SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018

ACING YOUR SPM 2018

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2 Acing Your SPM 2018 SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018

Chemistry 4541
1. Table 1 shows four substances and their chemical b) The residue is reacted with hydrochloric acid. Write the 3(a)(ii) From zinc electrode to carbon electrode.
formulae. ionic equation for this reaction.
Answer: ZnO + 2H+ → Zn2+ + H2O
Substances Chemical formulae
Tips: • Between the two metals, identify the electrode that
Iron Fe • Write a balanced chemical equation. is more electropositive according to the
Argon Ar • Write the state of matter whether solid, liquid, gas or electrochemical series.
aqueous. • The more electropositive metal will release electrons
Ethanol C2H5OH and act as the negative terminal. Released electrons
• If the substance is solid, liquid or gas, rewrite the formula.
Copper (II) chloride CuCl2 • If the substance is aqueous, separate the substances into will move to the next electrode.
their ions.
Table 1
• Cross out the same ion present in reactants and products.
3(b)(i) Becomes thinner
This ion is not involved in this reaction. It is just a spectator
a) State one substance that exists as a molecule.
ion, so do not write the ion in the equation.
Answer: Ethanol or C2H5OH • Because zinc atom loses electrons to form zinc ions.
• Rewrite the substance and ions present as answer.
• No longer solid but ionises and becomes thinner.
ZnO(s) + 2HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2O(1) • Zn → Zn2+ + 2e
ZnO + 2H+ + Cl- → Zn2+ + Cl- + H2O (solid) (ion)
Tips: ZnO + 2H+ → Zn2+ + H2O
• Make sure the compound comprises more than
one non-metal element.
• Carbon, hydrogen and oxygen are non-metals. 3. Diagram 3 shows an experiment on electrochemistry. 3(b)(ii) Zn → Zn2+ + 2e Lose electrons
• The question says “State”, so your answer can
be either the compound’s name or chemical
Tips to write half-equations:
formula.
Accept electrons = Add electrons at reactants.
b) Name the substance that can conduct electricity in Add = Accept
aqueous form. Explain why. Cu2+ + 2e → Cu
Name the substance: Copper (II) chloride

Release electrons =
Add electrons at products.
Tips: No ‘+’ at reactants.
• The substance is an ionic substance. Diagram 3 Zn → Zn2+ + 2e
• Identify the substance that consists of a metal Innovation in
a) On Diagram 3, mark the
and non-metal. Malay:
(i) Anode of Part X. To write half-equations for hydroxide ions,
• The answer must be the compound name, not Pak OH Pak
(ii) Direction of electron flow. 4OH- → 1O2 + 2H2O + 4e eeee….
its chemical formula.
Satu oksigen,
b) (i) What can be observed at the zinc plate of Part X? dua air…
(ii) Write the half-equation of the reaction that occurs eeeeeee….
eeeeeeee….
Explanation: Because ionic compounds contain/have at (b)(i).
free moving ions.
Tips:
c) Why is argon is an unreactive element? • Identify Part X and Part Y as an electrolytic cell or chemical
Answer: Because argon atoms have octet electron cell respectively. 4. Diagram 3 shows part of the Periodic Table of Elements.
arrangements. • To identify the chemical cell, make sure its electrodes are A, B, C, D, E and F do not represent the actual symbol of
the elements.
different. Electrolytic cells have electrodes of the same
material.
Tips: • It starts with the chemical cell, which has electrodes of
• “Unreactive element” refers to the element’s electropositive metals and acts as negative terminal.
atoms having valence electrons that do not • Electrons move from the negative terminal to the next
donate, receive or share electrons. electrode through the external wire.
• Alternative answer; Diagram 3
- Argon atoms have eight valence electrons.
- The electron arrangement is 2.8.8.
a) Write the electron arrangement of atom C.
Answer: 2.7

2. Diagram 2 shows the heating of salt. Tips:

• Count the increasing number of protons from
left to right.
Zinc carbonate • Proton number is 9.

Heat b) Arrange the size of labelled elements in

• At the right electrode of Part Y, electrons will be accepted by increasing order.
positively charged ions. Two ions, which are Cu2+ and H+, Answer: A, C, B, F, E, D
Lime water will be attracted to the negative terminal or cathode.
• What happens at the electrodes are shown in the diagram
Diagram 2 above. Tips:
• Write your answer in the order from the topmost
a) Write the chemical equation for the reaction in period of the Periodic Table to the bottom.
Diagram 2. • If there is more than one element in the same
Answer: ZnCO3 → ZnO + CO2 period, the right element is smaller than the left
Answer: because nuclei attraction towards electron valence
3(a)(i) Zinc electrode increases, causing the atom size to compress to
become smaller.
Tips: • Continue going down the period.
• Refer to the diagram given for the reactants and •
products. • Write half-equation to identify
• Write the correct formulae for reactant and whether oxidation or reduction
products. occurs.
• Balance the equation. • Oxidation occurs at the zinc electrode.
• Make sure the uppercase and lowercase letters • The electrode at which oxidation
for the chemical formulae you write are correct. occurs is known as the anode.
• The electrode at which reduction
occurs is known as the cathode.
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018 Acing Your SPM 2018 3

5. The equation shows the reaction between zinc and hydrochloric acid. 6. Draw the apparatus setup to determine by measuring the volume of oxygen gas produced
using hydrogen peroxide and manganese (IV) oxide.
Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2 Answer:

Calculate the mass of zinc required to react with excess hydrochloric acid to produce 6dm3
of hydrogen gas at room conditions. (Relative atomic mass; Zn = 65, Cl = 35.5, 1 mole of gas
occupies 24dm3 at room conditions.
Answer: 16.25g

Tips:
1. Information = Calculate number of moles

No of moles of H2 = Volume
number of moles of hydrogen
(Molar volume)
(information in the question)
= 6
24
= 0.25 mol H2

2. Relate = Using equation

Use this ratio to find the number of
Zn + HCl → ZnCl2 + H2 moles of substance needed. Tips for drawing the diagram:
1 mol H2 : 1 mol Zn Functional:
0.25 mol H2 : 0.25 mol Zn • Rubber stopper must be higher than the mouth of the conical
flask
3. Solve = Follow the questions and using the appropriate formula. • Level of delivery tube must be lower than the water level
• Dashed lines for solutions
Mass of Zn = Moles of Zn x Molar mass of Zn • Clamp by retort stand.
Final answer
= 0.25 x 65 with unit
= 16.25g Label the water, hydrogen peroxide, manganese (IV) oxide and basin.

Biologi 4551
Bahagian Kertas 2 (Struktur) Kertas 2 (Esei)
Genotip induk//Fenotip induk//Meiosis//Gamet//
Bilangan soalan 5 4 Persenyawaan//Genotip F1//Fenotip F1//Nisbah Genotip//
Nisbah Fenotip
Pilihan Jawab semua Satu jam

Cadangan masa Satu jam 30 minit Satu jam

Cadangan masa untuk 18 minit
setiap soalan
Aras kesukaran Rendah, sederhana Rendah, sederhana, tinggi
Pemberatan 30%
Soalan subjektif Kertas 2
• Imbas terlebih dahulu empat soalan esei (Bahagian B), sebelum menjawab soalan
struktur. Ini membantu memberikan anda masa untuk menilai di samping
mendapatkan idea huraian fakta dan penjelasan.
• Kebanyakan soalan struktur berdasarkan rajah, data, carta, graf, eksperimen dan
penyiasatan saintifik. Fahamkan semua maklumat yang diberikan.
• Tulis jawapan dalam bentuk satu perkataan, nombor atau ayat yang ringkas.
• Jangan gabungkan jawapan yang betul dan jawapan yang salah apabila keliru. Contoh:
Mitosis @ Meiosis (Calon akan diberi hukuman “wrong cancelled right”).
Panduan menjawab soalan struktur – Bahagian A
• Patuhi arahan soalan. Jika soalannya “Berikan dua contoh ...”, maka anda hanya
perlu memberikan dua contoh. Contoh yang ketiga tidak akan diberikan markah.
• Tidak perlu menulis dengan ayat yang panjang dan meleret atau menyalin semula
sebahagian ayat dari soalan.
• Guna maklumat dalam soalan sebagai sumber jawapan.
• Jumlah peruntukan markah di hujung soalan menunjukkan sebanyak mana jawapan
yang perlu ditulis.
• Jawapan mesti tepat. Contoh soalan: Huraikan ciri-ciri alveolus.
Contoh jawapan:
• Gamet jantan dan gamet betina mengalami “persenyawaan”/bergabung
30 minit - Tolak markah jika menggunakan perkataan “bercantum” atau “bersentuh”
• Fungsi mitokondria – Menjana tenaga
- Tolak markah jika menggunakan frasa “membekalkan tenaga” atau “memberi tenaga”
• Kromosom homolog
- Tolak markah jika menggunakan frasa “kromosom double”
20% • Jantung berdegup/berdenyut
• Variasi – berbeza/sama rupa-paras
- Tolak markah jika menggunakan frasa “muka sama”
• Enzim ternyahasli
- Tolak markah jika menggunakan perkataan “terurai” atau “musnah”
• Nukleus mengandungi maklumat genetik
- Tolak markah jika menggunakan frasa “mengandungi DNA”
• Floem mengangkut bahan organik/hasil fotosintesis
- Tolak markah jika menggunakan frasa “mengangkut makanan”
• Glukosa tinggi dalam darah
- Tolak markah jika menggunakan frasa glukosa tinggi dalam badan
• Jangan menyalin semula soalan kerana tiada markah akan diberikan
• Ejaan → wajib tepat. Contoh: Meiosis (betul), miosis (salah)
• Proses osmosis – Gunakan kaedah
- Tiga langkah
1. Namakan jenis larutan luar dan bandingkan dengan larutan dalam sel.
2. Jelaskan arah pergerakan molekul air – gunakan istilah “Meresap keluar/
masuk”, diikuti dengan “secara osmosis.”
3. Jelaskan keadaan/perubahan sel
• Contoh: Sel tumbuhan dalam larutan hipertonik
--> Sel mengalami plasmolisis/Sel menjadi flasid
--> Vakuol dan sitoplasma mengecut
--> Membran plasma tertarik menjauhi dinding sel
--> Tumbuhan layu

Jawapan yang akan diterima Jawapan yang akan ditolak Kaedah menjawab soalan KBAT
Amalkan teknik PFK
Dinding alveolus nipis: setebal satu sel Alveolus nipis • P – Punca
Permukaan alveolus lembap Lembap • F – Fenomena/Situasi
• K – Kesan
Jaringan kapilari darah yang banyak meliputi permukaan Banyak kapilari darah
luar alveolus
Contoh soalan (Soalan aras menilai)
• Apabila melukis rajah atau lakaran, pastikan lukisan anda:
Pernafasan adalah proses luar kawal yang dikawal oleh pusat pernafasan dalam medula
- Tidak artistik
oblongata. Jelaskan apa yang berlaku kepada kadar pernafasan bagi seorang pendaki apabila
- Besar (saiz yang sesuai) dan jelas
berada di puncak gunung yang tinggi.
- Mempunyai label-label yang betul (garisan label tidak boleh bersilang)
- Jelas tanpa garisan putus-putus [3 markah]
• Lukisan struktur enzim: Saiz dan bentuk enzim mesti sama dengan saiz asal Punca
• Bandingkan saiz gambar sebelum dan selepas gambar dilukis • P1 Kurang oksigen dalam atmosfera.
• Lukisan rajah skema (Perwarisan) • P2 Tekanan separa oksigen rendah.
- Ada kekunci • P3 Kurang oksigen dalam darah.
- Label rajah skema
4 Acing Your SPM 2018 SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018

Fenomena
• P4 Keadaan ini dikesan oleh pusat pernafasan/kemoreseptor. • Digalakkan pilihan A, namun lebih baik pilihan B hanya jika calon sudah benar-benar
• P5 Impuls dihantar kepada otot-otot/otot interkosta/diafragma. menguasai fakta
• P6 Kadar pengecutan/pengenduran otot-otot/otot interkosta/diafragma ditingkatkan. • Gunakan kata kunci
• Buat rangka jawapan
Kesan • Untuk soalan jenis perbandingan – Mesti ada persamaan dan perbezaan
• P7 Mekanisme pernafasan/tarik nafas/hembus nafas ditingkatkan. • Sesuatu ciri mesti dibandingkan antara dua subjek dalam satu ayat. Contoh: Sel
• P8 Kadar ventilasi ditingkatkan. tumbuhan ada kloroplas manakala sel haiwan tiada kloroplas.
• P9 Impuls (daripada pusat respirasi) dihantar ke jantung. • Asingkan perenggan antara persamaan dan perbezaan
• P10 Denyutan jantung menjadi lebih laju. • Kaedah terbaik: Buat perbandingan dalam bentuk jadual, perbezaan yang setara dan ayat
• P11 Banyak oksigen dihantar kepada sel//untuk mendapat cukup oksigen//banyak karbon yang lengkap.
dioksida diangkut ke peparu. • Panduan menjawab soalan dengan tajuk Ekosistem Terancam
- Mesti mengandungi perkara-perkara berikut:
Murid mesti mengenalpasti tahap KBAT setiap soalan yang diberikan. Hal ini membolehkan
murid merancang kaedah menjawab yang betul bagi setiap soalan. Punca/nama gas Keadaan Kesan Pencegahan

Taksonomi Anderson: • Kilang • Larut dengan • pH tanah/air • Pasang penapis

• Nitrogen dioksida, sulfur dioksida wap air menurun di kilang
Mengingat Memahami Mengaplikasi Menganalisis Menilai Mencipta
• Hujan asid • Hakisan • Penguatkuasaan
Contoh:
• Penyahhutanan/Bahan api fosil • Peningkatan • Kesan rumah • Penguatkuasaan
• Karbon dioksida suhu hijau

• Peti sejuk/Aerosol/Penghawa dingin • Penipisan • Katarak mata • Kurangkan

• Klorofluorokarbon (CFC) lapisan ozon • Kanser kulit penggunaan CFC

Bahan edaran: Kertas 3 Seminar Kecemerlangan Biologi SPM 2018

a) Rajah di atas menunjukkan suatu organel X di dalam sel manusia.
1. Strategi/Panduan menjawab Biologi SPM
i. Namakan organel X. (Mengingat) [1 markah] Kertas 3 (Soalan 1)
Jawapan: Mitokondrion
Kekunci jenis-jenis pemboleh ubah
* Operating = Operasi = Sesuatu yang boleh diukur menggunakan radas. Diperolehi daripada
ii. Apakah fungsi organel tersebut (Memahami) [1 markah] tajuk pada jadual pengukuran (panjang/masa/suhu/luas/jisim).
Jawapan: Menjana tenaga
* Actual = Sebenar = Sesuatu yang tidak boleh diukur menggunakan radas. Diperolehi daripada
tujuan eksperimen pada soalan utama. (Kadar fotosintesis/keamatan
b) Rajah di bawah menunjukkan satu sel sperma manusia yang mengandungi kepadatan cahaya/kadar tindak balas enzim/kadar pertumbuhan)
organel X yang tinggi pada bahagian tengahnya.
Magic Bio Box

Operating variable Actual variable

Nilai terendah Perbandingan terendah

MLV (OMV) (AMV)
Nilai tertinggi Perbandingan tertinggi

Bacaan terendah Kadar terendah

MLV (ORV) (ARV)
Bacaan tertinggi Kadar tertinggi
i. Apakah fungsi organel X kepada sperma tersebut? (Mengaplikasi)
[2 markah] Contoh hasil Magic Bio Box:
Jawapan: P1 – Mitokondria menjana tenaga kepada ekor Operating variable Actual variable
P2 – Untuk berenang ke tiub fallopio M.V Jarak tumbuhan dari 50cm Keamatan cahaya Rendah
P3 – Membolehkan persenyawaan berlaku mentol (OMV) 10cm (AMV) Tinggi
P4 – Seterusnya dapat menghasilkan zigot R.V Panjang gelembung 1cm Kadar fotosintesis Rendah/menurun
gas (ORV) 5cm (ARV) Tinggi/meningkat
ii. Pankreas merupakan satu organ di dalam badan manusia yang juga
mempunyai kepadatan suatu organel khusus di dalamnya. Terangkan 1. Mengukur • Ukur/Rekod data menggunakan radas yang diberikan dalam eksperimen
dan merekod dengan unit yang betul.
kepentingan organel tersebut kepada pankreas. (Menganalisis) [3 markah] data
2. Pemerhatian • Pada (OMV) (nilai terendah), (ORV) ialah (nilai ORV).
Jawapan: P1 – Organel tersebut ialah Jalinan Endoplasma Kasar/Jasad Golgi • Pada (OMV) (nilai tertinggi), (ORV) ialah (nilai ORV).
P2 – Fungsi mensintesis dan mengangkut protein
P3 – Protein akan diubahsuai. 3. Inferens • Pada (OMV 1), kerana (AMV) rendah/tinggi, maka kadar (ARV) rendah/tinggi
• Pada (OMV 2), kerana (AMV) tinggi/rendah, maka kadar (ARV) tinggi/rendah.
P4 – Membantu menghasilkan enzim dan hormon
P5 – Yang dirembeskan sebagai enzim luar sel 4. Mengawal • Gunakan (OMV) yang berbeza. (Senaraikan apa yang diubah)
pemboleh Ubah/Tukar OMV 1 dengan OMV 2.
ubah • Ukur dan rekod ORV menggunakan (alat radas)
c) Seorang suami mengalami masalah ketidaksuburan dan masih belum mendapat anak
setelah tiga tahun berkahwin. Didapati sperma yang dihasilkan oleh lelaki tersebut tidak • Tetapkan CV pada (nilai yang ditetapkan) menggunakan (alat radas)
aktif kerana mengalami masalah kekurangan bilangan organel X di dalamnya. Terangkan
5. Hipotesis Terdapat dua jenis hipotesis:
mengapa ia menjadi punca kepadanya masih tidak mendapat anak? (Menilai)
• Rate (perkadaran) – e.g: Semakin tinggi kepekatan nutrien (MV), semakin
[3 Markah]
tinggi kadar pertumbuhan anak benih jagung (RV).
• Comparison (perbandingan) – e.g: Kacang tanah mempunyai nilai tenaga yang
*Tip: Ambil semula poin soalan mengaplikasi atau daripada pengetahuan awal dan tulis lebih tinggi berbanding kacang gajus dan kacang badam.
semula dalam bentuk ayat negatif. Gunakan juga teknik PFK.
6. Penjadualan • Lajur dan baris dengan tajuk dan unit yang betul. (OMV/ORV/ARV)
Jawapan: data • Pengiraan yang betul dan data yang sistematik (observational data)
Punca: P1 – Tenaga tidak dapat dijanakan kepada ekor
Fenomena: P2 – Menyebabkan sperma tidak dapat berenang ke tiub fallopio/ovum 7. Melukis graf • Skala seragam
Kesan: P3 – Persenyawaan antara sperma dan ovum tidak dapat berlaku • Semua titik diplotkan dengan betul
P4 – Zigot tidak dapat dihasilkan • Lengkungan licin dan bentuk yang betul (sambung semua titik)
P5 – Isterinya tidak dapat hamil Jangan imbang titik, panjangkan graf, cari pintasan dan sebagainya

d) Cadangkan satu kaedah kepada pasangan suami isteri tersebut bagi membolehkan 8. Hubungan Semakin bertambah OMV, semakin bertambah/berkurang ARV kerana AMV
mereka untuk mendapatkan anak. (Mencipta) [2 markah] pemboleh meningkat/menurun, menyebabkan (terangkan kesan kepada ORV).
ubah dari graf
P1 – Menggunakan kaedah teknologi bayi tabung uji (IVF)
P2 – Sperma suami dikumpulkan di bank sperma sehingga mencukupi 9. Definisi *Buat dua ayat.
P3 – Sperma dan ovum diletakkan di dalam piring petri yang mengandungi kultur nutrien secara …………….. ialah proses yang ditunjukkan oleh ORV, bergantung kepada
P3 – Sperma diransang untuk mensenyawakan ovum operasi perubahan OMV.
ARV dipengaruhi oleh AMV.
Teknik menjawab esei
10. Membuat • P1 : Ramalan yang betul daripada data sebelumnya.
Sangat digalakkan menjawab mengikut arahan iaitu pilih dua soalan sahaja. Buat ramalan • P2 : Kesan terhadap ARV
• P3 : Sebab/Kerana perubahan MV (dari soalan)
pilihan yang tepat.
A – Soalan 6 dan 7 (banyak pecahan soalan)
11. Pengelasan • Mengumpulkan jawapan berdasarkan ciri-ciri tertentu yang dikehendaki
B – Soalan 8 dan 9 (kurang pecahan soalan) oleh soalan.
C – Soalan (6/7) dan (8/9) *Tip: Jangan terpengaruh dengan keseimbangan
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018 Acing Your SPM 2018 5

2. Strategi/Panduan menjawab Biologi SPM Kertas 3, Soalan 2

Markah Markah
1. Tujuan/ Untuk mengkaji (MV) ke atas/dengan (RV). 6. Kaedah/ K1. Langkah penyediaan/pengendalian radas dan bahan untuk 3
Objektif *Boleh diperolehi daripada soalan utama. Prosedur menjalankan eksperimen.
K2. Langkah menetapkan CV.
2. Pernyataan Apakah kesan (MV) berbeza terhadap (RV)? 2 • CV ditetapkan pada (nilai).
masalah K3. Langkah mengukur dan merekod RV
• Ukur dan rekod (ORV) menggunakan (radas).
3. Hipotesis 1. Semakin bertambah/berkurang (MV), semakin bertambah/ 3 • Kira (ARV) menggunakan formula (rumus).
berkurang (RV). K4. Langkah mengubah MV
2. (MV1) mempunyai ……nilai tenaga/ kandungan vitamin C………. lebih • Eksperimen diulang dengan menggunakan (OMV) berbeza iaitu
banyak/kurang berbanding (MV2) dan (MV3) (OMV2), (OMV3), (OMV4) dan (OMV5).
4. Pemboleh Dimanipulasi: (MV) K5. Langkah berjaga-jaga
1
ubah • Eksperimen dijalankan sebanyak dua kali untuk mendapatkan
Bergerak balas: (RV) 1
bacaan purata.
Dimalarkan: (CV) 1
5. Senarai • Senaraikan radas dan bahan yang wajib ada untuk 3 7. Keputusan/ MV ORV (Unit) ARV (Unit)
2
1.
bahan dan menjalankan eksperimen terlebih dahulu. Jadual 2.
radas • Anda digalakkan melukis susunan radas dan bahan 3.
4.
eksperimen. 5.

ORV = Operating Responding Variable = Bergerak balas operasi (boleh diukur dengan radas)
ARV = Actual Responding Variable = Bergerak balas sebenar (tidak boleh diukur, perlu guna rumus)

Physics 4531
Example 1
The diagram below shows a model of a school bus. a. (i) What is meant by density? [1 mark] The amount of load in Diagram B is smaller than in A.

(ii) Using Diagrams A and B, compare the density of the air, (Height)
the load that can be carried by the hot air balloon, and The height of the balloons in both Diagram A and Diagram B
the final height of the hot air balloon from the ground. are equal. [4 marks]

Relate the buoyant force with the density of the air to
make a deduction regarding the relationship between How to relate? Look at the example below:
the density of the air and the weight of the load carry up
by the hot air balloon.
[5 marks] x y
Explain modifications made to the bus to help improve the b. Why does an iron nail sink in water but a cargo ship with a
safety of passengers and make it more comfortable. huge mass float? [4 marks] 10 20
Emphasise your explanation in the following aspects: 20 30
(i) the shape of the bus Suggested solutions
(ii) safety features of the bus 30 40
(a) (i) Density is ρ = m/V (If left like this, this answer is
Modifications Explanation incorrect. What is ρ? What is m? What is V?) 40 50

Reinforced passenger The passenger compartment should - You must define the meaning of each symbol in the 50 60
compartment. remain intact during a collision. It is formula
(1 mark) made of high-tensile steel, which can
withstand large forces. (1 mark)
- ρ = density 60 70
- m = mass
- V = volume
Crumple zones – Lengthen the time of collision, hence “As x increases, y increases.”
Specific points at the reduces the impulsive force on the
front and back portion bus. (1 mark) OR
of the car that are
made to crumple Present the answer in sentence and insert the formula as well. x y
progressively. - Density is the distribution of mass per unit volume of a
(1 mark)
substance. 10 70
(1 mark awarded for this answer)
Safety belt. Prevent passenger from jerking
(1 mark) forward when the bus stop suddenly.
20 60
(1 mark) - ρ = m/V, where ρ = density, m = mass and
V = volume 30 50
Airbag. Lengthen the time of collision.
(1 mark) (1 mark)

(ii) “Using Diagrams A and B, compare the density of the
air, the load that can be carried by the hot air balloon,
40 40
Bus body is narrower
To decrease air friction. (1 mark)
at the front. (1 mark)


and the final height of the hot air balloon from the
ground.
50 30
Example 2 Relate the buoyant force with the density of the air to
60 20
Diagram A shows a hot air balloon carrying loads up to a make a deduction regarding the relationship between
certain height in the morning and Diagram B shows the the density of the air and the weights of the load carry “As x increases, y decreases.”
same hot air balloon carrying loads up to a certain height in up by the hot air balloon.”
the afternoon. In both situations, this hot air balloon used So, “relationship” is statement that describes the
helium gas at the same temperature. Step 1: Read the question and observe the diagrams carefully. interaction between two variables.

In the morning In the afternoon
Step 2: What is required by the question? Examples:
• You are asked to compare three physics’ Buoyant force increases as density of air increases.
quantities – density, load and height.
• How to compare? Weight of load carries up increases as density of air
• You must use sentences such as “A is bigger than increases.
B.”/“B is smaller than A.” and “X is taller than
Y.”/“Y is shorter than X.” (b) Compare the density of each substance
• Therefore, your answers must be presented 1. The density of the iron nail is higher than the
as: density of water OR Average density of the cargo ship is
lower than the density of water
(Density of air)
The density of air in Diagram A is greater than the State the volume of water displaced
density of air in Diagram B. 2. The volume/weight of water displaced by the iron nail is
OR smaller.
The density of air in Diagram B is smaller than the
density of air in Diagram A. State the correct relation
3. For the cargo ship, the buoyant force is equal to its
(Load carried) weight.
The amount of load in Diagram A is greater than in B. 4. For the iron nail, the buoyant force is smaller than its
OR weight.
6 Acing Your SPM 2018 SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018

Additional
AdditionalMathematics
Mathematics(3472)
3472
Simultaneous Equations (a) Find
1. Diagram 1 shows a cuboid where its height is longer than (i) the value of m,
the sides of its base. (ii) the coordinates of P. [4 marks]

(b) Given PE : EQ = 1 : 2, find

(i) the coordinates of Q.
(ii) the equation of the straight line QR. [4 marks]

(c) A point J moves such that JP = JQ. Find the equation of the locus of J.
[2 marks]
Answers:
(a)
(i) mOP = 2
mPQ = −1 Tip:
2 Use m m = –11 2

2y = mx + 10
mpq = m
2
m= −1
2 2
m = −1

(ii) y = 2x –––– (1)

y = −1x + 5 –––– (2) Tip:
2 Use simultaneous equation to
Diagram 1 find out the value of x
and y.
Given the total length of the sides of the cuboid is 60 cm and the total surface area of the Substitute (1) into (2),
cuboid is 126cm2, find the volume of the cuboid. [7 marks] 2x = −1x + 5
2
Answer: Tips: –5x = 5
Total length of the sides = 8x + 4y = 60 • Form two 2
equations x=2
y = 15 − 2x –––– (1)
correctly. Tip:
Substitute x = 2 into (1),
• Understand Write coordinate P in the
Total surface area = 2x2 + 4xy = 126 y = 2(2)
the meaning of bracket
y=4
x2 + 2xy = 63 –––– (2) “total length Therefore, P = (2, 4)
of the sides”
and “total (b)(i) From 2y = −x + 10, Tip:
surface area”. E = (0, 5) Use cross method to find out
the coordinates of Q.
Substitute (1) into (2), (0, 5) = 2(2)+ x) , 2(4)+y
Tip:
x2 + 2x(15 − 2x) = 63 3 3
x2 + 30x − 4x2 = 63 The quadratic equation must in the 4+x = 0
−3x2 + 30x − 63 = 0 simplest form and the coefficient of x 3
3x2 − 30x + 63 = 0 must be positive before you do x = −4
x2 − 10x + 21 = 0 factorisation.
(x − 7)(x − 3) = 0 −3x2 + 30x − 63 = 0 8+y = 5
x = 7 or x = 3 3x2 − 30x + 63 = 0 3
Substitute x = 7 into (1), x2 − 10x + 21 = 0 y=7
y = 15 − 2(7) (x2 positive & simplest form)
=1 • Therefore, Q = (−4, 7)
Substitute x = 3 into (1), Tip:
y = 15 − 2(3) Tips: (ii)Equation of QR: Use distance formulae to find out
=9 • The quadratic equation can m = 2, Q = (−4, 7) the equation of locus.
y = 2x + c
also be solved by using
9 is longer. Therefore, the height 7 = 2(−4) + c
is 9cm.
formulae (No need positive
c = 15 JP = √ (x2 – x1)2 + (y2 – y1)2
& simplest form)
y = 2x + 15
The length of the sides of the base JQ = √ (x2 – x1)2 + (y2 – y1)2
is 3cm. −3x2 + 30x − 63 = 0 (c) Equation of locus J:
a = 3, b = 30 & c = -63 Given JP = JQ,
Volume of cuboid
=3x3x9 x = (-b±√(b2-4ac √ (x –2)2 + (y –4)2 = √ (x+4)2 + (y –7)2
= 81cm3 2a
x2 − 4x + 4 + y2 − 8y + 16 + 8x + 16 + y2 − 14y + 49 = x2
Coordinate Geometry x = (-30 ± √(30)2-4(3)(-63)
2(3) −12x + 6y − 45 = 0
*Solution by scale drawing is not accepted

2. Diagram 2 shows a trapezium OPQR. The line OP is perpendicular to the line PQ which Index Numbers
intersects with y-axis at the point E. It is given that the equation of OP is y = 2x and the 3. Table 3 shows the prices of four ingredients in the making a type of mooncake.
equation of PQ is 2y = mx + 10.
Price per kilogram (RM)
Ingredient
Year 2014 Year 2018
A 5.00 x
P B 4.50 5.85
C y z
D 5.20 8.32
Table 3

(a) The price index of ingredient A in the year 2018 based on the year 2014 is 130.
Calculate the value of x. [2 marks]

(b) The price index of ingredient C in the year 2018 based on the year 2014 is 200. The price
per kilogram of ingredient C in the year 2018 is RM5.50 more than its price in the year 2014.
Diagram 2 Calculate the values of y and z. [3 marks]
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018 Acing Your SPM 2018 7

(c) The composite price index for the cost of making the moon cake in the year 2018 based
on the year 2014 is 171.05. Calculate Tip:
(i) The price of a moon cake in the year 2014 if its price in the year 2018 is RM78.00,
You can use the listing method to solve arithmetic progression and geometric
progression questions.
(ii) The value of e if the quatities of ingredients A, B, C and D are used in the ratio
of 2 : e : 9 : 5. [5 marks] Example:
b) 1 Jan 2011 – 5,000
Answers: 1 Jan 2012 – 5,000 x 1.035 = 5,175
(a) Price index, I = Q18 x 100 1 Jan 2013 – 5,175 x 1.035 = 5,356.125
Q14 1 Jan 2014 – 5,356.125 x 1.035 = 5,543.5894
Tip: Q18 1 Jan 2015 – 5,543.5894 x 1.035 = 5,737.6150
130 = x × 100 If Price index, use I = x 100
Q14 1 Jan 2016 – 5,737.6150 x 1.035 = 5,938.4315
5
x = 6.50 1 Jan 2017 – 5,938.4315 x 1.035 = 6,146.2766
1 Jan 2018 – 6,146.2766 x 1.035 = 6,361.3963
1 Jan 2019 – 6,361.3963 x 1.035 = 6,584.0452
Tip:
1 Jan 2020 – 6,584.0452 x 1.035 = 6,814.4868
1 Jan 2021 – 6,814.4868 x 1.035 = 7,052.9938
• Use y = z , z = z + 5.5
(b) Given
200 = z + 5.5 × 100 is also accepted So, n = 11
200 = z x 100
z
y
z = y + 5.5 a) Refer to 1 Jan 2020, T10 = RM6,814.49
c) Refer to 1 Jan 2018, T8 = RM6,361.40
Tip:
Q18 Total interest earned = RM6,361.40 – RM5,000
200 = y + 5.5 x 100 Use I = x 100 if you mention mooncake = RM1,361.40
Q14
y
200y = 100y + 550 Q18
y = 5.50 Use I = x 100 if you mention ingredients A, B, C or D
Q14
z = 5.5 + 5.5 Linear Law
z = 11.00 *Use graph paper to answer this question

5. Table 5 shows the values of two variables, x and y, obtained from an experiment.
(c) (i) 171.05 = 78 x 100 The variables x and y are related by the equation y = pqx – 1, where p and q are
Q14 constants.

Q14 = RM45.60 x 2 2 2 2 6 7
(ii) Given I = 171.05 y 2.3 4.7 9.5 21.4 43.7 95.5
171.05 = 2 x 130 + e x 130 + 9 x 200 + 5 x 160
Table 5
2+e+9+5
(a) Plot log y against (x − 1), by using a scale of 2cm to 1 unit on the (x − 1)-axis and
171.05 = 2860+130e 2cm to 0.2 units on the (log y)-axis. Hence, draw the line of best fit. [5 marks]
16+e Tip:
If composite index, use (b) Use your graph in (a) to find the value of
e=3 ∑Wi Ii (i) p
I=
∑Wi (ii) q [5 marks]
Progressions

4. Jessy deposited RM5,000 into a bank on 1 January 2011. The bank will pay 3.5% of annual Answers:
interest to the deposit. Jessy did not make any deposit and withdrawal after the initial
deposit. Calculate (a)
(a) the total deposit in her account on 1 January 2020. (x − 1) 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00
[2 marks]
log y 0.36 0.67 0.98 1.33 1.64 1.98
(b) the minimum value of n such that the total deposit
in her account in the nth year will exceed RM7,000.
[3 marks]

(c) the total interest, to the nearest RM, earned by her

from 1 January 2011 to 1 January 2018.
[2 marks]

Answers:
(a) a = 5,000
r = 1.035
n = 10
T10 = 5,000 x 1.035 10 – 1
T10 = RM6,814.49

(b) Tn > 7,000

5,000 x 1.035n – 1 > 7,000

1.035n – 1 > 7,000 Tips:

5,000 • Determine whether this is an
arithmetic progression or geometric
(n – 1) log10 1.035 > log10 1.4 progression first before you solve the
question.
n – 1 > log101.4
log101.035 • It is a geometric progression
question because it involves
n – 1 > 9.7808 multiplication.
n > 10.7808
n = 11 • If common ratio is r in geometric
progression, the common difference in
(c) T8 = 5,000 x 1.0358 – 1 arithmetic progression is d.
• List the values of a and r.
= RM6,361.40

Total interest earned

= RM6,361.40 – RM5,000
= RM1,361.40
8 Acing Your SPM 2018 SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018

(c) 1 1
h= k
(b) y = pqx – 1 Tip: 3 2
log y = log p + (x – 1) log q Tip:
• Round off the values of x – 1 and log y to h = 3 k –––– (1)
log y = (log q)(x – 1) + log p • By comparison, find the value of k and h with a
two decimal places. 2
2 h = 1 – kx(2) simultaneous equation.
(i) log p = Y–intercept 3
log p = 0.04
Substitute (1) into (2),
Tips: 2 3 k =1–k
p = 1.096 • Use y = mx + c 3 2
• By comparison, 2k = 1
(ii) log q = Gradient of the graph y = log y, m = log q and c = log p
log q = 0.32 m is the gradient, c is the y-intercept k= 2
2
q = 2.089
Substitute k = 1 into (1), Tip:
2
• You are encouraged to sketch a diagram and write
Tip: h= 3 1 down all the information given in the question on the
• Do not replace the value from the table to calculate the answer of q. 2 2
3 diagram.
=
For example, 4
log y = (log q)(x − 1) + log p
Probability Distributions
0.36 = log q(1)+0.04
7. (a) A random variable X has a binomial distribution with 9 trials where the probability
0.32 = log q of success in each trial is p. The mean number of success is 3. Calculate the
q = 2.089 (Not accepted even if the answer is correct)
(i) value of p.

(ii) P(X ≥ 3). [5 marks]

Vectors
6. Diagram 6 shows a triangle PQR. The point S lies on PQ and the point T lies on QR. The (b) The mass of papaya from a farm have a normal distribution with a mean of 2kg and
straight line PT intersects the straight line RS at the point U a standard deviation of 1kg. Calculate

(i) The probability that a papaya chosen at random from this farm has a mass of
more than 0.5kg.
R (ii) The value of m if 75% of the papaya have masses less than m kg. [5 marks]

T
Answers:
Tip:
U (a) • Write down p = 1 , q =
2
, and n = 9.
(i) np = 3 3 3

P Q 9p = 3
S

1
p= Tip:
3
• p + q = 1, q = 2
3
1 2
Diagram 6 (ii) q=1– =
3 3
P(X ≥ 3) = 1 P(X = 0) – P(X = 1) – P(X = 2)
It is given that PQ = x̰ , PR = y̰ , PS = 1 PQ and QT = 2 QR.
(a) Express, in terms of x̰ and y̰ 2 3 P(X ≥ 3) = 1 9C0( 1 ) 0( 2 )9 – 9C1( 1 )1( 2 )8 – 9C2( 1 )2( 2 )7
3 3 3 3 3 3
(i) RS P(X ≥ 3) = 1 – 0.02601 – 0.1171 – 0.2341

(ii) PT [4 marks] P(X ≥ 3) = 0.6228 Tip:
P (X ≥ 3) = P(X = 3) + P(X = 4) + P(X = 5) +
(b) Given that PU = hPT and RU = kRS, where h and k are constants, find the value P(X = 6) + P(X = 7) + P(X = 8) + P(X = 9)
of h and k. Express P(X ≥ 3) = 1 − P(X = 0) − P(X = 1) – P(X = 2)
(i) in terms of h, x̰ and y̰ . (b)
(i) μ = 2, σ = 1
(ii) in terms of k, x̰ and y̰ . [3 marks]
P(X > 0.5)
(c) Hence, find the value of h and k. [3 marks]
0.5 – 2
= P(Z > )
1
Answer:
Tip: = P(Z > – 1.5)
(a) RS = RP + PS
• Use Triangle Law to express RS in terms of x̰ and y̰ .
= 1 – P(Z > 1.5) Tip:
1 X–μ
RS = x̰ – y̰ Use formula Z =
2 σ
= 1 – 0.0668
PT = PQ + QT
= 0.9332
2
= x̰ + QR
3
2 Tip:
= x̰ + 3 (QP + PR) • Make sure the directions of the vectors are correct.
2
= x̰ + (–x̰ + y̰ )
3
1 2
= x̰ + 3 y̰
3

(b) (i) PU = hPT

1 ̰ 2
= h( x+ y)
3 3 ̰

1 2
= hx̰ + hy Tip:
3 3 ̰
• Just replace the vector of PT from (a) (ii).
(ii) PU = PR + RU

= y̰ + kRS

= y̰ + k( 1 x̰ – y̰ )
2
1
= kx̰ + (1 – k)y̰
2
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018 Acing Your SPM 2018 9

(b)
(ii) P(X < m) = 0.75

P(X > m) = 1 – 0.75 = 0.25

m–2
P(Z > ) = 0.25
1
P(Z > 0.674) = 0.25 Tip:
Z value = 0.674 (from Normal Distribution Table)
m – 2 = 0.674
1
So, m – 2 = 0.674

m = 2.674 1

Linear Programming
8. A factory produces two types of chairs, A and B. On a particular day, the factory
produced x units of A and y units of B. The profit from the sales of a unit of chair A is RM10
and a unit of chair B is RM25. The production of chairs per day is based on the following
constraints:

I. The total number of chairs produced is, at most, 500.

II. The number of chair A produced is not more than 3 times the number of chair B.

III. The minimum total profit for both types of chairs is RM5,000

(a) Write three inequalities, other than x ≥ 0 and y ≥ 0, which satisfy all the
above constraints.
[3 marks]

(b) Using a scale of 2cm to 50 chairs on both axes, construct and shade the
region R which satisfies the above constraints.
[3 marks]
(c) Using the graph constructed in (b), find
Diagram X
(i) The minimum number of units of chair B if the number of units of chair A
produced on a particular day is 50. (c) (i) Based on the graph, when x = 50, the minimum value of = 176.
The minimum number of units of chair B produced is 180.
(ii) The maximum total profit per day. [4 marks]
(ii) 10x + 25y = k
When x = 0 and y = 150, k = 3,750
Answers: 2x + 5y = 750

(a) Based on the graph, the maximum total profit is obtained at point (375, 125).
I. x + y ≤ 500
Tip:
Maximum total profit
• Must use variables x and y, not variables
II. y≥ 1 x = 10(375) + 25(125)
3 A and B.
= RM6,875
III. 10x + 25y ≥ 5,000
Tip: Tip:
2x + 5y ≥ 1,000 • Simplify inequalities to the simplest form. • Round off the number of units of chair B
produced from 176 to 180 (integer and in the
shaded region).

10 Acing Your SPM 2018
MANAGEMENT & Science
University (MSU) is one of
Malaysia’s top universities with a
focus on developing and delivering
quality human capital in national
and global critical-need areas,
including medicine, health
sciences, pharmacy, information
sciences and engineering.
It also develops competent
graduates in business management
and professional studies,
education, social sciences,
hospitality, culinary arts, music
and fashion.
MSU’s foundation programmes
offer Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia/Sijil
Pelajaran Malaysia Vokasional
school-leavers quality preparation
for direct entry to the university’s
range of bachelor’s degree
programmes.
Designed to ensure preparedness
for bachelor’s degree studies, the
programmes develop important
study skills while improving
students’ language proficiency,
cultural awareness and subject
knowledge.
Students with a keen interest in
healthcare and medical practice
will find the Foundation (Science
A ticket to bachelor’s studies
MSU’s foundation programmes prepare SPM and SPMV school-leavers for
undergraduate studies in a variety of fields, including health sciences.
Biology/Health Science) an ideal
option.
They may go on to pursue
MSU’s Bachelor of Medicine and
Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
programme, which is offered
at MSU’s International Medical
School in Shah Alam and offshore
in Bangalore, India.
Students who are more
interested in other healthcare
careers may pursue programmes
in biomedical science,
cardiovascular technology, food
service technology, optometry,
nutrition, forensic science,
bioinformatics and health
science management at MSU’s
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences,
or pharmacy and pharmaceuticals
technology at MSU’s School of
Pharmacy.
MSU offers other interesting
foundation choices such as
Foundation in Information
Technology, Foundation in Law,
Foundation in Business,
Foundation in TESL, Foundation
in Engineering and Technology,
and Foundation in Visual Arts.
The university prioritises student
development in order to enhance
graduate employability. Its highly
qualified academics and
international visiting professors
support a holistic curricular
framework that delivers
compelling learning experiences.
Blending technical and
Develop real-world skills
SIJIL Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM),
O-Level and Unified Examination
Certificate (UEC) school-leavers
looking to develop scientific
knowledge and practical skills in
engineering or science can take
the first step by enrolling in the
Foundation in Engineering and
Science programme at Curtin
University Malaysia (Curtin
Malaysia).
The intensive and focused
programme is designed to
effectively prepare students for
undergraduate studies in
engineering, science and
technology.
It is aimed at challenging
students to become innovative
learners with the integrative
thinking and confidence required
for an exceptional global
education.
Accredited by the Malaysian
Qualifications Agency, the one-
year programme offers two
streams – engineering and
science. In addition to several
units that are common to all
foundation programmes,
students study Engineering
Mathematics, Physics and
Chemistry and Programming in
C++.
Students who obtain
satisfactory results can progress
to a range of undergraduate
courses at Curtin Malaysia’s
Faculty of Engineering and
Science, Faculty of Business and
Faculty of Humanities.
Undergraduate courses are
identical at all Curtin campuses,
qualifying students for admission
to Curtin University’s main
campus in Perth or one of its
international campuses in
Singapore, Dubai and Mauritius.
At Curtin Malaysia, those who
complete their foundation
studies in the engineering stream
can pursue the Bachelor of
Engineering (Honours) in
chemical, civil and construction,
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018
vocational education and
training with traditional academic
curricula, MSU enhances student
competency through industry
internship, community and
creative entrepreneurship,
and global exposure, equipping
MSU graduates with the well-
roundedness desired and sought
after by employers.
A tracer study by the Higher
Education Ministry shows that
98% of MSU graduates successfully
secure employment within six
months of their graduation.
This earns MSU the top
spot among the nation’s higher
education institutions in
the graduate employability
register.
n For further enquiries on
MSU’s foundation and other
programmes offered in the
upcoming intake, call 03-5521 6868,
e-mail enquiry@msu.edu.my or
visit www.msu.edu.my
electrical and electronic,
environmental, mechanical or
petroleum engineering, Bachelor
of Technology in computer
systems and networking,
Bachelor of Applied Science
in construction management,
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
in applied geology or Bachelor
of Science in computing.
Meanwhile, students who
pass the science stream can
pursue the Bachelor of
Technology in computer systems
and networking, Bachelor of
Applied Science in construction
management, Bachelor of
Science (Honours) in applied
geology or Bachelor of Science
in computing.
Students who complete
foundation studies in either
stream can enrol in the
Bachelor of Arts in mass
communication, Bachelor of
Business Administration or
Bachelor of Commerce with
a range of single and double
majors in accounting, finance,
banking, entrepreneurship,
marketing, management, human
resources management, public
relations, and tourism and
hospitality.
As of this year, Curtin
Malaysia’s foundation
programmes are offered on
a trimester basis and the
November intake is in
progress.
School-leavers with
outstanding results in the
SPM, STPM, O-Level, A-Levels
and UEC examinations are
encouraged to take advantage
of Curtin Malaysia’s Foundation
Scholarships and Merit
Scholarships.
Full details can be found at
scholarships.curtin.edu.my
n For more information, e-mail
enquiries@curtin.edu.my or visit
www.curtin.edu.my
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018
ECiM students learn how to be team players through brainstorming sessions and group
discussions.
Gearing up for
university life
EPSOM College in Malaysia (ECiM)
recognises that there are key periods in
students’ lives during which they require
extra support. One such time is in Sixth
Form when students are preparing to move
from school to university – one of the biggest
transitions of their lives.
ECiM assumes the role of equipping
students with the skills they need to thrive
independently at university.
A space of their own
ECiM created an exclusive space for its
Sixth Formers – the Grayling Centre. Its three
main sections are the study area, social area
and tutorial rooms.
The tutorial rooms were designed to
resemble the study spaces at universities.
The rooms are used by the students and staff
for a variety of purposes, be it to practise
public speaking, work on group projects,
engage in seminars or have meetings.
What goes on outside the buildings of the
school is equally important. Students are
encouraged to be involved in a wide range of
cross-curricular activities.
They stay healthy by participating in
sports and develop leadership, problem-
solving and teamwork qualities as well as
resilience and determination.
ECiM’s focus on cross-curricular activities
saw several of its Sixth Form students
achieving the Gold level of the Duke of
Edinburgh’s International Award.
Developing independence
At university, students are expected to
hold their own in group discussions and
presentations. ECiM requires the same as it
wants its students to fully engage with their
study material and discuss and debate it
with teachers and peers.
To complement teachers’ efforts in
encouraging students to ask and answer
questions in class, ECiM offers several cross-
curricular activities such as the English
Speaking Board, debate, Model United
Nations and TED-Ed Club.
ECiM offers the Horizons programme
for Sixth Form, which allows students to
challenge themselves intellectually beyond
their A-Levels subjects. One way they can
do this is through a series of academic
lectures called Rubber Head Talks presented
by visiting academics, ECiM teachers and
even some students.
Topics of previous lectures include
experiences in the Falklands War, the
Hampton Court Palace, music in computer
games, the economics of supermarket
shelves, the Rwandan genocide and the
literature of Joseph Conrad.
A plus of being at a boarding school is that
students can gather in the evenings or early
mornings for events such as Beanbag Talks
where they watch documentaries, films or
live events in a relaxed setting, after which
they discuss elements of what they have
watched.
Acing Your SPM 2018 11
ECiM offers the
Horizons programme for
Sixth Form, which allows
students to challenge
themselves intellectually
beyond their A-Levels
subjects. One way they
can do this is through
a series of academic
lectures called Rubber
Head Talks presented by
visiting academics, ECiM
teachers and even some
students.
Beanbag Talks screenings in the past 18
months include Hidden Figures, the United
Kingdom European Union membership
referendum results (Brexit), the United
States election results, Icarus, Exit Through
the Gift Shop and The Act of Killing.
Valuable insights
Every September, three subject mentors
from British universities join ECiM for a
few weeks. These subject mentors are
undergraduate or postgraduate students
who support ECiM students in their studies
and university applications.
During the year, workshops are
offered on topics such as debate, Oxbridge,
personal statement writing, SAT versus ACT,
Australian, Canadian and US university
applications and visa applications.
International English Language Testing
System lessons are also offered for students
to maximise their potential in the language
test, which is a required qualification for
many student visas.
On top of their A-Levels studies, ECiM
expects the majority of its A-Levels students
to complete the programme’s Extended
Project Qualification (EPQ). It believes
that students who complete the EPQ are
better prepared for university and their
careers.
When students leave ECiM as Old
Epsomians, they will have gone through a
rich, supportive programme. Through the
support offered to them during their time in
the Sixth Form, they can develop into
undergraduate students who can thrive on
the challenges they will face in higher
education.
n For more information, call 06-240 4188,
e-mail enquiries@epsomcollege.edu.my or
visit www.epsomcollege.edu.my
12 Acing Your SPM 2018 SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018

Guiding students into

SACE International (formerly
South Australian Matriculation)
students at Taylor’s College enjoy a
unique privilege – access to

realising their full potential

academics who have an
established track record in
providing students with the best
teaching and learning experience.
Earlier this year, Taylor’s
College’s 2017 SACE International
cohort marked a new milestone as
they swept up all 26 subject merits
awarded by the SACE Board of
South Australia. More than half of
the 2017 cohort achieved
Australian Tertiary Admission
Ranks (ATARs) of 80 and above,
earning them positions in the top
20% of SACE International students
worldwide.
Campus director Josephine Tan
says that this achievement was a
historic one as it is testament to
the quality of the SACE
International programme offered
at Taylor’s College.
“I am extremely proud of two of
our students – Yeong Yining and
Chang Wei Shien – who each
attained an ATAR of 99.90. This
achievement places them among
the top 1% of SACE International
students worldwide,” says Tan.
Yeong and Chang were ecstatic
about their respective academic
performances. The occasion was
doubly special for Yeong, who was
granted the SACE International
Highest Achiever Award – the
highest honour an SACE
International student can attain.
Yeong credits her lecturers and
peers from the SACE International
programme for her success, saying
that she could not have achieved
what she did without their support
and encouragement. Top student Chang (left) with his mother and sisters after the South Australian Matriculation/SACE International Awards Ceremony.
“Studying at Taylor’s College has
been great because of two things – my question, sometimes even
friends and food. I wanted to get
the most out of my pre-university
going to the extent of answering
my questions at eye level. I have Earlier this
life and threw myself headfirst
into the experience. I was
never had that kind of support
before and am thankful to have
year, Taylor’s
fortunate to meet individuals who received it from all my lecturers,” College’s 2017
not only supported me in my
education but also joined me in
says Abirrhami.
Nur Hidayati shares that SACE International
food escapades in the area.
“I could not have achieved
studying at Taylor’s College was a
fresh experience for her.
cohort marked a
this success without my friends’ “At Taylor’s, I was able to new milestone as
support and family’s
encouragement,” says the aspiring
develop the flexibility to approach
tasks from different perspectives. they swept up all
engineer, who cites her effective
time management skills as the
It was a new take that I feel will
let me ease into university life.
26 subject merits
reason she was able to shine in I appreciate the fact that my awarded by the
SACE Board of
academic efforts and lecturers took the time to explain
extracurricular activities. concepts to us, which allowed
Subject merit award recipients
Abirrhami S. Rajagopal and Nur
us to better understand the
subjects.
South Australia.
Hidayati Muhamad attribute their “One example that stands out is
achievements to the support they when a lecturer returned my Legal
received from their lecturers. Studies assignment draft to me was highly beneficial and helped Lee (second from left) with three of her SACE International coursemates.
Abirrhami, who is studying after she had gone through it. She me in my next assignment,”
chemical engineering at University had included constructive feedback says the Petronas Scholarship “Thanks to the support of Oxford in the UK, Cornell
of Auckland, shares that one of the in the draft, which I learnt recipient, who is currently lecturers at Taylor’s College University in the US, University of
things she is grateful for from her from and made sure to pursuing accounting and finance and my strict approach to time Melbourne in Australia, National
time at Taylor’s College is how she use in submitting a at University of Melbourne. management, I was able to excel University of Singapore and
was able to develop strong better response for the Fellow 2017 cohort member at my studies and finished my time University of Hong Kong.
bonds with her lecturers. next assignment. Lee Su Mae says that her time at at Taylor’s with an ATAR of 98.90,” Since its inception, Taylor’s
“The lecturers at “Such input Taylor’s College enabled her to says Lee. College has provided a platform for
Taylor’s were so gain entry to a top university in She shares that she enrolled in countless Malaysian youth to
engaging and the United Kingdom. Taylor’s College because its SACE achieve their full potential. The
approachable that all Lee, who is pursuing her International programme has an launch of its first offering (an
it took was raising my studies in economics exceptional reputation for Australian pre-university
hand during class for at the prestigious producing graduates who achieve programme) in 1969 made it a
them to try their best London School of high ATARs. pioneer in providing pre-university
to help me with Economics (LSE), “I appreciate the dedication and studies in Malaysia.
was confident commitment of the lecturers as Taylor’s College takes its
that she could get they were genuinely invested in responsibility in giving students
into LSE with her our education and cared about our the best head start to their future
results thanks to well-being. They gave me the skills very seriously as the importance of
Yeong Yining her diligence and knowledge I need for providing the right start through a
receiving the throughout the university life, which involves holistic approach to teaching,
SACE course of her pre- learning independently strong student support and placing
International university studies. in a diverse environment,” students in universities of their
Highest Achiever “As the top she says. choice cannot be overstated.
Award from university for Taylor’s College has a track Taylor’s College offers the
Taylor’s economics in the record that is second to none in Cambridge A-Levels and SACE
University’s UK, LSE was preparing graduates to gain International programmes at
undoubtedly my admission to the finest universities Taylor’s Lakeside Campus.
deputy vice-
first choice and I in the world.
chancellor and made it a personal Its SACE International students n For details on the Cambridge
chief academic obligation to do who completed their education last A-Levels and SACE International
officer Prof Dr whatever it took year have moved on to prestigious programmes offered by Taylor’s
Pradeep Nair. to gain entry. universities such as University of College, visit college.taylors.edu.my
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018 13
14 Acing Your SPM 2018
An edge over
their peers
SEGI University understands that to nurture
promising minds and talents, it is important
for students to have a good start in their
education journey.
To this end, the university offers pre-
university programmes specialising in arts,
science, commerce and information
technology (IT). People skilled in these fields
are highly sought-after in the Malaysian job
market, according to the Critical Occupations
List 2017/2018 Technical Report.
The one-year foundation programmes
assure entry to bachelor’s degree courses
offered by SEGi University as well as SEGI's
partner universities in the United Kingdom,
the United States and Australia.
SEGi’s pre-university programme
leader Afif Akmal shares that each
pre-university programme is
uniquely designed to cater to
current educational needs and
accommodate internal and
external markets.
Following the restructuring
of its curricula, SEGi’s Centre
for Pre-University Studies is
expected to offer only the
Foundation in Science (FIS)
and Foundation in Arts
(FIA) programmes from
January 2019. The
Foundation in IT
programme is currently
being offered at SEGi’s Kuala
Lumpur campus.
Centre for Pre-University
Studies head Dr Chiong Kai
Shing (pic) explains that the FIS
programme is designed to
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018
prepare students for entry to science-based
programmes such as those in medicine,
dentistry, pharmacy, optometry and vision
sciences, allied health sciences and
engineering.
She adds that the FIA programme is a
blend of social science courses such as
Introduction to Business, Critical Thinking
Skills and Computer Application that equip
students with the necessary knowledge for
further study in areas such as education,
creative design, accounting, hospitality, IT,
architecture and quantity surveying.
“The curricula are structured in ways that
enable students to fully enjoy the foundation
learning period without feeling burdened,
as not more than 50 credit hours are
required to complete the programmes,”
says Dr Chiong.
The learning experience is enhanced
with opportunities through the SEGi
Enrichment Programme, pastoral care
through a mentor-mentee programme
and a student club that hosts various
activities.
The Centre for Pre-University
Studies recognises the achievements
of its students with an annual award
ceremony-cum-dinner. Dean’s List
recipients and achievers of other
notable awards are celebrated during
this event, which is a smaller iteration
of the centre’s graduation prom night.
n For details on the pre-university
programmes offered by SEGi, send a
WhatsApp message to 011-1210
6389, visit www.segi.edu.my or speak
to the university counsellors.
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018
Obtain a
distinguished
UK qualification
THE opportunity to obtain a UK qualification
in medicine might be closer than you think.
Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia
(NUMed), the only international campus
of Newcastle University dedicated to
medicine, opens up a world of opportunities
for students in Malaysia and around
the region to earn a highly sought-after
degree from this world-leading institution
in medical research and teaching, right on
Malaysian shores.
Established in 2009, NUMed offers a
foundation and two undergraduate
programmes, in addition to several
postgraduate study opportunities.
NUMed’s Foundation in Biological and
Biomedical Sciences programme serves as a
pre-undergraduate course for Malaysians
intending to study medicine, biological or
biomedical sciences, or science.
The 12-month course aims to equip
students with the necessary English language
competence and practical experience
and gives them an opportunity to progress
to NUMed’s Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor
of Surgery (MBBS) programme or 2+1 BSc
(Honours) Biomedical Sciences programme.
It covers eight modules over three
semesters, which total up to 180 UK credits.
NUMed’s MBBS Honours is a five-year
undergraduate programme that is fully
delivered in Malaysia.
Identical to the programme offered at
Newcastle University in the United Kingdom,
the programme provides a general medical
education that allows for career
specialisation.
In addition, the course is internationally
recognised by prestigious medical councils
such as the Sri Lanka Medical Council and
the Medical Council of Thailand.
The MBBS programme intends to produce
graduates who are academically inclined and
experienced to drive the world of medicine.
Employing a practical experiential
learning approach, NUMed assigns its
students to government hospitals and
community clinics within the state, providing
them with hands-on opportunities to gain
essential clinical skills and interact with real
patients.
The programme also gives students the
advantage of obtaining double accreditation
from the Malaysian Medical Council and
General Medical Council in the UK.
The 2+1 BSc (Honours) Biomedical
Sciences offered by NUMed and Newcastle
NUMed offers Malaysians the opportunity to earn a medical degree from an established UK
university without leaving Malaysia.
Acing Your SPM 2018 15
NUMed’s MBBS
Honours is a five-year
undergraduate programme
that is fully delivered in
Malaysia. Identical to the
programme offered at
Newcastle University in
the United Kingdom, the
programme provides a
general medical education
that allows for career
specialisation.
University, UK, offers students a chance to
study in both NUMed (for the first two years)
and the UK campus (in the final year).
Arrangements for the latter will be facilitated
by the university.
Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology,
the programme covers key areas in
biochemistry, genetics, physiology,
microbiology, immunology and
pharmacology.
Newcastle University is among the best
British universities for medicine, according
to The Times/Sunday Times Good University
Guide 2017 and the Complete University
Guide 2018. It is one of 18 universities in the
world to achieve 5 Star+ in Quacquarelli
Symonds’ QS Stars ratings.
The university partners with governments,
industry leaders – particularly those in the
medical industry – and cultural organisations
across the globe as part of its commitment to
uphold world-class education standards.
The institution also has an extensive
international network of students and
alumni.
NUMed’s programmes are identical to the
ones offered at Newcastle University, UK, and
lead to the award of the same degree at a
cost that is relatively lower than if one were
to study in the UK.
n For more information about NUMed and
its programmes, visit www.ncl.ac.uk/numed
16 Acing Your SPM 2018
A well-rounded and
holistic learning platform
“MY time in the Foundation in
Science and Technology (FIST)
programme at Sunway College
changed me for the better. I gained
more confidence to speak up and
ask about things I was unsure of. It
trained me to be more responsible
and improved my communication
skills,” says Amelia Neo You Qi.
Under the FIST, Neo found it easy
to communicate freely with her
kind and caring lecturers. She
recommends the programme as it
is classroom-based and only a little
different from school, saying that
school-leavers can easily adjust to
the programme environment.
Neo, who was a Jeffrey Cheah
Entrance Scholarship recipient,
took the time to immerse herself in
extracurricular activities. She
participated in the Council of All
Beings, which was organised by
Sunway Youth for Sustainable
Development.
She says, “Council participants
were required to speak on behalf
of another life form. I spoke on
behalf of dolphins. One of my
lecturers was looking for someone
to represent FIST and seeing as no
one else volunteered, I did. It was
completely unexpected of me as I
am a timid person.”
Neo also participated in the
qualifying round of the Science
Quiz Competition held by
International Medical University.
“My teammates and I had to
complete a quiz online to qualify
for the competition. There was a
time limit, so it was nerve-
wracking. Although we did not
manage to proceed to the next
level, it was a fun experience. It
taught me that there are a lot of
things I still lack knowledge-wise,”
she says.
Her advice to FIST students is,
“Never give up no matter how
hard it gets. Lecturers are always
there to help, and they certainly
want to see us all succeed in life.”
Neo was the student
representative at the FIST
graduation ceremony. In her
address, she said, “Being science
students, we are often considered
nerds and introverts. Here I am
today, standing in front of you to
break this myth. We are fun
people!
“Sure, some of us may have been
serious and conservative in the
beginning. However, lecturers here
sparked a change in us. They
constantly encouraged us to step
out of our comfort zones and
challenge the impossible.
“Their supportive natures helped
us get through our toughest times
in the programme. I am sure that
every student here has at least one
lecturer with whom they can talk
to like a close friend.
“I want to thank all the FIST
lecturers who helped us through so
many subjects. You are incredible.”
My time in the
Foundation in Science
and Technology
(FIST) programme
at Sunway College
changed me for the
better. I gained more
confidence to speak
up and ask about
things I was unsure
of.
Amelia Neo You Qi
Neo shares that she feels
privileged to be a part of Sunway.
She is currently pursuing the BSc
(Hons) Psychology at Sunway
University under the Jeffrey Cheah
Continuing Scholarship.
“Attending a great institution
and being surrounded by great
people and facilities have certainly
made me a better person who
strives for a better life. The
memories and experiences I
gained over my year in the FIST
programme are some of the best,
and I will hold them dearly and
SUNDAY STAR, 21 OCTOBER 2018
talk about them proudly,” she says.
Neo chose to study the BSc
(Hons) Psychology so that she
will one day be able to help those
with mental illnesses.
The FIST and Foundation
in Arts are Sunway College’s
homegrown programmes that
were developed to prepare
students for tertiary studies.
They are direct pathways to
undergraduate programmes
at Sunway University.
The Sunway Foundation
programmes emphasise
the importance of holistic
development in numerical
and communication skills
through structured
subjects in mathematics
and English. Students
also take specialist
electives such as
Information Technology
and Accounting and
enrichment electives
such as Culture and Ideas
and Critical Thinking Skills
that offer them exposure
to multidisciplinary thinking
and analysis.
n For details on the FIST,
Foundation in Arts and other
pre-university programmes
offered by Sunway College, Amelia Neo You Qi.
call 03-7491 8622, e-mail
info@sunway.edu.my or visit
college.sunway.edu.my