Essay and Letter Writing

Instructions for Essay Writing

1. Read the topic carefully. Cover each part of the question properly. Each part has a definite weightage. Do not leave any part unanswered.

2. Choose your topic carefully. All kinds of essays are given due weightage and marks. Never think that a particular choice will result in loss of marks. Story writing for example is as advisable as argumentative or visual-based. But be careful enough to write a story like a story. 4-5 characters, a twist, a lesson in the end, 1st person point of view, some dialogues are needed.

3. High-flown language isn’t needed. Well-phrased sentences and use of appropriate vocabulary is what is given credit. Essays based on personal experiences are always welcomed by examiners.

4. A descriptive essay requires details of sensory perception. Use plenty of adjectives to add weight to your description.

5. In argumentative essays, views for or against the motion are to be accepted. Credit is to be given for a cohesive, well-constructed, logical argument and ideas and reasoning based on personal experience.  Do not sit on the fence. Write either in favour or against.

6. When you are supposed to begin or end with a particular line or phrase, do not alter it at all. Nor should you change its position.

7. In picture compositions, a wide range of interpretations is accepted. Do not, however, write an itemized description. Take the whole picture as one setting or theme.

Instructions for Letter Writing

Be careful about formats. Answer each part of the letter giving equal importance to each.
Practise the format of letter. Underline the part of the question that you are supposed to address.

Formal Letter:
*From address (Home/school)
*Date
*To address [spelling counts]
*Salutation [Sir/ Madam/ Dear…]
*Subscription [Yours faithfully, / Yours truly, (for letters to editors)]
*Name + surname/initial

Informal letter:
*Address (Home/school)
*Date
*Salutation- Dear/My dear [-name]/(relation-Dad, Mom, Aunt…)
*Subscription- Yours lovingly, /Yours affectionately, /Your loving..., /affectionate...,
*First name only

Ensure that the format is correct and that the points of each letter are clearly brought out.