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LITERATURE COMPONENT FOR FORM 4

Short Story

QWERTYUIOP
by Vivien Alcock Table of Contents
Introduction About Short Stories The Writer Synopsis Elements Activities Beyond The Text Assessment Answer Key Glossary Panel of Writers

Curriculum Development Division. Ministry of Education Malaysia. 2009

SHORT STORY

Introduction
Welcome to the World of Literature and to Short Stories!

We hope you will enjoy working with this guidebook, which has been specially designed to help you prepare your students enjoy the Literature Component of the KBSM English Language syllabus.

A brief explanation of the short story genre has been provided together with suggested activities, teaching steps and worksheets/handouts. An answer key with suggested answers has been provided at the end of the guide to assist you. There is also an assessment section with contextual questions and ideas for authentic assessment and a glossary at the end of each story.

We recommend that the activities in this guidebook be adapted for your students needs and be carried out creatively in order to develop students appreciation and critical analysis of the short stories. Be ready to listen to students views and opinions, and encourage them to work out the answers.

It is our sincere hope that the activities and worksheets in this guidebook will act as a springboard for your own ideas and methods of exploring the individual stories.

SHORT STORY

About Short Stories


What is a Short Story? Can you explain what makes a short story? Well, a short story is a short piece of fiction aiming at unity of characterization, theme and effect. It aims to produce a single narrative effect with the greatest economy of means and utmost emphasis. Did you know that modern short story writers tend to base their narratives on their own experience? Here the focus is much more on the less spectacular aspects of life, on the significance underlying what is apparently trivial. The result of such perceptive writing is to reveal the subtleties of the human mind and of human behaviour. Lets listen to the story The Fruitcake Special

Hmm.. Wonder if mum will make fruitcake for us today??

What makes a good short story? A short story is a piece of prose fiction which can be read at a single sitting. It ought to combine matter-of-fact description with poetic atmosphere. It ought to present a unified impression of temper, tone, colour, and effect. It mostly shows a decisive moment of life. There is often little action, hardly any character development, but we get a snapshot of life. Its plot is not very complex (in contrast to the novel), but it creates a unified impression and leaves us with a vivid sensation rather than a number of remembered facts. There is a close connection between the short story and the poem as there is both a unique union of idea and structure.

Short Story Elements Can you suggest some elements of a short story? Lets find out in the section below. Setting -- The time and location in which a story takes place is called the setting. For some stories the setting is very important, while for others it is not. There are several aspects of a story's setting to consider when examining how setting contributes to a story (some, or all, may be present in a story): Place - geographical location. Where is the action of the story taking place? Time - When is the story taking place? (historical period, time of day, year, etc) Weather conditions - Is it rainy, sunny, stormy, etc? Social conditions - What is the daily life of the characters like? Does the story contain local colour (writing that focuses on the speech, dress, mannerisms, customs, etc. of a particular place)? Mood or atmosphere - What feeling is created at the beginning of the story? Is it bright and cheerful or dark and frightening? Plot -- The plot is how the author arranges events to develop his basic idea; It is the sequence of events in a story or play. The plot is a planned, logical series of events having a beginning, middle, and end. The short story usually has one plot so it can be read in one sitting. There are five essential parts of plot: Introduction /Orientation- The beginning of the story where the characters and the setting is revealed. Rising Action - This is where the events in the story become complicated and the conflict in the story is revealed (events between the introduction and climax). Climax - This is the highest point of interest and the turning point of the story. The reader wonders what will happen next; will the conflict be resolved or not? Falling action - The events and complications begin to resolve themselves. The reader knows what has happened next and if the conflict was resolved or not (events between climax and denouement). Resolution / Denouement - This is the final outcome or untangling of events in the story.

Generally, it is helpful to consider the climax as a three-fold phenomenon: the main character receives new information accepts this information (realizes it but does not necessarily agree with it) acts on this information (makes a choice that will determine whether or not he/she gains his objective). Conflict-- Conflict is also essential to the plot. Without conflict there is no plot. It is the opposition of forces which ties one incident to another and makes the plot move. Conflict is not merely limited to open arguments, rather it is any form of opposition that faces the main character. Within a short story there may be only one central struggle, or there may be one dominant struggle with many minor ones. Did you know that there are two types of conflict? They are 1) External 2) Internal pain, quiet their temper, resist an urge, etc. Conflict can also occur in the following situations: Man vs. Man (physical) - The leading character struggles with his physical strength against other men, forces of nature, or animals. Man vs. Circumstances (classical) - The leading character struggles against fate, or the circumstances of life facing him/her. Man vs. Society (social) - The leading character struggles against ideas, practices, or customs of other people. Man vs. Himself/Herself (psychological) - The leading character struggles with himself/herself; with his/her own soul, ideas of right or wrong, physical limitations, choices, etc. - A struggle with a force outside one's self. - A struggle within one's self; a person must make some decision, overcome

Hi, can you guess what character means?

Character -- There are two meanings for the word character: The person in a work of fiction. The characteristics of a person.

Persons in a work of fiction - Antagonist and Protagonist Short stories use few characters. One character is clearly central to the story with all major events having some importance to this character - he/she is the PROTAGONIST. The opposer of the main character is called the ANTAGONIST. The Characteristics of a Person In order for a story to seem real to the reader its characters must seem real. Characterization is the information the author gives the reader about the characters themselves. Characters are convincing if they are: consistent, motivated, and lifelike (resemble real people) Can you guess how does the author reveal a character? Well, it is done in several ways through: a) his/her physical appearance b) what he/she says, thinks, feels and dreams c) what he/she does or does not do d) what others say about him/her and how others react to him/her

Characters can be ... 1. Individual - round, many sided and complex personalities. 2. Developing - dynamic, many sided personalities that change, for better or worse, by the end of the story. 3. Static - Stereotype, have one or two characteristics that never change and are emphasized e.g. brilliant detective, drunk, scrooge, cruel stepmother, etc.

Do you think David Amos is a static character?

Point of View Point of view, or p.o.v., is defined as the angle from which the story is told. Innocent Eye - The story is told through the eyes of a child (his/her judgment being different from that of an adult) . Stream of Consciousness - The story is told so that the reader feels as if they are inside the head of one character and knows all their thoughts and reactions. First Person - The story is told by the protagonist or one of the characters who interacts closely with the protagonist or other characters (using pronouns I, me, we, etc). The reader sees the story through this person's eyes as he/she experiences it and only knows what he/she knows or feels. Omniscient- The author can narrate the story using the omniscient point of view. He can move from character to character, event to event, having free access to the thoughts, feelings and motivations of his characters and he introduces information where and when he chooses. There are two main types of omniscient point of view: a) Omniscient Limited - The author tells the story in third person (using pronouns they, she, he, it, etc). We know only what the character knows and what the author

allows him/her to tell us. We can see the thoughts and feelings of characters if the author chooses to reveal them to us. b) Omniscient Objective The author tells the story in the third person. It appears as though a camera is following the characters, going anywhere, and recording only what is seen and heard. There is no comment on the characters or their thoughts. No interpretations are offered. The reader is placed in the position of spectator without the author there to explain. The reader has to interpret events on his own.

Im Anna. Im going to tell my story from the first person point of view

Theme -- The theme in a piece of fiction is its controlling idea or its central insight. It is the author's underlying meaning or main idea that he is trying to convey. The theme may be the author's thoughts about a topic or view of human nature. The title of the short story usually points to what the writer is saying and he may use various figures of speech to emphasize his theme, such as: symbol, allusion, simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or irony. Some simple examples of common themes from literature, TV, and film are: Things are not always as they appear to be. Love is blind. Believe in yourself. People are afraid of change. Don't judge a book by its cover.

Source Source
URL : http://homepage.bnv-bamberg.de/gk_english/short_story URL : http://homepage.bnv-bamberg.de/gk_english/short_story Date accessed : 13 October 2009 Date accessed : 13 October 2009
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QWERTYUIOP

The Writer

Vivien Alcock (1924 2003) was an author of children's books. Born in Worthing, West Sussex, in England, her family moved to Devizes in Wiltshire when she was aged 10. She then studied at the Oxford School of Arts. She was married to author Leon Garfield, with whom she adopted a daughter, named Jane after Jane Austen. They met during World War II, when Vivien was an ambulance driver. Her first book was The Haunting of Cassie Palmer which was followed by The Monster Garden and others. (From Wikipedia.org)

QWERTYUIOP

Synopsis

QWERTYUIOP by Vivien Alcock is about a young graduate named Lucy Beck who has just finished her O levels at Belmont Secretarial College. Being a slow learner herself, she has no confidence that she will find a job. Fortunately, she is offered a job by Mr. Ross, the Manager of Ross and Bannisters. During her first day, she encounters many peculiar incidents. Later, she finds out that there is a spirit lingering around the office who is adamant in holding on to her position as the companys secretary. Towards the end of the story, Lucy tries to get rid of the spirit that has been haunting that place for many years by putting the spirit at peace.

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Elements

SETTING The story revolves around two main settings: Lucys house which she shares with her mother and her Uncle Bert, and the office of Ross and Bannisters where Lucy works as a secretary. CHARACTERS Lucy Beck : She is a young, shy and insecure graduate of secreterial studies. She is dissatisfied with her current life and is determined to improve it. She obtains a position with Ross and Bannisters, only to find that the position comes with a chilling secret. Ghost of Ms. : She was the previous employee of Ross and Bannisters. She is unwilling to Bloome let go of her position and continues to defend her post, even after her demise. Lucys mother : A housewife who lives a hard life. She has to support her brother. Uncle Bert Harry Darke Mr. Ross THEMES Possible themes that can be found in the short story are determination, possessiveness, loyalty, loneliness, commitment, the supernatural, and compassion. DETERMINATION: Despite the supernatural nature by which Ms. Broome badgers and demoralises Lucy, she shows no signs of giving in to her demand. Instead, she is steadfast in defending her position as the secretary. : Depends on his sister for support. He is also a drunkard. : Ross and Bannisters handyman. He is an old man who has been working with the company for years. : The younger partner of the company.

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POSSESIVENESS: Not even death could part Ms. Broome from what she feels is rightfully hers. She continues to haunt the office through her electronic typewriter. LOYALTY: As with her possesiveness towards her job, Ms. Broome was also extremely loyal towards Mr. Bannister. Even after she passed on, her spirit continued in its endeavour to serve her employer. LONELINESS: Loneliness can be a strong influence in a persons life. Ms. Broome had no life outside of her office. That made her more possesive of her position in the company; a possesiveness that went beyond the grave. COMMITMENT: This attribute can be clearly seen in both Lucy and Ms. Broome. Both are extremely committed to their profession. THE SUPERNATURAL: It is interesting that such an integral character in the story happens to be an ethereal entity. Yet this theme is rather prominent in the story. COMPASSION: This theme holds water especially in the final confrontation between Lucy and Ms. Broome. It is not through hatred nor coercion that Lucy manages to outsmart Ms. Broome, rather, it was through compassion and understanding of Ms. Broomes intentions. MORAL VALUES Do not judge a person merely through credentials or qualifications We must be committed and responsible to our vocation or profession We must value our family.

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ACTIVITY SS1

Twinkle Twinkle Little Plot


Aim Aim
To present a graphic representation of the plot of a short story 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Worksheet SS1scissors, strings, glue or cellophane tape Worksheet SS1scissors, strings, glue or cellophane tape

Steps Steps
Place students into groups of 4 5.Ask groups Notes to identify the plot of the short story. Provide the groups with the materials. Write the weak various For events of the plot on the corresponding students, provide stars. randomly Cut the the plot completed stars and string them up onclass the walls. around the whiteboard for Groups present their stories based on the them to select. information in their stars.

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WORKSHEET SS1

Twinkle Twinkle Little Plot


Fill the following stars with the appropriate plots from the short story.

INTRODUCTION

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CONFLICT

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CLIMAX

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RESOLUTION

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ACTIVITY SS2

And Your Point Is?


Aim Aim
To introduce the main and sub-themes of the story: Determination, Possessiveness, Loyalty, Loneliness, Commitment, element of Supernatural 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Worksheet SS2 Worksheet SS2

Steps Steps
Divide the class into 6 groups.

Notes

Distribute the extract sheet to the groups. For weaker students, provide Instruct to discuss and identify the thestudents themes by themes based on on the extract provided. writing them the whiteboard.

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WORKSHEET SS2

And Your Point Is?


Extract 1

For Foran anhour, hour,she shebattled battledwith withthe themachine. machine.As Asfast fastas asQWERTYUIOPs QWERTYUIOPs and andunwanted unwantedcapitals capitalsappeared, appeared,she sheattacked attackedwith withloaded loadedbrush. brush.The The white fluid ran down the typing paper like melting ice-cream, and white fluid ran down the typing paper like melting ice-cream, and dripped thickly into the depths of the typewriter. dripped thickly into the depths of the typewriter. YOURE YOUREDROWNING DROWNINGME, ME,ititcomplained complainedpathetically, pathetically,and andshe sheswiped swipedat at the words with her brush. the words with her brush. HELP! HELP! Another swipe. Another swipe. PLEASE! PLEASE! But ButLucy Lucyshowed showedno nomercy. mercy.The Thelarge largebottle bottlewas washalf-empty half-emptywhen whenshe she reached the end of the letter in triumph. reached the end of the letter in triumph. YOURS faithfully, YOURS faithfully, George Ross George Ross She typed, and sat back with sigh of relief. She typed, and sat back with sigh of relief.

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Extract 2

YOU ARE SITTING IN MY to inform you that GO AWAY aa new YOU ARE SITTING IN MY CHAIR CHAIR to inform you that GO AWAY new line of WE DO NOT WANT YOU HERE ..QWERTYUIOP line of WE DO NOT WANT YOU HERE ..QWERTYUIOP GO AWAY, MISS BECK GO AWAY, MISS BECK Why should I? Why should I? time in red letter

II AM SECRETARY HERE ,, itit stated, this AM SECRETARY HERE stated, this time in red letter
Its my job now, she said. I need it. She cant have itit forever, its not Its my job now, she said. I need it. She cant have forever, its not fair. Its not fair. Its my turn now. fair. Its not fair. Its my turn now. Mr. Darke told me you used to be secretary to Mr. Bannister Mr. Darke told me you used to be secretary to Mr. Bannister II AM, interrupted the typewriter, AM, interrupted the typewriter,

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Extract 3

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Extract 4

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Extract 5

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Extract 6

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ACTIVITY SS4

Guess Who?
Aim Aim
To help students make mental associations of the various characters 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Blank papers, colouring materials, newspaper Blank papers, colouring materials, newspaper

Steps Steps
Form groups of 4-5. Distribute the materials to Notes the groups. Ask them to select a character from the short story. List all the items Pictures canthat be are associated with that character (E.g. Miss Lucy Beck: O Level cut out from diploma, typewriter, magazines as office desk, telephone, etc). well Students cut and paste those items onto the paper given using the newspaper or draw them. Students write five adjectives that describe the character related to the collage.

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ACTIVITY SS5

Climb That Mountain!


Aim Aim
To present a graphic representation of the plot of a short story

To help 40 students minutes make mental assoc characters

Materials Materials
Worksheet SS5 Worksheet SS5

Steps Steps

Notes Place students in pairs.


Write the various events of the plot on the Pictures can be corresponding boxes. cut out from magazines as findings to the class. Groups present their well Correct the pairs findings where necessary

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WORKSHEET SS5

Climb That Mountain!


Fill the boxes with the appropriate information based on the short story

INTRODUCTION

CONFLICT/ DEVELOPMENT

CLIMAX

RESOLUTION

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ACTIVITY SS6

Lights, Camera, Action!


Aim Aim
To evoke interest in understanding the characters through acting out the selected scenes

To present 80 minutes a graphic representation o

Materials Materials
Worksheet SS6 Worksheet SS6

Steps Steps

Divide the class into groups. Notes Give the cut out copies of the scene (Handout Discuss with S22) to the groups. After discussion, they will act out the scenes what they have given. There are three learnt from the scenes to be acted out.

the students activity

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WORKSHEET SS6

SCENE 1: Be positive, Mrs. Brice told the departing students, as she shook them by the hand in turn. Go out into the world and win! I have every confidence in you.

Lights, Camera, Action!

SCENE 2: Lucy Broome Lucy Broome Lucy Broome Lucy Broome Lucy Broome

: Are you from outer space? : IDIOT : Who are you? : MISS BROOME : How do you do? I am Miss Beck : GO AWAY, MISS BECK : Why should I? : I AM SECRETARY HERE : No, youre not! I am! : QWERTYUIOP! QWERTYUIOP!

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SCENE 3: Lucy Broome Lucy Broome Lucy

Broome Lucy

: Dear Ms. Broome, Mr Darke told me you used to be secretary to Mr. Bannister : I AM! : I am sorry to have to tell you that Mr. Bannister passed on three years ago, at the age of eighty-six.. : LIAR! I DONT BELIEVE YOU! : Its true Ms. Broome. I have seen his grave in the cemetery. Its not far from yours. I went along last night and left you flowers Mr. Darke is worried about Mr. Bannister. He doesnt know how he will manage without you... : HE TOLD ME TO GO! BRASS CLOCK, WHAT DID I WANT WITH BRASS CLOCK! I WANTED MY JOB! : He must miss you. Hes probably in an awful muddle up there, mislaying his wings. Losing his harp. He needs someone to look after him.. goodbye, Miss Broome. Best of luck in your new job. Yours sincerely, Lucy Beck, secretary.

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ACTIVITY SS7

The Moral Of The Story


Aim Aim
To identify possible moral values found in the text

To present 40 minutes a graphic representation o

Materials Materials
Worksheet SS7 Worksheet SS7

Steps Steps
Identify as many moral values the students can Notes find from the four excerpts in the worksheet. Look for other phrases or paragraphs in the As an extention, story other that may contain moral values and identify excerpts them. from the text can be selected for moral value analysis

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WORKSHEET SS7

The Moral Of The Story


Quotations
Be positive, Mrs. Brice told her departing students, as she shook them by the hand in turn. Go out into the world and win! I have every confidence in you.

Moral Value(s)

She was early. She smoothed down her windy hair, and waited. For an hour, she battled with the machine. As fast as QWERTYUIOPs and unwanted capitals appeared, she attacked with a loaded brush. Uncle Bert. She began. What? He looked at her warily. Im sorry. Im sorry, Uncle Bert. Im sorry too, Lucy, he said. I know its a nuisance, having me here. No! No, it isnt! We want you, she said. Additional task: Look for other phrases or paragraphs in the story that show possible moral values and identify what those moral values are. 32

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ACTIVITY SS8

Yes or No?
Aim Aim
To help students make associations of the various characters 40 minutes

Materials Materials
The text The text

Steps Steps
Teacher selects 8 students to represent the differentNotes characters in the story. The rest of theasks class is divided into 5 groups. Teacher The cast of characters stand in front of the students to class. Each group takes turn to ask questions select questions but the character is only allowed to answer which will give Yesthem or No. Each group is only allowed 5 clues on questions. the characters. Students to guess the identity of the characters by analysing the clues gathered from the question session. The group who guesses correctly gets a score. The game ends when all characters are revealed. The group with the highest score

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wins.

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ACTIVITY SS9

Draw Me
Aim Aim
To design or draw a character poster 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Any materials for poster design. Any materials for poster design.

Steps Steps

Notes Place students into small groups.


Each group selects a character. The group Same activity creates a poster which reveals the can be done for characteristics of the character. different scenes Students may use any forms of illustrations to in the story. portray the characteristics, e.g. symbols or pictures. Encourage creativity in designing the posters. The class will vote for the best illustrated poster and justify their choice.

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ACTIVITY SS10

Lit Raider
Aim Aim Explore the text to find examples of literary devices in the short story QWERTYUIOP
40 minutes

Materials Materials
The text, numbered envelopes, cue cards to be put in the envelope The text, numbered envelopes, cue cards to be put in the envelope

Steps Steps
Place students into groups of 5. Select a leader Notesfor the group and a secretary Find the six envelopes placed in various places Encourage hiddenstudents around the to classroom/school. Groups solve the problems discuss their given in the cue cards. Groupfindings secretaries and list the six literary terms they have learnt at each point during the game on a ideas. piece of paper. Groups present their findings.

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ACTIVITY SS11

Where? When? What?


Aim Aim
Identify the settings in the short story QWERTYUIOP 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Worksheet SS11 Worksheet SS11

Steps Steps

Notes Students complete the task in the worksheet.


Divide students into groups of 4-5. Discuss Encourage their answers. Modify answers based on their students to discussion. Discuss answers in class. discuss their findings and ideas.

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WORKSHEET SS11

Where? When? What?

Who are the people involved in the story? Who are the people involved in the story? Where did the events in the story take place? Where did the events in the story take place? Why didnt Lucy and her uncle Bert get along? Why didnt Lucy and her uncle Bert get along? How did Lucys mother react to her daughter getting a job? How did Lucys mother react to her daughter getting a job? What strange thing happened to Lucy on her first day of work? What strange thing happened to Lucy on her first day of work? How did Lucy handle the situation? How did Lucy handle the situation? Why was Ms. Broome unhappy? Why was Ms. Broome unhappy? How did Lucy persuade Ms. Broome to leave her job? How did Lucy persuade Ms. Broome to leave her job?

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BEYOND THE TEXT SS1

Narrative Writing
Aim Aim
To narrate an eerie or frightening experience. 80 minutes

Materials Materials
Exercise book Exercise book

Steps Steps
Write a story about an eerie or Notes frightening experience that you have. It can be based on a real story or imaginary. Make sure that is as The process writing approach canitbe graphic and expressive as possible. used to improve the quality of the writing. Students are encouraged to illustrate their work.

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BEYOND THE TEXT SS2

Dear Sir,
Aim Aim
To master social skills of job application. 80 minutes

Materials Materials
Blank paper Blank paper

Steps Steps
Compose an application letter Notes requesting the position of a secretary at Ross and Bannisters. Revise the conventions of formal letter writing.

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BEYOND THE TEXT SS3

Journal Entry
Aim Aim
To explore the thoughts and feelings of a character through journal entries. 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Diary or journal Diary or journal

Steps Steps
Divide the class into three groups. Notes Give different situations to each group. (Refer to handout) Each group with studies Discuss the their situation and plans how to role play their situation. students what they haverole learnt from Groups play their situations. Peer the activity evaluation by other groups.

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BEYOND THE TEXT SS4

Act It Out
Aim Aim
To encourage critical thinking. 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Handout SS4 Handout SS4

Steps Steps
Divide the class into three groups. Notes Give different situations to each group. (Refer to handout) Discuss with the Each groupwhat studies their situation and students they plans how to role play have learnt from their situation. the activity Groups role play their situations. Peer evaluation by other groups.

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SITUATION 1 Your house has been haunted by a ghost called Miss Broome. What would you do to get rid of the ghost?

QWERTYUIOP SS4

HANDOUT

Act It Out

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SITUATION 2 Imagine you are Miss Broome, the ghost typist. Lucy has shown that she is still not leaving her position in the office despite all the disturbances you have created. What would you do to get rid of her?

SITUATION 3 Imagine you are Mr. Bannister and Lucy has come to you about the ghost in her office. She wants to quit her job. Create a dialogue between Lucy and yourself. What would you say to persuade her to stay on as the typist?

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BEYOND THE TEXT SS5

Cover Me

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Aim Aim
To encourage creativity. 40 minutes

Materials Materials
Drawing block, coloured pencils, pictures, illustrations, etc. Drawing block, coloured pencils, pictures, illustrations, etc.

Steps Steps
Place students into groups of 4 5. Instruct Notes the groups to be creative when thinking of a suitable illustration for the cover students page of the Encourage to story reproduce the story in a Whencreative the posters are completed, form. instruct the groups to present their posters andmay give create a brief explanation of Students their illustration. their poster on the net and then print it out. Display posters on the wall around the classroom.

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ASSESSMENT SS1

Sequence Me

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RE-ARRANGE THE SENTENCES BELOW ACCORDING TO THE SEQUENCE OF EVENTS IN THE STORY.

a. b.

Lucy finds out from Harry Darke who Miss Broome is. She makes Miss Broomes spirit understand why she should not remain in the office any longer.

6 7

c.

She continues to type and correct the letter but is constantly challenged by the typewriter.

5 3 4

d. e.

Harry Darke shows her the table and typewriter that she will use. As she starts typing her first letter, something unusual happens; the word QWERTYUIOP keeps appearing repeatedly.

f. g.

Lucy is offered a position as a secretary at Ross and Bannisters. Lucy is worried that she might never find a job with her present skills and qualification.

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ASSESSMENT SS2

Have I Understood?
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Practice Practice11
Answer the following questions based on the excerpt. Lucy Beck was young and small and mouse-coloured, easily overlooked. She had a lonely O level and a typing speed that would make a tortoise laugh. Whoever will want to employ me? she had asked Mrs. Price once, and Mrs. Price had been at a loss to answer. Lucy wanted a job. More than anyone, more than anything, she wanted a job. She was tired of being poor. She was fed up with macaroni cheese and baked beans. She was sick of second-hand clothes.

1.

What do you think the author means when describing Lucy as easily overlooked? She is not a noticeable person.

2.

What is the author implying when saying that Lucys typing speed would make a tortoise laugh? Lucy typing speed is very slow.

3.

Which words or phrases have similar meanings to the following? a) To hire b) Used items : employ : second- hand

4. job?

Why couldnt Mrs. Price answer Lucy when she asked whether she would ever find a

_____________________________________________________________________ 5. If you were in Lucys situation, how would you feel? Elaborate. _____________________________________________________________________

Practice Practice22
Answer the following questions based on the excerpt. She was early. She smoothed down her windy hair, and waited. At five past nine, an elderly man, with small dark eyes like currants and a thick icing of white hair, came hobbling up the stairs. He was jingling a bunch of keys. Ah, he said, noticing Mary. Punctuality is the courtesy of kings but a hard necessity 46 for new brooms, eh? You are the new broom, I suppose? Not an impatient customer waiting to see our new range of Sunburst cushions, by any chance?

1.

In your opinion, why did Lucy arrive early that Monday morning? ______________________________________________________________________

2.

Which words or phrases from the story have similar meanings to the following? a) Being on time b) Selection : ___________________________________________________ : ___________________________________________________

3.

Explain what the author means when describing Lucy as a new broom. ______________________________________________________________________

4.

Describe the man who opened the door for Lucy. ______________________________________________________________________

5.

Paraphrase the excerpt: Punctuality is the courtesy of kings-but a hard necessity for new brooms. ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________

Practice Practice33
For following an hour, she battled with theon machine. As fast as QWERTYUIOPs and unwanted Answer the questions based the excerpt. capitals appeared, she attacked with a loaded brush. The white fluid ran down the typing paper like melting ice-cream, and dripped thickly into the depths of the typewriter. YOURE DROWNING ME, it complained pathetically, and she swiped at the words with her brush. HELP! 47 Another swipe. PLEASE! But Lucy showed no mercy. The large bottle was half-empty when she reached the end of the letter in triumph.

1.

Describe the battle between Lucy and the typewriter. ______________________________________________________________________

2.

Which words or phrases from the story have similar meanings to the following? a) In a sorrowful state : __________________________________________________ b) Without error : __________________________________________________

3.

Why was the typewriter complaining that Lucy was drowning it? ______________________________________________________________________

4.

Which sentence showed that Lucy was ruthless in the battle. ______________________________________________________________________

5.

Describe the outcome of the battle. ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________

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ASSESSMENT SS3

Structured Response
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Describe the life of Lucy Beck. Focus on: Describe the life of Lucy Beck. Focus on: Her relationship with her family Her relationship with her family Her work Her work Her relationship with Ms. Broome Her relationship with Ms. Broome In your opinion, why do Lucy and her mother have a strained relationship with Lucys In your opinion, why do Lucy and her mother have a strained relationship with Lucys Uncle Bert? Uncle Bert? Beggars cant be choosers. How does this expression apply to Lucy with regards to Beggars cant be choosers. How does this expression apply to Lucy with regards to her job? her job? Why was Ms. Broome reluctant to let go of her job? Why was Ms. Broome reluctant to let go of her job? In your opinion, did Lucy do an amicable job at persuading Mrs. Broome to move on? In your opinion, did Lucy do an amicable job at persuading Mrs. Broome to move on? Justify your answer. Justify your answer.

QWERTYUIOP

Answer Key
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Worksheet WorksheetSS1 SS1

INTRODUCTION: - Lucy Beck graduates from the Belmont Secretarial College with a lonely O level Lucy was such a slow typist that the Principal worried that she would not find a job. Lucy lives with her mother and uncle. She wants a job because she does not want to be poor anymore and she wants to leave the house and get away from her uncle. Goes for an interview at Ross and Bannisters and is immediately accepted as a secretary.

CONFLICT: - Lucy arrives early for work. She meets Harry Darke who explains her job description. After describing her job, Harry Darke leaves the office to do his errands. Lucy finds some letters that Mr. Ross had left for her to type. Lucy is a touch-typist so she doesnt need to look at the letters as she types.

CLIMAX: - She was shocked to see QWERTYUIOP typed repeatedly so she tears it and types again. The typewriter automatically takes over and types a threat to her. Lucy decides to persevere and types some questions on the typewriter. Her questions were replied by a MISS BROOME who claims to be the rightful secretary. The typewriter then goes berserk by typing QWERTYUIOP repeatedly. Lucy retaliates by swiping correction fluid over them every time the typo emerges. She finally finishes her letters. Mr. Ross returns to the office and finds some letters to be signed. He enquires if Lucy had any problems completing them. Harry is surprised to see Lucy back the next day. She asks about Miss Broome and he tells her of Broomes story.

RESOLUTION: - The next day, Lucy goes back to work and communicates to ms Broome via the typewriter. Lucy tells Broome about Mr. Bannisters passing and persuades her that her services are needed more up there than down on earth.

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Ms Broome finally relents and Lucy bids her goodbye.

Worksheet WorksheetSS2 SS2

Extract 1: Determination Extract 2: Possessiveness Extract 3: Loyalty Extract 4: Loneliness Extract 5: Commitment Extract 6: Elements of the supernatural

Worksheet WorksheetSS5 SS5


INTRODUCTION : - Lucy graduates with a single O Level - Gets a secretarial job at Ross and Basnnisters - Tells the good news to her mother CONFLICT/DEVELOPMENT - Shows up for work - Briefed by Harry Darke - Typing work disturbed by the ghost of Ms. Broome - Battles Ms. Broome and finishes her job. CLIMAX: - Finds out about Ms. Broome from Harry - Has an argument with Uncle Bert but reconciles - Finally persuades Ms. Broome to move on RESOLUTION: - Folds the letter into a paper plane and launches it - The plane is blown away by the wind - Mr. Ross is happy with his new secretary.

Worksheet WorksheetSS7 SS7


1. We must have confidence in peoples abilities. 2. We must be punctual / we must value time

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3. We must not give up so easily when faced with hardship or problems 4. We must value our family members.

Worksheet WorksheetSS10 SS10

CUE CARDS IT IS NOT EASY TO OBTAIN AN OCCUPATION WISHING SOMEONE ALL THE BEST BUT EXPECTING THE WORST WHEN FACED WITH A HARD LIFE, WE MUST NOT BE CHOOSY; WE MUST GRAB EVERY OPPORTUNITY. TO FLAUNT WITH PRIDE VIEWING SOMETHING WITH APPREHENSION AND SUSPICION BOSSES TAKE THEIR TIME; NEW WORKERS OBSERVE IT RELIGIOUSLY.

PHRASES / QUOTATIONS Jobs dont grow on trees (p. 9) wishing a snowman a happy summer (p. 9) We are jumble sailors on the rough sea of life (p. 9) wearing strings of O levels round their necks like pearls (p.10) as if a stranger coming late to their door (p. 11) Punctuality is the courtesy of kings but a hard necessity for new brooms (p. 12)

Worksheet WorksheetSS11 SS11


1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Lucy Beck, her mother, Uncle Bert, Ms. Broome, Mrs. Price, Mr. Ross, Harry Darke. Lucys house and Ross & Bannisters office. Because she resented him for being a drunk. She was surprised and almost in belief. The electronic typewriter started typing on its own. She decided to fight back and attacked the typewriter with correction fluid. Because they let her go when she was unwilling to leave her job. She managed to convince Ms. Broome that Mr. Bannister needs her help

Assessment AssessmentSS1 SS1


Question A B Answer 6 7

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C D E F G

5 3 4 2 1

Assessment AssessmentSS2 SS2: :Practice Practice11


1. Lucy does not have a commanding presence/She is not a noticeable person. 2. Her typing is very slow. 3. i) employ ii) second-hand 4. Because she knew that Lucy would not be a great secretary/Her qualification is not impressive. 5. Sad/Disheartened, because I know that it would be much harder for me to get a job.

Assessment AssessmentSS3 SS3


1. a) Although Lucy is close to her mother, she has a strained relationship with her uncle. b) She is the secretary for the Ross & Bannisters. She is determined to keep the job. c) She had a surprise encounter with the spirit of Ms. Broome. 2. Because they see him as a drunkard who is merely a burden to the family. 3. She has a miserable qualification. Therefore, she does not have the luxury of choosing the job she wants. 4. Because she had no life outside her occupation 5. Yes, she did. She appealed for Ms. Broomes loyalty towards Mr. Bannister instead of continually provoking her wrath in challenging her.

QWERTYUIOP

Glossary

QWERTYUIOP The first alphabetic line on a keyboard drinking up (pg 9)

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(phrasal verb) taking anothers money (esp. to buy alcohol) pay packet (pg 10) (noun) salary damasked (pg 23) (verb) decorated, marked daffodils (pg 23) (noun) A type of flowers bedsit (pg 25) (noun, Brit. Eng.), a room that you rent and use for living and sleeping only. fiver (pg 26) (informal, noun) five pounds

SHORT STORY

Ira Bhattacharyya (Panel Head)

Panel of Adrian Writers Robert


Rahmah Hj Sayuti Xavier Manickam Rashid Hj. Abdul Jalil So Suez Pink

7. Pushparani Subramaniam (BTP) 8. Y.M.Tunku Ireneza Marina Tunku Mazlan (Coordinator)


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