Writing Task (go to Checklist)

Writing Paper Part 2. Task Type: Proposal

Question
You work in a department with a large number of colleagues, all of whom are learning English. You recently discussed the idea of setting up an after-work Film Club with the aim of improving or maintaining your skills in English. You volunteered to write a proposal for your colleagues and you should make suggestions about the following points:

Film Club

- why we should set up the club

- how best to organise it

- costs

- any other considerations


Write the proposal for colleagues. (around 300 - 350 words)

What you need to include to pass
Click here for our checklist first to understand what the examiner is looking for in a good answer.

Ideas for writing
Ask yourself the following questions to help you get started:

  • First, make a list of points that could be included as a rationale for setting up the club:
    - fun and sociable way to learn English
    - a useful addition to any language courses that your colleagues attend
  • Next, you need to consider how it could be organised. Think about the following points if you are stuck for ideas:
    - how often would the members meet up?
    - what time/day of the week would suit everybody?
    - where would the club meet?
    - who would pick the films?
  • A proposal also has to consider the costs of any recommendations! What are the costs likely to be and how could the money be raised?
    Example:
    Cost - hiring the videos
    Solution - everyone pays a small amount toward it
  • Finally, a proposal is normally a fairly formal document but as this is for circulation amongst your colleagues you can be a little more informal.
    Example:
    "I propose/suggest that we ....."
    is preferable to
    "It is proposed that .....
    "

Drafting and proofreading your work
You should look at your first draft of the task and decide:

  • Have you answered the question fully?
  • Is the layout and organisation appropriate for a proposal?
  • Is the language accurate with a good range of structures?
  • Is the style appropriate and consistent for your proposal?
  • Will it be useful and helpful in setting up the Film Club?

If the answer is 'no' to any of these questions then you will need to do some more drafting!