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Chapter 3 of 8

✍️ Continuous Writing

6 min+20 XP

Continuous Writing is Paper 1, Part 2, and it is worth 36 marks — making it the single largest component in the entire Writing paper. You will be given three topics, usually with picture-based prompts, and you choose one to write a composition of at least 150 words (aim for 200-250 words for a strong piece).

This is where your creativity shines. Unlike Situational Writing which follows a fixed format, Continuous Writing rewards students who can tell a compelling story with vivid language. The examiners are looking for well-structured narratives with strong openings, developed characters, clear conflict, and meaningful endings.

Your composition is marked on four criteria: Content (how interesting and relevant your story is), Organisation (story structure and paragraphing), Language (grammar, vocabulary, sentence variety), and Mechanics (spelling and punctuation). Let us break down each skill you need to master.

📊 How Continuous Writing Is Marked (COLM)

CriteriaWhat Examiners Look ForHow to Score Well
ContentInteresting, relevant story that fits the topic. Well-developed plot with clear conflict and resolution.Plan your story before writing. Make sure it connects to the pictures/topic.
OrganisationClear 5-part story structure. Logical sequence of events. Good paragraphing.Use 4-5 paragraphs. Each paragraph should move the story forward.
LanguageVaried sentence patterns. Vivid vocabulary. Accurate grammar. Show-don't-tell.Mix short and long sentences. Use strong verbs and sensory details.
MechanicsCorrect spelling. Proper punctuation. Correct dialogue format.Proofread your work. Pay attention to quotation marks for dialogue.
🎯Key Takeaway
Continuous Writing is worth 36 marks — the biggest single component in Paper 1. Always plan your story (5 min) using the 5-part structure: Introduction, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Resolution. Master the show-don't-tell technique by describing emotions through actions and sensory details instead of stating them directly. Include dialogue (at least 2-3 lines) using said-alternatives and action tags. Use strong verbs, figurative language, and sensory details to make your writing vivid. Proofread for grammar and tense consistency. Practise one composition per week for the best results.

What the full chapter covers

  • How Continuous Writing Is Marked (COLM)

  • The 5-Part Story Structure

  • Build Your Story Step by Step

  • Picture Prompt Strategy

  • Planning Your Story (5 Minutes)

  • Quick Story Planning Template

  • Show, Don't Tell: The #1 Writing Skill

  • Descriptive Writing Techniques

  • Dialogue Writing

  • Common PSLE Composition Themes

  • Paragraph Writing Tips

  • Picture Prompt Strategy

  • Model Composition Openings

  • Common Composition Mistakes

  • Paragraph-by-Paragraph Writing Template

  • 5 Types of Story Openings (With Examples)

  • Power Words to Replace Common Words

  • Figurative Language Toolkit

  • Show Don't Tell: Describing Emotions

  • Sensory Details: Engage All Five Senses

  • Dialogue Writing Tips

  • Common PSLE Composition Themes

  • Practice Makes Perfect!

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