Secrets of Introverts
Read Text C, and then answer Questions 2(a)-(d) and Question 3 on the question paper.
Secrets of Introverts
1
As an introvert, I often felt like an outsider in a world that never seemed to stop talking. Growing up in bustling Singapore, where the vibrant city life was a constant hum, I found solace in the quiet corners of libraries and the soft rustle of pages turning. My name is Mei Ling, and this is my journey of discovering the unique strengths that come with being an introvert.
2
In my early years, I was shy and reserved, often mistaken for being aloof or disinterested. It wasn’t that I didn’t enjoy company; rather, I found energy in solitude and reflection. School was a challenge. Group projects and class discussions felt like daunting tasks. I envied my extroverted classmates who thrived in the lively exchanges. Yet, I noticed something intriguing about myself: I was a keen observer and a deep thinker.
3
My transformative journey began during a school project in Year 9. We were tasked with creating a presentation on a topic of our choice. Our teacher, Mr. Tan, encouraged us to explore something personal. I chose to delve into the world of introversion, a subject that resonated deeply with me. I wanted to understand why I felt different and how I could embrace it.
4
As I researched, I stumbled upon the works of Susan Cain, an advocate for introverts. Her words were a revelation. Introversion wasn’t a flaw; it was a strength. It meant I could focus deeply, think critically, and listen empathetically. I realised that introverts have the power to bring a unique perspective to the table, one that is often overlooked in a noisy world.
5
During the project, I worked alongside my best friend, Aisha, who was my opposite in many ways. She was vivacious and outgoing, the kind of person who could strike up a conversation with anyone. “Mei, you have this incredible ability to see things others miss,” she remarked one afternoon as we sat in the school library. Her words were a comfort, a reminder that my quiet nature was not a hindrance but a gift.
6
The presentation day arrived, and my nerves were palpable. Standing before the class, I took a deep breath and began to speak. I shared the insights I had gained, the strengths of introverts, and the importance of understanding our differences. As I spoke, I felt a sense of empowerment. My voice, though soft, carried weight. I was no longer hiding in the shadows but stepping into the light.
7
After the presentation, Mr. Tan approached me. “Mei Ling, that was insightful,” he said with a nod of approval. “You have a talent for seeing the world in a way that others might not. Keep nurturing that strength.”
8
That moment marked a turning point in my life. I embraced my introversion, recognising it as a source of strength rather than a weakness. I learned that being an introvert didn’t mean being alone; it meant valuing meaningful connections and cherishing moments of solitude.
9
As I continue my journey, I am more confident in who I am. I have learned to balance my need for quiet with the demands of a bustling world. My story is one of self-discovery and acceptance, a testament to the power of understanding and embracing one’s true nature. In a world that often favours the loud and extroverted, I have found my voice, and it is strong.
Question 2(a)
Identify a word or phrase from the text which suggests the same idea as the words in bold.
Identify a word or phrase from the text which suggests the same idea as the words in bold.
(i) Mei Ling found comfort in the quiet corners of the library. [1 mark]
(ii) She envied her classmates who thrived in lively exchanges. [1 mark]
(iii) Mei Ling was a keen observer and a deep thinker. [1 mark]
(iv) The soft rustle of pages was where Mei Ling found peace. [1 mark]
Question 2(b)
Using your own words, explain what the writer means by the words in bold:
Using your own words, explain what the writer means by the words in bold:
During the project, I worked alongside my best friend, Aisha, who was my opposite in many ways. She was vivacious and outgoing, the kind of person who could strike up a conversation with anyone. “Mei, you have this incredible ability to see things others miss,” she remarked one afternoon as we sat in the school library. Her words were a comfort, a reminder that my quiet nature was not a hindrance but a gift. The presentation day arrived, and my nerves were palpable. Standing before the class, I took a deep breath and began to speak. I shared the insights I had gained, the strengths of introverts, and the importance of understanding our differences. As I spoke, I felt a sense of empowerment. My voice, though soft, carried weight. I was no longer hiding in the shadows but stepping into the light.
(i) opposite [1 mark]
(ii) hindrance [1 mark]
(iii) empowerment [1 mark]
Question 2(c)
Use one example from the text below to explain how the writer conveys the theme of self-discovery. [3 Marks]
Use one example from the text below to explain how the writer conveys the theme of self-discovery. [3 Marks]
During the project, I worked alongside my best friend, Aisha, who was my opposite in many ways. She was vivacious and outgoing, the kind of person who could strike up a conversation with anyone. “Mei, you have this incredible ability to see things others miss,” she remarked one afternoon as we sat in the school library. Her words were a comfort, a reminder that my quiet nature was not a hindrance but a gift.
The presentation day arrived, and my nerves were palpable. Standing before the class, I took a deep breath and began to speak. I shared the insights I had gained, the strengths of introverts, and the importance of understanding our differences. As I spoke, I felt a sense of empowerment. My voice, though soft, carried weight. I was no longer hiding in the shadows but stepping into the light.
Question 2(d)
Explain how the writer uses language to convey meaning and to create effect in the following paragraphs. Choose three examples of words or phrases from each paragraph to support your answer. Your choices should include the use of imagery. Write about 200 to 300 words. [15 Marks]
Explain how the writer uses language to convey meaning and to create effect in the following paragraphs. Choose three examples of words or phrases from each paragraph to support your answer. Your choices should include the use of imagery. Write about 200 to 300 words. [15 Marks]
Paragraph 1: “As an introvert, I often…”
Paragraph 3: “My transformative journey began…”
Paragraph 3: “My transformative journey began…”
Question 3
You are Mei Ling, a Year 9 student at a school in Singapore. After your successful presentation on introversion, you have been invited to write a report for the school magazine about your journey of self-discovery as an introvert.
- Describe the challenges you faced as an introvert in a lively school environment.
- Explain how a school project helped you understand and embrace your introversion.
- Share the insights you gained about the strengths of introverts and how they can contribute uniquely.
In your report you should:
Write the report.
Write about 250 to 300 words. (15 Marks)