Writing Task (go to Checklist)

Writing Paper Part 2. Task Type: Article

Question
You have been asked by the editor of your school magazine to write an article on the following topic:

Today's television

"A load of old rubbish" or
"More choice than ever before"?

Is today's television still good value for money?

 

Write your article for the magazine (around 120-180 words).

What you need to do to pass
Use our checklist first to understand what the examiner wants you to do.

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

  • List some reasons why television today could be described as "a load of rubbish".
    Too many repeats of old programmes
    Large number of entertainment programmes; too few factual programmes
  • What arguments can be made in favour of television today?
    More channels than before; Wider choice of programmes
  • What other points about TV can you mention?
    (E.g. the cost of TV compared to other forms of entertainment)
  • Decide what your viewpoint is and then think of a suitable title for your article which will get the attention of the readers.
    E.g. 'Where's the off button?' or 'Today's TV is the best!'

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

  • Have you answered the questions?
  • Will the reader be clear about your opinion?
  • Is the layout and organisation appropriate?
  • Is the language correct with a good range of structures?
  • Will the reader enjoy reading your work?
  • Is the style OK?
  • Will it have a positive effect on the reader?

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