Writing Techniques
Formal Letters PDF Print E-mail
Written by Sandra   

FORMAL LETTERS 

 

  • Your address (but not your name) usually goes in the top right-hand corner.

  • The date can go either on the right or on the left.

  • The name and / or job title (if you know them) and address of the person you are writing to go next (on your left-hand side).

  • If you don't know the person's name you can write: Dear Sir, Dear Madam, Dear Sirs, Dear Sir / Madam or To whom it may concern.

  • If you know the name, you should use their title and surname: Dear Dr. Livingstone (not Dr. John Livingstone).

  • To end formal letters you use: Yours sincerely (if you addressed the person by the name or Yours faithfully if you have begun the letter Dear Sir / Madam).

  Useful tips:

  • Don't forget paragraphing;

  • Use Linking words (check category in this section);
Last Updated on Friday, 08 August 2008 20:50
 
Narration PDF Print E-mail
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Written by Sandra   

NARRATION (TELLING A STORY)

Paragraphing - A paragraph usually has one central idea. It is summarised in the key sentence, which is often near the beginning of the paragraph. The other sentences explain or expand on this key sentence. First paragraphs - The first paragraph of your text is very important. If it is good, the reader will want to go on. If it is weak, she may give up!


Planning - Always make a plan before you start. Your story will be clearer, and you will know where to start a new paragraph.

Use Linking words (Check category on linking words in this section)

The Ending - The final paragraph of your text is as important as the first. You need to leave the reader with a lasting impression.

Useful tips:

Remember to start a new paragraph for each new topic;
Write a key sentence for each paragraph;
Use the Past perfect and past continuous to setthe scene.
Use the simple past to list events.
Always make a plan before you start.
Last Updated on Friday, 08 August 2008 20:50
 
Commentary PDF Print E-mail
Written by Sandra   

TO WRITE A GOOD TEXT YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO:

  • Answer the question that is asked, not the one you think is being asked, or would prefer!
  • Keep looking back to the question and checking you are keeping to the point.
  • Make a plan by brainstorming ideas on a scrap of paper. When you have finished, check through and eliminate any unimportant items. Number the remaining items in a logical order. Use this as a guide for paragraphing.
  • Organise your ideas into paragraphs, with a key sentence in each paragraph. Make sure your paragraphs consist of a number of sentences (not just one) grouped round one central idea.
  • Link your paragraphs together.
  • Use a good range of grammatical structures and tenses.
  • Connect your sentences in a variety of ways. Do not just use and or but.
  • Begin with an interesting introduction which catches the reader's attention.
  • Use a range of vocabulary. Try to choose a good selection of adjectives and adverbs for descriptions.
  • Spell correctly.
  • Punctuate correctly.
  • Write an interesting ending. Do not just stop in mid air because time ran out

 
Last Updated on Friday, 08 August 2008 20:50