Model Essay: Secondary Level

Question: Education is the only way to break out of the poverty cycle. Discuss.


Introductory Paragraph:
Sir Francis Bacon, a renowned philosopher, once said "Knowledge itself is power." This saying has been practised by millions of people around the world since time immemorial. Getting an education and obtaining knowledge are seen as the priorities by many people, regardless of cultures. However, how powerful is knowledge? The behaviour displayed by many Singaporean parents in their children's education offers some tell-tale signs. From the franticness of parents during the Primary 1 registration period to the desperation displayed by parents who live hand-to-mouth, but spend their life savings to provide nothing but the best for their children when it comes to education, suffice it to say that there are certainly believers of the age-old adage. I, for one, also believe that education can change people's future and is the only way to get out of poverty. It is because education opens people to more employment opportunities, helps them think critically, and equips people with skills that ensure sustainable growth.

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(Written by Ping Ping S., edited by Ms Chua)

Ping Ping has been taught by me since Sec 4, when she was sitting for her N Levels. Originally from China, she has been studying in a neighbourhood school since she was in Sec 1. Ever since I started teaching her, she has improved by leaps and bounds and managed to obtain an A2 for her N Levels. She has been topping her class in English Language for her Sec 5 year (2013) and is now awaiting her O Level results.

Ms Chua

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