Specific Strategies For Academic Writing Module
The Academic Writing Module and the General Training Writing Module both consist of two tasks. You do not require any technical or specialized knowledge to write these essays, letters or reports. In general the writing module assesses the test takers ability to:
- describe visual information presented in the form of graphs, charts, diagrams or maps
- support an argument using valid points
- communicate their ideas clearly and concisely
- use a wide range of grammatical structures and vocabulary
You will be given separate answer sheets for Task 1 and Task 2
You should write your answers in complete sentences. They should not be in the note form. You can use a pen or pencil to write your answers. If you use the pencil, you can make revisions more easily.
Task 1 carries one-third of the total marks. Do not spend more than 20 minutes on it.
Task 2 carries two-thirds of the marks. You should write at least 250 words. If you write fewer than 250 words, you will lose marks.
Academic writing tasks
Academic writing task 1 requires you to write a report based on information given in the form of a graph, chart, map, table or diagram.
Task 2 requires you to write an essay of at least 250 words. The task rubric will contain a point of view, a problem or an argument.
Academic writing task 1
You are given a chart, table, flow chart, map or diagram. Regardless of the nature of the visual input, you are required to write a short descriptive report of at least 150 words. The graph or table, for example, may present a set of statistics and you have to summarise the data by selecting and reporting the main features. Alternatively, you may be given a diagram of a device and told to explain how it works. If the visual output is in the form of a flow chart, you have to describe the main stages in a process. Sometimes, you may be asked to describe two graphs or charts. In this case, you have to compare and contrast the information. Use appropriate and accurate language.
Academic writing task 2
You have to write an essay of at least 250 words. You may have to give your opinion on something. Or you may have to compare the pros and cons of a situation or development before presenting your view. Task 2 assesses your ability to defend or refute a point of view using valid arguments. Sometimes you may be asked to discuss the causes of a problem and suggest solutions.
