An Unexpected Friendship
This is a model narrative essay prepared for a primary-level English language class when working as a teaching intern in an education centre in Singapore. Its PDF version can be found here.
It was like a spell that could stun millions. Upon hearing Jack's name, all the students nearby, even some teachers, would storm away in fear to avoid him and his sidekicks as far as possible. Nicknamed "The Bad Boy", Jack was a school bully that had notorious records of vandalism, theft and group fighting.
On the other end of spectrum was Jim. He was so unnoticeable that even his class teacher could barely remember his name. He ticked off all the boxes of a timid and weak student: soft-spoken, gets nervous easily and likes to crouch at one side of the classroom. Unfortunately, this made him Jack's favourite target. This explains why Jim always goes back home with empty pockets despite not spending any of his daily allowances.
Neither of them could ever imagine their relationship would change for the better, or so they thought.
It was a weekend like any other. Jack was by himself, enjoying his bicycle ride along the pathway of the community garden. Incidentally, Jim was also somewhere beside the pathway, casually reading while feeling the gentle breeze. Perhaps enjoying himself too much, Jack did not notice a cat walking across the pathway, causing him to fall from his bicycle and injure his leg when trying to avoid hitting it.
All of these happened before Jim's eyes, which made him rush towards Jack to help. He helped Jack up and called for an ambulance. Shocked, injured and too tired to assault him, Jack relented and accepted Jim's help, despite initially being shocked and angered by Jim's appearance. Over the next few days, Jack would find himself in the hospital, being visited by Jim everyday, who had even brought a basket of fruits for him during one of his visits. Not only that, Jim also kept Jack updated with the class progress and even helped him with his homework. Surprised by Jim's kindness despite all the hostility done towards him, Jack started to feel regretful about his past actions.
After a week, Jack was fully recovered and started going to school as usual. The entire school then found their jaws dropping at the sight of Jack and Jim walking side by side along the corridor while chatting happily, a sign of an unexpected, yet meaningful, friendship.