writing skills

REPORTS.

A report is an informative formal piece of writing concerning a particular person, place, situation, plan, etc. It is adressed to one’ssuperior/colleagues, members of a commitee, ...and is written in response to a request of instruction.

There are various types of reports, such as:
Assessment reports which present and evaluate the positive and/or negative features of a person, place, plan, etc; they also include your opinion and/or recommendation.
Informative reports which present information concerning a meeting that has taken place, progress made on a project, etc.
Survey reports which presente and analyse information gathered from door-to-door surveys/questionnaires, including conclusions drawn from this information and suggestions or recommendations.
Proposal reports which present plans, decisions or suggestions concerning possible future courses of action for approval by one’s superior at work, a bank, a manager, members of a commitee...
A successfull report should consist of:
An introductoru paragraph which clearly states the purpose and content of the report;
A main body in which the relevant information is presented in detail under suitable subheadings; and
A conclusion which summarises the information given, and may include an opinion and/or suggestion/recommendation.
Before you start writing your report you should give information indicating who the report is written to (name/position/company,etc...), who the report is written by (name/position), the subject of the report, and the date:
e.g. To: Peter Roberts, Chairman, Grosvenor & Sons
From: Lindsay O’Neill, Assistant Manager
Subject: Apparaisal of Thomson Distribution Co
Date: 19th March 1997.

POINTS TO CONSIDER.
Reports should be written in a forma style (complex sentences, non-colloquial English, frequent use of the passive, linking words/phases).
Before you write your report you should think of who the report is being written by and who de report is addressed to.
Give your report an appropriate subject title, then carefully plan the information you will present. Think of a suitable subheadings, then decide on the information you will include under each subheading. Use linking words to join your ideas. In the subheadings you will present positive and negative points of each aspect.
The main body will include 3, 4, 5 paragraphs. The exact number will depend on the specific instructions for each report task.
USEFUL LANGUAGE.
To begin reports:
The purpose/aim/intention of this report is to ...
As requested, this is a report concerning/regarding...
This report, etc contains/outlines/examines/assesses...
To end reports:
To conclude/to sum up/ in conclusion/ on the whole...
On the basis of the points mentioned above,it would seem that...
It is (therefore) felt/believed/apparet/obvious (that)...
I/ We conclude/ reccommend/would suggest (that)...
My recommentation is that....should be.....
It would (not) be advisable/advantegeous/practical/wise to...
I (strongly) recommend/ would suggest (that)...
My/our recommendation is that...should be...
I recommend that the best course of action would be...

NARRATIVES.

A narrative presents a connected series of events, either imaginative of based on your own expeience, in a vivid descriptive way. It may be written in the first person or third person, and often includes the thoughts, reactions, etc of te main characters, describing the action as it would be seenthrough their eyes.

A good narrative should consist of:
An introduction which sets the scene (place, time, characters...),creates an interesting mood/atmosphere to make the reader want to continue reading.
A main body which develops the series of events clearly, gives vivid description of the people/places involved, etc; and
A conclusion which completes the story, perhaps in an unexpected way, and may describe people’s feelings/reactions, the conseuences of what happened, etc.

POINTS TO CONSIDER.
-Before you start writing, you must first think of a suitable stroy outline, then you should decide on a detailed plot, including how the story will begin, who the characters will be, where the story will happen, the events inthe order you will present them, and how the story will end.

-Writing techniques include the uses of vivid description of people, places, objects, etc especially to set the scene at the beginning of the story; description of feelings and actions, suggesting a certain atmosphere; the use of direct speech and a variety of adjectives, adverbs, etc. This will make your writing more interesting.

-Narratives are normally set in the past, and therefore use a variety of past tenses. For example, Past continuous is often used to set the scene (the wind was blowing); the past simple is used for the main events; the past perfect is used to describe an event before the main events.

-The sequence of events is important; therefore you must use time words such as: before, after, then, in the beginning, in the ende, while, during,finally, etc.

SET THE SCENE.

The beginning of a narrative story should usually give the reader a clear picture of what is happening, and may include descriptions of:

Setting: place, time, weather...
People: name, appearance, feelings, of the characters involved
Vivid description is important when beginning stories.
A dramatic beginning helps to capture the reader’s attention.
You may create an atmosphere of mistery by describin a strange character, a dangerous situation, etc.

You can star your story by:
Describing theweather,place, people, using the senses.
Using direct speech.
Asking a rhetorical question.
Referring to feelings or moods
Addressing the reader directly.

You can finish your story by:
Using direct speech
Referring to feelings or moods
Describing people’s reactins to the events developed in the main body.
Creating mystery or suspense
Asking a rhetorical question.


WRITE A STORY WHICH ENDS WITH THE WORDS: SHE KNEW THE EVENTS OF THE DAY WOULD CHANGE HER LIFE FOR EVER.

LETTERS OF COMPLAINT.
A formal setter o complaint is griten to complain about a problem which has arisen. It should explain the reasons for the complaint and usually includes a suggestion/request/demand concerning what should be done.
Mild or strond language can be used depending on the writer’s feelings and the seriousness of the complaint, but abusive language must never be used.
E.g. Mild complaint.
I am writing to complain about a factual error in yesterday’s newspaper. I houpe that you will give this matter your prompt attention.

E.g. Strong complaint.
I am writing to express my strong disapproval concerning the offensive behaviour of an employee at your company’s Winchester Road branch.
I demand a full, written apology or I will be forced to take legal action.

The nature of the complaint should be clearly stated in the first paragraph. Each aspect of the topic should be presented in a separate paragraph containing a clear topic sentence. Each complaint should be supported by clear justification.

USEFUL LANGUAGE.
To begin letters:
Mild complaint:
I am wrtiting to complain about/draw your attention to (the problem of)...
I am writing to express my disappointment/dissatisfaction with...
Strong Complaint:
I am writing to express my annoyance/extreme dissatisfaction with/anger at/protest about...
I regret to/feel I must inform you how appalled/shocked I was....
To end letters:
Mild complaint:
I hope/trust this matter will be dealt with/resolved as soon as possible.
I hope/trust this matter will receive your immediate attention.
I hope/trust this matter will not be treated lightly.
I feel that you should...I am entitled to compensation/a refund/a replacement.

Strong complaint:
I must insist on.../insist that/demand.../warn you that....
Unless this matter is resolved.../Unless satisfactory compensation is offered...
I will have no choice but to/I will be forced to take further/legal action.


LETTERS GIVING INFORMATION.

A letter giving information is a formal piece of writing related to a particular situation.
Its main purpose is to give information, usually when this has been requested by someone else. It may also provide suggestions, request help, give an opinion, etc.

Each point should be presented in a separate paragraph containing a clear topic sentence supported by examples and/or justification.

USEFUL LANGUAGE.
To begin letters
I am writing to inform you that/advise you of/ let you know that...
I regret/am delighted/would like feel obliged to inform you ....
I am writing in response to your letter requesting information about...
I am writing in reply to your enquiry about...
I am writing with regard to our telephone conversation about...
I am writing in connection with your enquiry about...

To end letters
I hope that this information will be of some assistance...
I hope/trust that I have been able to answer all of your questions...
I would be pleased/happy to provide you with any additional information...
I look forwad to being able to help you again in the future.
I look forward to answering your queries.
Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any further questions.

FOR AND AGAINST ESSAY
A “for” and “against” essay is a formal piece of writing in which a Tepic is considered from opposing points of view. You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them objectively and in equal detail.
A good essay of this type should cosist of:
An introductory paragrah in which you clearly state the topic to be discussed, without giving your opinion;
A main body in which the points for and against along with your justifications are presented in separate paragraphs; paragraphs 2 & 3 arguments for and justifications, examples, and/or reasons; paragraphs 4 & 5, arguments against and justification, examples and/or reasons; and
A closing paragraph in which you state your opinion or give a blanced consideration of the topic.
Note: opinion words: I think, I believe, In my opinion, from my point of view...can only be used in the colsing paragraph where you give your opinion on the topic.

POINTS TO CONSIDER.
Before you start writing an essay you should make a list of the points for and against.
Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence which summarises the topic of the paragraph.
e.g. In addition, many people feel reading is a relaxing and worthwile activity.
Do not use informal style (short forms, colloquial language) or strong language to express you opinion e.g. I know. Express your opinion in a non-emotional way. E.g. it seems that, I therefore feel...
Well-known quotations relevant to the topic you are writing about will make your composition more interesting. For example if you are writing an essay on education, a quotation you might include is : “Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance”. (Will Durant)
Note: Algthough these are the keys for a “balanced” argument, if you feel that either the for or against side is stronger and should be supported, this side should be presented in paragraphs 4 & 5, thus leading the reader to your conclusion.

USEFUL EXPRESSIONS AND LINKING WORDS/PHRASES.
To list points: firstly, first of all, in the first place, to begin/to start with, secondly, thirdly, Finally.
To list advantages: One/another/a further/an additional advantage of...is...; the main/greatest/first advantage of....is....
To list disadvantages: one/another/a further/an additional disadvantage/ drawback of...; the main/greatest/most serious/ first disadvantage/drawback of...; another negative aspect of...
To introduce points/arguments for or against: one (very convincing) point/argument in favour of .../against...; a further common criticism of .../it could be argued that...; it is generally believed, claimed suggested, maintained that.../ it is often suggested that...
To add more points to the same topic: in addition to, furthermore, moreover, besides, apart from, what is more, as well as, not to mention the fact that, also, not only...but also/as well, both...and, there is another side to the issue/question/argument of ...
To make contrasting points: on the other hand, however, still, yet, but, nonetheless, nevertheless, even so, although, even though, whilst, whereas, despite, in spite of, regardless of the fact that...

FOR AND AGAINST ESSAY
A “for” and “against” essay is a formal piece of writing in which a Tepic is considered from opposing points of view. You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them objectively and in equal detail.
A good essay of this type should cosist of:
An introductory paragrah in which you clearly state the topic to be discussed, without giving your opinion;
A main body in which the points for and against along with your justifications are presented in separate paragraphs; paragraphs 2 & 3 arguments for and justifications, examples, and/or reasons; paragraphs 4 & 5, arguments against and justification, examples and/or reasons; and
A closing paragraph in which you state your opinion or give a blanced consideration of the topic.
Note: opinion words: I think, I believe, In my opinion, from my point of view...can only be used in the colsing paragraph where you give your opinion on the topic.

POINTS TO CONSIDER.
Before you start writing an essay you should make a list of the points for and against.
Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence which summarises the topic of the paragraph.
e.g. In addition, many people feel reading is a relaxing and worthwile activity.
Do not use informal style (short forms, colloquial language) or strong language to express you opinion e.g. I know. Express your opinion in a non-emotional way. E.g. it seems that, I therefore feel...
Well-known quotations relevant to the topic you are writing about will make your composition more interesting. For example if you are writing an essay on education, a quotation you might include is : “Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance”. (Will Durant)
Note: Algthough these are the keys for a “balanced” argument, if you feel that either the for or against side is stronger and should be supported, this side should be presented in paragraphs 4 & 5, thus leading the reader to your conclusion.

USEFUL EXPRESSIONS AND LINKING WORDS/PHRASES.
To list points: firstly, first of all, in the first place, to begin/to start with, secondly, thirdly, Finally.
To list advantages: One/another/a further/an additional advantage of...is...; the main/greatest/first advantage of....is....
To list disadvantages: one/another/a further/an additional disadvantage/ drawback of...; the main/greatest/most serious/ first disadvantage/drawback of...; another negative aspect of...
To introduce points/arguments for or against: one (very convincing) point/argument in favour of .../against...; a further common criticism of .../it could be argued that...; it is generally believed, claimed suggested, maintained that.../ it is often suggested that...
To add more points to the same topic: in addition to, furthermore, moreover, besides, apart from, what is more, as well as, not to mention the fact that, also, not only...but also/as well, both...and, there is another side to the issue/question/argument of ...
To make contrasting points: on the other hand, however, still, yet, but, nonetheless, nevertheless, even so, although, even though, whilst, whereas, despite, in spite of, regardless of the fact that...


HOW TO WRITE AN ARTICLE.

An article in general, is a piece of writing for publication in a magazine, newspaper, brochure, leaflet,etc. It may be formal or informal in style, depending on its intended readership. Its purpose may be to provide information, describe a place/event/experience...present an opinion or balanced argument, offer advice/suggestions,etc.

There are certain specialised types of articles, however. These include:
News reports, which are brief, factual pieces of writing written for publication in newspapers, describing important current events in a formal, impersonal style, and
Reviews which are specialised a theatrical performance, TV series,etc. Such pieces are usually published in a magazine or newspaper.


Articles are pieces of writing for publication in a variety of forms, covering a wide range of possible subjects. They may be intended for the general public, or a specific group of readers. For example, an article in your college newspaper for fellow students.

Types of articles include those printed in:
Magazines, newspapers and newsletters presenting an opinion or balanced argument concerning social/environmental issues, describing a place/event/experience...providing information, offering practical advice, etc. (E.g. an article for a college magazine giving practical advice to new students who will be living away from home for the first time)
Leaflets and brochures, providing information, describing and advertising a company/product/service,offering advice and suggestions, etc. (an articl in a brochure for a company which wants to attract new customers from around the world)

POINTS TO CONSIDER
An article usually has a brief title; this should attract the reader’s attention and indicate what the article is about. Articles may also have subheadings before each paragraph.
Depending on the topic of the article of publication and its readership, you may need to use formal, impersonal language, or informal language.
A successful writing should have three parts:
§ A brief introduction:which clearly outlines the topics to be covered.
§ A main body: of several paragraphs in which the subject is developed in detail
§ A conclusion: which summarises the topic and offers an opinion, comments, recommendations,etc.
Articles for leaflets and brochures are usually informative and/or descriptive, and are written for advertisisng purposes or to provide readers with information, advice or suggestions. They should be clear, avoiding extremely vivid description and over-emotional, over-persona or simplistic language.
Select and organise the ideas and information you will present in each paragraph carefully. Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence.
Before you start writing, it is important to decide:
Where the article is intended to appear
Who the intended readers are
What the purpose of writing is
These three factors will determinen the style, language and arrangement of your article.

The style of the article may be formal or semi-formal, depending on the intended readership; however, in all articles/news reports/ reviews you should avoid extremely vivid description, over-emotional or over-personal writing, and simplistic vocabulary.

USEFUL LANGUAGE: MAKING SUGGESTIONS
When you write an article to be published in a leaflet or brochure you should give it an eye-catching title which will attract the reader’s attention. State the topic of the article in the first paragraph, then develop the topic in separate paragraphs.Each paragraph can be preceded by an appropriate subheading. End your article by summarising the topic.


LETTERS OF APOLOGY.
If you have received a setter of complaint, it is polite to reply to it. The purpose for writing a letter of apology is to explain the reason(s) for the problems stated in the letter of complaint and to ensure that the situation will be resolved/improved. You may also offer some form of compensation.
A letter of apology is written in a formal style and requires a dignified and polite tone. You should deal with each aspect ot the complaint in a separate paragraph.

USEFUL LANGUAGE.
Opening remarks:
I am writing to apologise for.../offer my apologies for...
Please accept my/our sincere apologies for...
I must/would like to apologise for...
To introduce new points:
With regard to/ As regards...
As far as...is/are concerned.
Firstly/first of all/Secondly/Finally
To emphasise what you say:
Clearly/Obviously/Needless to say...
To express reality:
In fact/As a matter of fact/Actually/Indeed...
Making amends:
Please allow me to offer/suggest...as compensation (for)...
I insist on (ing) to make up for your loss/inconvenience.
Closing remarks:
Once again, my/our sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused.
I hope that will accept my apologies/that my apologies will be accepted.
I hope that you can forgive/overlook this regrettable error.

LETTERS OF REQUEST.
A formal letter of request is written to ask for permission, help, information, advice, etc. It may also provide information, explain a situation, make suggestions, present arguments in support of an opinion, etc, as requested in the topic instructions.
Each point should be presented in a separate paragraph containing a clear topic sentence supported by examples and/or justification.

USEFUL LANGUAGE FOR LETTERS OF REQUEST.
To begin letters:
I am writing to ask if you would be so kind/generous as to...
I am writing to request your assistance concerning the matter of...
I wonder if you could possibly/if it would be possible for you to help me...
I would greatly appreciate it if you could...
I am writing to ask/enquire whether you could possibly tell/inform me ...
I am writing to ask if/whether I might be permitted/allowed to...
I wonder if I might ask you for/request your valuable advice on/concerning...
To end letters
I hope that my request will not inconvenience you too much.
I must apologise for troubling you with this matter.
I hope that you will forgive me for taking up your valuable time.
I look forward to hearing from you/ receiving your reply as soon as possible.
Thank you in anticipation of your/in advance for your kind cooperation.
Remember that on the top right corner of the letter you must write your personal information, address, and date. On the left you must write the person you are addressing to, and his address.
If you know the name of the person you will end up the letter by saying: YOURS SINCERELY. If you don’t know the name of the person you will end it up by saying: YOURS FAITHFULLY.

OPINION ESSAYS.
An opinión essay is a formal piece of writing. It requires your opinion on a topic, which must be stated clearly, giving varios viewpoints on the topic supported by reasons and/or examples. You should also include the opposing viewpoint in another paragraph.
A successful opinion essay should have:
An introductory paragraph in which you state the topic and your opinion.
A main body which consists of several paragraphs, each presenting a separate point of view supported by reasons. You also include a pararaph presenting the opposing the point of view and reason why you think it is an unconvincing viewpoint; and opposing viewpoint and reason why you think it is an unconvincing viewpoint; and
A conclusion in which you restate your opinion using different words.

POINTS TO CONSIDER.
Decide whether you agree or disagree with the subject of the topic, then make a list of your view points and reasons.
Write well developed paragraphs, joining the sentences with appropriate lindking words and phrases. Do not forget to start each paragraph with a topic sentence which summarises what the paragraph is about.
Linking words and phrases should also be used to join one paragraph with the other.