produce written texts that show control of language

📧 Understanding the Task

In the exam you’ll be asked to produce different types of texts – from a friendly email to a formal report. Think of each type as a different recipe:

• Email – quick, informal, friendly tone.
• Letter – more formal, polite, clear structure.
• Report – objective, organised, use of headings.
• Essay – argument, evidence, conclusion.

🔍 Tip: Read the task carefully. Identify the purpose (inform, persuade, describe) and the audience (friend, teacher, manager).

🗂️ Planning Your Text

Planning is like building a LEGO set – you need a clear plan before you start putting pieces together.

1. Brainstorm – jot down ideas in a mind‑map or list.
2. Outline – decide on the main points and order.
3. Draft – write a quick first version, focusing on ideas, not perfection.
4. Revise – check structure, flow and language.
5. Polish – correct grammar, punctuation and style.

💡 Analogy: Think of the outline as the blueprint for a house – it keeps the whole building stable.

📝 Controlling Language

Control of language shows you can use English accurately and flexibly.

📚 Example: Instead of saying “I think that the new policy is good,” try “I believe the new policy will benefit students.” Notice the stronger verb and clearer subject.

🎯 Exam Tips & Checklist

Use this quick checklist before you hand in your paper:

• ✔️ Read the task 2–3 times.
• ✔️ Plan in 1–2 minutes.
• ✔️ Write a clear introduction.
• ✔️ Keep paragraphs short (3–5 sentences).
• ✔️ Use linking words (however, therefore, firstly).
• ✔️ Check for at least 3 different grammatical structures.
• ✔️ Proofread for spelling and punctuation.

🕒 Time management: Allocate 10 min for planning, 30 min for writing, 10 min for revision.

💡 Practice Activity

Write a short email (≈120 words) to a friend inviting them to a study group. Use at least three linking words and one polite expression.

After writing, check against the Control of Language table above.