Have you always been interested in exploring different cultures and periods through the lens of authors? Do you aspire to be a journalist, author, English teacher, or copywriter?
If yes, Literature in English is a valuable subject to take at the STPM level. Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) is the pre-university level qualification in Malaysia that's roughly equivalent to the A-levels in the UK. It is a well recognised qualification locally and internationally in order to pursue tertiary education.
Studying English literature provides a gateway to a realm of inspiration and imagination while simultaneously fostering skills that are crucial in today's interconnected world. Engaging with English literature offers the chance to explore how literature interprets the world through novels, poetry, stories, and plays. Additionally, delving into English literature hones your aptitude for writing, reading, analysing, and effectively conveying ideas.
When you engage with literary works, they acquire knowledge about culture, history, politics, and society, which are crucial subjects in secondary school education. Additionally, they cultivate critical thinking abilities that are valuable in advanced levels of learning.
There are three papers in total for this subject. You will sit for 1 paper every term or semester. This article will explore paper 3 of the STPM Literature in English, which focuses on novels.
Required to Study Novels
A novel is a lengthy work of narrative fiction that typically focuses on a primary storyline and tracks the growth and development of its characters. The world of novels is diverse, encompassing genres such as gothic, dystopian, fantasy, and romance, catering to a wide range of reader tastes. The evolution of novels within English literature spans from the Renaissance era to the modern day, continuously adapting and evolving. The STPM paper 3 focuses on two novels which are:
1. Jane Austen. Pride and Prejudice. London: Penguin Classics, 2003.
2. Amy Tan. The Joy Luck Club. New York: Penguin Books, 2006.
Structure of Paper 3
Paper 3 is divided into three sections: section A, section B, and section C. In Section A, candidates must analyse a given excerpt from each novel. They must choose one excerpt and answer questions specifically related to that excerpt. The answers should solely focus on the selected excerpt and demonstrate a thorough understanding and critical response. No information or details outside of the excerpt should be included.
Do not make the mistake of answering both questions in section A. Then you won't have enough time for the rest of the questions.
In Sections B and C, candidates must answer mandatory essay questions on "Pride and Prejudice" and "The Joy Luck Club," respectively. The answers should closely refer to the novels and be relevant, critical, and well-informed. Candidates should support their answers with appropriate textual evidence from the novels.
Overall, candidates are required to answer a total of three questions, with each question worth 25 marks.
If you would like to get the complete exam format for STPM Literature in English, please check out Understanding the STPM Literature in English Format.
Know the Books
Once you are clear on what to do for the exam, you must think about preparing to actually attempt the exam. The first thing you must do for this paper is to read the books. Preferably, read it four times.
Read it for the first time to understand the story and get the plot. Your second reading will help you with retention, where you will start picking up details of the story. Read it for the third time to understand literary elements like theme, language, imagery, etc. Finally, read it for the fourth time to put it all together.
Start reading the books at the beginning of the term in order to ensure that you have sufficient time to read and analyse everything.
Let's take a closer look at what these novels are about:
Pride & Prejudice (Jane Austen)
Pride and Prejudice, a renowned piece of English literature, was authored and released during the Regency Period of British literary history. The narrative revolves around the Bennet family, whose parents are eager to secure husbands for their daughters. Upon learning that a wealthy suitor has recently arrived in the vicinity, they hold out hope that one of their daughters will marry him. The central figure is Elizabeth, the second eldest daughter, and the plot primarily focuses on her association with the affluent yet disagreeable Mr. Darcy.
The novel delves into the themes of love and marriage during the early 19th century in England, effectively illustrating the societal divide based on social class and its impact on the perspectives of those in higher positions. The impoverished individuals residing in rural areas are viewed as inferior, despite having limited interactions with the upper class.
The privileged class maintains a negative perception and preconceived notions about those outside their social circle, while the less privileged are proud yet face prejudice. Through a series of conflicts and misunderstandings, these characters gradually transform their animosity into affection.
They manage to transcend the barriers of class and societal biases to unite. This lighthearted and cleverly written narrative not only entertains but also offers profound insights into the enduring philosophies that persist in society, evoking a range of emotions within the reader.
Due to the linear progression of the storyline, readers are able to witness the unfolding events of the narrative in tandem with the characters, fostering a sense of closeness and connection with them. Moreover, the novel's subversive portrayal of themes such as gender, wealth and social status, and the superficial expectations imposed by society contributes to its enduring allure, captivating even contemporary readers with its timeless relevance.
Are you interested to know more about paper 2? Check out How to Tackle STPM English Literature Plays?
The Joy Luck Club (Amy Tan)
Amy Tan's novel, The Joy Luck Club, narrates the interconnected lives of two distinct groups: a group of mothers and their respective daughters. Symbolized by the game of mahjong, the evolving relationships between these characters reveal a cascade of unveiled truths, acts of sacrifice that are acknowledged and disregarded, and clashes of perspectives.
With the passing of one of the mothers, her daughter assumes her role within the Joy Luck Club, serving as a starting point for exploring the diverse narratives of these women. The novel takes readers on a journey through the individual stories of these mothers and daughters, presented in separate sections, shedding light on their unique backgrounds and experiences.
The Joy Luck Club skilfully intertwines the complex dynamics between mothers and daughters, the hardships of war, and the isolating experience of being an immigrant in a foreign country. Its narrative is incredibly authentic and powerful, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
Other than reading the book by itself, read about the book. Reading what other people have written about Pride and Prejudice and The Joy Luck Club will help you expand your knowledge and understanding of the books. There are many resources available for you to explore which will help you ace this paper.
If you are interested to know more about the poetry and short stories questions, please read: Tips to Score A in STPM English Literature Paper 1
How to Score A for Paper 3?
Scoring well in STPM Literature in English Paper 3 requires knowledge, critical thinking, and effective exam strategies. Here are some tips to help you perform well in the exam:
- Provide detailed analysis and avoid summarising the novels in your answers
- If you need to summarise to get the point across, keep it very short, as the examiners a familiar with the novels
- Have a clear understanding of what the question is asking for and address it
- Think and plan what to write for good time management
- Use quotes from the novels to support your arguments
- If you cannot remember the exact quote, you can opt to paraphrase
- Organise your essay clearly
- Lead your reader from one point to the next
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