“I’m at a loss for words” – M’sian Teacher Loses Hope as Student Scores Just 4/40 in English SPM Trial Exam

A local teacher has expressed disappointment after one of their students scored just 4/40 in the English paper during the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) trial examinations.

Malaysian activist Mohd Fadli Salleh later shared the incident on Facebook, where the teacher had written, “I’m at a loss for words” on the student’s paper after seeing they had managed to score only 10%.

For illustration purposes only

Teacher disappointed as student only scored 10% in English SPM trial exam

Fadli, a former teacher himself, shared his thoughts on the post, saying he believes the teacher’s reaction likely stemmed from shock, as the student may have been one of the brightest in the class.

“The student scored just 4 out of 40, or 10%, in their SPM trial exam. I have a feeling this was one of the teacher’s brightest students. Perhaps they were one of the top students in the class and had always done well before. But this time, their performance dropped significantly,” he wrote.

Fadli also encouraged the teacher not to lose hope, saying the student could still turn things around. He added that there could be many reasons behind the sudden drop in the student’s performance.

“Maybe they’re dealing with family problems, financial difficulties, taking care of a bedridden parent, or working after school to help support the family and only getting home late at night,” he wrote.

“Don’t lose hope, teacher”

Fadli suggested that the best approach would be for the teacher to sit down with the student and try to understand what really happened.

“Sometimes, there are many reasons behind a student’s sudden decline in performance. The truth is, there are often struggles that people keep hidden, and we may never expect. That’s why we shouldn’t be too quick to judge,” he said.

He also shared a quote he came across:

“It is better to be mistaken in showing mercy than to be mistaken in passing judgment. Don’t lose hope, teacher. God willing, this student can still succeed.”

Fadli added that regardless of the challenges the student may be facing, he hopes they will continue to persevere and excel in the upcoming SPM examinations.

What are your thoughts on this? Do share your opinion in the comments. 

Also read: M’sian Mum Confronts Teacher as 7yo’s Exercise Marked Wrong for Using Maroon Pencil Instead of Bright Red