English 1119/2 SPM — Selangor (1) 2024

Saving money is one of the most important financial habits that teenagers should develop early in life. The benefits of saving are numerous and far-reaching.

Saving money provides a safety net for emergencies and unexpected expenses. It enables us to afford bigger purchases such as a laptop or a bicycle without going into debt. Most importantly, building a savings habit prepares us for major future expenses like university tuition fees.

Personally, I save money by setting aside 20% of my weekly allowance before spending anything. I avoid buying unnecessary snacks and bring packed lunches to school. I also sell my pre-owned textbooks and items online to earn extra savings.

Schools can motivate students to save by establishing school savings programmes in collaboration with banks. Financial literacy talks and workshops would educate students about budgeting and investment basics. Competitions that reward the most consistent savers can also encourage healthy financial habits.

In conclusion, learning to save money early gives teenagers a strong financial foundation for a secure and comfortable future.

TEENAGERS AND RELAXATION: WHY TAKING A BREAK IS NOT A LUXURY

In today's fast-paced world, teenagers face mounting pressure from academics, extracurricular activities and social expectations. Yet many underestimate the importance of taking time to relax.

Teenagers need to relax because their minds and bodies require recovery time from the constant demands of school and daily life. Without adequate rest, teenagers risk burnout, anxiety and declining academic performance. Chronic stress during adolescence can also affect long-term mental and physical health.

Teenagers relax in various ways. Many enjoy listening to music, watching videos or scrolling through social media. Others prefer physical activities like jogging, swimming or playing sports. Creative outlets such as drawing, writing and playing musical instruments are also popular choices.

The benefits of taking a break are significant. Relaxation improves concentration and memory, enabling students to study more effectively. It reduces stress hormones, boosts the immune system and promotes better sleep quality. Regular breaks also enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities.

In conclusion, relaxation is not laziness — it is an essential component of a balanced and productive life. Teenagers who learn to relax effectively will perform better in all areas of life.

Alisha had just come home from school when she noticed a note on the dining table. It was written in her late grandmother's elegant handwriting, though her grandmother had passed away three months ago. Her heart raced as she unfolded the yellow paper.

The note read: "My dearest Alisha, if you are reading this, I am no longer with you. But I have left something for you inside the old wooden chest in the attic. It is my gift to your future. Follow your dreams, my dear. Love, Nenek."

With trembling hands, Alisha climbed to the attic and opened the dusty chest. Inside was a savings book with RM50,000 deposited over twenty years, along with a letter explaining that her grandmother had saved this money specifically for Alisha's university education.

Tears streamed down Alisha's face. She had been planning to abandon her dream of becoming a doctor because her family could not afford the tuition fees. This discovery changed everything.

Fuelled by her grandmother's belief in her, Alisha studied harder than ever before. She scored straight A's in her SPM and was accepted into a medical programme.

Today, Dr. Alisha keeps the faded note in a frame on her office wall. It serves as a daily reminder that the love of those who have left us can still shape our futures in the most extraordinary ways.