Maintain Her Strength – PSLE English Vocabulary Question 15 Explained

Introduction

PSLE vocabulary questions often test whether students can choose the most appropriate word based on meaning and real-life usage. This maintain her strength question is straightforward once you focus on the purpose of training before a competition.

The Question / Scenario Explanation

Source: English Paper, Question 15

The athlete trained daily to _____ her strength before the competition.

Options:

1. weaken
2. maintain ✅
3. damage
4. waste

Step-by-Step Solution / Explanation

Step 1: Identify the purpose of training

The sentence says the athlete trained daily before the competition.
Training is done to keep the body strong and ready, not to reduce strength.

Step 2: Choose the word that matches the intended meaning

Maintain her strength means to keep her strength at a good level and ensure she remains fit and prepared for the competition.

Step 3: Confirm the sentence sounds natural

Correct sentence:
The athlete trained daily to maintain her strength before the competition.

Correct Answer: Option (2) maintain ✅

Key Concepts Students Must Know

• maintain her strength = keep strength at a good level over time
• “Maintain” is often used with:
  • maintain health
  • maintain fitness
  • maintain balance
  • maintain standards
• PSLE vocabulary tests appropriateness: choose the word that fits the situation logically

Exam Tips / Common Mistakes

Exam Tips

• Ask: “What is the goal of the action?” (training → stay strong)
• Eliminate options that contradict the purpose
• Choose the most logical and natural word choice

Common Mistakes

• Picking a negative word like “weaken” or “damage” even though training aims to improve/keep fitness
• Choosing “waste” because it sounds possible, but it does not fit “strength” in this context
• Ignoring the clue “before the competition” (preparation context)

Parent Insight

Vocabulary questions like maintain her strength build students’ ability to select words based on logic and context—not guessing. Parents can support learning by encouraging children to:

• explain why an option fits the sentence
• practise matching words to purpose (train → maintain/improve, not weaken)
  With guided coaching, students become faster and more accurate in PSLE vocabulary MCQ.

Conclusion

Training daily before a competition is meant to keep an athlete strong and ready. That’s why maintain her strength is the best fit, making Option (2) “maintain” the correct answer.

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