IGCSE English Language 0500 - 2. Directed Writing and Composition

Objective: Analyse, evaluate and develop facts, ideas and opinions, with appropriate support from the text.

Understanding Directed Writing

Directed writing is a common task in the IGCSE English Language exam. It requires you to write in response to a specific prompt, often with constraints on the format, audience, and purpose of your writing. It tests your ability to apply writing techniques and demonstrate understanding of how to communicate effectively in different contexts.

Key Features of Directed Writing Tasks

• Specific Prompt: A clear instruction outlining what you need to write about.
• Target Audience: You'll often be asked to write for a particular audience (e.g., a newspaper, a school magazine, a specific group of people).
• Purpose: The reason for your writing will be defined (e.g., to inform, to persuade, to entertain).
• Format: The type of writing will be specified (e.g., an article, a letter, a report, a review).
• Constraints: There may be word limits or other restrictions.

Analyse, Evaluate and Develop: A Core Skill

This objective focuses on three key skills:

1. Analyse

Definition: Breaking down information into its component parts to understand how they work together. In the context of directed writing, this means examining the prompt, identifying the key requirements, and understanding the intended audience and purpose.

How to Analyse the Prompt:

1. Identify the keywords and phrases.
2. Determine the main task (e.g., to describe, to explain, to argue).
3. Consider the target audience and what they already know.
4. Think about the most appropriate format for the response.

2. Evaluate

Definition: Making a judgment about the value or quality of something. This involves considering different perspectives, weighing evidence, and forming an informed opinion.

Evaluating Information:

When evaluating information from a text, consider:

• Bias: Is the information presented fairly? Are there any hidden agendas?
• Reliability: How trustworthy is the source of the information?
• Evidence: Is the information supported by evidence? Is the evidence strong and relevant?
• Alternative Perspectives: Are there other ways of looking at the issue?

3. Develop

Definition: Expanding on ideas, providing details, and supporting claims with evidence. This is where you demonstrate your ability to construct a well-structured and persuasive argument.

Developing Ideas:

To develop your ideas effectively, use:

• Examples: Concrete illustrations to support your points.
• Details: Specific information to add depth and interest.
• Explanation: Clarifying your ideas for the reader.
• Linking Words: To create a smooth flow of ideas.

Developing Facts, Ideas and Opinions with Textual Support

The key to success in directed writing is to support your claims with evidence from the text. This demonstrates your ability to analyse, evaluate, and develop ideas effectively.

Element	Description	Example
Facts	Statements that can be proven true. Often presented as objective information.	"According to the article, the population of the city increased by 15% in the last decade."
Ideas	Thoughts, concepts, or suggestions. Can be subjective or objective.	"The author suggests that technology is having a negative impact on social interaction."
Opinions	Personal beliefs or judgments. Often expressed using phrases like "I think," "In my opinion," or "It seems that."	"I believe that stricter regulations are needed to protect the environment."
Textual Support	Evidence from the text (quotes, paraphrases, or summaries) that supports your facts, ideas, or opinions.	"The author states, '...and this is evident in the increasing number of people spending time online rather than engaging in face-to-face conversations.'"

Different Types of Directed Writing Tasks

You might encounter these types of tasks:

• Articles: Informative or persuasive pieces for a newspaper or magazine.
• Letters: Formal or informal communication to a specific person or organization.
• Reports: Presenting information in a clear and organized way.
• Reviews: Evaluating a product, service, or performance.
• Stories: Narrative writing with a clear plot, characters, and setting.

Tips for Success

• Plan your response: Create an outline before you start writing.
• Understand the prompt: Make sure you know exactly what you are being asked to do.
• Use clear and concise language: Avoid jargon and complex sentence structures.
• Support your ideas with evidence: Refer to the text to back up your claims.
• Check your work: Proofread for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.