“DIRECTED WRITING”

WHAT DOES “DIRECTED WRITING” MEAN?

 It is a piece of writing that follows a set of directions or instructions. Thus, the

question aims to test the ability of students to respond appropriately to a certain task.

 In the exam, you will be given a question in the form of notes or a stimulus. You may
be tested on the following items: report writing, speech, letters (formal and informal),
processes and procedures, descriptions, articles and recounts.
TIPS FOR ANSWERING THE QUESTION

 1. You have only 45 minutes for this question, so budget your time carefully.

 10 minutes – planning

 30 minutes - writing

 5 minutes – checking for mistakes

 2. Read the question carefully and determine the task required. Are you required to write a speech, an article or a
letter? What is the purpose of the task?

 Who is the target audience? Ask yourself continuously as you plan and write your answer, checking that you are
answering the question correctly.

 3. Plan your answer quickly, deciding which points would go into which paragraphs or which points could be
combined. Remember to use all the points given.

 4. If there are more than ten points given,you do not need to elaborate on each. Many of my proficient students
tend to elaborate too much on each point and end up having less than an hour for their continuous writing.
Remember that only one mark is awarded for each point, no matter how long the elaboration is.
 5. Write out your answer as neatly as possible as there is no time for re-writing. Do not use liquid eraser to wipe
out whole sentences and re-write over these sentences. The errors might resurface after a month or so and the
examiner would not be able to read your answer.

 6. Write your essay with an appropriate introduction and conclusion. Make sure your paragraphs are

well-organized.

 7. Check for grammatical mistakes, punctuation and spelling errors.

TASK!

 You recently had a quarrel with your friend and you are not in speaking terms with her/ him
now. Write a letter to your cousin seeking his/her advice. Cover these points:

 * How did you feel about it then?

 * How do you feel about it now and what do you want to do?

 * Why do you think that your cousin is the best person to seek advice from?