Do you know the latest English SPM format?
Since the latest update to the SPM English format in 2021, the SPM English qualification has been lauded as a reliable benchmark for Malaysians who want to reach a global standard of English. Currently, the SPM English syllabus is targeted to help students achieve the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) B1 and B2 standards in English.
This format is based on the KSSM curriculum covering four papers: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, each worth 25% of the total mark. Each English paper assesses different components of English language proficiency, with its own set of questions, marks, and marking criteria.
Understanding the format and marking scheme can boost your confidence and improve your exam performance. If you’re unsure about the correct format for each paper, this article will provide clear explanations in line with Ministry of Education guidelines. Let’s begin!
| Paper | Component | Purpose | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Reading and Use of English | Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar through various question formats | 40 |
| Paper 2 | Writing | Assesses students’ ability to write structured responses and essays in an appropriate style | 60 |
| Paper 3 | Speaking | Evaluates verbal communication and interaction skills | 24 |
| Paper 4 | Listening | Tests students’ ability to understand spoken English in different contexts | 30 |
📄🔍Detailed Breakdown of Each Paper
SPM English Paper 1 Format: Reading and Use of English
First, look at the table below to understand the SPM English Paper 1 layout.
| Paper | Duration | Number of Questions/ Parts | Tasks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPM English Paper 1 (1119/1) Reading and Use of English | 1 hour 30 minutes | 40 questions | Short Texts Rational Cloze Reading Comprehension Gapped Text Limited Response | 25% (40 marks paper) |
Now you know that SPM English Kertas 1 is essentially reading comprehension. Since the answers for this kertas are fixed, you just need to choose the correct answer from the options provided to you or complete phrases and sentences using the information provided in the texts.
Allow us to break down what to expect for kertas 11:
Part 1 (Short Texts): 3 option MCQs
Candidates will read short texts from books, news reports, short-story extracts, advertisements, magazines and more. Choose the correct response out of 3 choices for each question. (8 marks)
Part 2 (Rational Cloze): 4-option MCQs
Read a passage (testing grammar and vocabulary) and choose the correct response out of 4 choices for each question. (10 marks)
Part 3 (Reading Comprehension or Longer Text): 4-option MCQs
Read a long passage and choose the correct response out of 3 choices for each question. There are 8 options, and 2 are distractions. You need to find the 6 right answers without getting confused. (8 marks)
Part 4 (Gapped Text): Matching missing sentences
Read a passage in which six sentences have been removed. Fill in these gaps with the choices provided. (6 marks)
Part 5 (Limited Response): Matching/ short answer
Match paragraphs to 4 statements, then complete 4 sentences using exact words from the text (one word each). (8 marks)
Marking Scheme: Each correct answer carries 1 mark, giving a total of 40 marks for this kertas 1.
SPM English Paper 2 Format: Writing
Moving on to Paper 2, which is the writing paper.
| Paper | Duration | Number of Questions/ Parts | Tasks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPM English Paper 2 (1119/2) Writing | 1 hour 30 minutes | 3 parts | Short communicative message Guided writing Extended writing | 25% (60 marks paper) |
You may be worried about what kind of topics you will have to write about. In reality, you don't have to write very lengthy essays in this kertas since most writing tasks are in the limited-response structure! Let's look at the format and some guidance on how to write each English essay.
Don't forget that you should know your SPM English syllabus thoroughly.
Part 1 (Short Communicative Message)
Write a short note or email in less than 80 words; you can go up to 100 words. Candidates must write their essay based on the short note or email provided in the question. They are also encouraged to provide straight-to-the-point responses with little elaboration due to the word limit. (20 marks)
Part 2 (Guided Writing)
In this part, candidates are required to write an essay based on a given stimulus. The stimulus usually contains three related prompts or notes, and candidates must address all of them when writing their essay. They may also need to give their opinions, explanations, or reasons based on the prompts provided.
Write an essay in about 125 to 150 words. Based on the notes given, write an essay with a body of three to four points, and elaborate your ideas with opinions, evidence and related subject matter. (20 marks)
Part 3 (Extended Writing)
Choose one out of 3 choices of essay topics to write about. In about 200 to 250 words, write a report/ review/ article/ story (depending on your choice) based on the notes given. Elaborate your main points with sufficient opinions, evidence, examples and related subject matter. Include a good introduction and conclusion for a great English essay. (20 marks)
We also want to emphasise that examiners will use the assessment scales of...
- Content - essay content is relevant to the task
- Communicative achievement - essay communicates tasks effectively and with ease while being able to grab the reader's attention
- Organisation - essay is well-organised and uses coherent language
- Language - essay uses an appropriate range of vocabulary and grammatical forms
... when marking your English essays.
Here's an article to help you pick up further tips for answering kertas 1 and 2.
Before starting, quickly plan your ideas to stay organised and complete the task efficiently. This helps candidates remain focused and structure their responses clearly.
SPM English Speaking Test Format Paper 3
We have made it to SPM English kertas 3! Out of all the SPM English papers, the English speaking test is the only kertas that will be carried out internally, with a subject teacher and one of your friends as a speaking partner. You may find yourself enjoying a conversation with your classmate!
| Paper | Duration | Number of Questions/ Parts | Tasks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPM English Paper 3 (1119/3) Speaking | About 13 minutes | 3 parts | Interview Individual speaking based on text/ verbal prompt Discussion based on mind map stimulus | 25% (24 marks paper) |
And here's what to expect in kertas 3:
Part 1 (Interview)
Answer 4 simple questions within 3 to 4 minutes. You will be asked general questions about yourself, such as your name or your family members.
Part 2 (Individual Discussion) (3-4 mins)
Each candidate receives a booklet containing a main topic and several prompts, such as “A person you admire.” Candidates are given 20 seconds to prepare and about 1 minute to speak.
They may ask for clarification if they do not understand the task, topic, or certain phrases.
After Candidate A completes their turn, Candidate B will respond to a short follow-up question related to the topic, and then the same process is repeated for Candidate A.
Part 3 (Discussion With Partner) (2-3 minutes)
Candidates receive a mind map in the booklet with a question at the centre and several ideas or points around it. This part is divided into three stages.
Both candidates discuss 2–3 points each from the bubble map, providing explanations and examples.
The pair evaluates the points and chooses the best one, elaborating with examples, before presenting a final decision or agreement together.
Candidates respond to one question related to the main topic, sharing their own viewpoints with elaboration and examples.
Candidates are expected to converse with their partner for about 2 minutes based on the given topic. During the final minute, they should work together to make a decision or present a clear conclusion of their discussion.
The three analytical criteria for kertas 3 are grammar, vocabulary and communicative competence. Ideally, candidates should demonstrate a high degree of grammatical control, possess a good command of language structures and grammatical forms, and express themselves in English easily.
Click here for more tips to score your SPM English papers!
SPM English Listening Test Format Paper 4
Being familiar with spoken English clearly helps you master the Paper 4:
| Paper | Duration | Number of Questions/ Parts | Tasks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPM English Paper 4 (1119/4) Listening | About 40 minutes | 30 questions | Multiple-choice questions Matching Note completion | 25% (30 marks paper) |
Based on the current marking scheme, there are four parts in this kertas. Generally, you will listen to audio recordings of conversations, speeches, dialogues or talks and then answer the questions given.
- Part 1 - Listen to 7 different situations and answer 7 questions.
- Part 2 - Listen to a conversation and answer 8 questions.
- Part 3 - Listen to 5 short extracts and choose the correct answers.
- Part 4 - Listen to texts and complete the missing information.
Be sure you understand what the questions are asking for, and that will help you look for the correct responses as you listen to the audio being played.
There are fantastic resources to help you master listening skills and more.
💡📈Tips for Excelling in Each Paper
Preparing for the SPM English papers requires consistent practice and a clear understanding of each section’s format. It helps you practise answering questions under real exam conditions and identify the areas that need improvement.
Let’s take a look at some of the valuable tips that can help students ace their papers and avoid losing marks.
1️⃣Paper 1: Reading and Use of English
📘Part 1 (Short Texts)
- Read the headline and short text carefully.
- Read the questions carefully before you start answering them. This will give you ideas about what information to look for in the text.
- Underline keywords in the questions, and underline potential keywords or key information in the text as well.
- Identify the main idea or purpose of the text.
- Look for synonyms or paraphrased words in the answer options.
- Eliminate the wrong responses before choosing the correct one.
- Pay attention to details such as dates, prices, names, or locations, as these are often asked in the questions.
📗Part 2 (Rational Cloze)
- Avoid attempting to fill in the gaps on your first reading.
- Read the entire passage first to understand the overall text and determine the tense or tenses required for the sentences.
- Choose the option that fits both meaning and sentence structure.
- Pay attention to collocations and repeated words in the passage; they often give clues.
📙Part 3 (Reading Comprehension)
- Read the questions and answer options before reading the passage to get an idea of what to look for in the passage
- Underline important keywords in the questions.
- Scan the passage to find relevant information quickly.
- For vocabulary questions, choose the word that makes sense and is appropriate to the context of the passage.
📕Part 4 (Gapped Text)
- Read the whole text carefully before filling in any gaps.
- Identify the main idea of each paragraph to see where sentences fit.
- Read all the answer options first.
- Look for linkers or transition words (e.g., however, first, therefore) to understand how sentences connect.
- Focus on ideas, events, and opinions, not just individual sentences.
- Check the sentences before and after the gap to make sure your answer fits smoothly.
- Ensure your answer flows logically with the paragraph.
- Pay attention to words that show time, cause and effect, repetition, or tense, as they often give clues.
📓Part 5 (Limited Response)
Section 1 – Matching Statements / Main Ideas
- Read the instructions carefully and underline what you are asked to do.
- Match statements to the correct paragraph or person.
- Follow instructions exactly: if it asks for an alphabet (A, B, C…) or a name, write only that. Extra words can cause a loss of marks.
Section 2 – Using Words from the Text
- Use words from the texts/passages only.
- Not more than one word.
- Incorrect spelling can cost marks, so check for accuracy.
- Check by reading the sentence with the word from the text to see if it makes sense with the whole sentence and fits the entire passage’s context
2️⃣Paper 2: Writing
Part 1: Short Communicative Message
A place to visit
Activities to do there (about 3)
Things to bring (about 3)
What should your essay contain?
👀Let’s look at the sample format that you can follow when you’re writing.
- Greeting - Begin your email/message with a greeting. Use Hi, Hello, or Dear followed by the recipient’s name.
- Opening paragraph - respond to the recipient’s email and also state the purpose of your message.
- Body - respond to all the points shared in their email clearly.
- Closing paragraph - end your email using appropriate phrases (Regards, Best wishes, etc.).
Other aspects to take into consideration when writing- Use cohesive devices (linking words: and, also, however, but). Pay attention to vocabulary and tenses to make your writing correct and easy to understand.
📝Here’s an example question:
Hello Aida,
Our school is planning a trip soon, and I need your advice. Could you suggest a suitable place to visit for the trip? Please suggest some activities we can do there. What should we bring?
I need your email as soon as possible. Thanks!
Yours sincerely,
Sara
Suggested solution:
Follow the format shared above in your response email and address all the points mentioned in the sender’s email. Your response email should include:
- A place to visit
- More than one activity (note the plural “activities”)
- Things to bring
✍️Here’s how a model response may look2:
Hi Sara,
Thanks for your email. I suggest visiting the National Zoo for your school trip. You can watch animal shows, feed the animals, and take photos of the exhibits. Make sure to bring water, snacks, and a camera to enjoy the trip fully.
I hope these suggestions help, and I’m excited for your trip!
Best regards,
Aida
Make sure your response is short, clear, and follows the format.
Part 2 (Guided Writing)
- Follow the notes carefully. Use the suggested ideas, but elaborate on them to express your take on the notes.
- Identify keywords in the prompts, such as why, benefits, or when, to understand what the prompts are asking.
- Stay within 125–150 words. Writing too much or too little can lose marks and go off topic.
- Structure your writing with an introduction, body paragraphs (each covering a key point), and a short conclusion.
- Use cohesive devices such as therefore, moreover, on the other hand, and however to connect ideas.
- Use the first-person pronoun “I” when writing the essay.
📝Example Question
Your teacher asked you to write about how technology helps students in their studies.
In your essay, write about:
- How technology helps learning
- Examples of technology students use
- Why is it useful for students
🧩Simple Essay Plan
Part 3 (Extended Writing)
- Plan your ideas first. Mind-map 4–5 key points before you start writing.
- Know the format for each type of essay: article, report, review, and story. Each type of essay requires a different way of presenting information.
- Develop each point clearly by adding examples, explanations, or opinions.
- Each paragraph should focus on one main idea.
- Write a short introduction and conclusion. Avoid writing long sentences that may confuse the reader.
- Plan and organise your points
- Make your writing interesting by using descriptive language such as adjectives, adverbs, idioms, similes, or expressions where appropriate.
- Avoid repeating the same words. Try to use a wider range of vocabulary by reading newspapers, books, and magazines.
- Check your grammar and punctuation to ensure your ideas are communicated clearly.
- Be mindful of the word limit and time
🎯How to Practise Effectively
- Practice writing a lot of essays at home and swap with friends, teachers, or tutors for feedback.
- Read sample essays to see how ideas are presented clearly and organised well.
- Review your own essays by checking:
- If you answered the question
- paragraph and overall organisation
- vocabulary, sentence variety
- grammar and punctuation
- Keep a vocabulary notebook to record useful words and expressions you learn.
- Identify your strengths and weaknesses to focus on your practice to improve your weak areas.
- Practice using appropriate cohesive devices and linking words in your essay.
- Try out the SPM English reference and past papers to familiarise yourself with the questions and formats.
📝Example Question (Extended Writing)
You see this notice on your school notice board.
Articles Wanted!
Technology has changed the way students learn today.
Write an article for your school magazine about how technology helps students in their studies.
In your article, you may include:
- How technology helps students learn
- Examples of technology students use
- Why is technology useful for students
Write your article in about 200–250 words.
🧩Example Essay Plan
This is one way to plan your essay before starting to write. Planning helps organise ideas, stay focused on the topic, and ensure that you cover all the important points.
Briefly introduce the topic of technology in education.
State that technology has made learning easier and more interesting for students.
Access information quickly
Online resources for difficult topics
Learning at one’s own pace through recorded lessons
Educational apps
Online learning platforms
Videos and digital notes
More interactive and engaging learning
Faster access to information
Ability to study anytime and anywhere
Summarise how technology supports learning.
Encourage students to use technology wisely to improve their studies.
To make your writing more interesting, include descriptive language such as adjectives, adverbs, similes, idioms, and useful expressions related to the topic. For example:
- Innovative technology
- Advanced tools
- Quickly
- Easily
- At your fingertips
- A game changer
- As fast as lightning
- Plays an important role in education
- Helps students broaden their knowledge
Use these expressions naturally in your sentences. Avoid overusing them, as too many expressions can make your writing sound unnatural.
3️⃣Paper 3: Speaking
Part 1 (Interview) (3-4 mins):
- Speak in full sentences and expand slightly with one extra detail to show fluency.
- Prepare how to respond to common personal questions (name, hobbies, daily activities, routines and school).
Part 2 (Individual Long Turn)(3-4 mins):
- Plan your speech using the 5W 1H to organise your ideas.
- Start with a clear opener:
- “Today, I’d like to talk about…”
- “I’m excited to be talking about…”
- “I’ve been given the opportunity to talk about…”
- Address all prompts and use simple conjunctions (and, but, so, because). Use personal experiences or small examples to make your speech engaging.
Part 3 (Discussion):
- Remain calm throughout the English speaking test, and choose words and tenses that you know over flowery or bombastic word choices.
- Interact with your partner using phrases such as:
- “What do you think?”
- “I agree”
- “That’s a good point, but…”
- Use the SORA technique: Start the discussion, Opinion/Agree, Reason, Ask partner’s opinion.
Even 15–20 minutes of daily speaking and listening practice can significantly boost confidence, fluency, and comprehension in real exam conditions.
Other tips:
1️⃣Use descriptive adjectives, adverbs, and varied sentence patterns.
2️⃣Maintain eye contact when speaking.
3️⃣Familiarise yourself with common topics (hobbies, education, technology, and festivals).
4️⃣Speak confidently and loudly enough. Use words that you are confident with; you don’t need advanced vocabulary to score high.
5️⃣Avoid using la, woh, meh, and any Malaysian slang or dialects.
6️⃣Handle pauses with fillers such as “Well…”, “That’s an interesting question…” instead of awkward silence.
7️⃣Use the student booklet to jot down key ideas quickly during preparation. It helps organise your points and ensures you cover all prompts.
8️⃣Practice by speaking with friends or recording yourself to improve fluency, pronunciation, and vocabulary.
4️⃣Paper 4 Listening Test
The test lasts ~40 minutes, including 6 minutes to transfer answers, and audio is played twice, so always double-check your answers.
- Read questions first: Go through the questions and options during the preparation time to know what to listen for.
- Focus on keywords and context: Pay attention to names, ages, dates, places, actions, and main ideas. These details are often tested in multiple-choice or short-answer questions.
- Listen actively and take notes: Jot down short notes while listening to capture important facts, events, and opinions. This helps especially for Parts 3 and 4.
- Confirm answers during the second listening: Don’t panic if you miss something the first time. Use the second round to check your answers and fill in any gaps.
- Follow instructions carefully: Remember the format for each part.
- Understand the content: Listen for reasons, opinions, and feelings behind actions.
- Stay calm: Focus on listening clearly and understanding the context. Don’t panic.
- Practice regularly: Listen to podcasts, interviews, or past SPM audio clips to get familiar with accents, speed, and question formats.
📝📊Understanding the SPM English Marking Scheme
| Paper | Marks Allocation | Constructs / Skills Tested | How the Paper is Marked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 40 marks | Reading skills: understanding, applying, analysing, evaluating | Objective questions: Each correct multiple-choice or matching answer = 1 mark. |
| Paper 2 | 60 marks | Writing skills: applying, analysing, evaluating, creating | Analytical marking: Examiners score each task on content/task achievement (5 marks), communicative achievement (5 marks), organisation/cohesion (5 marks), and language (5 marks). The total is 20 for each section. |
| Paper 3 | 24 marks | Speaking and listening skills: understanding, applying, analysing, evaluating | Band scale marking: Each criterion scored 0–6. 0 = insufficient language; 6 = excellent. Scores summed for a total of 24 marks. |
| Paper 4 | 30 marks | Listening skills: understanding, applying | Objective marking: Each correct answer = 1 mark. |
✅Conclusion
Mastering SPM English is all about understanding and familiarising yourself with the format and marking scheme of each paper, which allows you to practice strategically.
Knowing what examiners are looking for helps you prepare according to the examination standards. However, it can sometimes feel challenging to do it on your own.
That’s where the right guidance can make a difference. With support from an experienced teacher, you can strengthen your skills, gain confidence, and stay on track.
Introducing Superprof! Superprof is a leading global platform that connects tutors and learners worldwide: learners can learn from anywhere around the world and find a tutor teaching their subject of interest, including SPM English!
Unlike traditional classrooms, Superprof offers one-to-one online lessons, allowing you to learn at your own pace and schedule. Plus, you can get your first class free (if offered by your tutor) to test the teaching style before committing.
With personalised guidance, clear explanations, and flexible learning, Superprof helps you boost confidence and improve exam performance.
Making mistakes is part of learning – perfection isn’t the starting point
Anonymous
References
- Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia. (2020). BAHASA INGGERIS YANG DIJAJARKAN KEPADA CEFR.
- Bahasa Inggeris 1119/2. (n.d.). Kupasan mutu jawapan SPM 2023.
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Thanks a million for laying the format out in simple format.
We’re glad you found it helpful!