best to get insights and do some research on a particular subject before prematurely buying a book so we do not end up buying something we will not use and thus wasting money. So, I am here to share my personal thoughts and opinions on books that I had use to prepare for my SPM examination.

I believe if you are a smart person, your learning would not be limited by the books you use. However, as smart as we can get, we would always like to use the best tools we can get. As for me, I prefer reference books by Oxford Fajar, specifically their “SUCCESS” reference books, especially for Biology, Chemistry and Physics because they have very good and colourful illustrations. The illustration is very thorough and detailed, so it becomes more interesting to study the subject, a good example is a detailed illustration of organelles of an animal cell in their Biology book. Besides that, SUCCESS’s reference books display great creativity when it comes to making simple diagrams, tables and etc. Their diagrams, mind maps, and tables. makes it easier for students to grasp on any topic. It also makes it easier for students to connect ideas together. Another publisher I prefer is PNI Neuron, who publishes the Memory Mastery through Mind Maps and Diagrams books. The book is fully based on diagrams, mind maps, graphs, etc. I may even add that there are even more illustrations than SUCCESS’s and sometimes have better diagrams than in the ones in SUCCESS. However, there are cases when too many diagrams are on the same page, making the page look cramped. The book also lacks detailed explanation, so it is only good if you use it to revise a topic you had studied before.

The main workbooks I use to prepare for SPM are the “Kertas Soalan Peperiksaan Tahun-Tahun Lepas SPM” workbooks by Sasbadi. They have a compilation of past year’s SPM question for many subjects and is updated yearly. It is very convenient because you get the whole compilation of the latest SPM examination papers in one book, so you don’t have to waste time and energy searching for them one by one. They also update their compilations every year after that year’s SPM examination to ensure they compile the papers up to date. The fact that it compiles papers for so many subjects makes it a must have for all students despite taking different subjects. From this book, you will understand the structure of the SPM paper better; you will know the type of questions asked in the “Sections” of the SPM paper and thus be able to prepare for the real examination. Another workbook that I like to use is Strategic Practice by Pelangi Publications. I have this book for my Mathematics and Additional Mathematics for Form Four and Form Five. I like this book a lot because it teaches you in a very practical way. It features a very practical step by step approach starting from very simple questions and slowly increasing in difficulty to the toughest ones until you are able to grasp the concepts. I do my studying by myself a lot, so this book acts as almost like a study manual for the me when it comes to studying Mathematics and Additional Mathematics.

However, at the end of the day, it is not how many books you have in your study desk that matters. It is how well and how consistent you are in using them. Having one good quality reference book and few workbooks/exercise books for one subject is enough if you are able to put to good use these resources. Having many books is also as good as having no books if you are not putting these valuable resources to good use. More importantly, you should use the books which suits your style of study so that you can study comfortably and effectively. What is best for you when you want to find a book which suits your study style is you may flip through the pages of the books in the bookstore which you want to buy before buying it so you can get a glimpse on how they present their content and choose from the ones you find most comfortable with. Having said that, I wish you happy book hunting.

This article was written by Joshua. Joshua is a straight A scorer for his SPM examination. He shares his wisdom and experiences as a SPM student by writing educational articles for Peekabook’s blog during his free time.

How I Achieved Straight A’s in the SPM

Leave a reply

Achieving straight A’s in any exams is challenging. Be it O Levels, A Levels, UEC, SPM, etc you need to pour some efforts preparing and studying for them. For my SPM, I find the preparing/studying experience fun and worth it now since I am enjoying the fruits of my labour by getting a string of straight A’s. Getting my SPM results on the results day in my school was deeply satisfying as the hard work had paid off well.

What subjects did you take?

I took 9 subjects for my SPM, namely Bahasa Malaysia, English, Sejarah, Pendidikan Moral, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. I find all the subjects fun in their own way. My favourite subjects are English, Mathematics, Additional Maths, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Are there different ways to prepare for each subject?

Generally, preparing for different subjects might be different because each subject is unique in their own way. For example, Science stream subjects like Physics, Chemistry are more theory based, so one must read the books to understand down to the smallest detail to get the full picture. On the other hand, language subjects like English and Bahasa Malaysia are not so tied down to reading books as we may write an essay or create a story, bounded only by limitations of our imaginations. However, to get good grades, you must be willing to put in the efforts and study consistently.

Did you have a study timetable?

Having a study timetable is good because it keeps you studying in an organized manner and balance your weightage on subjects you are studying. Studying using a study timetable will keep you more balanced and well versed intellectually in the subjects you are taking, as without a study timetable we may tend to study subjects which we like more often than the ones we like less. A study timetable will make your study life much more organized. However, having a study timetable is the same as not having one if you are not following the timetable. So, be disciplined to walk along the tracks of the timetable. From my experience, at the time I studied without a study timetable, my grades are only as good as the efforts I put into each subjects; the ones which I like will at least get an A- and the ones I favor less gets decent results (you know what I mean :)).So, having a timetable will definitely help you organize your efforts into different subjects.

How many hours did you study a day?

Personally, I do not believe in the amount of time I am putting into studying but rather how much did I studied. It may not be fair to say that I had studied five hours just because I opened my book from 2.00 pm to 7.00 pm as some time might just be wasted daydreaming, having a short break, quick naps, having snacks, etc. I see this differently because I noticed some of my classmates said they had “studied” for four hours at the library just because they are there for four hours but most of the time is spent for small talk. Studying something implies that you had learnt it, and able to teach others. That is how you will discover if you had really learnt something. I acknowledge how much did I learnt by comparing my perception on questions or tests before and after I had studied.

Did you take tuition classes?

I do attend tuition classes and I had good and bad experiences too. Some tuition centres have classrooms which are cramped, so it becomes crowded when many people are in the class. In some centres, the classes is too big, there are more students, so the tutor/lecturer might not have time to give personal attention to each students. Hence, a quota should be implemented in a class regardless of size so that the lesson can be conducted properly and the students can learn in an optimum environment. The lecturers/tutors are the backbones of the tuition centre because parents want the best tutors teaching their students because a good tutor displays attractive qualities in teaching which parents and students alike are willing to pay big bucks for. A good tutor is able to make his/her students understand what is being taught the way the tutor wants it. That way, students are able to understand what is taught to them in a correct manner. A good tutor should also be able to make the students interested into a certain subject. In that way, students will become more passionate and more curious about the subject. They will also not procrastinate to study because they do not get bored easily when they have to prepare or study for the subject. A good tutor should also display good characteristics of a role model. They should have a positive attitude when socialising with the society so students can learn to contribute for the society. They should also be respectful to peoples of all ages; from children to the old so their students can learn to do the same.

Conclusively, regardless of what examinations or subjects you are taking, you would always need to work hard if you want to be rewarded. Having said that, I wish you good luck for your examinations!

Secrets of a Straight-A Model Student

Leave a reply

Ng Ray Man was a Head Prefect, a national-level debater and a straight-A scorer all his life. He reveals the secrets of excelling in academic and extracurricular activities in this guest post for Peekabook.

Achieving straight A’s, holding various positions at school and being active in extracurricular activities and competitions are indeed not easy for the students. This is, however, what most of the Government, teachers, parents and students themselves hope the younger generation to achieve. According to the National Philosophy of Education of Malaysia, the Malaysian education system emphasizes to produce individuals who are holistic and well-equipped intellectually, spiritually and emotionally in order to contribute to the betterment and development of the country. To this, there are several questions that I am sure the parents and students frequently ask, “How to achieve straight A’s?”, “How to ensure that one can excel in both academic and extracurricular?” and of course “What are the study tips?”. Hence, allow me to share some of my personal opinions and experiences that I have gone through so far.

Despite the fact that I have been actively involved in extracurricular activities in school, I am considered very lucky to obtain straight A’s in public examinations such as UPSR (Ujian Penilaian Sekolah Rendah), PMR (Penilaian Menengah Rendah) and the SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia). Teachers and friends always ask me, as the Head Prefect of the school, do you still have time to study when you are given various tasks to complete everyday? Another one would be, as the Tokoh NILAM of the Perak state and a student who always participate in Public Speaking competitions, debate in Zone level, district level, state level and even national level in both Malay and English languages, why are you still able to manage your study despite the fact that you have spent ample time in preparing for the competitions? The only answer is, ‘Why Not?’ With that, here are some of the keys that I personally would love to share with everyone.

First of all, we must really have the proper ways to study when we are not only taking a particular subject in examinations. A very simple example, I took 7 subjects in UPSR, 8 subjects in PMR and 9 subjects in SPM, I can never apply the same way to study in all subjects. I took Bahasa Melayu, English, History, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Moral Education, Biology, Physics and Chemistry in SPM. Let’s say for History, we ought to understand and memorise the facts in textbooks. However, we could not do the same thing for Mathematics. In fact, we have to do more practices instead of memorizing any of the questions, facts nor answers. When it comes to languages, we must read and use as much as possible so that we can familiarize the appropriate structure for essay-writing, learn new words and enhance our vocabulary besides keeping ourselves updated with any news in every part of the world. To this, reading several types of books, newspapers and watching news will help because on the whole, what had been written are grammatically correct in general. Very importantly, never skip any words that we do not now, just flip the dictionary to find out the meaning and how to use it. Next, for History and Biology subjects, memorizing skill plays a little more important role. We should enjoy reading history and biology like what we do with favourite storybooks. After getting a clear picture of what we are reading, try to memorise the important facts and incidents. Whereas for mathematics, physics and chemistry subjects which involve calculations and several facts, we shall make short and effective notes on our own after ‘digesting’ what we learn from reference books and textbooks. This will help to save time when we are doing our final revision before sitting for exams. Of course, more practices of past year papers and model test papers will provide us with a clearer image of the styles and format of the questions like. Thus, there is no doubt to say that one must adapt and adopt the suitable ways to do well in each subject.

On the other hand, we must study whenever we can and maximize the function of the electronic gadgets. From my personal experience, when we are actively involved in extracurricular activities, we could hardly find time to study. In my opinion, one need not have a fixed timetable. In fact, one should have a flexible one. We should do our revision whenever we are free and find out what are the learning outcomes of each revision. Furthermore, we ought to set how many chapters that will be completed by the end of each month. For instance, there are 9 chapters in Form 5 history subject. So, to ensure that we have finished studying the textbook and have the time to do model questions before the trial examination, we have to complete at least one chapter a month. At the same time, students shall also make good use of the electronic gadgets. Smart phones, tablets, desktops and laptops are example of electronic gadgets which can be used to help us in our studies. We should not only use it to text others and play games. In fact, we should make it as an effective tool to help us in study. For example, as an active student, I could hardly find time to sit in the class and listen to what teachers teach in class. I used to be away from school very often, sometimes it could be a few days or even weeks. The question here is, how am I supposed to bring the thick and heavy textbooks or reference books along when I am travelling to other places during competitions, camps or other activities? Here is where my tablet played its role. Many thanks to my parents for buying me the Samsung Galaxy Tab2 10.1 a few years ago. The tablet has helped me a lot in my revision. I stored notes and mind maps I made myself or downloaded from the internet in my tablet PC and thus, I can read it anytime when I was free even when I was not in school. For example, when I was in the bus on the way to Selangor for National NILAM Award, I managed to complete a number of chapters of Biology and History subjects. Therefore, one of the best ways to study is to study whenever there is time and make good use of the technology.

On top of that, what do we actually mean by study effectively? From my point of view, it is not the hours nor the duration that matter most, it is what we have learnt after every session of revision that matter. To this, there is no use if we sit on the study desk with loads of books on it for hours but our mind is dreaming of something else. We should minimize or get rid of anything that may distract us such as handphones and televisions when we are studying. At the same time, here comes another question, are tuition classes necessary? It really depends. To me, it is a ‘No’ answer, but I believe it will be a ‘Yes’ for some who really need the others to accompany and guide them in their study. To be honest, I have never gone for any tuition classes since I started schooling because I do have faith in self-study method. With the advancement of the technology, I believe there are various ways and places that one can obtain information from. I do not mean to blame any tuition teachers nor centres, but I just believe that there are lots of websites and videos that can help us in our study. According to Shaaron Ainsworth, a psychologist from University of Nottingham, United Kingdom, she claimed that students absorb much easily through animation. For instance, biology students understand faster about the blood transport system when video clips of how deoxygenated blood from body cells are transported to the right atrium via vena cava and how oxygenated blood is transported to our body cells. Furthermore, according to Ahmad Rizal and Mohd Noor, researchers from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, they have proven that multimedia does not only make learning process more effective, it promotes cognitive skills through ‘Active Learning’ process with the aid of teaching coursewares. Next, application of technology provides better learning environment for students. ‘1BestariNet’ project in which the Ministry of Education of Malaysia cooperates with FrogAsia, YTL has launced Frog VLE, Virtual Learning Environment as a new learning platform. It leverages on FrogTrade’s, United Kingdom which has 13-year track record and expertise in integrating technology into schools. It is proven to be effective in handling assignments as assignments can be sent and marked on-the-go, even during school holiday. At the same time, this platform promotes paper-free learning process. In short, effective study methods should be applied in our study.

Besides, the choice of reference books does play an essential role in study. We should really explore the bookshops and find out which reference books suit us vary from each subject. Apart from purchasing books which are just informative, we should consult teachers or friends to find the books which are reader-friendly, easy to understand and in par with the latest syllabus and format of the education system. Sometime, we may have to purchase reference books from more than one publisher too. Here, allow me to share some of my personal recommendations of books according to the subjects. To be clear, I do not mean to say that the others are not good enough, it is just that these are what I found that suit me the most. For languages like Bahasa Melayu and English, I would recommend Longman Essential whereas for science-related subjects such as Biology, Chemistry and Physics, I would say textbooks and Pelangi reference books are somehow more user-friendly. For the other subjects like history or mathematics, textbooks and past year papers are more than enough. There is one important tip that I would love to highlight here. Students always take the textbooks for granted. In fact, we should pay attention to the ‘Learning Outcome’ of each chapter and sub-chapter in textbooks and ensure that we have fully understood what we are supposed to know after each chapter. At most of the time, this is where questions usually come out to test the understanding of the candidates for each subject during examinations. With the aid of websites, appropriate reference books and textbooks, I am sure that students are able to score well in exams.

In conclusion, one should make good use of whatever resources that is available to help in one’s study. Have an effective timetable, have a proper choice of books and study methods are some of the keys towards achieving excellence in curricular and co curricular. All the best to everyone!