Goals
1. Cultivate the skill to write clear and coherent texts in English on a variety of subjects.
2. Utilise correct grammatical rules in written English tasks.
3. Adhere to set standards while writing different kinds of texts.
Contextualization
Writing effectively in English is vital for academic achievement and entry into the job market. In our increasingly interconnected world, where communication knows no borders, the ability to express ideas clearly and accurately in English can lead to countless international opportunities. For instance, a marketer may find themselves developing a campaign for global outreach, while an engineer might need to compile technical reports for their counterparts abroad. Furthermore, proficient writing is essential in various contexts, from composing professional emails to drafting substantial business documents.
Subject Relevance
To Remember!
Paragraph Structure
The structure of a paragraph is essential for the clarity and flow of a text. A well-structured paragraph should have a topic sentence that states the main idea, followed by supporting sentences elaborating on this idea, and a concluding sentence that encapsulates the discussion. Adhering to this format ensures that the text is straightforward and easy for the reader to grasp.
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Topic sentence: Introduces the primary idea of the paragraph.
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Supporting sentences: Offer details, examples, and explanations that reinforce the topic sentence.
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Concluding sentence: Wraps up the main idea of the paragraph and readies the reader for the next part of the text.
Cohesion and Coherence
Cohesion and coherence are crucial components of a fluid and logical text. Cohesion refers to the linguistic links between sentences and paragraphs, while coherence involves the clarity and logical arrangement of ideas. Together, they ensure that the text is comprehensible in its entirety and that ideas are effectively communicated.
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Cohesion: The use of pronouns, conjunctions, and other tools to connect sentences and paragraphs.
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Coherence: Ensuring clarity and logical flow in the presentation of ideas, making the text interpretable as a unified whole.
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Tools: Connective phrases, deliberate repetition of key terms, and proper verb tense usage.
Applied Grammar
Applied grammar encompasses the correct implementation of grammatical rules in text creation. This includes using verb tenses accurately, ensuring subject-verb agreement, correct punctuation, and forming complex sentences. Mastery of grammar is key to producing a text that is both professional and easily understood.
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Verb tenses: Correctly using verb tenses to denote actions in the past, present, and future.
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Agreement: Making sure the subject and verb agree in number and person.
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Punctuation: Properly using commas, full stops, and other punctuation marks for clarity.
Types of Texts
Different types of texts necessitate unique approaches and structures. Among the most common forms are narrative texts, which tell stories; descriptive texts, which create vivid imagery; argumentative texts, which support a specific viewpoint; and expository texts, which explain topics straightforwardly and factually. Each type comes with particular traits that must be followed for effective communication.
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Narrative: Shares a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
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Descriptive: Paints a detailed picture of a scene, person, or object.
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Argumentative: Advocates for an opinion or perspective with logical arguments and evidence.
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Expository: Clarifies a topic or concept objectively and clearly.
Text Revision and Editing
Revising and editing texts are critical phases in the writing process. Revision means carefully re-reading the text to spot and fix grammatical, cohesion, and coherence issues, while editing is about refining clarity and precision. These steps are essential to ensure the final product is of high quality and free of errors.
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Grammatical revision: Correcting grammar and spelling inaccuracies.
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Cohesion and coherence revision: Assessing the logical flow of the text.
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Editing: Fine-tuning clarity, exactness, and stylistic elements of the text.
Practical Applications
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Marketing professionals create content in English for global campaigns, employing narrative and descriptive writing techniques.
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Engineers compile detailed and precise technical reports in English, applying appropriate grammar and ensuring textual cohesion.
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International negotiators draft clear and coherent emails and business documents in English, ensuring effective and professional engagement.
Key Terms
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Topic Sentence: The introductory sentence of a paragraph that outlines the main idea.
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Cohesion: The linguistic relation connecting various parts of the text.
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Coherence: The logical consistency and clarity of ideas in a text.
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Revision: The process of reviewing and correcting a text for errors.
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Editing: The act of enhancing the clarity and precision of a text.
Questions for Reflections
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How can the skill of writing proficiently in English impact your career positively?
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In what ways do cohesion and coherence enhance the clarity and effectiveness of a text?
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Why are revision and editing fundamental process steps in writing?
Collaborative Writing Challenge
This mini-challenge will reinforce what you learned about different text types and the practical use of grammar and cohesion rules.
Instructions
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Team up with a partner or group from your class.
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Select a text type (narrative, descriptive, argumentative, or expository) to co-author.
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Create a rough outline of the text, integrating a topic sentence, supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence.
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Revise and edit the text, addressing grammatical mistakes and enhancing cohesion and coherence.
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Present the final piece to the class, highlighting the structural and content choices you made.