speech text type example

18 Text Types (with Examples) – Writing Styles Explained

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Texts types, also known as genres or text forms, refer to categories of texts with different purposes. Depending on the purpose, each type of text will have have a different convention of style and structure.

It is essential to understand text types and their conventions because:

• Interpretation: It helps us understand the text’s intentions, trustworthiness, and bias
• Text Creation: It helps us to create texts that are most effective, depending upon the purpose

Below is a list of the most common text types and their key conventions, style, structure, and purpose.

Text Types Examples

1. narrative.

Purpose: A narrative text aims to tell a story to the reader. It isn’t always just about telling a story for entertainment, though. The purpose of narrative text also lies in its capacity to engage the reader’s imagination, impart a moral lesson, or just simply pass on a tale through generations. For example, narrative stories are used in folklore and folktales to pass-on cultural values and stories.

Style: The style of a narrative text is distinctive. It employs a chronological sequencing of events. Coherent, right-branching sentences, varying in length, create rhythm and draw the reader into the unfolding story. Active voice is favored to maintain directness and immediacy, bringing scenes alive.

Structure: Beginning with an orientation, it introduces characters, setting, and time. Short initial sentences establish the context. The complication, the next part, presents problems or conflicts. A series of sentences, varying in length and complexity, takes the reader through ups and downs. Ultimately, the story reaches a resolution, where the achievement or solution is laid out.

2. Descriptive

Purpose: A descriptive text is designed to describe something in a detailed manner. The writer attempts to paint a vivid image in the reader’s mind, often by intricately describing an object, person, place, experience, or situation.

Style: Adjectives play a significant role in a descriptive text. They enrich the text, adding depth to the description. Similes, metaphors, and other figurative language might also be used for more creative descriptions. The sentences can be diverse, ranging from concise statement of facts to long, detailed depictions .

Structure: A descriptive text often starts with a short, general overview of what is being described. Then, it delves into details, exploring appearance, characteristics, functions, and other aspects. It closes with a brief summary or a final remark on the described subject.

3. Expository

Purpose: The main goal of an expository text is to inform or explain. It aims to provide the reader with comprehensive information about a specific topic. This type of text gives out facts and provides deep insights, explaining complex concepts or procedures in a manner that the reader can understand.

Style: The style of an expository text is systematic and straightforward. It has an emphasis on clarity. It avoids ambiguity and confusion.

Structure: Beginning with an introduction that briefly outlines the topic, an expository text then offers a well-structured exploration of distinct aspects of the topic. Each paragraph introduces a different point related to the topic. The conclusion summarizes the main points and offers final insights.

Read More: Expository vs Argumentative Essay Writing

4. Argumentative / Persuasive

Purpose: An argumentative or persuasive text is structured to persuade the readers by presenting a point of view. It defends a position regarding an issue or topic, using reasoned arguments, facts, statistics, and real-life examples to convince readers and lure them into adopting this point of view.

Style: These texts should be precise, logical, and grounded in evidence. The use of rhetorical devices like ethos, logos, and pathos can help persuade and appeal to the reader’s sense of ethics, logic, or emotions.

Structure: Key here is to map out a clear and structured argument, often presenting the most compelling points at the beginning and end of the piece. Consider using an essay plan. Your piece may start with a clear statement of the thesis or position. Then, provide supporting evidence and arguments, section by section. Each paragraph can offer a different reason or piece of evidence supporting the thesis. A conclusion is then needed to sum up the argument, restate the thesis, and call the reader to action.

5. Instructional

Purpose: An instructional text serves to provide instructions or directions on how to do something. It aims to guide the reader through a sequence of steps to achieve a certain goal or complete a task efficiently.

Style: Unlike persuasive texts, instructional texts should not try to convince anyone of anything. Your job is to strictly provide facts. The language is direct, to-the-point, and unambiguous.

Structure: Instructional texts usually start with an overview of the task or goal, and possibly, what the end result should look like. Following that, a list of materials or requirements would come next. After this, a step-by-step guide detailing how to accomplish the task is written.

6. Procedural

Purpose: Procedural texts are designed to guide the reader through a sequence of actions or steps necessary to accomplish a specific task. These tasks might be related to cooking, science experiments, emergency procedures, or machinery operation, among others.

Style: Procedural texts are characterized by precise and unambiguous language. It is critical that the wording is exact to ensure clear communication of instructions.

Structure: Procedural texts should be written with the same goal in mind as instructional ones: begin with an overview of the task, followed by any necessary materials or preparation steps. Next, a detailed, step-by-step procedure is included. It often concludes with any necessary follow-up instructions or warnings.

Purpose: The purpose of a recount text is to retell past events, usually in chronological order. It serves to provide a detailed account of an event, experience, or historical occurrence.

Style: A recount is usually descriptive and personal, involving a chronological presentation of events, with expressive language to convey emotions or impressions that the writer felt during the events.

Structure: A typical recount text starts with the introduction, setting the scene, and often specifying the time, place, and participants involved. The series of events then unrolls in the order they occurred. Finally, it concludes with a personal comment, reflection, or evaluation of the event.

Purpose: Report texts are written to present information about a subject. The subject could range from real-world entities like animals, humans, or natural phenomena to abstract concepts like principles, theories, or ideas.

Style: Reports are communicated objectively without the use of personal pronouns or subjective language. They contain facts, statistics, and specific information related to the subject, presented in a clear, systematic manner.

Structure: A report usually begins with an introduction, defining the topic and offering a brief overview. A series of sections or subheadings then ‘chunk’ the content to make it easy to navigate, each covering different aspects of the topic. A conclusion or summary often ends the report.

9. Discussion

Purpose: A discussion text is intended to present multiple perspectives on a specific issue, allowing the reader to consider all angles before forming their own viewpoint. It aims to deepen understanding and foster a broader perspective by objectively exploring diverse opinions and arguments related to a topic.

Style: Discussion texts use neutral, unbiased language. The writer presents all sides of the argument fairly and objectively, without leaning towards supporting one over another.

Structure: The text begins with an introduction of the issue at hand. This is followed by presenting point and counterpoint for each aspect of the issue, examining arguments in favor and against it. An effective discussion text ends with a conclusion or summary that encapsulates the multiple perspectives without indicating a personal preference.

10. Response

Purpose: A response text serves to provide a personal interpretation or reaction to a piece of content, such as a book, film, article, or speech. It aims to deepen the understanding of the original content, examine its components, and express personal thoughts, feelings, and reactions to it.

Style: Response writing is subjective, reflecting the opinion and personality of the writer. Despite the writer’s personal voice being apparent, a good response should maintain an even-handed and critical approach.

Structure: Commence with an overview of the content being responded to, including its title and creator. Next, give a brief summary or description of the content. Following this, present your personal reactions, impressions, and points of critique. Lastly, conclude by summarizing your views and stating your final thoughts.

Purpose: The purpose of a poetic text is to convey emotions, experiences, concepts, and ideas using creative and imaginative language. It’s a form of verbal art that uses aesthetics and rhythmic qualities to charm and engage readers.

Style: Poetic language heavily incorporates figurative and connotative language. It frequently uses devices such as similes, metaphors, rhyme, rhythm, assonance, and alliteration to create a specific mood or emotion.

Structure: The structure of a poem can vary vastly – it may adhere to a specific form (like sonnets, haikus, or limericks) complete with rules regarding rhyme, meter, and stanza length, or it may be free verse, with no such rules.

12. Journalistic

Purpose: Journalistic texts aim to report news stories to inform readers, viewers, or listeners about events happening locally or globally. These texts provide factual information about real-world event in a balanced, fair, accurate, and comprehensive manner.

Style: Journalistic writing requires use of clear, concise, and direct language. The language is primarily factual and explanatory, striving to be impartial and unbiased.

Structure: Journalistic texts usually adopt the “inverted pyramid” structure. The most crucial information is presented first – summarizing the ‘who, what, where, when, why, and how’ of the story. Following paragraphs provide further details and context, with the least important information towards the end.

See Also: Informational Texts Examples

13. Transactional

Purpose: Transactional texts serve to communicate an intended message between individuals or organizations. Common examples include emails, reports, proposals, business letters and memos.

Style: The tone and style of transactional texts depend on their intended audience and purpose. Formality levels may vary – generally, they are written in clear, straightforward language.

Structure: Transactional texts usually start with a salutation or an introduction, followed by the body containing the key message or information. They end with a closing, which may include a call-to-action, a closing remark or a sign-off.

14. Exemplification

Purpose: Exemplification texts are those which use examples to make a point, stress a point, or clearly present a pattern or form. These texts aim to make abstract ideas concrete, clarify concepts, or provide evidence supporting statements or theories.

Style: The language of exemplification texts is straightforward and facts-based, leveraging detailed examples to make concepts clearer and more understandable.

Structure: They start with a thesis statement or main idea. Next, they introduce and elaborate various specific examples to exemplify and prove the thesis statement. Finally, a conclusion wraps up the discussion and reiterates how the examples support the main idea.

15. Compare and Contrast

Purpose: The purpose of a compare and contrast text is to examine the similarities and differences between two or more subjects, such as concepts, items, people, or events. It aids in understanding and scrutinizing the association between the subjects.

Style: This kind of writing is analytical and require a balanced and objective presentation of facts, making sure to avoid bias or favoritism.

Structure: Such texts generally follow one of two structures: block or alternating. In the block method, all about the first subject is described, followed by all about the second. In the alternating method, corresponding points about the first and second subjects are alternated for comparison.

Read More: Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

16. Cause and Effect

Purpose: Cause and effect text is written to identify and explain the reasons or causes for an event or behavior and the resulting effects or outcomes. It establishes a relationship between variables and events.

Style: Clarity is particularly important in cause and effect writing because it should aim to lucidly explain causal chains where one thing leads to another.

Structure: Generally, the text starts with an introduction to the event. This is followed by the ’cause’ section explaining its origins or reasons. Then comes the ‘effect’ section detailing the outcomes, consequences, or results. Lastly, a conclusion synthesizes the major points and may contain author’s opinion on the event.

Read More: Cause and Effect Examples

17. Diary/Journal Entry

Purpose: A diary or journal entry is written to express personal thoughts, feelings, and experiences, making them a form of autobiographical writing. The objective is self-reflection, documentation of life events or ideas, and emotional exploration.

Style: Being highly personal, these texts don’t normally adhere to strict stylistic protocols. Language is informal and conversational, representing the writer’s voice.

Structure: Diary or journal entries do not follow a strict format. They often start with the date and proceed with the entries. Entries can range from brief notes to detailed narratives.

18. Critical Review

Purpose: A critical review analyses, interprets, and appraises a text or other work (like a film or play). It’s meant to provide an evaluation of the item’s merit, significance, value, or relevance, based on careful examination and evidence-based claims.

Style: Even though a critical review presents the writer’s opinion, it should be a balanced, logical, and professional examination of the work.

Structure: A traditional critical review includes an introduction summarizing the key details of the work being reviewed, the body containing the evaluation, and a conclusion summarizing the review.

Read More: Critical Analysis Examples

Full List of Text Types and Genres

• Descriptive
• Argumentative / Persuasive
• Instructional
• Journalistic
• Transactional
• Exemplification
• Compare and Contrast
• Cause and Effect
• Diary/Journal Entry
• Critical Review

Understanding text types allows you to effectively communicate ideas and information to your target audience. It provides a structured framework that guides the writing process, enhancing clarity and coherence. Additionally, it aids in comprehension, helping readers navigate and understand the text in its intended way. Lastly, knowledge of text types helps improve critical reading skills, enabling readers to discern the underlying purpose and structure of various texts.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
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Dear Professor Drew,

My name is Ana de Mesquita and I am from Brazil. I have been teaching English, French and Brazilian Portuguese as a second language since 2008. I really appreciated your article about texts. It is quite helpful. Best regards,

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The 4 types of speeches in public speaking

Informative, demonstrative, persuasive and special occasion.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

There are four main types of speeches or types of public speaking.

• Demonstrative
• Special occasion or Entertaining

To harness their power a speaker needs to be proficient in all of them: to understand which speech type to use when, and how to use it for maximum effectiveness.

What's on this page:

An overview of each speech type, how it's used, writing guidelines and speech examples:

• informative
• demonstrative
• special occasion/entertaining
• how, and why, speech types overlap

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Informative speeches

An informative speech does as its name suggests: informs. It provides information about a topic. The topic could be a place, a person, an animal, a plant, an object, an event, or a process.

The informative speech is primarily explanatory and educational.

Its purpose is not to persuade or influence opinion one way or the other. It is to provide sufficient relevant material, (with references to verifiable facts, accounts, studies and/or statistics), for the audience to have learned something. 

What they think, feel, or do about the information after they've learned it, is up to them.

This type of speech is frequently used for giving reports, lectures and, sometimes for training purposes. 

Examples of informative speech topics:

• the number, price and type of dwellings that have sold in a particular suburb over the last 3 months
• the history of the tooth brush
• how trees improves air quality in urban areas
• a brief biography of Bob Dylan
• the main characteristics of Maine Coon cats
• the 1945 US bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
• the number of, and the work of local philanthropic institutions
• the weather over the summer months
• the history of companion planting 
• how to set up a new password
• how to work a washing machine

Click this link if you'd like more informative topic suggestions .  You'll find hundreds of them.

And this link to find out more about the 4 types of informative speeches : definition, description, demonstration and explanation. (Each with an example outline and topic suggestions.)  

Demonstration, demonstrative or 'how to' speeches

A demonstration speech is an extension of an informative process speech. It's a 'how to' speech, combining informing with demonstrating.

The topic process, (what the speech is about), could either be demonstrated live or shown using visual aids.

The goal of a demonstrative speech is to teach a complete process step by step.

It's found everywhere, all over the world: in corporate and vocational training rooms, school classrooms, university lecture theatres, homes, cafes... anywhere where people are either refreshing or updating their skills. Or learning new ones.

Knowing to how give a good demonstration or 'how to' speech is a very valuable skill to have, one appreciated by everybody.

Examples of 'how to' speech topics are:

• how to braid long hair
• how to change a car tire
• how to fold table napkins
• how to use the Heimlich maneuver
• how to apply for a Federal grant
• how to fill out a voting form
• how to deal with customer complaints
• how to close a sale
• how to give medicine to your cat without being scratched to bits! 

Resources for demonstration speeches

1 . How to write a demonstration speech   Guidelines and suggestions covering:

• choosing the best topic : one aligning with your own interests, the audience's, the setting for the speech and the time available to you
• how to plan, prepare and deliver your speech - step by step guidelines for sequencing and organizing your material plus a printable blank demonstration speech outline for you to download and complete  
• suggestions to help with delivery and rehearsal . Demonstration speeches can so easily lurch sideways into embarrassment. For example: forgetting a step while demonstrating a cake recipe which means it won't turn out as you want it to. Or not checking you've got everything you need to deliver your speech at the venue and finding out too late, the very public and hard way, that the lead on your laptop will not reach the only available wall socket. Result. You cannot show your images.

2.  Demonstration speech sample outline   This is a fully completed outline of a demonstration speech. The topic is 'how to leave an effective voice mail message' and  the sample covers the entire step by step sequence needed to do that.

There's a blank printable version of the outline template to download if you wish and a YouTube link to a recording of the speech.

3.  Demonstration speech topics   4 pages of 'how to' speech topic suggestions, all of them suitable for middle school and up.

Persuasive speeches

The goal of a persuasive speech is to convince an audience to accept, or at the very least listen to and consider, the speaker's point of view.

To be successful the speaker must skillfully blend information about the topic, their opinion, reasons to support it and their desired course of action, with an understanding of how best to reach their audience.

Everyday examples of persuasive speeches

Common usages of persuasive speeches are:

• what we say when being interviewed for a job
• presenting a sales pitch to a customer
• political speeches - politicians lobbying for votes,
• values or issue driven speeches e.g., a call to boycott a product on particular grounds, a call to support varying human rights issues: the right to have an abortion, the right to vote, the right to breathe clean air, the right to have access to affordable housing and, so on.

Models of the persuasive process

The most frequently cited model we have for effective persuasion is thousands of years old.  Aristotle, the Greek philosopher, 384–322 BC , explained it as being supported by three pillars: ethos, pathos and logos. 

Briefly, ethos is the reliability and credibility of the speaker. How qualified or experienced are they talk on the topic? Are they trustworthy? Should we believe them? Why?

Pathos is the passion, emotion or feeling you, the speaker, bring to the topic. It's the choice of language you use to trigger an emotional connection linking yourself, your topic and the audience together, in a way that supports your speech purpose.

(We see the echo of Pathos in words like empathy: the ability to understand and share the feels of another, or pathetic: to arouse feelings of pity through being vulnerable and sad.)

Logos is related to logic. Is the information we are being presented logical and rational? Is it verifiable? How is it supported? By studies, by articles, by endorsement from suitably qualified and recognized people?

To successfully persuade all three are needed. For more please see this excellent article:  Ethos, Pathos, Logos: 3 Pillars of Public Speaking and Persuasion 

Monroe's Motivated Sequence of persuasion

Another much more recent model is Monroe's Motivated Sequence based on the psychology of persuasion.

It consists of five consecutive steps: attention, need, satisfaction, visualization and action and was developed in the 1930s by American Alan H Monroe, a lecturer in communications at Purdue University. The pattern is used extensively in advertising, social welfare and health campaigns.

Resources for persuasive speeches

1.   How to write a persuasive speech Step by step guidelines covering:

• speech topic selection
• setting speech goals
• audience analysis
• empathy and evidence
• balance and obstacles
• 4 structural patterns to choose from

2. A persuasive speech sample outline using Monroe's Motivated Sequence

3. An example persuasive speech written using Monroe's Motivated Sequence  

4.  Persuasive speech topics : 1032+ topic suggestions which includes 105 fun persuasive ideas , like the one below.☺ 

Special occasion or entertaining speeches

The range of these speeches is vast: from a call 'to say a few words' to delivering a lengthy formal address.

This is the territory where speeches to mark farewells, thanksgiving, awards, birthdays, Christmas, weddings, engagements and anniversaries dwell, along with welcome, introduction and thank you speeches, tributes, eulogies and commencement addresses. 

In short, any speech, either impromptu or painstakingly crafted, given to acknowledge a person, an achievement, or an event belongs here.

You'll find preparation guidelines, as well as examples of many special occasion speeches on my site.

Resources for special occasion speeches

How to prepare:

• an acceptance speech , with an example acceptance speech 
• a birthday speech , with ongoing links to example 18th, 40th and 50th birthday speeches
• an office party Christmas speech , a template with an example speech
• an engagement party toast , with 5 examples
• a eulogy or funeral speech , with a printable eulogy planner and access to 70+ eulogy examples
• a farewell speech , with an example (a farewell speech to colleagues)
• a golden (50th) wedding anniversary speech , with an example speech from a husband to his wife
• an impromptu speech , techniques and templates for impromptu speaking, examples of one minute impromptu speeches with a printable outline planner, plus impromptu speech topics for practice
• an introduction speech for a guest speaker , with an example
• an introduction speech for yourself , with an example
• a maid of honor speech for your sister , a template, with an example
• a retirement speech , with an example from a teacher leaving to her students and colleagues
• a student council speech , a template, with an example student council president, secretary and treasurer speech
• a Thanksgiving speech , a template, with an example toast
• a thank you speech , a template, with an example speech expressing thanks for an award, also a business thank you speech template
• a tribute (commemorative) speech , with a template and an example speech
• a welcome speech for an event , a template, an example welcome speech for a conference, plus a printable welcome speech planner
• a welcome speech for new comers to a church , a template with an example speech
• a welcome speech for a new member to the family , a template with an example

Speech types often overlap

Because speakers and their speeches are unique, (different content, purposes, and audiences...), the four types often overlap. While a speech is generally based on one principal type it might also have a few of the features belonging to any of the others. 

For example, a speech may be mainly informative but to add interest, the speaker has used elements like a demonstration of some sort, persuasive language and the brand of familiar humor common in a special occasion speech where everybody knows each other well.

The result is an informative 'plus' type of speech. A hybrid! It's a speech that could easily be given by a long serving in-house company trainer to introduce and explain a new work process to employees.  

Related pages:

• how to write a good speech . This is a thorough step by step walk through, with examples, of the general speech writing process. It's a great place to start if you're new to writing speeches. You'll get an excellent foundation to build on.
• how to plan a speech - an overview of ALL the things that need to be considered before preparing an outline, with examples
• how to outline a speech - an overview, with examples, showing how to structure a speech, with a free printable blank speech outline template to download
• how to make and use cue cards  - note cards for extemporaneous speeches 
• how to use props (visual aids)    

And for those who would like their speeches written for them:

• commission me to write for you

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Understanding different text types: a guide for igcse 0500 first language english students.

In the vast landscape of English writing, various text types serve distinct purposes, each with its unique characteristics and structure.

In the IGCSE 0500 First Language English exams, you need to demonstrate that you can produce (as in, write!) these different text types in the last section of Paper 1, as well as in the Directed Writing question, which is the first question in P2.

You’ll need to demonstrate that you understand six fundamental text types: letter, report, journal, speech, interview, and article.

Ready? Let’s dive right in!

A letter is a written form of communication that can be either formal or informal. It is usually addressed to a specific person or group.

• Formal Letters are structured with a clear greeting, introduction, body, conclusion, and sign-off. They are used for professional or official communication, such as job applications, business inquiries, or formal requests.
• Informal Letters are more personal and relaxed in tone, often used to communicate with friends or family. They may not strictly follow the formal structure and allow for a more expressive style.

Note for students:

In the FLE exam, you typically won’t need to pay too much attention to the format as you should pay attention to the linguistic style or nuance of your piece.

What this means is that you don’t have to fret about putting in the address of the recipient and your own address as well as the title – it certainly won’t harm you and I would recommend it if you feel that it’s helpful for getting your head into the game, but it’s not a dealbreaker for your grade if you don’t write it down.

Here’s what’s actually important:

The tone and the appropriacy of your language, because that demonstrates how and whether you understand how to use language in these different contexts, which is the main focus.

If you’re writing an informal letter to a friend, you don’t want to write as if you’re addressing the General Assembly of the United Nations, and if you actually are addressing the General Assembly, you probably wouldn’t open your remarks with a “Yo, yo, what’s up?”

Reports are structured and detailed documents that present information clearly and analytically. They are often used in academic, business, and technical contexts to convey research findings, project updates, or analysis.

• Characteristics: Includes a title, overview, findings (preferably with subheadings that structure and organize the report). Typically written in third person and with a formal and objective voice and style.
• Purpose: To provide a thorough analysis or account of a particular issue or situation, often followed by recommendations.

Note to students: Writing a report is as much about reading comprehension as it is about maintaining a formal and objective style. You will need to be able to read texts carefully and distinguish skillfully between facts and opinions. Make sure that everything that you write down in your report is supported by evidence that you can take from the text, preferably with a clear understanding of where the evidence occurs within the text and which lines support the It may seem challenging at the outset, but practice makes perfect. If you’d like more guidance along the way, and lots of example sample reports, make sure to join our Premium Membership Program, so you can discover tons of different samples and prepare for your journey with the best possible support that you can have.

Journals are personal records where individuals document their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. While traditionally kept as private diaries, journals can also be academic or professional.

• Personal Journals are intimate spaces for self-expression and reflection.
• Academic Journals involve critical analysis and reflection on academic work or experiences.
• Characteristics: Regular entries, personal tone, and a focus on reflection over structure.

Note to students:

If you are asked to write a journal entry, this means you are being asked to show that you can reflect upon the contents of a text and also imagine that you had the experience which was described or otherwise understand the context of what was presented to you well enough that you can take a different perspective from your own and perform reflections on the basis of events presented to you or hypothetical in nature.

This skill is vital in many different areas of life, but as with report writing, it’s not always natural or intuitive. Reading journal entries can be valuable, but don’t go out there and steal your family members’ diaries. Also, if you haven’t tried it just yet, journaling is often a relaxing and meaningful activity that can help you personally gain clarity and a deeper mastery over your experiences. If you haven’t tried it before, I highly recommend it as a path towards self-knowledge.

A speech is a formal address delivered orally to an audience. It aims to inform, persuade, or entertain listeners through effective verbal communication.

• Structure: Includes an introduction (to establish the speech’s purpose and engage the audience), body (main points and supporting details), and conclusion (summarizing the key messages and providing a strong closing).
• Styles: Can vary from persuasive and motivational to informational or ceremonial, depending on the context and objective.

Speeches are the most natural and intuitive way of remembering that whatever form of communication that we perform, whether written or spoken, ultimately is communicative in nature.

As you read the prompt, think about the people who would be on the other end if you were to really write out a speech. Who are these people? What do they actually care about? Having a formal process to think about who the audience is and what they care about as a guide for you to decide your tone, style, content, and even language grading can be quite useful.

For example, if a question asks you to write a speech to a group of children, you’d obviously want to think about what children would care about as you write. Additionally, you’d also want to make sure that the contents of what you’re saying can be easily understood, which means that you’ll want to show rather than tell and also use vocabulary that is sufficiently simple that it can be understood by all. At the same time, knowing the attention span of kids, you may also want to pay attention to ways in which you can increase engagement in the audience along the way!

As you practice, consider writing the way you speak. If that sounds simpler than it actually is, that’s because it is. You’ll probably want to practice by reading out what you’ve written on a page and asking yourself whether what you’ve said would actually be something that someone would say in a speech.

Here, in all likelihood, you can trust your intuition. If you need further guidance, consider also asking a friend or a relative to listen to what you’re saying and asking them if it sounds like it would captivate their attention or if it sounds like what someone would say during the course of a speech. Refine, reiterate, and practice again and again. This will give you a clearer idea of how to create an effective speech, which is not only going to be beneficial for you during the exam but also in other areas in life.

5. Interview

An interview is a conversation where questions are asked to elicit information from a participant. It can be conducted for various purposes, including journalistic, research, or employment.

• Types: Can range from structured (with a set list of questions) to semi-structured or unstructured (more open-ended and flexible).
• Characteristics: Involves an interviewer and an interviewee, with the goal of obtaining detailed information, insights, or personal stories.

Interviews typically take the form of a question-and-answer format, and in the IGCSE, it’s usually pretty clear what the context is, and you’ll have to demonstrate not only that you understand the question-and-answer format, but also that you understand how to take in the written content, and then convert that into those questions and answers which you will eventually create.

This is as much as a form of writing as an act of meeting comprehension that takes in all of your skills.

As it is with every single one of the text types here, getting exposure to actual examples is going to be extremely helpful. Lots of sources out there will provide you with interesting interviews. With people across the world, and a potential lifetime of stories to go through. So read widely, and familiarize yourself. For many interview samples, consider signing up for a premium membership of the site. To gain access to this wonderful knowledge.

It can help to watch interviews with actual news anchors. Or to read interviews.

PS: A small plug – If you want to watch a collection of interviews done by me, consider watching my YouTube series, Pathways to Excellence, in which I interview some of the very best students from Malaysia, as well as leaders across the nation, which will give you an idea of what that question-and-answer format might actually be like. Subscriptions are most appreciated!

Articles are written works published in newspapers, magazines, journals, or online platforms. They are intended to inform, discuss, or argue on a specific topic.

• News Articles provide factual information about current events in a straightforward, objective manner.
• Feature Articles explore topics in depth, offering background, analysis, and personal opinions.
• Structure: Generally includes a headline, introduction, body (with supporting details and evidence), and conclusion.

As with pretty much any form of communication, context matters in article writing, and as with pretty much any form of communication you’re asked to produce in the exam, the prompt is your Bible, your guide, your true north. If nothing else, ensure that you follow the prompt. Understand it, comprehend it, drill it into your mind as you read during these few crucial moments. Once you get past that though, you will start realizing that there is a higher plane and there is more that you can do along the way.

Yes, it’s true that you can indeed write an article about your experiences in going for an extreme endurance event.

But ask yourself, what more can you do? Do you simply leave a factual record? Or do you include humorous and interesting anecdotes that you manage to understand from the context?

In a directed writing or ERTR piece, demonstrating that type of comprehension is tremendously important, and being able to play with that comprehension in order to create something that blends it together with your unique and distinct style is the mark of mastery.

Understanding the distinct characteristics of these text types is fundamental for English students to navigate various writing and reading contexts effectively.

Whether it’s crafting a compelling speech, documenting personal experiences in a journal, or writing a report, recognizing the purpose and structure of these text types enhances both writing skills and comprehension.

However, reading all of this will only give you a small portion of what you need to succeed. In reality, understanding how these texts are structured is only the beginning – One that will help you understand the characteristics of everything that you read at a later point, but only that.

To obtain a true mastery, you will have to find good examples of actual texts to reference, comprehend, and understand.

As you do that, try creating some of these texts for yourself.

Your first attempts aren’t likely to be well-organized or beautiful, but what matters is that you begin, and even if you are terrible, you can improve along the way – Something that certainly will never happen if you never even start in the first place.

In the Premium section , you’ll find examples of each of these text types, carefully curated for your reading purposes. There, you’ll also receive access to a variety of helpful formats and structures that you can use to create these texts.

So do stay tuned, look forward to more posts ahead, and thank you for reading!

victortanws

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