How to Write Article

ARTICLES CAE (CPE)

A

t least one of the tasks in Paper 2 will involve writing something intended for publication.

Such tasks include an article, an entry for a competition, and a review, and all could be

published in an English-language magazine. The publication can sometimes be described as

a newspaper, and sometimes as a newsletter, which is a one or two page magazine, sent to members

of a club or society. Always read the instructions for the task carefully to be clear about whom you

are writing for.

What is an article?

An article

• is a piece of writing usually intended for publication in a newspaper, magazine or journal

• is written for a wide audience, so it is essential to attract and retain the readers’ attention

• may include amusing stories, reported speech and descriptions

• can be formal or informal, depending on the target audience

• should be written in an interesting or entertaining manner

• should give opinions and thoughts, as well as facts

• is in a less formal style than a report

An article can

• describe an experience, event, person or place

• present an opinion or balanced argument

• compare and contrast

• provide information

• offer suggestions

• offer advice

A realistic article should consist of:

1.

an eye-catching title which attracts the readers’ attention and suggests the theme of the

article. (Think about why you read a magazine or newspaper article recently - what made

you read it?) Articles can also have subheadings before each paragraph.

2.

an introduction which clearly defines the topic to be covered and keeps the reader’s

attention.

3.

the main body of two to five paragraphs in which the topic is further developed in detail.

4.

the conclusion - summarising the topic or a final opinion, recommendation or comment.

REMEMBER

Before you begin writing it is important to consider:

• where is the article going to appear - in a newspaper or magazine?

• who are the intended readers - a...