DRAFT

FORM 5

Novels

The Curse
Table of Contents
Introduction Synopsis Elements Activities Assessment Answer Key Glossary Panel of writers

Curriculum Development Division.Ministry of Education Malaysia 2010 .

THE CURSE

NOVEL

Introduction
What is a novel?

Only in a novel are all things given full play D. H. Lawrence

A novel is a long narrative in literary prose. Novels tell stories, which are typically defined as a series of events described in a sequence. The novel has been a part of human culture for over a thousand years, although its origins are somewhat debated. Regardless of how it began, the novel has risen to prominence and remained one of the most popular and treasured examples of human culture and writing. There have been stories and tales for thousands of years, but novels must combine a few unique characteristics in order to be defined as such. First, a novel is written down, rather than told through an oral account. Secondly, novels are meant to be fictional in form, differentiating them from myths, which are said to have their basis in reality or theology. Although some modern scholars argue differently, there is no truly established guideline for length, point-of-view, or even establishment of a moral or philosophical point in novels. Sources : http://www.wisegeek.com Date accessed : http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Novel Date accessed : 5th July 2010 : 5th July 2010

The elements of a novel include the following:

i. Plot - the structure of a novel. It shows the arrangement of events and actions within a story (please refer to notes on Freytags Pyramid below for details). Setting - the time, place, physical details, and circumstances in which a situation occurs. Setting enables the reader to better envision how a story unfolds by relating necessary physical details of a piece of literature. Theme - is the main idea, or message, of an essay, paragraph, or a book. The message may be about life, society, or human nature. Themes often explore timeless and universal ideas and may be implied rather than stated explicitly. Along with plot, character, setting, and style, theme is considered one of the fundamental components of fiction. It is the universal statement or feel when you read a piece of writing. Character and characterisation - a character is a person in a narrative who may represent a particular class of group of people. Characters in a novel a the vehicle by which author conveys to us his / her view of the world. Characters maybe classify either main character or minor character. The characterisation of a character is revealed by actions, speech, thoughts, physical appearance, and the other characters thoughts or words. Language - used by author to reveal the theme and purpose of the novel.

ii.

iii.

iv.

v.

Notes on Freytag's Pyramid

Gustav Freytag was a nineteenth century German novelist who saw common patterns in the plots of stories and novels and developed a diagram to analyse them. He diagrammed a story's plot using a pyramid like the one shown here:

1.

Exposition: setting the scene. The writer introduces the characters and setting, providing description and background. Inciting Incident: something happens to begin the action. A single event usually signals the beginning of the main conflict. The inciting incident is sometimes called 'the complication'. Rising Action: the story builds and gets more exciting. Climax: the moment of greatest tension in a story. This is often the most exciting event. It is the event that the rising action builds up to and that the falling action follows. Falling Action: events happen as a result of the climax and we know that the story will soon end. Resolution: the character solves the main problem or someone usually solves it for him or her. Dnouement: (a French term, pronounced: day-no-moh) the ending. At this point, any remaining secrets, questions or mysteries which remain after the resolution are solved by the characters or explained by the author. Sometimes the author leaves us to think about the THEME or future possibilities for the characters.

2.

3. 4.

5.

6.

7.

THE CURSE

NOVEL

Synopsis
About the novel
In The Curse by Lee Su Ann, Azreen takes time off from her studies in London, UK, to return to her village in one of the legendary islands of Langkawi. She returns to mourn the loss of her older sister, Madhuri. However she finds out via rumours and loud whispers that Madhuri was murdered. At her village Azreen has to contend with a cold-hearted father and support an Alzheimer stricken mother. Azreen is subjected to negative comments and suspicion from her neighbours. She finds consolation in the company of the Old Lady, an outcast of the village. Although the grand Old Lady is educated and knowledgeable, the villagers shun her because she had murdered her abusive husband. Azreen has to confront the mystery that shrouds her sister's sudden death under suspicious circumstances. Her old classmate, Mohd. Asraf, refuses to reveal what he knows. A mysterious figure keeps on watching Azreen and strange things happen. Madhuris room is partially destroyed in a fire. A carcass of a chicken with a broken neck is thrown in front of her house. Many villagers fall sick for no apparent reason. The Old Lady is killed in a fire accidentally caused by an angry Mohd. Asraf. Bit by bit, the mysterious death of Madhuri is revealed to Azreen.

THE CURSE

NOVEL

Elements
PLOT SUMMARY
Chapter 1

Azreen hurriedly leaves her studies in England to return home after receiving news that her sister had died. Her coursemate, Julian Ng, tries to offer his sympathy and condolence but she was not in the mood to talk about the matter.

Chapter 2

On the plane home, Azreen experiences flashbacks of her early days with Madhuri and how Madhuri was well-liked by people. Madhuri was beautiful and soft-spoken compared to Azreen, who was an obstinate child.

Chapter 3

Back home, on an island south of Langkawi Island, Pn. Kamsiah was talking with her daughter Siti about their neighbour, Normala, who is spreading rumours that Madhuri was murdered and she spilt white blood. Datin Sharifah and her husband were ready to fetch their adopted daughter from the airport. They were trying their best not to talk about Madhuris death.

Chapter 4 Mourners gather at Azreens house to pay their last respects to Madhuri before burial. The women folk gossip among themselves that Madhuri was murdered and she had put a curse on everyone on the island. Azreen arrives late to pay her last respects to her late sister. Azreen brings her sickly mother to the burial ground to bid farewell to Madhuri. She meets Mohd. Asraf and flashbacks of her schooling years fills the scene.

Chapter 5 Azreen meets Asraf. She enquires about Madhuris death but is only given vague details of the incident. Normala, the rumour monger, spreads rumours about what had happened to Madhuri. Awang, the bomoh, makes an appearance as he dreams that a disaster is about to hit the village soon. Awang recalls the incident when he stole a chicken at Encik Mohans farm causing a bull to escape. Asraf was blamed for the fiasco but Azreen bravely took the blame on his behalf. Back to the present, Azreen looks for the Old Lady in the jungle to catch up on old times. The Old Lady discloses that Madhuri was murdered.

Chapter 6 The Old Lady relates to Azreen that she saw Madhuris lifeless body and the wound on her. She suggests that Madhuris murder was covered up as investigation into her death would reveal more secrets. Puan Fatihah, the village headmans wife recalls how her life changed forever when her husband, Haji Ghani, became attracted to Madhuri. Azreen recaps how Madhuri tried to defend her from her fathers wrath for stealing mangosteen and the good times she spent with Madhuri. In a flashback, Azreen admitted her folly for letting the bull go in order to save Asraf from Encik Mohan and his sons wrath. The escaped bull knocked into the motorcycle that her parents were on and caused her mother to be paralysed. The Old Lady reveals her past life with her abusive husband who drove her to kill him in self-defence. She made herself a home in a deserted house in the jungle.

Chapter 7 Asraf is concerned about his grandmothers deteriorating health. At the same time, Hj. Ghani, mourns at Madhuris tombstone. While deep in thoughts, he almost saw someone, a woman in a flowing white dress, strolling past the trees. At home, Azreens father reprimanded her for not latching up the chicken coop. A chicken carcass, with its neck broken, lies on the bottom step of the coop. The next morning, Azreen reads Julians letter about the examination week in college. Then, she reads Madhuris letter of her marriage and relationship with Kak Fatihah (Haji Ghanis first wife). The letter also hints that Madhuri has a secret to be revealed to Azreen when she returns home for her holidays.

Chapter 8 Azreens mother dies. Meanwhile, Mohd. Asraf continues to worry over his sickly grandmother. Mohd Asraf goes to the market to look for medicinal plants for his grandmother but fails to find any. In desperation, he goes to the Old Ladys house for help. The Old Lady hesitates at first but after much persuasion from Azreen and Mohd. Asraf, she finally agrees to go over to Mohd Asrafs house to help his grandmother.

Chapter 9 Siti keeps an eye on Mohd. Asrafs grandmother (Nek) while he goes out to get her medicine. Pn. Kamsiah and Normala are curious at the Old Ladys presence at Mohd. Asrafs house. The Old Lady tries to cure Nek. Azreen is puzzled to discover a university prospectus

that reveals Mohd. Asrafs intention to pursue his studies in Kuala Lumpur. When Azreen returns home, she sees the bomoh scampering behind the bushes. As she confronts the bomoh, he informs her about the mob incident at Mohd. Asrafs house. She immediately runs to Asrafs house. Normala blames Azreen for bringing the Old Lady to Mohd. Asrafs house and causing heavy downpour to hit the village. An argument starts and Azreens father intervenes to stop the commotion. Meanwhile, Nek is beginning to recover and Mohd. Asraf is extremely relieved. They thank the Old Lady for bravely coming over to cure Nek and the rain finally stops.

Chapter 10 Azreen awakes to a flurry of knocks on her door. She finds out that Nek has passed away and Mohd Asraf is heading towards Neks house with a few men for revenge. Azreen tries to stop him and in a struggle, stabs him at the foot with a spade. The torch that he was holding fell onto the wall of the house and soon the house was on fire. Azreen finds Nek, barely alive lying beside the stove and she advises Azreen to learn to forgive before it is too late. Azreens father saves her before the whole house crumbles. Mohd Asraf confesses to Azreen that he loves Madhuri and they were planning to abscond from the island when he was offered a teaching course in Kuala Lumpur. Madhuri wanted to confess to her husband, parents and Azreeb about her affair with Mohd. Asraf. However, Madhuri was found dead at a rubber plantation. Azreen then meets Awang, the bomoh, who tells her that Madhuri was not her real sister. Awang also confesses that he was the one who left the gate open that led to the motorcycle accident that paralysed her mother. Awang also confirms that he had seen Madhuri and Mohd Asraf together several times in the rubber estate. The chapter ends with Haji Ghani, the headman thinking about his young wife meeting her lover on that fateful day when she was killed. 8

Chapter 11 Azreen delves on the bomohs words that Madhuri was not her real sister. She encounters a shadow of a woman from behind the wooden fence again that directs her to a woodpile a few feet away behind her house. Azreen and her father walk towards the woodpile and see a parang that Saleh used to chop wood. There is white and sticky stain at the edge of the parang. Azreen immediately recalls Normalas words She had white blood and she stares at her father in disbelief. Saleh recalls how fond was he with Madhuri and how he found her as a baby at the paddy field. He stumbles upon Madhuri and Mohd Asraf together at the rubber plantation. In his fury, he kills Madhuri and her body knocks over the latex-filled container. Upon hearing this revelation, Azreen runs away from her father. Saleh suffers a heart attack and dies. Meanwhile in the village, a rumour spreads like a wildfire that a woman who looks suspiciously like his dead daughter had been wandering about at the time of his death.

Chapter 12 Azreen visits her familys graves. She leaves a flower on each grave and leaves quietly. She leaves a flower at the hillside where the Old Lady was buried, too. As Azreen leaves, she sees a smiling figure which resembles Madhuris smiles.

CHARACTERS
Azreen Main character of the novel. Studies in England. Happy to be away from her village. Did not have good relationship with her parents especially her father due to her defiant behaviour and tomboyish outlook. An outspoken and independent girl. Envious of her adopted sister, Madhuri. A helpful friend especially when she claimed responsibility for letting the bull run loose in order to save Mohd. Asrafs skin. Caring for her sick mother and Old Lady. Intelligent as she managed to further her studies in the United Kingdom.

Madhuri A beautiful and polite lady. A submissive wife and daughter. Religious and good at reciting Quranic verses. Conservative compared to her sister, Azreen. Protective of her sister when they were young. A polite and caring daughter. Concerned about her sick mother.

Mohd. Asraf A dedicated and popular teacher in a local school on the island. Independent since young. Good friends with Azreen while they were in school together. A caring grandson who is concerned about his grandmothers well-being. Loves Madhuri and wanted to take her with him to Kuala Lumpur.

10

Saleh Abdullah Madhuri and Azreens father. Active and strong for his age. A stern father to Azreen since when she was young. Not on good terms with Azreen since the motorcycle accident which paralysed Azreens mother. A manipulative father who let Madhuri become Haji Ghanis second wife in order to protect his interests. An egoistic person who could not accept Madhuris love affair with Mohd. Asraf and in the end killed Madhuri in a fit of anger at the rubber plantation.

Haji Ghani The village headman who fell for Madhuri and took her as his second wife. Neglects his first wife, Fathihah in the process. An influential man on the island. Hides the cause of his wifes death in order to protect his reputation. Knows of Madhuris affair with Mohd. Asraf. A religious man.

Siti An obedient daughter of Pn. Kamsiah. She helps Mohd. Asraf to look after his grandmother while he looks for the medicinal plants. She is also a responsible girl as she warns Azreen about the mob that is lead by Mohd. Asraf to the Old Ladys house. She is gullible as she likes to ponder over the gossips and rumours told by Normala, the village gossip.

11

Puan Normala The rumour monger of the village and her topic of interest is on Madhuri and how she died. She is sneaky and malicious when she coaxed Mohd. Asraf to confront the Old Lady, accusing her as the reason why his grandmothers health deteriorates and she finally dies. She is also superstitious when she blamed the Old Ladys visit to Mohd. Asrafs house as the reason for the continuous rain.

Old Lady An educated woman as she has knowledge of herbal medicine to treat illnesses. Her house is always neat and situated by the hillside. She is a caring and concerned woman as she takes Azreen in and gives her food and shelter whenever she has fights and problems. She is also a resourceful person and she is a good cook and her recipes and secret ingredients are very much sought after.

Datin Sharifah and Datuk Zulkifli

Azreens rich foster parents whom she stayed with for two months foster programme. Datuk and Datin helped her financially in her studies in the UK. Even though she only stayed with them for a short period of time, she still maintains a good relationship with them. Even though they are foster parents, they treat Azreen as their own child. Azreen calls her Mak Cik which signifies their close relationship.

12

Bomoh

The Bomoh is the person whom the villagers seek for traditional cure. It is through the Bomoh that the mysterious happenings that took place in the village are uncovered. The truth behind the death of Madhuri and the status of Azreen are also finally revealed by him

Fatihah She is Haji Ghanis first wife and appears to adore Madhuri. However, she secretly hold grudges against her husbands your wife. She feels that her husband favours the young wife more than herself. She tries her best to win her husbands heart after the death of Madhuri

SETTING
On the whole, the setting initially revolves around London and moves on to a village on a small island off Langkawi and the house of Datin Sharifah and her husband in Langkawi

LONDON
Azreen furthers her studies in London

13

A VILLAGE ON A SMALL ISLAND OFF LANGKAWI. Some of the places mentioned in the story.
Azreens house - Azreen lives with his father, mother and Madhuri. Madhuris room - Azreen finds Madhuris photos are all torn in three parts. The room is also burnt down. Neks house - Mohd Mohd. Asraf lives with his grandmother. The rubber plantation - The scene where Madhuris body is found.

The farm - Awang leaves the gate open and Mohd. Asraf gets the blame when the bull escapes. The forest - The Old Lady runs to the forest and settles in an abandoned wooden house after the villagers outcast her. The school - The school where Azreen studied during her secondary years. This is also where she gets acquainted with Mohd. Asraf. Paddy field - Salleh Abdullah finds Madhuri as a baby in the makeshift bed of rags and leaves. The cemetery - Madhuri and her mother are laid to rest here.

14

THEMES
These are some of the themes found in the novel: LOVE The message of love is reiterated throughout the story. Parental Love: Both Saleh Abdullah and his wife love Madhuri dearly like their own biological child. Azreens inner conflict to garner her fathers love and affection. She always perceives the father as having greater love towards her sister, Madhuri. Forbidden Love: Mohd. Asraf and Madhuri secretly loves each other that eventually led to Madhuris death. Unrequited Love: Azreen had a crush on Mohd. Asraf during school days. FORGIVENESS Before the Old Lady draws her last breath, she advises Azreen to forgive others. When Azreen discovers that it was her father who murdered Madhuri, she felt no anger or resentment towards him. VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN The story portrays how some men believe women to be the weaker sex and they are violent towards them. For instance, the Old Ladys husband was abusive towards her and repetitively abused her. He hit and kicked her. GENDER STEREOTYPING Through the novel, gender stereotyping is portrayed through how females should behave. This can be seen especially through Azreen. For example, Azreens school friends start to cast suspicious eyes towards her when she behaves unlady-like. She plays hockey with the boys and even laughs like a bunch of hyenas with them. To them, as a woman, Azreen is not expected to be tomboyish and hangs too closely with boys. BELIEF IN THE SUPERNATURAL The villagers seem to believe in supernatural. For example, many villagers call upon Awang, the village shaman to avert disasters. In another instance, Puan Normala tries to convince the villagers that the village is cursed since Madhuris blood is white.

15

FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN The villagers are puzzled about how Madhuri died. However, no one actually investigates the incident which is covered up well by Haji Ghani and his followers. In another instance, the villagers assume that the Old Lady is an evil witch that can turn anyone into squirrels or rats. Due to this assumption, the villagers outcast the Old Lady.

VALUES
These are some of the values found in the novel: CARING Madhuri shields her sister, Azreen, from being punished by her father. Madhuri helps Azreen to mend their mothers favourite rattan basket which Azreen broke while collecting durians. STANDING UP FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN Being persistent in getting to the truth is highlighted especially through Azreen. She refuses to believe that Madhuris death was merely an accident. She finds clues that complete the puzzle. RESPONSIBILITY Azreen repairs the trampled bed of vegetables and brings back fresh vegetables and seeds to replace the ones destroyed vegetables that belong to the Old Lady. DILIGENCE Azreen diligently repairs the trampled bed of ladys fingers outside the Old Ladys house. CONCERN When Azreen refuses to eat her dinner after being caned by her father and scolded by her mother, Madhuri consoles and coaxes her to eat. Mohd. Asraf advises Azreen not to reveal about Madhuris death to her sickly mother who assumes that Madhuri is still alive.

16

BRAVERY When Encik Mohan and his sons harshly reprimand Mohd. Asraf for carelessly letting their bull escape, Azreen braves herself to come to Mohd. Asrafs defence. She tells them not to blame Mohd. Asraf without any evidence. LOYALTY Shows her loyalty to her friend Mohd. Asraf by taking the blame calmly and bravely for the accident that involves her dad and mum. PERSISTENCE Madhuri and Azreen continue working on the rattan basket in their bedroom. Even when their parents return home, they excuse themselves quietly and forgo dinner to weave a new basket to match the original in their dimly lit room. THOUGHTFULNESS Mak Cik Sharifah and her husband, Azreens foster parents, leave behind two throw pillows from their car for Azreen to sleep on in her mothers house. They are also thoughtful enough to leave her two bottles of water, some fruits and a bag of disposable toiletries. HELPFUL Siti obliges to help Mohd. Asraf take care of his sick mother while Mohd. Asraf goes out to get some traditional medicine. Siti keeps an eye on the sick woman whom she is quite fond of.

17

LITERARY DEVICES
SIMILE A simile is a figure of speech comparing two unlike things, often introduced with the words "like", "as", or "than". Examples : 1) Pn.Kamsiahs eyes bulged out like a toadsp.11 2) and growled like some rabid dog- p.23 3) Fingers pointed, harsh words were spoken and friends avoided her like a leper. p.104 4) His eyes burned wildly like the fire on his torch. - p.199 5) People swarm around you like flies to a garbage can. Like maggots to rotten meat p.38 METAPHOR Examples: 1) Especially that rotten durian neighbour of yours p.23 2) with the leaky- mouthed neighbour-p.171 3) her fathers steely eyes-p.222 PERSONIFICATION An inanimated object is personified by attributing human traits and qualities to it. Examples: 1) the black taxis whizzing past - p.3 2) The plank beneath her feet creaked - p.80 3) whose muscular biceps flexed menacingly- p.93 4) it gripped his heart like a vice-p.227 ONOMATOPOEIA Words that sound like the objects they name or the sounds those objects make. Examples: 1) the wheels of the suitcase screeched as she-p.2 2) The plank beneath her feet creakedp.80 3) There was a rustling of leaves-p.219 4) words echoed boomingly in her head-p.222 HYPERBOLES Hyperboles are figures of speech that are exaggerated in order to create emphasis or effect Examples: 1) . girls fell for him left and right p.41 2) Argh Ill be dead if the teacher finds out p.91

18

POINT OF VIEW The point of view is the eyes through which a story is seen and told. The reader will learn about the story through an outside voice, the narrator. In the novel The Curse, the author has used the THIRD PERSON OR OMNISCIENT point of view. He even narrates the story using dialogues. TONE OF VOICE Attitude of a character or a piece of writing. Serious, mysterious, sadness, reflective, regret, emotional, humorous, envious, IMAGERY Imagery is the use of words or phrases that appeal to the five senses- sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell. These words create mental pictures in the minds of the readers hence making a piece of description more alive and memorable. Examples: 1) She sat up and stared at the rising sun that glowed orange and vermilion. p.205 2) Sunlight danced through the leaves above p. 206 3) The shades of the trees now left them and the glare of the morning sun blinded him for a while.- p.213 4) Somewhere nearby a church bell chimed and a red double-decker bus went whizzing by.- p.231 5) The sweet smell of jasmine caressed her senses, lifting a weight from her soul. p. 229 6) Azreen felt warm tears rolling down her cheeks. Her skin felt cold and clammy even under the hot afternoon sun. p. 226

19

THE CURSE

PLOT/ACTIVITY 1

Story Pyramid
Time: 40 minutes

Aims

Materials

To show development of the story.

Worksheet 1

Steps
1 2 3 Discuss the story with the class by giving the idea of rising and falling action. Ask students to use a familiar story to show how a story has a beginning, rising action that leads to a climax and resolution. In worksheet 1, students match the event with the plot structure indicated by numbers.

7 8 Notes Students sequence the events chronologically.

20

THE CURSE

PLOT/WORKSHEET 1

Story pyramid
Sequence the stages in the story pyramid by using the events given.

Climax

Exposition

Resolution

1. Azreen takes time off from her studies in England to attend her sister, Madhuris funeral. 2. Suspicions are fuelled by superstition and the Old Lady is killed in a fire. 3. Azreen finds out that her sister Madhuri is adopted. 4. Madhuris room is partially destroyed in a fire. It rains continuously and crops are damaged. Strange things happen to Azreen. 5. Azreen goes back to England to continue her studies. 6. Mohd. Asrafs grandmother dies. 7. Azreen hears rumours that her sister is murdered. Everyone believes that Madhuris death will cause a curse to be cast upon them. 8. Azreen finds out that Saleh killed Madhuri in a fit of fury because she wants to leave her husband for Mohd. Asraf. 9. Mohd. Asraf admits that he loves Madhuri and they are going to leave Langkawi.

21

THE CURSE

PLOT/ACTIVITY 2

The Significant Four

Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Handouts

1 2

To trace the important events in the novel. To highlight the timeline of important events in the novel.

Steps
1 2 3 4 5 Elicit responses from the students on the plot of the novel. Instruct students to write down the significant events in worksheet 2. Ask students to elaborate on the events by stating the setting and also a short description of the event. Select students at random to present their chosen events in the novel. Elaborate on the significant events of the novel and their significance to the development of the story.

Notes Teacher may list the events in chronological order at the end of the lesson. Students come forward to role-play the events.

22

THE CURSE

PLOT/WORKSHEET 2

The Significant Four

Write four significant events in the boxes.

Beginning

Ending

23

THE CURSE

PLOT/ ACTIVITY 3

Conflict Map
Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 3

1 2

To identify conflicts in the novel. To identify how characters in the novel respond to the conflict.

Steps
1 2 3 4 5 Start the lesson by asking the students to list out the conflicts found in the novel, in the Conflict Map handouts. Explain to the students that the conflicts can be between characters or even thoughts or feelings of the character itself. Ask students to work in groups to identify the conflict and also elaborate on the conflict. Ask students to fill in Worksheet 3 where they will identify how the conflict is resolved in the novel. Ask students to list out how the resolution of the conflict affects the character in the story.

Notes What is conflict? Conflict is the problem(s) found in the story. There are three types of conflicts. 1) Central conflict: the most dominant problem. 2) External conflict: the problem that exists between the main character and outside force (e.g. person vs. person and person vs. society) 3) Internal conflict: the problem that takes place in the main characters mind.

24

Conflict Map

THE CURSE

THE CONFLICT

Why the conflict?

How was it resolved?

How does the resolution affect the character?

What happens after the conflict is resolved?

PLOT/WORKSHEET 3

25

THE CURSE

CHARACTERS/ACTIVITY 4

Guess Who
Time : 40 minutes

Aims
1 2 3 To identify characters in the novel. To match dialogues to characters. To write sentences in speech bubbles. 1 2

Materials
The novel Worksheet 4

Steps

1 2 3 4

Extract a few dialogues from the novel. Ask students to guess the characters that match the dialogue. Distribute Worksheet 4 and students match dialogues to the characters. Ask students to write the dialogues in the speech bubbles.

Notes Students role play the dialogue. All graphics from this worksheet are taken from Dear Yayah, The comics by Farehah Iskandar & Ard One (2010) PTS Millennia Sdn Bhd.

26

THE CURSE

CHARACTERS/WORKSHEET 4

Guess Who
Match the lines from the text with the characters. NO LINES FROM THE TEXT Do you hear me? She has white blood. We have all been cursed!

1.

2.

What has the disease done to you, Mak? Ive seen how he was looking at her during her majlis bersanding. He looked as if he was on the verge of commiting suicide. Shes very pretty, and very sweet- tempered and respectful to her elders. And very young. I killed my husband. And now Im paying for it. Go on and leave this house. You seem to think theyre better parents. I dont know, Nek. If you dont get well by noon, Im going to call the headmaster to tell him Im taking leave from work today. Oh, I actually meant Madhuris mother, Cik adik. I dont remember her name but shes very much alive. A little mad but alive. No, Abah. Please dont. I love him.

3.

10

I thought you might need some support once you get back here.

27

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Azreen

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Madhuri

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Mohd Mohd. Asraf

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Puan Normala

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Old lady 28

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Noor

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Fatihah

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Julian

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Salleh Abdullah

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Awang

29

THE CURSE

CHARACTERS/ACTIVITY 5

Prove Me Right
Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1 2 3

Materials
The novel Handout Dictionary

1 2 3

To explore character traits in the novel. To give description. To provide evidence.

Steps
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Call out a student at random and introduce him to the class. Ask students to describe his character traits. Ask students to pick characters they like from the novel and describe them. Distribute Worksheet 5. Ask students to read and understand the character traits given in the handout. Instruct students to show textual evidence from the novel. Ask students to write down the evidence in the column provided by quoting it from the novel.

Notes Students refer to the dictionary to find meanings of difficult words. Students work in pairs.

30

THE CURSE

CHARACTERS/ WORKSHEET 5

Prove Me Right
Fill in the box with textual evidence to support the character traits given.

Azreen
- Outspoken - Envious - Independent - Defiant - Helpful - Caring - Intelligent

Textual evidence:

Madhuri
- Religious - Beautiful - Submissive - Conservative - Protective - Polite - Caring - Concerned

Textual evidence:

31

Siti
- Obedient - Responsible - Gullible

Textual evidence:

Mohd. Asraf
- Popular - Dedicated - Responsible - Independent - Caring

Textual evidence:

32

Pak Awang the bomoh

- Superstitious - Annoying - Informative

Textual evidence:

Haji Ghani
- Calm - Religious - Sympathetic

Textual evidence:

33

Pn Normala
- Malicious - Sneaky - Rumour monger - Village gossip - Superstitious

Textual evidence:

Salleh Abdullah
- Active - Egoistic - Manipulative - Stern

Textual evidence:

34

Old lady
- Educated - Healer - Neat - Caring - Concerned - Resourceful

Textual evidence:

35

THE CURSE

CHARACTERS/ACTIVITY 6

Character Map
Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 6

1 2

To enable students to analyse characters in the novel To help students to be familiar with the physical features, character traits and also how other characters react/treat the chosen character

Steps

1 2 3 4 5 6

Begin by eliciting the names of characters in the novel. Distribute the handouts to every pair of students. Ask students to draw the face of their chosen character and list the physical features as well. Ask students to write how the chosen character reacts to situations in the novel. Ask students to write how other characters react to the chosen character in the novel. Discuss the characters in the character map.

Notes There are three types of characters; major characters, minor characters and round characters.

36

THE CURSE

CHARACTERS/WORKSHEET 6

Character Map
Choose a character from The Cure and draw the face in the picture frame provided. Then fill in the spaces below.

Picture of Character

What does the character look like? (Physical Features)

How does the character react to situations?

How do other characters in the story react to this character?

37

THE CURSE

SETTING/ ACTIVITY 7

Name The Spot

Time: 40 minutes

Aims
1 2 3 4 5

Materials
A4 papers Scissors Glue Tape Worksheet 7

Describe events in the novel

Steps
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Divide class into groups of four. Distribute materials to each group. Each group creates a postcard according to the cases shown below. Students identify significant events with close reference to the novels. Ask students to present their work in front of the class. Distribute Worksheet 7. Instruct students to match events with the pictures.

Notes

38

THE CURSE

SETTING/WORKSHEET 7

Name The Spot

Using the notes provided, identify the setting (place) for each event EVENT Azreen packed and left London. Azreen and her family stayed here. Madhuris body was discovered here. Photos of Madhuri were all torn into three parts. Azreen used to stay here whenever she had misunderstanding with her father. Awang left the gate open and Mohd Mohd. Asraf was blamed when the bull escaped. The Old Lady killed her abusive husband in self defence. Awang revealed the truth about Madhuris adoption. Saleh Abdullah found Madhuri as a baby here in the makeshift bed of rag and leaves. 1 2 3 4 5

7 8 9

1. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

39

2. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

3. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

4. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

5. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

40

6. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

7. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

8. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

9. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

41

THE CURSE

THEMES/ACTIVITY 8

Get The Message

Time: 40 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 8

To identify and analyse themes in the novel

3 4

Steps
1 2 3 Distribute worksheet 8 to each student. Ask students to match the evidence with the theme. Ask students to refer to the novel using the page reference.

4 5 6 7 8 Notes This lesson can be carried out as pair work

42

THE CURSE

THEMES/WORKSHEET 8

Get The Message

Match the following themes to the evidence.

Themes

Love

Forgiveness

Violence

Gender stereotyping Belief in the supernatural

EVIDENCE a. A dozen disasters he had averted by performing his spells and charms.(p.54) THEME

b.

What was wrong with that girl who behaved so unladylike, laughing like a bunch of hyenas with the boys hockey team ... (p.37)

c.

Her mother was having trouble at the sink. Azreen helped her wash her face.(p.49)

d.

What would all the disclosure do to his beloved Madhuri? It would shame her memory. Her innocence would be stained... (p.217)

43

e.

She has white blood. We have all been cursed.(p.14)

f.

Everyone knew that the Old Lady of the forest was an evil witch...She could turn anyone...into squirrels or rats.(p.63)

g.

She felt her legs take a few steps towards her father. He felt no anger, no resentment. Only loss.(p.226)

h.

She was the prettiest thing they had ever seen with the anaemic cheeks and scrawny legs. All they noticed were the delightful chuckles and the twinkling eyes. (p.224)

i.

Azreen caught sight of the long cane. She could even see the angry veins popping out from his arms. (p.83)

j.

What a weakling. Look at him. Crying like a baby cause a girl hit him in the face. (p.90)

k.

He was holding her by the shoulder, shaking her hard and yelling curses at her...He kneed her in the stomach, and kicked her...(p.103) Look at this flood. This endless rain, its all a sign. (p.186)

l.

m.

When she refused to budge, he growled and with a forceful lunge, he pushed her away...he raised the hoe again and whacked the door open. (p.199)

44

Identify TWO other themes from the novel.

Themes

Evidence

45

THE CURSE

THEMES/ACTIVITY 9

That Says It All

Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 9

To identify themes in the novel based on the plot

3 4

3 4

Steps
1 2 3 Organise students into groups of 3-4. Distribute organisers to students. Students write down the information required in the boxes. Check the answers.

7 8 Notes Teacher provides page reference for students to assess information.

46

THE CURSE

THEMES/WORKSHEET 9

That Says It All

Write down the information required in the boxes. Theme Explanation Sequence of Events 1. Madhuri is dead. 2. Pn.Normala claims Madhuris blood was white. 3. She spreads rumours about the curse that will be casted on the villagers

There are rumours about how Madhuri died

1. The Old Lady is knowledgeable and educated. She marries a man who is loving at first. 2. He loses his job and becomes drunk. He hits her but apologises. He injures her with a bottle. 3. Then he knees her and kicks her.

1. ________________________ _________________________ Let bygones be bygones 2. Before the Old Lady holds her last breath, she advises Azreen not to hold grudges. 3. _________________________ _________________________ _________________________

47

THE CURSE

VALUES/ACTIVITY 10

Lifes lessons
Time: 40 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 10

To explore the values in the novel

Steps
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ask students to sit in groups of 4-5. Students brainstorm the values in the novel. Distribute Worksheet 10 Ask students to complete Worksheet 10 and discuss the answers. Ask each group to act out a two minute scene from the novel that illustrates the meaning of the value. The students do not state the value they are performing. When each group finishes its presentation, ask the rest of the class to guess the value. Ask students to show textual evidence from the novel. Ask students to write down the evidence in the column provided.

Notes A moral/ value is a specific lesson that a story teaches

48

THE CURSE

VALUES/WORKSHEET 10

Life s lessons
Read the extracts below. Complete the tables given.

EXTRACT A
Im hungry, she murmured softly. Azreen lifted a spoon to her, but she waved it away.I can eat by myself, sayang. Azreen handed her the bowl of porridge. As she watched her mother eat, Azreen felt a pang of sorrow. The disease was consuming whatever that was left of her mother little by little. The Curse, p.51 Values Evidence

EXTRACT B
The next day, however, she was back with a basket of fresh vegetables and a few packets of seeds, which she left by the Old Ladys door. The next day, the Old Lady came back from collecting wood only to find the girl diligently repairing the trampled bed of ladys fingers. What do you want now? she said to the girl who was all but covered with soil and fertilizers. Oh,nothing. Just to say I am sorry. The Curse,p.65 Values Evidence

49

EXTRACT C
Madhuri put aside the basket, and went behind to the gardening shack to grab their fathers parang. Come, she said to Azreen. Azreen followed her into the jungle. They found some rattan and brought them home. The two sisters struggled with the blade to shave the rattan into the right width and length. They brought the rattan and the broken basket to the bedroom and started work. When their parents returned, the girls excused themselves quietly and forwent dinner. The Curse,p.143

Values

Evidence

EXTRACT D
Azreen moved forward, wisely keeping the men at a distance. She hoped they would not spot her until it was too late to stop her. Now that she was closer to the house, she finally saw her friend. He, too, held a torch in his hands. In the other, he was holding a long hoe. He was much nearer to the house than the other men. Unlike them, he had been within before. And most importantly, loss and anguish fuelled his actions. His eyes burned wildly like the fire on his torch. Slowly but surely he strode to the door and raised the hoe. Azreen sprinted. No! The Curse,p.143 Values Evidence

50

THE CURSE

VALUES/ ACTIVITY 11

The good, the bad and the ugly

Time: 40 minutes

Aims
1 2 4 3 4 1 2 3 4

Materials
Worksheet 11a and 11b Coloured Pens/Highlighters

1 2

To analyse the events that help Azreen transform into a better person. To write about Azreens transformation.

Steps
Discuss with students the kind of spiritual journey that the character Azreen took while making the actual physical journey. Give each pair of students the graphic organiser. (Worksheet 11a) In the boxes, students list the events that reflect the different values shown. Ask students to display their worksheets on the class notice board.

Notes For Low English Proficiency students, teacher can provide the events and students will match them to the correct suitcases.

51

THE CURSE

VALUES/WORKSHEET 11a

The good, the bad and the ugly

In the following boxes, write the events that help Azreen to become a better person.

The journey begins...

Events that made Azreen feel sad

In England

1. ______________________________________ 2. ______________________________________

On an island in Langkawi
(Before Madhuris death)

Events that made Azreen feel envious and angry

1. ______________________________________

On an island in Langkawi
(After Madhuris death)

2. ______________________________________

The journey ends...

Events that made Azreen feel determined, forgiving and peaceful

In England

1. ______________________________________ 2. ______________________________________

52

THE CURSE

VALUES/WORKSHEET 11b

The good, the bad and the ugly

Imagine you are Azreen and write how you have changed due to certain events that have taken place in your life.

______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________

53

THE CURSE

LITERARY DEVICES/ACTIVITY 12

Imagery
Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 12

To allow students to explore ways in which figurative language is used in the story.

Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Elicits different literary devices that students are familiar with. Discuss the meaning of the literary devices identified by the students. Introduce an example of a simile and gives its definition and evidence from the text. Distribute Worksheet 12. Ask students to work in groups or pairs to find textual evidence from the text for each of the literary devices.

Notes For Low English Proficient students, they may be given the pages of the text to help them. Alternatively, they can also be paired with higher proficient students to promote peer teaching/learning.

54

THE CURSE

LITERARY DEVICES/WORKSHEET 12

Imagery

SIMILE Definition : A simile is a figure of speech comparing two unlike things, often introduced with the words like, as, or than.

Evidence 1. ... Pn Kamsiahs eyes bulged out like a toads... p.11 2. ... and growled like some rabid dog... p.23

METAPHOR Definition: The use of words or phrases to an object or action to which it is imaginatively but not literally applicable.

Evidence 1. ___________________________ ___________________________ 2. ___________________________ ___________________________

55

PERSONIFICATION Definition: An inanimated object is personified by attributing human traits and qualities to it.

Evidence 1. ___________________________ ___________________________ 2. ___________________________ ___________________________

ONOMATOPOEIA Definition: Words that sound like the objects they name or the sounds those objects make.

Evidence 1. ___________________________ ___________________________ 2. ___________________________ ___________________________

56

HYPERBOLE Definition: Hyperboles are figures of speech that are exaggerated in order to create emphasis or effect

Evidence 1. ___________________________ ___________________________ 2. ___________________________ ___________________________

57

THE CURSE

BEYOND THE TEXT/ ACTIVITY 13

Review it!
Time: 80 minutes

Aim
To give ones opinion on the novel. 1

Materials
Worksheet 13

Steps
1 2 Ask students to fill in the book review form (Worksheet 13). Once completed, encourage students to exchange their book review and read their friends book reviews.

Notes Paste students book reviews on the school notice board to encourage other Form 4 students to read the story. Alternatively, ask students to write book reviews for other titles from the Readers Programme.

58

THE CURSE

BEYOND THE TEXT/ WORKSHEET 13

Review it!
BOOK REVIEW
Title Author Year Published : : :

This book is about .................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... My favourite character is ......................................... because .................................. ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... I like / didn't like this book because.......................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... You should / should not read this book because.................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................................

59

THE CURSE

ENHANCEMENT/ACTIVITY 14

Voice It!
Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1 2

Materials
Worksheet 14 Scissors, glue, mah-jong paper,blu tack/cellophane tape

1 2

To identify points of view. To discuss the point of view in the novel.

Steps

1. 2. 3.

4.

Place students into groups of 4-5. Discuss the point of view in the novel and how stories can be written in first, second, or third person. Provide students with worksheet and materials. Ask students to cut portion (B) of their completed worksheets and paste them on the mahjong paper. Display the mahjong sheets on the wall. Allow students from other group to correct or add responses using green ink.

Notes For Low English Proficiency students, teacher may underline the pronouns that have to be changed. Students may role play Third (Omniscient) voice allows author to tell the reader anything from any characters point of view or location

60

THE CURSE

ENHANCEMENT/WORKSHEET 14

Voice It!
In the novel The Curse, the author used the THIRD PERSON or OMNISCIENT point of view. Rewrite the following two paragraphs by changing the voice into FIRST PERSON. Third person point of view First person point of view

They had always gone out walking or cycling together around the village when they were kids. They had been inseparable. When she was five, she used to follow Madhuri on the bicycle. She would sit on the carrier at the back as Madhuri cycled to the market or the post office to do some chores for their busy parents. They would cycle past paddy fields; the farmers would always wave back at them and at times, would even let them have a ride on the back of buffaloes as they ploughed the field.

We had ___________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________

61

Third person point of view Saleh Abdullah left the mosque after the prayers with determined steps. He had been unsure at first when he saw that piece of evidence near the rubble earlier. That yellow cord. He was sure he had seen it on that crazy bomohs wrist whenever that man scampered past him. Saleh had no patience for him. Many a times he had caught that bomoh trying to steal his chickens.

First person point of view

__________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________

62

THE CURSE

BEYOND THE TEXT/ACTIVITY 15

Make The Connection

Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 15

To state differences and similiarities.

Steps
1 2 3 Ask students to brainstorm the legendary character Mahsuri. Ask students to compare and contrast Mahsuri with Madhuri. Ask students to provide the relevant textual evidence from the novel by filling in the column.

Notes Students can compare and contrast other real life people with the characters in the novel. This activity can also be conducted in groups.

63

THE CURSE

BEYOND THE TEXT/WORKSHEET 15

Make The Connection

The name Madhuri in the novel The Curse, can be linked to the famous legendary character, Mahsuri. Where did the story take place? Why do you think the title of the book is The Curse? Compare the information given below. Write your answers in the column below.

Mahsuri
Background details
Mahsuri was the daughter of a Thai couple who moved from their native Phuket to the island of Langkawi in search of a better life. She was the most beautiful in all of Langkawi and married the warrior Wan Darus. Her husband had to go to war, leaving Mahsuri behind.

Madhuri
Background details

Reference:
www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2008/4/11/lifebookshelf/20471206&sec=lifebookshelf

64

Cause
Mahsuri befriended a young man named Deraman. The village chief's wife was jealous of Mahsuri's beauty. She spread a rumour that Mahsuri was unfaithful and was having an affair with Deraman in the absence of Wan Darus. Eventually the rumours grew strong enough that the villagers openly accused her of adultery.

Cause

Reference:
www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2008/4/11/lifebookshelf/20471206&sec=lifebookshelf

Effect
Mahsuri pleaded her innocence, but no one believed her. Mahsuri was to be tied to a tree (or pole) and stabbed to death but it did not work. After every execution attempt failed, she told them to kill her with her family's keris. When she was stabbed, white blood flowed from the wound, signifying her innocence. Before dying, she cursed Langkawi for seven generations of bad luck.

Effect

Reference :
www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2008/4/11/lifebookshelf/20471206&sec=lifebookshelf

Superstitious Belief
Many locals of Langkawi believe the legend to be true, citing the decades of failed crops that followed Mahsuri's death. Langkawi was also attacked by Siam numerous times.

Superstitious Belief

Reference :
www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2008/4/11/lifebookshelf/20471206&sec=lifebookshelf

65

THE CURSE

BEYOND THE TEXT/ACTIVITY 16

Writing about the text

Time: 80 minutes

Aim
1

Materials
Worksheet 16

To rewrite the letter

Steps
1 2 3 Elicit response from students on the plot of the story.. Ask students to assume the role of Azreen. Ask students to write a letter to Julian, stating Azreens frustration, disappointments and feelings in regards to the events that have happened.

Notes For Low English Proficiency students, the teacher can list down the events in the story and guides students to write the letter

66

THE CURSE

BEYOND THE TEXT/WORKSHEET 16

Writing about the text

Rewrite Azreens letter to Julian describing her experience since the day she arrives at the village.

Dear Julian,
...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................................

Yours sincerely,
Azreen
67

THE CURSE

CHARACTER/ACTIVITY 17

Character Portfolio
Time: 80 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 17

1 2

To be able to describe main characters. To produce a portfolio on the main characters.

Steps
1 2 3 4 Elicit response from students on the main characters from the novel. Ask students work in pairs and choose a character for their portfolio. Guide students to the elements needed in the portfolio. Ask students to develop the character portfolio based on the textual evidence from the novel.

Notes For Low English Proficiency students, the teacher writes out the character traits of the chosen characters and instructs the students to look for textual evidence to support their answer

68

THE CURSE

ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 17

Character Portfolio

Characters name: _________________________ PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES 1. TEXTUAL EVIDENCE

2.

3.

CHARACTER TRAITS 1.

TEXTUAL EVIDENCE

2.

3.

69

DILEMMA FACED BY THE CHARACTER 1.

TEXTUAL EVIDENCE

2.

3.

RESOLUTION 1.

TEXTUAL EVIDENCE

2.

3.

70

THE CURSE

ASSESSMENT/ACTIVITY 18

Pit Stop!
Time: 40 minutes

Aims
1

Materials
Worksheet 18

1 2 3

To answer comprehension questions. To answer an open-ended activity To practice Question 34 (Essay)

Steps
1 2 3 4 Elicit responses from students on the whole novel. Distribute Worksheet. Ask students to attempt all the questions. Ask students to discuss the answers.

Notes

71

THE CURSE

ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 18

Pit Stop!
Based on the extracts given, answer the following questions. She was to confess everything to her husband and ask his permission to release her. She was convinced that he was a reasonable man and wanted the best for her. And I hoped against hope that she was right. But, we never had the chance. We met for the last time that day at the rubber plantation. I wanted to leave immediately but she asked to wait for another month. She wanted to break the news gently to your parents first. And most of all, she wanted to see you before she left. She told me she had written to you, asking you to return so she could tell you anything. 1. Why is he leaving the island? __________________________________________________________________________ 2. Who is she in the extract? __________________________________________________________________________ 3. What is the relationship between him and her? __________________________________________________________________________ 4. In your opinion, is her action in confessing to her husband appropriate? Provide a reason for your answer. __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

For a moment, the hiss and whispering from Puan Normals corner stopped abruptly. Siti nudged away her brothers head from her view to see what had caused the sudden hush. Out in the front, flanked by a robust woman and an edgy-looking man, a girl at about twenty came up the steps. She looked around hesitantly. Her eyes behind her glasses glared out rather angrily at the group of women near Puan Normala. Then without a word, the girl pushed forward her heavy bag and stormed past the living room

72

5.

What had caused the sudden hush? __________________________________________________________________________

6.

What do you think the girl is? __________________________________________________________________________

7.

When did this incident take place? __________________________________________________________________________ Based on the excerpt, do you think the girls behaviour during the occasion is acceptable? State your reasons. __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

8.

The exercise below is based on the above extract. Indicate whether the following statements are True (T) or False (F).

Statement

True / False

(a) Mohd. Asraf wanted to leave the island for better employment.

(b) Mohd. Asraf is deeply in love with Azreen and wanted her to follow him, leaving the island.

(c) Madhuri wrote to Azreen and informed her about her affair with Mohd. Asraf.

(d) Mohd. Asraf and Madhuri could not leave the island immediately due to bad weather.

(e) Madhuri was murdered at the rubber plantation.

73

Based on the novel that you have studied, choose a character and discuss how a value is being demonstrated through the character you have chosen.

_________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________

74

THE CURSE

NOVEL

Answer Key
Activity 1 : Story Pyramid
1. Azreen takes time off from her studies in England to attend her sister, Madhuris funeral. 7. Azreen hears rumours that her sister is murdered. Everyone believes that Madhuris death will cause a curse to be cast upon them 4. Madhuris room is partially destroyed in a fire. It rains continuously and crops are damaged. Strange things happen to Azreen. 6. Mohd. Mohd. Asrafs grandmother dies 2. Suspicions are fuelled by superstition and the Old Lady is killed in a fire. 9. Mohd. Mohd. Asraf admitted that he loved Madhuri and they were going to leave Langkawi 3. Azreen finds out that sister Madhuri is adopted 8. Azreen found out that Saleh had killed in a fit of fury because she wanted to leave her husband for Mohd. Mohd. Asraf 5. Azreen goes back to England to continue her studies.

Activity 4
1. 2. 3.

: Guess Who

Azreen What has the disease done to you Mak? (Pg 26) Madhuri No Abah. Please dont. I love him. (Pg 225) Mohd. Mohd. Asraf I dont know Nek. If you dont get well soon, Im going to call the headmaster to tell him Im taking leave from work today.(Pg 117) Puan Normala Do you hear me? She has white blood. We have all been cursed. (Pg 14) Old Lady I killed my husband. And now Im paying for it. (Pg 101) Noor Ive seen how he was looking at her during her majlis bersanding. He looked as if he was on the verge of commiting suicide (Pg 59) Fatihah Shes very pretty, and very sweet-tempered and respectful to her elders. And very young. (Pg 79) Julian I thought you might need some support once you get back here. (Pg 232) Saleh Abdullah Go on and leave this house. You seem to think theyre better parents. (Pg 110) Awang Oh, I actually meant Madhuris mother, Cik Adik. I dont remember her name but shes very much alive. A little mad but alive. (Pg 208)

4.

5. 6.

7.

8. 9. 10.

75

Activity 7

: Name The Spot

1. The Old Lady killed her abusive husband in self-defence 2. Azreen and her family stayed here. 3. Saleh Abdullah found Madhuri as a baby here in the makeshift bed of rag and leaves 4. Azreen packed and left London 5. Photos of Madhuri were all torn into three parts 6. Azreen used to stay here whenever she had misunderstanding with her father 7. Awang revealed the truth about Madhuris adoption 8. Awang left the gate open and Mohd. Mohd. Asraf was blamed when the bull escaped. 9. Madhuris body was discovered here.

Activity 8
a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. l.

: Get The Message

Belief in the supernatural Gender stereotyping Love Love Belief in the supernatural Belief in the supernatural forgiveness Love Violence Gender stereotyping Violence Belief in the supernatural

m. Violence

Activity 9
Theme

: That says it all

Main idea Plot

Write down the information required in the boxes.

1. Madhuri is dead. FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN / BELIEF IN THE

SUPERNATURAL

There are rumours about how Madhuri died

2. Pn.Normala claims Madhuris blood was white. 3. She spreads rumours about the curse that will be cast on the villagers

76

1. The Old Lady is knowledgeable and educated. She marries a man who is loving at first. VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN Men believe women are the weaker sex towards them and they are violent towards them 2. He loses his job and becomes drunk.He hits her but

apologises. He injures her with a bottle. 3. Then he knees her and kicks 1. her. Azreen does not believe Madhuri died in an accident. 2. She investigates by asking around. Being persistent in getting to the truth 3. She listens to the ghost and checks out the parang. 4. She finds out that the real murderer is her own father.

STANDING UP FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN

Activity 10
Extract A Values 1. Caring 2.Compassion Extract B Values 1. Responsibilty 2.Diligence 3.Accountabilty

: Lifes lessons
Evidence Azreen lifted a spoon to her Azreen felt a pang of sorrow

Evidence she was back with a basket of fresh vegetables and a few packets of seeds the girl diligently repairing the trampled bed of ladys fingers. Oh, nothing. Just to say I am sorry.

77

Extract C Values 1.Caring

2. Diligence

3.Persistence

Evidence Madhuri put aside the basket, and went behind to the gardening shack to grab their fathers parang. Come, she said to Azreen. The two sisters struggled with the blade to shave the rattan into the right width and length. When their parents returned, the girls excused themselves quietly and forwent dinner.

Extract D Values 1.Wisdom 2. Loyalty 3.Bravery

Evidence wisely keeping the men at a distance Now that she was closer to the house (the Old Ladys house) Azeen sprinted. No!

Activity 11

: The good, the bad and the ugly

EVENTS THAT MADE AZREEN FEEL SAD 1.She felt lonely in England 2.She heard her sister had passed away EVENTS THAT MADE AZREEN FEEL ENVIOUS AND ANGRY 1.Madhuri was everybodys favourite 2.Madhuri was more beautiful and talented than her. 3.The girls in her class and her neighbours teased her for being unladylike. EVENTS THAT MADE AZREEN FEEL DETERMINED,FORGIVING AND PEACEFUL 1.She wanted to solve Madhuris mysterious death 2.She realised that Mohd.Mohd. Asraf was not the man she thought he was - he loved Madhuri ,although she was married 3.She discovered that Madhuri was adopted 4.She realised her father was the one who had murdered Madhuri in a fit of anger ,but she felt no rage at all

78

Activity 12

: Imagery

Metaphor: The use of words or phrases to an object or action to which it is imaginatively but not literally applicable 1. 2. 3. Especially that rotten durian neighbour of yours p.23 with the leaky-mouthed neighbour p.171 her fathers steely eyes p.222

Personification: An inanimated object is personified by attributing human traits and qualities to it. 1. 2. 3. 4. the black taxis whizzing past p.3 The plank beneath her feet creaked p.80 whose muscular biceps flexed menacingly p.93 it gripped his heart like a vice p.227

Onomatopoeia: Words that sound like the objects they name or the sounds those objects make. 1. 2. 3. 4. the wheels of the suitcase screeched as she p.2 The plank beneath her feet creaked p.80 There was a rustling of leaves p.219 words echoed boomingly in her head p.222

Hyperboles: are figures of speech that are exaggerated in order to create emphasis or effect 1. 2. girls fell for him left and right p.41 Argh Ill be dead if the teacher finds out p.91

Activity 14

: Voice It!

We had always gone out walking or cycling together around the village when we were kids. We had been inseparable. When I was five, I used to follow Madhuri on the bicycle. I would sit on the carrier at the back as Madhuri cycled to the market or the post office to do some chores for our busy parents. We would cycle past paddy fields; the farmers would always wave back at us and at times, would even let us have a ride on the back of buffaloes as they ploughed the field.

I left the mosque after the prayers with determined steps. I had been unsure at first when I saw that piece of evidence near the rubble earlier. That yellow cord. I was sure I had seen it on that crazy bomohs wrist whenever that man scampered past me. I had no patience for him. Many a times I had caught that bomoh trying to steal my chickens.

79

Activity 18

: Pit Stop

1. To pursue his studies in Kuala Lumpur 2. Madhuri 3. To discover whether the husband would accept her confession. 4. Accept any possible answer. Some suggestions of answers: Yes, rather than dwelling in the guilt (of the affair), it is better to be honest about it. No, because the implication of revealing the secret would destroy her marriage and tarnish her husbands reputation as the village headman 5. The appearance of a robust woman and an edgy-looking man at the gathering. 6. Azreen Saleh 7. Madhuris funeral 8. Accept any possible answer. Some suggestions of answers: Yes, it is acceptable considering she might be distraught of what has just happened to her. No, even though she had just suffered a great loss she still need to behave appropriately.

80

THE CURSE

NOVEL

Glossary
WORDS acquiescent deranged drenched scowled stomped devoured intricately throbbed lucid streaked scrawny hapless grimaced blabbermouth hovering flinched squirm snarled insolent ruffled PAGE p.79 p.80 p.82 p.82 p.82 p.84 p.85 p.85 p.86 p.88 p.89 p.90 p.91 p.91 p.92 p.93 p.93 p.94 p.94 p.95 MEANING IN CONTEXT agreeable, submissive disturbed soaked, dripping wet glared walk heavily eat greedily complicatedly beat, pulsate clear marked, splashed thin, skinny, unlucky, unfortunate frowned big mouth, busybody, gossip soaring draw back in fear; recoil feel humiliated growled rude stand out on its body when frightened

81

WORDS lurking flustered bashful disguise enraged leper

PAGE p.97 p.98 p.99 p.103 p.103 p.104

MEANING IN CONTEXT loitering anxious/ uncomfortable shy, timid, blushing hide/ conceal angry a person who has leprosy (infectious skin disease) sticks which someone with an injured foot or leg uses to support them when walking walked sit down heavily because of feeling very tired to treat with great or excessive care unsure, undecided abandoning pleasantly silent and bad-tempered because you are annoyed with something. having delicate beauty that seems almost supernatural. restrain manner of walking disturbance; commotion become kinder as result of growing older make movement with hands extinguish with liquid make a sudden, unintentional movement unbelievable decided not have series of words that is used as a magic spell. move quickly with small light steps 82

crutches

p.106

strode slumped pampering ambivalent deserting amicably sulk ethereal suppress gait ruckus mellowed gesticulated doused lurched incredulously forewent incantation scampered

p.107 p.107 p.110 p.113 p. 114 p. 114 p. 115 p. 115 p. 117 p. 120 p. 120 p. 122 p. 123 p. 126 p. 129 p.132 p. 143 p. 148 p. 152

WORDS countenance treacherous alleviate wayward nudged pariah amiable anguish bewilderment resentment vista horrendous

PAGE p. 153 p. 157 p. 158 p. 171 p. 185 p. 187 p. 195 p. 199 p. 211 p. 226 p. 231 p. 232

MEANING IN CONTEXT appearance of the face dangerous relieve; lessen difficult to control pushed gently social outcast agreeable agony the feeling of being confused hate view terrible

83

THE CURSE

NOVEL

Panel of Writers
Coordinators
Diana Fatimah Bt Ahmad Sahani Masreen Wirda Bt Mohammad Ali Tengku Ireneza Marina Tunku Mazlan Eileen Jessie Ah Guan Ng Yew Kee Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, KPM Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia Aras 4-8, Blok E9 Kompleks Kerajaan Parcel E Pusat Pentadbiran Kerajaan Persekutuan 62604 Putrajaya SMK Bintulu, Peti Surat 97 97007 Bintulu, Sarawak.

Jimmy Then Choon Jing

Panel of Writers
Xavier Manickam (Panel Head) Au Yeong Weng Hang SMK Rantau, Jalan Linsum, 71200 Rantau, Negeri Sembilan. SMK Seri Permaisuri, Bandar Seri Permaisuri 56000 Kuala Lumpur. SMK Cyberjaya, Persiaran Fauna 2, Zon Flagship 2, 63000 Cyberjaya. MRSM Taiping, Jalan Bukit Larut, 34000 Taiping, Perak.
SMK Taman Dato Harun,KM 12 Jalan Kelang Lama

Hazrimah Abdul Rahim

Nurul Bt Saharudin

Hemalatha a/p Bala Subramaniam

46000 Petaling Jaya. Ratnawati Kassim Yusliza Mohd Yusop SMK Kpg Datp Ahmad Said, Lebuh Rajawali, 30020 Ipoh, Perak.
MRSM Alor Gajah, Lot 1720, Mukim Air Paabas 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka.

84