📖 Narrative Comprehension
This section features a literary or narrative passage with questions that test literal understanding, inference, vocabulary, and appreciation of language.
Factual / Literal
1 mark per question (typically 2-3 factual questions per passage)These questions require you to locate specific information stated directly in the passage. The answer is explicitly written in the text; you do not need to interpret or infer. At O-Level, factual questions are typically worth 1 mark each and test whether you can identify relevant details quickly.
💡Strategy: Scan the passage for keywords that match the question. Use line references if given. Copy the relevant phrase and rephrase it slightly so it directly answers the question. Avoid adding your own interpretation or opinion.
Inference
2 marks per question (1 mark for inference + 1 mark for textual evidence)Inference questions require you to read between the lines and draw conclusions based on clues in the passage. The answer is not directly stated but can be logically deduced from what the writer describes, implies, or suggests. This is the most heavily tested skill at O-Level.
💡Strategy: Identify the relevant section and look for clues in the writer's word choices, descriptions, and character actions. State your inference clearly, then support it with a specific quotation or evidence from the text. Use the format: "This suggests that... because the passage states..."
Vocabulary in Context
1 mark per word/phrase (typically 3-4 vocabulary questions per paper)You are given a word or phrase from the passage and asked to explain its meaning as used in that specific context. The word may have multiple dictionary meanings, but you must choose the one that fits the passage. At O-Level, this tests your ability to use contextual clues rather than memorised definitions.
💡Strategy: Re-read the sentence containing the word and the sentences before and after it. Replace the word with your proposed meaning to check if the sentence still makes sense. Provide a synonym or short explanation, not a dictionary definition. If explaining a phrase, unpack what it conveys in context.
Answer in Full Sentences
Unless the question specifically says otherwise, always answer in full sentences. Lifting answers word-for-word from the passage is acceptable for factual questions, but inference and evaluative answers need your own words.