article writing o level

Question 1 Directed Writing: How to Write an Article ( CIE IGCSE English Language )

Revision note.

Question 1 Directed Writing: How to Write an Article

One of the three formats that you may be asked to write in for Question 1 is an article. This will most likely be for a magazine, and you will be given the intended audience for your article and the reason why you are writing it in the task instructions. The opinions and ideas you put forward in your article should be based on what you have read in the reading passages given, and your writing marks will come from your ability to vary your writing to suit the purpose, audience and form of the task, as well as how you structure your response.

The following guide will detail how to structure your response in the style of an article. It is divided into:

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Author: Deb Orrock

Deb is a graduate of Lancaster University and The University of Wolverhampton. After some time travelling and a successful career in the travel industry, she re-trained in education, specialising in literacy. She has over 16 years’ experience of working in education, teaching English Literature, English Language, Functional Skills English, ESOL and on Access to HE courses. She has also held curriculum and quality manager roles, and worked with organisations on embedding literacy and numeracy into vocational curriculums. She now manages a post-16 English curriculum as well as writing educational content and resources.

Programmes & Qualifications

Cambridge o level english language (1123).

• Past papers, examiner reports and specimen papers

You can download one or more papers for a previous session. Please note that these papers may not reflect the content of the current syllabus.

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This is only a selection of our papers. Registered Cambridge International Schools can access the full catalogue of teaching and learning materials including papers from 2018 through our School Support Hub .

Past papers

• -->June 2022 Mark Scheme Paper 11 (PDF, 235KB)
• -->June 2022 Mark Scheme Paper 21 (PDF, 264KB)
• -->June 2022 Insert Paper 21 (PDF, 909KB)

Examiner reports

• -->June 2022 Examiner Report (PDF, 2MB)

Specimen papers

• -->2018 Paper 1 Specimen Mark Scheme (PDF, 145KB)
• -->2018 Paper 2 Specimen Insert (PDF, 140KB)
• -->2018 Paper 2 Specimen Mark Scheme (PDF, 165KB)
• -->2024 Paper 1 Specimen insert (PDF, 975KB)
• -->2024 Paper 1 Specimen Mark scheme (PDF, 1MB)
• -->2024 Paper 2 Specimen Mark scheme (PDF, 967KB)

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Writing: Exercise 6 (Writing an article)

This is the final exercise of Paper 1 and 2. It can be an article, a report or a review writing. We’ll look at articles here.

You will be given a topic (more like a question to ponder up on) on which you have to write your views and opinions. This can either be a two-sided article (for and against) or a one-sided article (just your opinion). It is up to you to decide.

The topics usually given for this exercise are easy enough that you can come up with points right there in the exam, but it is good if you read upon various issues from around the word (obesity, technological influences, environmental issues, animal welfare, teenager issues etc).

So here’s how to attempt this question:

• Before you start it is a good idea that you come up with a plan . Use the blank space below the question to make your plan, in pencil. In your plan write down the answers to these questions:
• The audience : this will be specified in the question (it is almost always a school magazine). So when you write, keep in mind that you need to write to that audience. Your language, tone and vocabulary should reflect this.
• Is my article going to be two-sided or one-sided?  If you know a lot about the topic and can weigh up the pros and cons, then go for two-sided. If you’re not too knowledgeable about it, stick to one-sided.
• How do I introduce the topic? Start off by saying what the topic is and how important the topic is in today’s world. Why it is such a problem? Or is it a problem?
• What’s in the body ? Write down three points . (If it’s two-sided write two pros and two cons) . You will develop your body based on these points. A few points will be given in your question paper, and you can use those!
• How will I conclude the article? You need to sum up your points and give your final opinion (even if it’s two-sided, give your final opinion on the matter).
• Organise . By now, you’ve pretty much come up with the contents of your article. Now organise your points into paragraphs.
• One-sided Article: Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Paragraph 2: First point with justification (or counter-argument)
• Paragraph 3: Second point with justification (or counter-argument)
• Paragraph 4: Opposing point which you contradict (here, you state a point said by people who have a different opinion from yours and explain why they are wrong. This is called argument and   counter-argument )
• Paragraph 5: Conclusion- summary, (solution?), repeat your opinion
• Two-sided Article: Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Paragraph 2: Advantages/’For’
• Paragraph 3: Disadvantages/’Against’
• Paragraph 4: Conclusion- Summary and final opinion
• Write . Use a variety of connecting words and argumentative phrases . Examples:
• Expressing opinions: I agree/ disagree with the above statement that
• In my opinion
• I believe that
• I am in favour of
• I am against the idea of
• It seems to me that
• I sympathize with
• Presenting and contrasting opinions: The main argument in favour/ against is
• It is often said that
• First of all I should like to consider
• Apart from that
• Even though
• Furthermore
• In addition
• Nevertheless
• Despite the fact that/ In spite of
• On the other hand
• On the contrary
• What is more
• What matters most in this case is
• It is a fact that
• There is no doubt that
• Reasoning: Because of
• As a result of
• Consequently
• On account of
• Concluding: To sum up
• To conclude
• It can be concluded that
• Thus, I am of the opinion that
• Argumentative verbs (use these instead of say/tell ):

Here’s an example of a  one-sided article . This is one-sided because, even though it weighs up both ‘for’ and ‘against’ points, in each paragraph it contradicts the ‘for’ points and alludes to the same conclusion that zoos should be abolished. This is called the argument/counter-argument format.

• Use your own points , words and phrases as far as possible. The more original your content is, the better.
• Give a suitable title
• Keep to the word limit 150-200 words. Exceeding a little over 200 is not a problem.
• Always have an introduction and conclusion
• Always organise your points into paragraphs . One para for each point (one-sided) or all advantages in one para and disadvantages in another para (two-sided) is the ideal format.
• A final opinion has to be given.
• Punctuation, spelling and grammar is very important. Check your writing once you’re done.

Time Management

For the core paper 1 take 20 minutes for this exercise

For the extended paper 2, 30 minutes should suffice to answer this question. Spend 10 minutes to come up with a plan, 15 minutes to organise and write your article. Use the 5 minutes left to read over your article, make changes and correct spelling, grammar and punctuation errors.

Notes submitted by Lintha

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46 thoughts on “ Writing: Exercise 6 (Writing an article) ”

wonderful! hope you keep updating with the new Syllabus

OMGGGG this information in awesome, thanks a lottt. Tomorrow im having a test on this!!!!!!!!

Like Liked by 1 person

Hi, this post was really helpful, but I have a question. Is it ok to take a stand (for or against) in magazine article writing? It is not a persuasive writing.

It’s preferable to remain neutral when it comes to magazine articles unless the specific topic you are addressing in the article expects you to take a stand for something, then go for it.

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O Level English Language 1123 Unit 6: Directed Writing

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O Level English Language Updated - Everything You Need to Know

by Linta Rasheed

Greetings, diligent  O Level English Language (1123) students ! Whether you're in Pakistan or beyond, you're undoubtedly aware of the significance of staying well-informed about the latest syllabus changes , particularly the one that takes effect from 2024 to 2026.

This  comprehensive guide will delve into every nook and cranny of the English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus , equipping you with the knowledge and insights needed to conquer this academic frontier . 

Vision & Structure of the English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus

Vision behind the change: .

This change brings a dynamic approach to language learning and assessment in the O Level English paper. This  syllabus aims to provide a more engaging and contemporary learning experience, highlighted by additional command words and revitalized academic objectives.

Assessment Structure for O Levels English Syllabus 2024:

The O Levels English updated syllabus sticks to its two-paper format - Paper 1 and Paper 2. However, with the new O Level English updated syllabus in play, some changes in mark distribution and question types align perfectly.

English Language O Levels Paper Pattern

O levels english paper 1 (reading): the 80/20 challenge .

In O Levels English Paper 1, we dive into a two-hour journey dedicated to the art of Reading. This paper is divided into two sections , with a major focus on Reading (80%) and a sprinkle of Writing (20%) . 

Section A: Comprehension  and Use of Language (25 Marks):

In this section, you'll encounter a 900-word narrative text , Text A, plucked from 21st-century literature to give an updated touch to O Levels English Paper 1. 

Question 1: Comprehension (16 Marks) 

In these Cambridge O Level English Paper 1 comprehension questions, you'll tackle short-answer questions that test your grasp of the text's  explicit and implicit meanings. 

Question 2: Use of Language (9 Marks) 

You'll analyze the author's language choices ( reading between the lines ) and their impact on the text's overall effect. You'll uncover the writer's craft of influencing readers through short-answer questions.

Section B: Summary and Short Response (25 marks) 

For this section's questions, you’ll refer to the shorter Text B, hovering around 600 words.

Question 3a: Summary (20 marks) 

In the English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus , you must write a 150-word summary demonstrating your ability to filter information , organize ideas, use context-appropriate vocabulary , and understand explicit meanings - honing in on reading and writing assessment objectives. 

Question 3b: Short Response (5 marks) 

Through short responses, you, as an O Level student , will display your understanding of implicit meanings and attitudes.  

O Levels English Paper 2 (Writing): The Art of Expression 

In O Levels English Paper 2 , you'll spend two hours showcasing your writing prowess. This paper strongly emphasizes your writing skills, with an impressive 80% weightage given to the Writing component. In comparison, Reading takes up the remaining 20% . 

Section A: Directed Writing (25 Marks) 

This section presents you with one to two 400-word texts to evaluate. Your task? Craft an argumentative speech , email, report, letter, or article within a word limit of 250-300 words . It's a creative buffet of options ! A heads-up: master the speech writing format O Level and report writing format English O Level while reviewing  O Level English past papers . 

15 Marks for Writing Assessment Objectives 

You'll earn 15 marks here by nailing the speech or report writing format English O Level, demonstrating articulation skills, showcasing vocabulary breadth, maintaining an appropriate register, and ensuring grammatical accuracy.

10 Marks for Reading Assessment Objectives 

The remaining 10 marks test your analytical abilities. Can you extract key ideas (such as understanding the theme ), find textual support, and target useful information? This is where your critical thinking skills shine.

Section B: Composition (25 Marks) 

In this section, you'll choose one question from two descriptive and two narrative prompts. Whether you're a vivid scene painter or a storyteller, there's a canvas for your imagination. However, remember that brevity is the soul of wit, so keep your composition within the 350-450 word range. 

The English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus sets clear expectations for your writing prowess. It would help if you showcased vivid expression, masterful structuring, a rich vocabulary, and grammatical expertise. A heads-up: master composition writing by practicing on O Level English past papers . 

In conclusion, tackling the O Levels English syllabus 2024 might appear intimidating initially. However, by engaging in English Language O Level  past papers practice , refining your speech and report writing format for English  O Level , and embracing the focus on literary analysis, you're off to a promising start on your academic journey. 

And remember, there's no need to feel overwhelmed. Out-Class offers a comprehensive solution to help you excel in the O Levels English new syllabus. With a meticulously crafted and compact course led by a leading tutor, you'll find yourself on a guided path to academic success. 

So, embrace the challenge, and let your academic journey begin!

For more detailed changes, click here: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/news/whats-new/cambridge-o-level/english/

If you want to dive right in, let's start with selecting the course you want

What course are you interested in, choose from the list.

Ultimate Resource For Cambridge Assessment International Education

English language (1123), about english language:.

The Cambridge O Level English Language syllabus enables learners to communicate accurately, appropriately and effectively and to understand and respond appropriately and imaginatively to what they read and experience. They will employ different forms of writing to suit a range of purposes and will show that they can understand the contentand argument of given texts.

General Comments by the Author:

Cambridge O Level English is interlinked with real English. You need to be a good writer to get an A*. You might be able to get away with an A with a bad Paper 1, but for an A*, you definitely need to be good in writing. Of course, you can’t account for stuff like writer’s block happening in the paper, that’s sheer bad luck.

O Level English Paper 1 is more driven on your writing style rather than vocabulary. Only fit in those difficult words that you know will sound right. The more you read, the better your grasp of said words. I personally read a lot of online articles which led me to a good Paper 1. My vocabulary isn’t very broad but I have read articles on news, sports etc and as such I know how to write on such issues with conviction. And yes, keep as less grammar mistakes as possible. You cannot write a good paper in a month without luck; it requires a lot of hard work on your end. There’s a general misconception that for English you don’t need to study anything, but the inverse is true; you need to study/read a lot of things to master the language. You must speak a language if you want to be in good in it.  Regarding what to read, either follow my tip (read articles on politics, sports, reviews, whatever you like) or go to books (more preferred). The more you read, the more you will write (in school or home), the more practice you will have and the better it will be. That’s just how languages work. However, it isn’t that it is tough. The percentile for this subject is low.

Regarding the word limits, don’t worry about them. I, personally, wrote a 900+ words narrative and secured an A*. It’s good to stick to the word limit, but if you exceed the limit then don’t worry at all as it won’t pose any problems. However, you must keep track of time when writing lengthy scripts!

Also, keep a look out on formats and styles (the formats for different directed writings are discussed in their respective sections. Click here to move to the list of directed writings).But remember, formats are just for presentation, which to some extent should not be totally ignored. So yes follow the formats, but don’t stress over them, rather concentrate on the content and language skills shown by your piece of writing.

Do not the count the words! The word limit is given for just a rough estimate of how long your composition should be. You never need to count. Its just wastage of time. But, for summary writing in paper 2, you must take care of words.

Now moving to English Paper 2. This paper has a lot of free time available so you can easily revise and think the best solution. You need some practice, but it’s only those 5 word meanings that can catch you out. Recent comprehensions (solve them here ) aren’t very difficult. Do answer the first question in your head, whether you can analyze the passage and answer. If you can’t, I recommend googling on tips on how to read critically and applying them. This wasn’t a problem for me so I can’t really help you here (all I would say would be rehashing stuff on Google ).

Following are tricks, tips and notes for English Language Syllabus:

Composition Writing

• Narrative Writing
• Argumentative Writing
• Descriptive Writing
• Discursive Writing
• One-Word Essays

Directed Writing

• Letters (Formal)
• Letters (Informal)
• Speech Writing
• Report Writing
• Account Writing
• Articles (News Paper articles)

General Writing tips / advices / expressions / words

• Grammar – Video Lectures

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Very imp book

I need english dce papers

I need some English books

Can you please make notes for other direct writings as well

their are no note for commerce students please help commerce students also

Resources for CIE English Examinations

• Discussion Forum
• GCE AS Level General Paper 8004
• Resources for Teachers
• Formats for O’level English Directed Writing Tasks

The formats for O’level English Directed Writing tasks are given below. FIRST & FOREMOST: Always remember to follow the instructions given in the question about the format, & ignore everything else that anyone has told you about the formats.

Formal Letter

If the question includes the instruction “Start your letter ‘Dear Sir'”, you don’t need to write the addresses or date in the format. You may include the addressed and date, if no such instruction is given in the question.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Body of the Letter ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Yours sincerely, / Yours faithfully, / Yours truly,

(Put your signature here.)

(Write your full name here.)

(Write your post here, if you are writing the letter in an official position, e.g. The Secretary, Drama Club ABC School )

_________________________________________________________________

Informal Letter

Dear Uncle, / Ali,      (Write the relationship if the recipient is a family member, and the name in case of a friend.)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Body of the Letter ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Love, / Best regards, / Best wishes,

(Write your first name here.)

To the Principal,

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Body of the Report  ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

• To: The Principal (The Recipient) From: (Your full name) Subject: Report on the accident at Hassan Square (Write the heading for your report.) Date: 3rd June, 2016 / June 3, 2016 (Follow the proper format for writing the date.)

To the Police,

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Body of the Account  ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

• If no instructions about the format are given in the question, then according to my limited understanding, you can use the format of the formal letter.

Newspaper Report / Magazine Article

A Headline: (Horrific accident claims  five lives on Korangi Road) Reported by: (Your full name.)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………  Body of the Newspaper Report / Article ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Ladies & gentlemen,   (for general audience) /

Honourable principal, respected teachers & dear fellow students,    (for school audience)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………    Speech  ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Thank you. (Optional)

• AS Level GP 8004 Past Papers
• IGCSE First Language English 0500 Past Papers
• O'level English Language 1123 Past Papers
• O'level Literature in English 2010 Past Papers

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Situational Writing Formats

Even though situational writing formats have become increasingly less important for ‘O’ level English, it is still relevant as a totally wrong format may be penalised. To help students, the formats for situational writing is attached below.

Situational Writing Format: Informal Letter

Situational Writing Format: Informal Email

Situational Writing Format: Formal Letter

Situational Writing Format: Formal Email

Situational Writing Format: Report / Proposal

Situational Writing Format: Article

Situational Writing Format: Speech

Ultimately, to score well for situational writing, you have to do more than just know the situational writing formats. Understanding the purpose, the audience and the context of the situational writing are more important. To find out more about the English syllabus, you can read more about the 1128 syllabus here . For more about the O level examination, you may click here .

Critical Thought English & Humanities is your best resource for English, English Literature, Social Studies, Geography and History.

My experience, proven methodology and unique blend of technology will help your child ace their exams.

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Formal vs informal writing – o level situational writing.

by LearningGems.sg | Apr 29, 2023 | 0 comments

Introduction | Formal vs Informal Writing – O Level Situational Writing

Having good writing skills is crucial for success in many areas of life. This is particularly true for students, where the ability to write clearly and effectively is key in achieving a distinction. In O Level Situational Writing , students are to write an essay to suit the purpose, audience and context of a given task. To do this well, students must have good understanding of formal and informal writing styles and apply them appropriately depending on the situation.

In this article, we will first highlight the differences between formal and informal writing. Subsequently, we will provide you with sample introductory paragraphs written for past-year O Level papers.

1. Key Differences in Formal and Informal Writing

In this section, we contrast between formal and informal writing using the context of an internship application. While we provide illustrative examples of both styles, we also highlight an inappropriate, overly casual example that is unsuitable for a formal application.

Tone refers to the attitude or emotion conveyed in writing. In formal writing, the tone is often objective, serious, respectful, and polite. In informal writing, the tone often friendly, casual, and relaxed. The tone helps to convey the writer’s intention and can affect how the reader responds to the writing.

1.2 Contractions

Contractions are shortened forms of two words, such as “can’t” instead of “cannot”. In formal writing, contractions are avoided. However, in informal writing, contractions are used because they make writing sound more natural and conversational.

1.3 Vocabulary

Formal vocabulary is often more precise and serious. Informal vocabulary is more casual, colloquial, and relaxed. When writing for a formal audience, it is important to use appropriate formal vocabulary to show respect and professionalism.

1.4 Sentence structure

Formal writing tends to have longer, more complex sentences and follow traditional rules of sentence structure. Informal writing often uses shorter and simpler sentences.

1.5 Use of jargon and slang

Jargon refers to specialised language or technical terms that are used in a specific field or profession. Slang refers to informal words or phrases that are commonly used in a specific group or culture. In formal writing, the use of jargon may be appropriate and necessary to convey precise meaning or show expertise. However, in informal writing, jargon is rarely used, if at all, because it can be confusing and alienating to the reader. Slang can be used to create a more casual or playful tone, but should be used judiciously and with consideration for the audience.

In the exam though, slang should be avoided altogether. After all, an exam is for assessment purposes, and using slang can prevent the marker from accurately evaluating your language ability.

1.6 Personal pronouns

In formal writing, personal pronouns are often avoided or used in a limited way because they can make the writing sound too personal or subjective. For example, second person pronouns like “you” are often avoided in formal writing because they can sound accusatory or presumptuous. In informal writing, personal pronouns are often used to create closeness between the reader and writer.

1.7 Phrasal verbs

Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and a preposition, such as “check in” or “figure out”. In formal writing, the use of phrasal verbs may be appropriate if they convey the intended meaning clearly and accurately. However, in general, formal writing tends to use more precise and technical vocabulary, while phrasal verbs are more commonly used in informal writing to create a more conversational tone.

1.8 Passive voice

In informal writing, active voice is often used because it is more direct and engaging. In contrast, passive voice is often used in formal writing because it can make the writing sound more objective. However, take note that overuse of passive voice can make writing sound vague or confusing.

2. Sample O Level Essays (Introductory Paragraph)

In this part of the article, we will use past-year O Level Situational Writing papers to demonstrate how you can apply your knowledge of formal and informal writing styles to craft an introductory paragraph that is appropriate to the given task.

2.1 An extract from O Level 2022 (Formal)

Your school is offering students the opportunity to go on an overseas learning journey. For your year level, there are three residential trips available. As places are limited, the school will select the most suitable students for each trip. Students must write a letter to the Principal to indicate which trip they would like to be considered for.

Sample Introductory Paragraph:

I am writing to express my interest in the upcoming overseas learning journey that our school is offering for our year level. The prospect of exploring a new country and immersing myself in a different culture while gaining valuable knowledge and experience is truly exciting. I understand that there are three residential trips available and that the most suitable students will be selected for each trip. As such, I would like to indicate my preference for a specific trip and provide reasons why I believe I am a suitable candidate.

Non-Exemplar:

I heard that our school is offering this cool overseas learning trip for our year level. I’m legit keen to go check out a new place! But I heard there are only three spots and the school will pick the best students. Not gonna lie, I think I’ll be the best choice you can ever get.

2.2 An extract from O Level 2019 (Informal)

Your brother and sister-in-law will celebrate an important wedding anniversary next year, and your aunt and uncle would like to pay for an overseas trip as a gift for them. They have seen a travel website and have asked you to advise them about which trip your brother and sister-in-law would like best. Write an email to your aunt and uncle to explain your views.

How have you been? I hope you’re in good spirits! I was absolutely thrilled to hear that you’re planning to surprise Josh and Reena with a special trip for their upcoming wedding anniversary. How exciting! I’d be more than happy to lend a hand in making their celebration unforgettable. As you mentioned, you’ve been browsing a travel website and are looking for suggestions. Count me in! I have some great ideas and recommendations that I believe will make this a truly magical and memorable experience for this pair of newly-weds. Let’s work together to create an anniversary celebration that they’ll never forget!

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to provide advice on selecting the most suitable overseas trip as a gift for my brother and sister-in-law’s wedding anniversary. As per your request, I have conducted a thorough examination of the travel website and collated relevant information pertaining to each trip. After much deliberation, I would like to present my recommendations.

Conclusion | Formal vs Informal Writing – O Level Situational Writing

As a final note, understanding the differences between formal and informal writing styles and knowing how to apply them appropriately is essential for success in O Level Situational Writing. Bear in mind the key features of both styles of writing, and practise using them in various situations to hone your skills. Get feedback from an experienced teacher on your writing, and you will soon be on your way to mastering O Level Situational Writing.

Learning Gems is a premium tuition centre that provides quality online English tuition classes to PSLE and G3 / GCE ‘O’ Level students in Singapore. Our teachers are well-versed with the latest MOE syllabus and have taught at various schools in Singapore. Be it the primary or secondary level, we possess the relevant experience and are fully qualified to help your child.

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O Level English Tuition: Situational Writing Tips and Model Essay

Understanding O Level English Situational Writing 

Situational writing in O Level English requires meticulous attention to crafting text that aligns with the specified context, purpose, and audience, emphasising the use of internationally acceptable English. This task demands precision, challenging students to articulate their thoughts within 250-350 words across various formats like emails, reports, or speeches. It assesses students’ capability to write clearly, effectively, relevantly, and coherently, demonstrating an adept understanding of both written and visual texts at literal, inferential, and evaluative levels. Mastery in situational writing hinges on recognising how language use can fulfil a specific purpose and make a significant impact, underlining the importance of the correct format and tone to engage the intended audience successfully and meet the desired objectives.

O Level English Situational Writing Formats

Understanding the different formats of situational writing is essential for success in O Level English. Each format, whether a letter, email, report, article, essay, or speech, has distinct characteristics that must be adhered to.

Formal and Informal Letter Formats 

Formal letters are characterised by a structured layout, formal salutations, and a polite tone. They communicate with entities like schools, businesses, or local councils. Informal letters, on the other hand, adopt a more casual tone suitable for personal correspondence with friends or family.

Formal Letter:

• Name and address of sender and recipient, and date, are all left-aligned
• Salutation such as “Dear Sir/Madam,”
• Purpose of the letter in the introduction
• Body paragraphs structured with each point
• Formal sign-off such as “Yours sincerely,” followed by full name

Informal Letter:

• Casual opening like “Hi [Name],”
• Conversational tone throughout
• Paragraphs with personal news or information
• Casual sign-off like “Best wishes,” or “Cheers,” followed by first name only

Formal and Informal Email Formats

The format of formal emails should include a clear subject line, a professional salutation, and a closing with the sender’s name and credentials. Informal emails can be more relaxed, using a personal greeting and a simple signature.

Formal Email:

• Subject line that encapsulates the email’s purpose
• Professional greeting
• Introduction stating the email’s intent
• Body that elaborates on the main points with a formal tone
• Formal closing with sender’s full name and position

Informal Email:

• Casual subject line
• Friendly greeting such as “Hey [Name],”
• Relaxed tone with short paragraphs
• Casual sign-off like “Talk soon,” or “Take care,” with first name only

Report Format

A report must have a clear title, subheadings for organisation, and a concise summary of findings or recommendations structured in an easy-to-navigate layout that supports the text’s purpose.

• Title at the top of the page
• Introduction outlining the report’s purpose
• Headings and subheadings to organise information
• Conclusions and recommendations as applicable
• Signature line at the end with the author’s name and position

Article Format

Articles should grab attention with a catchy headline and maintain interest with well-structured arguments and a strong conclusion.

• Catchy headline
• Byline with the writer’s name
• Opening paragraph that summarises the article
• Main body divided into several paragraphs with subheadings
• Concluding statement or call to action

Essay Format

Essays require a clear thesis, body paragraphs supporting the thesis with evidence, and a concluding statement reinforcing the main argument.

• Introduction with a thesis statement
• Main body organised into paragraphs, each supporting the thesis
• Use of evidence and examples to back up points
• Conclusion summarising the argument and reiterating the thesis

Speech Format

Speeches must engage the audience from the greeting, maintain interest with clear points, and conclude with a memorable closing that reinforces the speech’s key message or call to action.

• Greeting and introduction
• Statement of purpose or thesis
• Main points presented clearly with support
• Conclusion summarising key points and a final thought or call to action
• Thank-you and closing

Distinguishing Formal and Informal English O Level Situational Writing Formats

The nuances of situational writing in O Level English hinge on the distinction between formal and informal formats. Whether applying for an internship or writing to a loved one, appropriate tone, vocabulary, and sentence structure is key. Here, we examine these differences to guide students in tailoring their writing to any given scenario.

The tone sets the mood for your writing. Formal writing is serious and respectful, while informal writing is conversational and friendly. Choose a tone that aligns with your intention and your audience’s expectations.

Precision and seriousness characterise formal vocabulary; conversely, informal writing allows for a relaxed, everyday word choice that might include colloquial expressions.

Sentence Structure

Formal writing favours complex sentences and a traditional structure, whereas informal writing often opts for brevity and simplicity.

Personal Pronouns

Formal writing limits the use of personal pronouns to avoid subjectivity, while informal writing uses them liberally to create a personal connection.

Phrasal verbs

Phrasal verbs lend a conversational tone to informal writing. In formal contexts, opting for precise verbs can enhance clarity and professionalism.

Passive Voice

The passive voice can lend an objective tone to formal writing; however, active voice makes informal writing direct and engaging.

Tips for Enhancing O Level English Situational Writing Skill

Improving your situational writing skills for O Level English requires deliberate practice and smart strategies. Here are tips to help you refine your writing:

• Understand the  Formats : Familiarise yourself with different writing formats — letters, reports, speeches, and emails. Recognise the conventions for each and practice writing in both formal and informal styles.
• Read and Analyse : Study high-scoring situational writing samples. Note how they address purpose, audience, and context (PAC). Identify effective use of tone, vocabulary, and sentence structure.
• Practice Regularly : Use practice prompts that mimic O Level questions. Set a timer to simulate exam conditions and focus on writing clearly and concisely within the word limit.
• Brainstorming Techniques : Before writing, brainstorm ideas for content. Use mind maps to organise thoughts and ensure you cover all required points in your response.
• Expand Your Vocabulary : Learn new words daily and practice using them in sentences. A rich vocabulary allows for precise expression in both formal and informal writing.
• Seek Feedback : After writing, seek feedback from teachers or peers. Understand your mistakes and learn how to correct them.
• Revise and Rewrite : Don’t be content with your first draft. Revise and rewrite sections to improve clarity and flow. Pay attention to feedback received and implement changes.
• Master PAC : Always consider Purpose, Audience, and Context. Tailor your language and content to suit these elements effectively.
• Stay Updated : Stay aware of current events and general knowledge. This will allow you to use relevant examples in your writing, making your arguments more convincing.
• Use Active Voice : Practice using the active voice to make your writing more direct and dynamic. It’s essential in informal writing and for creating an engaging narrative.
• Avoid Slang and Jargon : While familiar language is good in informal writing, avoid slang and jargon that may confuse the reader or come across as unprofessional.
• Edit Ruthlessly : After writing, edit your work. Check for grammar mistakes and unnecessary wording, and ensure the tone remains consistent throughout.

Common Mistake to Avoid in English O Level Situational Writing

To excel in O Level English situational writing, be aware of common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Straying From Purpose : Always align your writing with the task’s objective. If you’re to invite someone, your entire piece should revolve around this action without deviation.
• Misjudging the Audience : Know who you’re writing to. Tailoring content to your audience is crucial; failure to do so can disconnect your message and reduce its impact.
• Forgetting Formality : Always maintain politeness and formality when needed. For instance, use “My uncle and I would like to invite you…” instead of “Uncle Tim and me…”
• Inaccuracies in Details : Double-check for factual correctness. An error as minor as the wrong date can cost marks.
• Using Short Forms : Avoid contractions and abbreviations in formal writing. Spell out months and avoid acronyms unless they’re well-known or explained.
• Lacking a Clear Conclusion : End with a clear call to action, especially when the task involves an invitation or request.
• Neglecting Punctuation : Proper punctuation is non-negotiable. Commas, periods, and question marks guide the reader through your text and clarify meaning.

Frequently Asked Questions about O Level English Situational Writing Format

How can i effectively manage my time during the o level english situational writing exam to ensure i complete all tasks within the allotted time.

Effective time management is essential for completing all tasks within the allotted time during your O Level English situational writing exam. Allocate approximately 5 minutes for planning, 35 minutes for writing, and the final 5 minutes for reviewing. Practising timed drills can significantly improve your efficiency and comfort with this time distribution on exam day. For additional guidance and strategies to refine your skills, enrol in our O Level English tuition  today.

Are visual stimuli always provided in situational writing?

Yes, visual stimuli accompany the situational writing task to offer context and direction. Carefully analyse these visuals as they are integral to crafting a response that aligns with the exam’s requirements.

How do I maintain the correct tone in situational writing?

Maintaining the correct tone in situational writing involves identifying the task’s purpose, audience, and context to choose the appropriate tone. For formal writing, use a respectful, professional tone; for informal scenarios, a more relaxed, conversational tone is suitable. Adjust your language accordingly.

Can I use my own words and phrases in situational writing?

Yes, you are expected to do so! Using your own words showcases creativity and language mastery in your situational writing. Ensure your expressions remain relevant to the context, tone, format, and audience. This approach is equally valuable when responding to O Level English essay questions, where expressing ideas uniquely can enhance your engagement with the exam’s requirements.

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Directed Writing- Cambridge O Level

Subject: English

Age range: 14-16

Resource type: Lesson (complete)

Last updated

20 September 2021

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Cambridge O Level (1123) Paper 1 deals with directed writing which teaches the students to write letters, reports, articles etc. This lesson serves as an introduction to this section and providing lesson notes for formal letters and informal letter, speeches and reports.

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How to write a good summary in the O level English exam?

23 aug how to write a good summary in the o level english exam.

Students commonly face challenges when working on summary for comprehension. It appears daunting to them as they find it difficult to find the relevant points, as well as paraphrasing the points that they have found. Here is a simple step-by-step approach to tackling summary.

Step 1: Read the topic carefully and understand what you need to summarise. Students often dive into the summary question without reading clearly what is the topic that they have to write their summary according to. Students should be very careful before they even start looking for their summary points as the topic given will guide them in the specific and relevant points that they want to look for.

Step 2: Check which are the paragraphs you will need to select your summary points from. Students who do not read the question carefully often select points that are not within the designated paragraphs. Those points, since they are out of the question, will not bring any marks for the students.

Step 3: Find 8 relevant points from the designated paragraphs. According to the marking scheme, only a maximum of 8 points are awarded for the content of the summary. Students will do well and maximise their content marks if they spend the time and effort to make sure that they are selecting 8 most relevant points to the topic provided.

Step 4: Paraphrase each of the 8 points and keep it within the 80-word word limit. 7 marks are awarded for the language section of the summary questions. In order for students to achieve good marks for this section, students will need to paraphrase the relevant points that they have found. Paraphrasing is usually the most demanding on students who usually do not have a good grasp of the English language or do not have a wide range of vocabulary at their fingertips. To improve on their vocabulary, students can practice paraphrasing by finding synonyms (same-meaning words) for the words they wish to paraphrase in their summary.

A worked-out example of summary question.

Summarise the use of kites throughout history, using materials from paragraphs 1 to 5.

The relevant points

1. “they believed the kites would show them whether or not their voyage would be prosperous”

2. “how madmen or drunkards were tied to kites and sent up as unwilling victims of a cruel joke”

3. “a Japanese thief did indeed risk his life and used a man-carrying kite in a daring attempt to steal the gold from the statues on the top of the towers of Nagoya castle”

4. “kites made in the form of animals, wide-mouthed, with long flowing tails of finely spun cloth which twisted and turned like dragons above the soldiers”

5. “the kites helped the archers determine the strength and direction of wind so they could release their arrows with more deadly effect”

6. “an American, Benjamin Franklin, used a kite to carry out experiments on weather”

7. “his idea was to provide the British Army with a means of observation from the air”

8. “it was on one of Baden Powell’s kites that Marconi, in 1901, raised an aerial that was vital to the first successful reception in England of radio signals from a transmitter on the American shore of the Atlantic Ocean”

Paraphrased points

1. Sailors used them to determine when to set sail.

2. Jokers used them to ferry madmen and drunkards aloft.

3. Thieves used them to reach high places to steal.

4. Animal kites were used in war to frighten the enemy.

5. Archers used kites to help them become accurate.

6. Kites have also been used in weather experiments.

7. Kites are used to make observations from the air.

8. They have played a part in early radio communications.

Fully-written summary

Man has made use of kites throughout history in various ways. Sailors used them to decide when to set sail and jokers utilise them to ferry madmen and drunkards aloft. Kites are useful for thieves to reach high places to steal. Animal kites were used in war to scare off the enemy and archers used them to assist in their accuracy. Kites are tools in weather experiments, helping to make observations from the air and helped develop early radio communications. (80 words)

This model summary is precise yet written in a smooth and simple way. This is the type of summary that the students can produce with effort and the use of proper techniques.

Einstein Takeaway Writing a decent summary with the relevant points is a skill that can be mastered over time with the right guidance. Einstein has developed an effective technique to equip the students not only to understand what the summary is asking for, but also know where to identify the relevant points and craft out the summary in a step by step manner. Sign up for a trial lesson now and see for yourself how we can help you to improve the way a summary is being written.

O'Level English

Sunday 20 october 2013, format for writing a newspaper article.

•   Heading :
• A provocative statement (Drinking can help boost your imagination),
• Quotation (pen is mightier than sword),
• A direct question (How do you feel the virtual reality over shadowing your children’s imaginative faculties?),
• An unexpected claim (Technology is making humans more primitive),
• A succinct summary of a situation (Global warming is responsible for most of the earth environmental problems)
• Introduction :
• Subheadings:
• Sentence Structure:

6 comments:

nice information but i need format also

There is always a room for improvement; however, the efforts of the writer are appreciable and helpful for the learners.