You are expected to read one or two texts totaling 650-750 words in length. You should then use the in texts to develop and evaluate its information. It is called Directed Writing because the texts will be instructing you how to go about the writing.
What does evaluate mean?
When evaluating, it means that you need to probe the info, criticize it and also weigh up the pros and cons of those writers’ ideas.
How will I be assessed?
This question is assessed out of 40 marks. This being a writing paper, more marks are available for the quality of your writing. 25 marks is available for your writing while 15 marks is for the content of your work.
A sneak peak into the marking scheme level
Styles of writing
The directed writing question requires you to adopt a style of writing fit for your purpose. These include:
- Persuasive
This style of writing is used to convince or persuade a reader that your opinion of a topic or is the right one. To do this, you will need a range of persuasive techniques creatively incorporated in your writing.
2. Argumentative
Argumentative writing is used to establish a position on an issue by providing reasons and supporting evidence. Just like Persuasive writing, you will need a range of persuasive techniques.
3. Discursive
Just as the word sounds, this writing requires that you explore an idea in a balanced manner without favouring a particular side. Therefore, it is more informative than persuasive.
Which text types will be tested.
In contrast to response to reading, directed writing only tests three text types:
- Letters
- Magazine Articles
- Speeches
You should therefore be prepared to write:
- Argumentative speech
- Argumentative letter
- Argumentative article
- Persuasive speech
- Persuasive letter
- Persuasive article
- Discursive speech
- Discursive letter
- Discursive article
Important tips for this question
- You should only evaluate the points in the text(s) given. DON’T evaluate your own ideas.
- The ideas you plan to evaluate should come from both texts. Not just one text.
- Being a writing paper, ensure that your work is spiced up with ambitious vocabulary and language.
- Your work should be rich in persuasive techniques. This is the main secret to make your argument stand out.
- As you tackle the two bullet points in the question, don’t discuss them independently. Instead, discuss them concurrently. That means that each paragraph should contain an evaluation as well as your own views about the question.
- Use TAPC to give you a better ground of approaching the question.
- Understand the correct style that the question demands.
- Understand your audience and write your argument specifically for them.
- Paragraph your work in a manner that makes the logic flow easy to follow.
- Your response should aim for accuracy: correct spellings, appropriate punctuation, accurate grammar as well as a range of sentence structures.
- DON’T just state the points, you must demonstrate the ability to probe the idea and interact with it with more breadth.
Counter arguments
To sound more persuasive, mention your opponent’s views and then explain why you believe their ideas are incorrect.
Example
Assuming you are writing an essay that is against the student school council in schools.
Below is a sample counter argument.
Example
Some may argue, that being a member of the student council derails our studies. They claim that focusing on leadership responsibilities might distract us from achieving excellent grades. My question is, does a good education solely depend on grades? Honestly speaking, I believe students who are appointed as leaders are self-motivated and can easily manage their time to ensure that there is a balance between their studies and other student council duties.
How to Write an Evaluative Paragraph.
An evaluative paragraph should show evidence of an understanding of the question and the ability to challenge the ideas with a clear, strong and relevant argument.
Here is a sample evaluative paragraph structure that will work for each of your paragraphs.
- POINT TO BE EVALUATED
- EVALUATION OF THE GIVEN POINT
- A SUPPORTING EXAMPLE OR RESEARCH
- GIVE YOUR OWN VIEWS BASED ON THE EVALUATION GIVEN.
Example of an evaluative paragraph
- Firstly, school uniforms are impractical. (POINT)
- Not only are some of the materials non-breathable, but they also fail to accommodate the changing seasons throughout the year. (EVALUATION)
- The other day, one of the junior students was forced to wear a blazer and a fleece jacket on a warm morning all in the name of an ideal uniform. (EXAMPLE)
- In my view, the school administration should allow students to dress appropriately for the weather, as long as they maintain a decent appearance. (OWN OPINION/VIEW)
HOW TO STRUCTURE YOUR ENTIRE RESPONSE.
As advised above, use the PEEO format for each of your evaluative paragraphs. Remember, you should have at least 4 points well evaluated.
Sample structure for a directed writing question
- Introduction (brief and fit for either an article, speech or letter)
- First point + evaluation + example + own views
- Second point + evaluation + example + own views
- First counter argument. (An AGAINST point countered by your FOR point)
- Second Counter argument. (An AGAINST point countered by your FOR point)
- Conclusion
SAMPLE RESPONSE
Space travel sample
Dear Uncle Tom,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I must admit, when I received your inquiry about reserving a seat on one of the first tourist space flights, I was both thrilled by your allure of space exploration and the opportunity to be part of history. As someone who has always admired your sense of adventure and willingness to embrace new experiences, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seize this extraordinary opportunity.
Firstly, space travel is giving rise to exciting career opportunities for young people. With technology advancing rapidly, traditional office jobs are quickly becoming outdated. In fact, my best friend aspires to be a space engineer; an intriguing pursuit for thrill-seekers. I believe that by taking a leap of faith and booking a seat on this space flight, you will not only fulfill your own dream but also inspire and create pathways for potential careers in future generations.
Secondly, space tourism appears to be a popular venture for entrepreneurs. With several private companies establishing space launch systems, there is no doubt that the business world recognizes the commercial potential of this industry. Just the other day, I read an article that highlighted more than eleven such companies setting up their own space facilities. My dear uncle, this is an opportunity for you to network with potential investors and possibly gain insights to even establish your own company upon your return.
Some naysayers, might discourage you claiming that the trip is too expensive. They may try to convince you that this money could be used for more “worthwhile” causes. However, money has never been a problem for you, my dear uncle. I know you as a devoted philanthropist. I believe that you can totally donate to children’s homes and shelters while treating yourself to this mind-blowing experience. In my opinion, you shouldn’t let anyone dictate how you spend your own money. We only live once, right?
It wouldn’t be surprising to hear some folks argue that you should travel to every corner of the Earth before embarking on a space tour Look, I get it, exploring our beautiful planet is important. But let’s face it, these space trips are like once-in-a-blue-moon opportunities. Miss this chance, and you might miss it forever. So, my advice? Go ahead and book that seat. You can always travel the world once you’re back.
My dear uncle, the decision rests in your hands. But seriously, I think you should embrace the wonders of space, expand the horizons of human achievement, and leave an everlasting legacy. The chance to be part of this transformative chapter in human history is a privilege that you should not take lightly. Let me just wish you an awe-inspiring adventure among the stars.
Your favourite niece,
Teacher Peris