Essay Writing Ms Choy Li Lee

Type of essay Narrative Descriptive Expository/factual Argumentative/Persuasive Miscellaneous

Narrative Tells a story in a sequence of events. There should be some point, lesson, or idea gleaned from this narrative to make the essay meaningful. Examples: The happiest day of my life Write about you an incident in which acted irresponsibly.

Descriptive Describing a person, a place or an event. Examples: My self Morning Describe a place which you usually visit on holiday.

Argumentative/Persuasive Require a presentation of both facts and opinions. It is a challenging choice, but a candidate able to present his/herself lucidly and logically will do well. Examples: What is your opinion about attending tuition classes? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of studying overseas.

Expository/factual Explain and clarifies a subject, as the main intension of the writer is to inform. Example are writing reports, explaining a process/procedure and looking at a particular problem or situation and suggesting solution. Examples: Ways to improve discipline in schools Keeping fit Water conservation

Miscellaneous Not included in the previous five types Covers The reflective essay The essay with a one-word title The narrative to which an opening/ ending sentences is given.

The reflective essay examples Imagine yourself in 20 years’ time. Discus two goals that you would have achieved by then. (UEC Senior 2009) My hopes and fear for the next 10 years. What qualities will you look for in your future husband or wife? If you could live in a certain historical period, which would you choose and why?

The reflective essay Requires you to think/reflect over a particular topic and to have a definite viewpoint about it. Its main purpose is for you to express your opinion. Make sure you have very clear feeling/clear-cut opinions about the topic. Be personal in your approach, style & language, so the examiners can hear your voice. Newspaper-columnists, read their style, substance and vocabulary

One-word title examples Leisure Water Rainforest Home

One-word title Requires you to define your own theme so you will be focused on a particular aspect and not waffle (nonsense/rubbish). Be imaginative and think outside the box. Weave a narrative around the title if it allows you to. Do put in touches of humor wherever you can.

Opening/ ending sentences is given (examples) Write an original story by continuing the following: “The hoarse, loud blast of the train’s hooter filled me with despair. I was very late. The train was already leaving the station.” (UEC Sr 2009) Write a short story ending with these words: “Next time, don’t go walking by yourself so late at night.”

Opening/ ending sentences is given. Make sure you use the given opening/ ending for your story. Be especially careful of the given ending; sometimes you get so engrossed with your tale that you have no time to incorporate a nice concluding sentences.