Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures appropriate to context.

Directed Writing and Composition

Objective

Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures appropriate to context. 🎯

Sentence Structures Cheat‑Sheet

Vocabulary Expansion

Think of your words as LEGO bricks – the more types you have, the stronger your building. 🚀

• Synonyms – replace common words with fresh ones (e.g., happy → elated, sad → melancholy).
• Collocations – words that naturally go together (e.g., make a decision, strong coffee).
• Adjectives & Adverbs – add colour and pace (e.g., quickly, beautifully).
• Transition Words – guide the reader (e.g., however, therefore, in addition).

Exam Tips Box

✨ Tip 1: Read the prompt carefully – identify the required genre (e.g., letter, article, narrative). ✨ Tip 2: Plan first: jot down 3 main points and 2 supporting details for each. ✨ Tip 3: Vary sentence length – mix short, punchy sentences with longer, descriptive ones. ✨ Tip 4: Use a range of vocabulary – avoid repetition by using synonyms. ✨ Tip 5: Proofread for grammar, punctuation, and style. ✨ Tip 6: Keep the tone consistent with the audience and purpose.

Practice Prompt

You are a student who has just won a scholarship to a prestigious university. Write a heartfelt thank‑you letter to the scholarship committee, using at least one simple, one compound, one complex, and one compound‑complex sentence. Include at least five new vocabulary words and two transition words. ✉️

Analogy: Your Writing as a Toolbox

Just as a carpenter uses different tools for different tasks, you should choose the right sentence structure and vocabulary for each part of your composition.

• Simple sentences are like a hammer – quick and direct.
• Compound sentences are like a screwdriver – they join two ideas smoothly.
• Complex sentences are like a drill – they add depth and detail.
• Compound‑complex sentences are the Swiss Army knife – versatile and powerful.