Paper 1: Section B Transactional Writing

Contents
How to Write a Leaflet
Leaflet Model Answer
How to Write a Letter
Letter Model Answer
How to Write an Article
Article Model Answer
How to Write a Speech
Speech Model Answer
How to Write a Guide
Guide Model Answer
How to Write a Review
Review Model Answer
How to answer Paper 1 Section B (Writing)
SectionB of Paper1 consists of Questions 6 and 7. However, you are required to
complete only one writing task from the choice of two. You must indicate in your
answer booklet whether you are completing Question 6 or Question 7 by marking
an X in the appropriate box.

The writing task carries half of the total marks available for this paper, so itis vital
that you allow sufficient time to plan and organise your response. There are two
assessment objectives for writing:
 AO4: Communicate effectively and imaginatively, adapting form, tone and
register of writing for specific purposes and audiences (27 marks)
 AO5: Write clearly, using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures,
with appropriate paragraphing and accurate spelling, grammar and
punctuation (18 marks)
To get the highest marks, you are expected to:
 Communicate with subtlety, maturity and insightfulness
 Keep your writing sharply focused on the purpose of the task and the
intended audience
 Use a high level of sophistication in your writing
 Skillfully manipulate complex ideas
 Use an extensive range of vocabulary
 Punctuate your writing deliberately for emphasis
 Use a range of sentence structures accurately in order to achieve particular
effects.

Before deciding which question you are going to answer, you should read each
task carefully and highlight:
 The subject or topic of the piece of writing
 What you are being asked to write (the genre)
 Who you are being asked to write for (the audience)
 Why you are being asked to write (the purpose)
Next spend 5 minutes making a brief plan:
1. Note down relevant information, such as the headings or sub-headings you
are going to use
2. Note down what your point or argument will be for each paragraph in your
response
3. You should aim to write 3- 4 sides of A4 (in average-sized handwriting)

When writing your response,

1.Use the appropriate conventions of the genre: This means, if you are writing
a letter, make sure you start and end it appropriately
2. Ensure you make one clear argument or point per paragraph - you cannot
be awarded marks for making the same point twice
3. Ensure each argument or point is well-developed
4. Make sure you leave 5 minutes at the end to re-read your response to check
for sense and obvious Errors

Exam tips

 Use the given form and audience for the task to inform your register
(choice of language) and tone
 Think carefully about how you can engage your reader right at the start
and at the end of your writing: This will help you to produce a structured
and cohesive piece of writing as well as the right persuasive techniques.
 Allow time to proofread in order to achieve the highest possible degree
of accuracy
 Do not aim to have many persuasive techniques as this should occur
naturally as part of a well-constructed argument or piece of writing
 Be specific and offer definite suggestions and advice
Section B of Paper1 will require you to complete one writing task out of a choice
of two. The task will be a non-fiction, transactional writing task in response to a
statement.
The format you should write in will be given to you in the task, and the purpose of
your writing may be to argue, persuade, inform, review or explain something to
an intended audience. You will therefore need to carefully consider the language
you use and how you structure your writing to suit the form, audience and
purpose given to you in the task. In your response you must: Adopt a convincing
tone of voice and use language techniques relevant to the purpose and style
Ensure you use the correct form of writing The following guide will therefore
cover:
 Form
 Audience
 Purpose
 Persuasive language techniques
Form
 This task will ask you to write in a particular form which will determine the
layout, structure and context a of the writing (where it is used in real life)
 The task will provide you with a statement which directs the topic and task:
It is best to construct the most effective argument you can
 This does not have to reflect your actual opinion
 You should consider where your writing would appear in a real-life context:
 A magazine, for example, tends to be more informal than a newspaper
article
 A letter tends to be more formal and, normally in the exam, written to
someone you do not know at a personal level.
 A speech is more interactive than a leaflet and will actively attempt to
engage and persuade the audience
You may be asked to write in the form of:
 A letter
 An article
 A leaflet
 A speech
 A guide
 A review
Whichever form you are writing in, there are likely to be some elements which
you will have to make up: However, your writing still needs to be realistic and
believable for the most convincing arguments
While your choice of register( language) will largely be dictated by the task, the
following guidelines are always helpful:

Letter
 Use an Appropriate Greeting:

 If you know the recipient's name, begin with “Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname]”
and sign off with “Yours sincerely”.
 If you don’t know the recipient's name, use “Dear Sir/Madam” and sign
off with “Yours faithfully”.

 Reference:

 Include a precise reference that should be underlined at the beginning of

the letter (e.g., "Re: Application for...").

 Formality:

 Adjust the formality of your language based on the recipient. For example,
when addressing a formal entity like an employer or company, use formal
vocabulary and tone.

 First-Person Writing:

 Always write in the first person using pronouns like "I," "my," or "we" to
make the letter personal and direct.

 Official Introduction Example 1:

 "I am writing to discuss potential strategies for enhancing our school's

environment and educational experience. After reflecting on recent
feedback from students, parents, and staff, I believe there are several
areas where we could make meaningful improvements. I would
appreciate the opportunity to explore these ideas with you and discuss
how we might implement them to benefit our entire school community."
Example 2
Introduction:
"I am reaching out to request your support for a proposed donation to our
school, aimed at furthering our educational programs and resources. Our
institution has identified specific needs that could greatly benefit from
additional funding, and we believe that your contribution would have a
significant impact on our students' learning experiences. I would be grateful for
the opportunity to discuss how this donation could be utilized and to provide
any additional information you might require."

“ Official Conclusion Example 1:

For a School Principal:

"Thank you for considering these proposed strategies for enhancing our school's
environment and educational experience. I am confident that by working
together, we can create a more dynamic and supportive learning atmosphere
that will benefit our students, staff, and the wider community. Please feel free
to reach out if you have any questions or if you would like to arrange a meeting
to discuss these ideas further. I eagerly anticipate your feedback and am excited
about the potential improvements we can achieve together."

Example2
For a Government Official Regarding a Donation:
"Thank you very much for taking the time to consider our request for a
donation. Your support could make a profound difference in our school's ability
to provide high-quality educational opportunities and resources. We are
enthusiastic about the positive impact this funding could have on our students
and are ready to provide any additional information you may need to facilitate
your decision. I look forward to the possibility of working together to support
our educational mission and am available at your convenience for any further
discussions or clarifications."

 No Need for Address or Date:

 In exam letters, there is no need to include addresses or dates. Focus solely

on content and structure
NB Your letter should be structured into 6 or 7paragraphs:
 Remember, each paragraph does not have to be the same
length. However, consistency is key.
 Better answers vary the lengths of their paragraphs for
effect
 Develop separate ideas or points in each paragraph
 Avoid repeating the same idea throughout your letter

Provide an anecdote to offer an example, which proves your

argument:
1. This builds rapport with your reader by engaging with
them on a personal level 5.
2. Offer more research or studies: 1. This can be in the form
of statistics, a witness statement, poll, or quote from an
expert.
Article

 Perspective:

 You can write from either a first-person perspective (using "I", "my") or a
third-person perspective, depending on the task.

 Formal Language and Tone:

 Use formal language that is appropriate for a printed publication. Avoid

using slang or overly casual phrases.
 Maintain a consistent tone throughout the article that suits the audience and
purpose.

 Engaging Title:

 Craft an interesting and relevant title or headline that grabs the reader's
attention and reflects the topic of the article.

 Sub-Headings:

 Use sub-headings to organize your ideas clearly and logically. This helps
the reader navigate the article and makes your arguments or points easier to
follow. Your leaflet should then be divided into 3–4 sub-headings:

 Prose Form:

 You can also choose to write in prose form, with well-structured paragraphs
that flow logically. Each paragraph should build on the previous one and
present a clear point or argument.

 Clear Structure:

 Introduction: Start with a brief overview or hook to engage the reader.

 Body: Develop your main points with supporting evidence or examples.
 Conclusion: Summarize your argument or offer a final thought on the topic.

Example
Introduction:

Start with a hook that grabs the reader's attention and provides a brief overview
of the topic.

Example:
“In today's world, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives,
influencing everything from personal relationships to global events. But as we
scroll through our feeds, are we aware of the long-term impacts on our mental
health? This article explores the hidden dangers of excessive social media use and
its effect on well-being.”

2. Body:

Develop your main points using evidence, examples, or data to support your
arguments.

Example:
“One of the most significant consequences of social media addiction is its impact
on sleep patterns. Studies have shown that individuals who use social media for
more than three hours a day are more likely to experience disrupted sleep, leading
to increased stress and anxiety. For instance, a 2023 survey conducted by the
University of London found that 67% of participants reported feeling more anxious
after checking their social media late at night.”

“Additionally, the constant comparison to others on social media platforms can

harm self-esteem. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok often present unrealistic
portrayals of success and beauty, making users feel inadequate. Many teenagers,
in particular, have reported feeling depressed due to these comparisons.”

3. Conclusion:
Summarize your key arguments or provide a final thought on the topic.
Example:
“In conclusion, while social media can be a powerful tool for communication and
connection, its overuse poses serious risks to mental health. By being mindful of
our usage and setting boundaries, we can mitigate its negative effects and ensure
that it enhances, rather than detracts from, our well-being.”
Leaflet

Write clearly and with purpose, focusing on providing information or advice

relevant to the topic.

1. Use a Title and Sub-Headings

o Ensure your text has a clear, engaging title.
o Use sub-headings to organize your ideas and guide the reader through
different sections of the information. Your leaflet should then be
divided into 3–4 sub-headings:
2. Utilize Bullet Points and Numbering
o Organize steps or pieces of advice using bullet points or numbered
lists, but only where appropriate.
o Do not overuse bullet points—ensure some sections are written in
continuous prose for a sophisticated tone.
3. Avoid Dividing into Columns
o There is no need to divide your answer into columns like a newspaper
article.
4. Clarity and Precision
o Be concise and clear in your explanations, using sophisticated
vocabulary and varied sentence structures.
5. Balanced Tone
o Maintain a formal and informative tone, especially when offering
advice or presenting factual information.
Speech

 Use Persuasive Techniques

 Employ rhetorical devices such as rhetorical questions, hypophora

emotive language, repetition, and anecdotes to persuade and engage your
audience.

 First-Person Perspective

 Write in the first person using pronouns like "I" and "my."
 Address the audience directly using "you" to create a personal connection.

 Engaging and Relatable Language

 The tone of a speech should be friendly and relatable to maintain the

audience’s interest.
 Use conversational and inclusive language to keep the audience engaged.

 No Sub-Headings

 Do not structure your speech with sub-headings. Keep the speech flowing
naturally from one point to the next.

 Introduction and Conclusion

 Start by greeting the audience, acknowledging them, and introducing the

topic of the speech.
 End by thanking the audience and offering a closing remark that reinforces
your main message.

Introduction Example
Good morning, everyone. It is an absolute honour to stand before you today, and
I want to appreciate each one of you for taking the time to be here. Today, we are
going to dive into a topic that affects every single one of us—our role in
combating climate change and how small, consistent actions can lead to big
changes. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the world we live in
Conclusion Example
Thank you all for your attention and for allowing me to share these thoughts with
you today. As we leave here, I encourage each of you to think about the small
steps you can take to contribute to the larger goal of protecting our planet.
Remember, the future is not written yet—it is in our hands, and together, we can
shape it for the better. Thank you.

 Structure

 Organize your speech clearly: start with an introduction, followed by well-

developed main points, and finish with a strong conclusion.

 Purpose and Audience

 Always keep in mind the purpose of your speech (to inform, persuade, or
entertain) and tailor your language and tone to your specific audience.
Guide

When tasked with writing a guide, it is essential to focus on clarity, structure, and
appropriate tone. Here is a breakdown of how to achieve this:

1. Title and Subheadings

Purpose:

 Title: Clearly indicates the topic and grabs the reader's attention.
 Subheadings: Organize the content into sections, making it easier for the
reader to follow and locate information. Your text should then be divided
into 3–4 sub-headings:

Example:

 Title: "Navigating the World of Remote Work: A Comprehensive Guide"

 Subheadings:
o "Introduction to Remote Work"
o "Setting Up Your Home Office"
o "Maintaining Productivity"
o "Balancing Work and Personal Life"
o "Common Challenges and Solutions"

2. Providing Information, Advice, and Recommendations

Purpose:

 Information: Present clear, factual content related to the topic.

 Advice: Offer practical tips that can help the reader address specific issues
or improve their situation.
 Recommendations: Suggest actionable steps or best practices based on the
information provided.

Example:

 Information: "Remote work has become increasingly popular, offering

flexibility and reduced commuting time."
  Advice: "Ensure your home office is ergonomically designed to avoid
discomfort. Invest in a good chair and desk."
 Recommendations: "Create a daily schedule to help manage your time
effectively and maintain work-life balance."

3. Tone: Humorous or Serious

Purpose:

 Humorous: Engage readers and make the content more enjoyable, if

appropriate for the topic.
 Serious: Maintain professionalism and respect for the subject matter,
especially if it involves sensitive issues.

Example (Humorous):

 "Setting up your home office can be a bit like assembling IKEA furniture—
frustrating but ultimately rewarding. Just remember, the Allen wrench is
your friend!"

Example (Serious):

 "Maintaining a professional environment at home requires discipline and

organization. Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal
time is crucial for long-term success."

4. Avoiding Heavy Persuasive Techniques

Purpose:

 Focus on delivering balanced and objective information rather than trying

to sell or heavily persuade the reader.

Example:

 Instead of writing, "You absolutely need this product to succeed in

remote work!" write, "Many professionals find that using this product
enhances their productivity, but it's important to choose what best fits
your needs."
5. Structure and Flow

Purpose:

 Ensure the guide is logically organized, with a clear introduction, body, and
conclusion.
 Use bullet points, numbered lists, and brief paragraphs to enhance
readability.

Example:

 Introduction: "This guide aims to help you transition smoothly to remote

work by offering practical tips and insights."
 Body: Break down the content into sections with relevant subheadings.
 Conclusion: Summarize key points and offer a final piece of advice.

Example Conclusion:

 "In summary, remote work offers numerous benefits, but it requires

careful planning and discipline. By setting up an effective workspace,
managing your time wisely, and addressing challenges proactively, you
can create a successful remote work experience."
Review

**1. Understanding the Format:

 Formal Language and Tone:

o Use a formal tone appropriate for a printed publication. Avoid
colloquialisms and slang.
o For instance, instead of saying "The book was really good," use
"The book offers a compelling narrative that engages readers
effectively."
 First-Person but Impersonal:
o Write from the first-person perspective but maintain an impersonal
tone. This means you should share your opinion, but do so in a way
that feels objective and considered.
o Example: "In my evaluation, I found that the novel's exploration of
human emotions is both profound and accessible."

**2. Structure of the Review:

 Introduction:
o Introduce the subject of the review (e.g., a book, a policy, etc.).
o Provide essential details like title, author, or relevant background
information.
o Example: "In this review, I will explore 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott
Fitzgerald, a novel renowned for its rich depiction of the American
Dream."
 Body:
o Information:
 Present factual details about the subject.
 Example: "Published in 1925, 'The Great Gatsby' is set during
the Roaring Twenties and examines themes of wealth, class,
and social change."
o Opinion:
 Share your analysis and personal views, supported by evidence
from the text or subject.
  Example: "Fitzgerald's use of symbolism, particularly the
green light, effectively conveys the unattainable nature of
Gatsby's dreams."
o Recommendations:
 Offer suggestions or recommendations based on your analysis.
 Example: "Given its intricate narrative and thematic depth, I
recommend 'The Great Gatsby' to readers interested in
American literature and the complexities of societal
ambition."

**3. Examples and Evidence:

 Provide relevant examples from the text or subject to support your points.
 Example: "In Chapter 5, the scene where Gatsby reunites with Daisy is a
poignant example of the novel's exploration of idealism versus reality."

**4. Conclusion:

 Summarize your key points and restate your overall opinion.

 Offer to provide further information or discussion if needed.
 Example: "In conclusion, 'The Great Gatsby' remains a significant work
that offers valuable insights into the nature of aspiration and social
stratification. I appreciate your attention to this review and I am
available to discuss further insights or questions you may have."

**5. General Tips:

 Clarity and Precision: Ensure your writing is clear and precise. Avoid overly
complex sentences that may obscure your meaning.
 Consistency: Maintain a consistent tone and style throughout the review.
 Objectivity: Balance your personal opinions with objective analysis to
create a well-rounded review.
Audience
This task assesses the ability to use sophisticated language:
It is important, however, to consider your audience in terms of your ideas,
language and overall tone
Remember, you are being assessed on your ability to adapt your language
and tone to suit your intended audience
For example:
A parent will have different concerns and values to a student
A local MP would need convincing using facts and evidence to support your
arguments
Readers of a local newspaper would be more persuaded by emotive
language
A letter to a head teacher or someone in authority requires formal,
respectful language which is not aggressive or inappropriate
Teenagers would need something to relate to, so personal anecdotes would
work well
Addressing your audience or reader specifically is a convincing technique to
persuade people to agree with your point of view, or at least to
acknowledge its validity
You can use inclusive language, such as “we” and “us”
You can also make your audience feel involved by using terms such as
“fellow students” or “parents”
The judicious use of colloquial language is fine, depending on the topic, but
avoid using slang or terms not common to Standard English

Target Audience and Language Adaptation

1. Teenagers:

 Example: "I’m sure we’ve all had our parents or guardians yell at us for
how long we spend on our gaming machines. However, gaming can help
us develop important skills, such as teamwork, as well as being an
awesome way of connecting with friends from all over the world!"
 Language Adaptation:
 o Inclusive Pronouns: "We" and "us" create a sense of shared
experience and camaraderie.
o Colloquial Language: Words like “yell" and "awesome" resonate with
a teenage audience, making the text more relatable and engaging.
o Casual Tone: The informal style aligns with teenagers’
communication preferences. Example use of contractions

2. Adults:

 Example: "Using animals for sports, such as fox-hunting, has been

debated for many years, and it is an issue which elicits strong emotions
from both sides."
 Language Adaptation:
o Sophisticated Vocabulary: Terms like "elicits" and "debated" reflect
a mature understanding of the topic.
o Complex Sentences: Longer, more structured sentences cater to an
adult audience's familiarity with nuanced discussions.
o Formal Tone: The language is formal and impartial, fitting for a
serious debate.

3. Older People:

 Example: "The purpose of wearable technology, such as smart-watches

and fitness trackers, is to make staying connected as easy and hands-free
as possible. In addition, wearable technology can have important health
benefits, as they can monitor your blood sugars, heart rate, blood
pressure, and quality of sleep."
 Language Adaptation:
o Simple Explanations: Clear and straightforward language helps those
less familiar with technology.
o Specific Examples: Practical details and examples make the
information accessible and relevant.
o Concise Style: Short sentences and direct explanations cater to
readers who may prefer clarity to complexity.
 Understanding Writing Purposes
When you are asked to write for a specific purpose in an exam, it is
important to use language effectively to achieve that purpose. Here is how
to approach different writing tasks and the strategies you should use:

1. Writing to Explain
Purpose: To clarify your point of view or describe your thoughts on a topic.
Strategies:
 Explain Clearly: State what you think or feel about the topic.
o Example: "Explain your thoughts on the importance of exercise."
 Use Examples: Provide specific examples or stories to support your
explanation.
o Example: Describe a time when exercise improved your mood.
 Include Facts: Add relevant facts or statistics to back up your explanation.
o Example: "Studies show that regular exercise reduces stress."
 Use Present Tense: Talk about current situations or facts.
 Use Cohesive Connectives: Words like “moreover,” “however,” and “on the
other hand” help your writing flow.
 First or Third Person: Choose either first person ("I think") or third person
("The study shows").

2. Writing to Argue
Purpose: To present and defend your point of view on an issue.
Strategies:
 State Your Argument: Clearly state your opinion on the topic.
o Example: "Argue your point of view about why school uniforms
should be mandatory."
 Use Personal Pronouns: Use words like “I” and “we” to express your
opinions.
 Present Opinions as Facts: Write your views as if they are indisputable
truths.
 Be Persuasive: Use emotive language and rhetorical questions to
strengthen your argument.
o Example: “How can anyone argue that uniforms do not improve
discipline?”
 Acknowledge Counter-Arguments: Mention opposing views but argue
against them.
o Example: "While some argue that uniforms restrict personal
expression, they actually promote equality."
 Maintain Your Position: Stick to your main argument throughout your
piece.

3. Writing to Persuade
Purpose: To convince your audience to adopt your point of view or take
action.
Strategies:
 Present Your Opinion: Clearly state what you want your audience to
believe or do.
o Example: "Persuade the audience of the benefits of recycling."
 Use Personal Pronouns: “We” and “us” make your writing more engaging.
 State Opinions as Facts: Present your views as if they are the absolute
truth.
 Be Passionate: Show enthusiasm about your argument, but avoid being
aggressive.
 Use Emotive Language: Words that evoke emotions can be powerful.
 Use Imperatives: Give direct commands to encourage action.
o Example: "Start recycling today!"
 Employ Rhetorical Techniques: Use techniques like triplets (e.g., "reduce,
reuse, recycle") to emphasize your points.

4. Writing to Guide or Advise

Purpose: To provide helpful information or recommendations.
Strategies:
 Use a Detached Tone: Write in a neutral and informative manner, avoiding
promotional language.
 Give Clear Instructions: Use imperative verbs and bullet points for practical
advice.
o Example: "To manage exam stress: 1. Exercise regularly. 2. Eat
healthy foods. 3. Get enough sleep."
 Use Modal Verbs: Words like “may,” “should,” and “could” suggest
possibilities and recommendations.
 Include Facts and Statistics: Provide evidence to support your advice.
 Address Your Audience Directly: Use “you” to make your guidance
personal and relevant.

Persuasive Language Techniques

Persuasive language techniques, or rhetorical devices, are used to make
your arguments more convincing. Here is a clear guide on how to use these
techniques effectively:

1. Understanding Persuasive Techniques

When writing persuasively, you aim to convince your readers to accept
your views or take action. Here is how you can achieve that:
 Use an Assured Tone: Be confident in your arguments without being rude
or aggressive.
 Build Rapport: Use inclusive pronouns like “we” and “us” to connect with
your audience.
 Construct a Balanced Argument: Combine both facts and opinions to
support your viewpoint.
 Acknowledge Counter-Arguments: Address potential objections and offer
counter-arguments.
 Know Your Audience: Tailor your language to your audience’s values and
concerns.
 Plan Your Writing: Like a journalist, consider your audience and the style
required for the task.

2. Key Persuasive Devices

Here are some important techniques to use in your writing:
 Direct Address: Speak directly to your audience to build rapport.
o Example: “When it comes to the issue of climate change, you must
take action now.”
 Audience Acknowledgment: Address the whole audience to make them
feel included.
o Example: “Parents, surely you agree that stricter school policies are
needed for better student outcomes.”
 Not Only, But Also: Use this to add strength to your argument.
o Example: “Not only does this policy improve safety, but it also
enhances overall learning.”
 Facts: Provide proven information to support your argument.
 o Example: “London Zoo is the oldest zoo in the UK.”
 Opinions: State your beliefs as if they are truths.
o Example: “In my opinion, reducing plastic waste is crucial for
environmental health.”
 Rhetorical Questions: Ask questions that don’t need answers to provoke
thought.
o Example: “Is it fair that some people suffer while others live in
luxury?”
 Emotive Language: Use emotionally charged words to stir feelings.
o Example: “The brutal and heartless destruction of natural habitats
must end.”
 Statistics: Use data to back up your claims.
o Example: “Eighty percent of people believe that public transportation
is too expensive.”
 Triplets: List three related ideas to emphasize a point.
o Example: “Affordable, accessible, and effective healthcare should be
available to everyone.”
 Personal and Inclusive Pronouns: Use “I,” “you,” “we,” and “us” to make
your writing more engaging.
o Example: “We need to act now to save our planet for future
generations.”
 Imperatives: Use command verbs to urge action.
o Example: “Join the movement for cleaner energy today!”
 Exaggeration (Hyperbole): Use exaggerated statements for effect.
o Example: “If we do nothing, the damage will be catastrophic.”
 Flattery: Compliment your audience to gain their favor.
o Example: “As thoughtful and discerning individuals, you will
understand the need for this change.”
 Alliteration: Use repeated consonant sounds to make your point
memorable.
o Example: “Fast food fuels fat and fosters health problems.”
 Antithesis: Present opposing ideas to highlight contrast.
o Example: “Small steps can lead to significant changes.”
 Double Adjectives: Start sentences with two adjectives for emphasis.
o Example: “Innovative and exciting new technologies are shaping our
future.”
 3. Using Techniques Effectively
 Balance Your Techniques: Do not overuse any single technique; it can
weaken your argument.
 Integrate Sophisticated Language: Use advanced vocabulary and avoid
slang.
 Plan Your Tone: Choose a tone that matches your audience and purpose.

By using these persuasive techniques thoughtfully, you can craft a

compelling and effective argument that resonates with your audience.

Task: “Some people believe itis preferable to holiday at home rather than
travel abroad on holiday. Travelling abroad is expensive, damaging to the
environment and takes away important income from local tourism
businesses.”
Write a letter to a newspaper giving your views on this topic.
Dear Editor,

Subject: In Defense of International Travel

I am writing in response to your recent opinion piece suggesting that
holidaying at home is preferable to traveling abroad. While I deeply
appreciate the natural beauty of our country—boasting stunning
countryside and picturesque beaches—I must respectfully disagree with
the notion that vacations abroad should be avoided. Does this not
infringe upon our freedom to choose how to spend our leisure time and
money?

Undoubtedly, the environmental impact of air travel is a concern.

However, is it not rather negligible compared to the significant emissions
from numerous coal-fired power plants around the globe, which
collectively discharge millions of tons of toxic waste into the atmosphere
annually? To be clear, I am committed to environmental sustainability: I
recycle diligently, never litter, and have installed solar panels on my
home. Yet, these personal efforts seem modest when compared to the
broader, global environmental challenges.

One must ask: Is a single family’s annual flight to Spain really the most
significant threat to our planet’s climate? With this perspective, I believe
that the occasional overseas holiday pales in comparison to other, more
substantial environmental issues. Rather than resign ourselves to rainy
weekends at home, many—including myself—would much prefer
savoring a cocktail on a sunlit Greek beach.

Thank you for considering my viewpoint. I hope this provides a balanced

perspective on the value of international travel.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
Section B Skills: SPaG (Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar)
In Section B of the exam, up to 18 marks are awarded for your ability to write
clearly, using varied vocabulary and sentence structures, with appropriate
paragraphing and accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Here’s how to
excel:
1. Sentence Demarcation
 Definition: Ensuring sentences start with a capital letter and end with a full
stop, question mark, or exclamation mark.
 Common Errors: Avoid comma-splicing (using commas instead of full stops)
and run-on sentences.
 Example:
o Incorrect: “Whether or not you think smartphones are a good
thing,the fact oflife in today’s society is thatthe mobile phone is no
longer just a phone in factthey are our lives we network, socialise,
gossip and get information from them, we have our bus passes,train
tickets, bank cards,timetables and reminders on them we can even
do our college work on them what we use them for is constantly
changing and expanding.”
o Correct: “Whether or not you think smartphones are a good thing,
the fact of life in today’s society is that the mobile phone is no
longer just a phone. In fact, they are our lives. We network,
socialize, gossip, and get information from them. We have our bus
passes, train tickets, bankcards, timetables, and reminders on
them. We can even do our college work on them. What we use
them for is constantly changing and expanding.”
2. Range of Punctuation
 Use: Employ a variety of punctuation marks accurately to achieve specific
effects.
 Types:
o Full Stop (.): Ends a statement.
o Question Mark (?): Ends a direct question.
o Exclamation Mark (!): Indicates surprise, shock, anger, or happiness.
o Comma (,): Separates parts of a sentence.
o Colon (:): Introduces lists, quotes, or explanations.
 Example: “The media officer for London Zoo advised: ‘We
take the protection and welfare of our animals extremely
seriously.’”
o Semi-colon (;): Connects closely related independent clauses or
separates items in a long list.
 Example: “Most celebrities in today’s culture do very little
except promote themselves tirelessly; they rely on social
media to do the work for them.”
3. Range of Sentence Forms
 Sentence Openers: Vary how you start sentences to avoid repetition.
o Examples: “Firstly” “secondly,” “Having had many years of
experience,” “Strong and powerful,” “Furthermore”, “ Arguably”, “
“Another interesting addition to”, “Finally”, “In conclusion” etc.
 Sentence Length: Alternate between short and long sentences to create
dynamic writing.
o Short sentences for emphasis: “This information shocked the public.
How, in a period of financial difficulty for the entire nation, could a
single company justify raising prices while ordinary people
suffered?”
 o Long sentences for detail and complexity.
 Sentence Types:
o Simple: Contains one clause.
o Compound: Contains two independent clauses joined by a
conjunction (e.g., "and," "but").
o Complex: Contains one main clause and at least one dependent
clause.
o Compound-Complex: Contains multiple independent clauses and at
least one dependent clause.
4. Standard English and Secure Grammar
 Definition: Use grammatically correct English with subject-verb agreement
and proper verb tense.
 Tips:
o Use plurals correctly.
o Maintain consistent verb tense.
o Use apostrophes accurately, especially for possession.
5. Accurate Spelling and Ambitious Vocabulary
 Vocabulary: Use sophisticated vocabulary accurately and appropriately.
 Spelling: Aim for correct spelling, especially with complex words.
 Tip: Do not shy away from using advanced vocabulary, but ensure you
understand its meaning.
Exam Tip
 Use punctuation and grammar deliberately to create a tone of voice
suitable for the task. Employ a variety of sentence structures and technical
accuracy features to enhance your writing.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively demonstrate your writing skills
and achieve higher marks in Section B of your exam.