PSLE#34 English Oral – Staying Connected and Safe: Singapore Today
PSLEhacker Episode #34 - OREO Method
Date of News Article: 20 February 2026 Source: The Straits Times, CNA, and Ministry of Education (MOE)
Reading Passage:
Today is a significant day for Singapore’s regional ties. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is currently on a one-day visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This visit is particularly special as it coincides with the second day of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims. PM Wong will join PM Anwar for a “Buka Puasa” (breaking fast) meal this evening, symbolizing the strong spirit of mutual respect and friendship between our two nations.
Closer to home, the Ministry of Education (MOE) just announced that the 2025 GCE A-Level results will be released next Friday, 27 February 2026. While this may seem far off for primary students, it serves as a reminder of the academic milestones that lie ahead. In schools, a new chapter of digital wellness has also begun this year; secondary school students are now adapting to tighter smartphone rules, where phones must be stored away during recess and CCAs to encourage more face-to-face interaction.
Finally, Singaporeans are waking up to some of the coolest weather the city-state has seen this year. Temperatures dipped to a low of 21.2°C last night due to an active wet phase of the northeast monsoon. Persistent rain has blanketed the island, reminding us to stay proactive about our health and safety during heavy downpours.
Whether it is building bridges with neighbors or managing our digital habits, every action we take contributes to a more resilient and connected Singapore.
Word Count: 305 words
PSLE Oral Practice: Stimulus-Based Conversation ( O.R.E.O.)
Question 1: Visual Analysis
“Looking at the picture, what has changed about the way these students spend their recess, and why do you think this is happening?”
O (Opinion): I believe the students are enjoying a more meaningful and wise choice of interaction by engaging in face-to-face conversation instead of being oblivious to each other through their phone screens.
R (Reason): With the new MOE guidelines introduced in 2026, students must keep their phones in storage during school hours. This policy aims to reduce digital distractions and encourage students to forge a strong sense of camaraderie through physical play and talk.
E (Experience): In my own school, I’ve noticed that when we don’t have devices, we start playing games like “five stones” or just sharing stories about our day. It gives me a deep sense of reassurance that we can still have a “fun-filled” time without technology. We learn to listen better and support our friends when they are stressed.
O (Opinion Restated): Thus, these “phone-free” breaks are indispensable for building real friendships that last.
Question 2: Personal Reflection
“Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is sharing a meal with a neighbor today. Why is it important to show respect for different cultures and traditions in Singapore?”
O (Opinion): I feel that showing respect for traditions, like the “Buka Puasa” meal during Ramadan, is the bedrock of our resilient and harmonious society.
R (Reason): When we take the time to understand and participate in someone else’s culture, we break down barriers and prevent injustice or misunderstandings. It shows that we value our neighbors as much as ourselves.
E (Experience): During festive seasons, my family always buys snacks for our neighbors. Last year, when my Muslim friend was fasting, I made a proactive effort not to eat or drink right in front of him out of respect. He was very touched, and it helped us weather the storm of our busy exam period together.
O (Opinion Restated): Therefore, being culturally sensitive is a meaningful and wise choice that keeps Singapore united.
Question 3: Solution-Based
“With the weather getting colder and rainier, how can we look out for the more vulnerable members of our community?”
O (Opinion): I think we should be more civic-minded by checking in on elderly neighbors who might find the cold weather or slippery floors dangerous.
R (Reason): Heavy rain can make it difficult for seniors to go out for groceries. If we are proactive, we can offer to buy food for them so they stay safe and warm indoors.
E (Experience): Last night, when the temperature dropped to 21°C, I helped my grandmother close all the windows and made sure she had a warm blanket. I also reminded her to be careful of wet floors at the void deck. Doing these small things makes me feel like I am doing my part for my family and community.
O (Opinion Restated): Ultimately, being alert to the needs of others during difficult weather is an indispensable trait of a gracious citizen.
To continue………..
Theme: Friendship / Community / Discipline Visual Stimulus: A photo of a group of secondary school students sitting together in a school canteen during recess. Instead of looking at phones, they are talking, laughing, and playing a simple card game. On a nearby wall, there is a poster that says “Talk More, Scroll Less.”
📖 Mastery Vocabulary List
Coincide: (Verb) To happen at the same time.
Resilient: (Adjective) Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
Discernment: (Noun) The ability to judge well.
Inculcate: (Verb) To instill an idea or habit through persistent instruction.