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CIE Exam Prep English Language-1123 – Writing Skills

• Kanwal Hafeez
• December 8, 2023

Table of Contents

Paper 2 is a writing-focused component that challenges candidates to express their thoughts and ideas coherently and persuasively. Comprising various writing tasks, this paper assesses a range of skills, including narrative and descriptive writing, argumentative or discursive essays, and creative responses. It demands not only proficiency in language use but also the ability to structure and present information effectively.

Whether crafting an engaging story, articulating a persuasive argument, or exploring creative expression, Paper 2 encourages students to showcase their command of language and their capacity for critical thinking.

As candidates navigate through diverse writing styles and prompts, they are tasked with demonstrating not only linguistic proficiency but also the creativity and clarity essential for effective communication. It has two main sections: 

Directed Writing

This section is all about expressing yourself in writing. This part asks you to respond to different situations, like writing formal letters, reports, or more casual pieces. It’s like putting your thoughts on paper in a way that fits the specific task. The goal is not just to use correct English but also to organize your ideas well, making sure your writing makes sense and suits the purpose.

So, whether it’s explaining something, telling a story, or convincing someone of your point of view, Directed Writing lets you showcase your writing skills in different everyday situations. 

In articles, the main goals are to inform and convince readers. They provide information on a topic, sharing different perspectives to create a balanced view for readers to make their own decisions. Articles can also aim to persuade, expressing a particular opinion or viewpoint, either positive or negative. 

• When writing, consider your audience, how you want them to react, and the purpose of your article. 
• Keep the tone semi-formal and engaging. 
• To maintain reader interest, use a variety of sentence structures and relevant vocabulary. 
• Plan your article with a clear introduction, a detailed middle presenting key points, and a conclusion summarizing your argument. 
• Organize ideas into paragraphs, use suitable headlines and subheadings, and connect thoughts with linking words for a smooth flow. 
• In essence, writing an article involves skillfully blending information, persuasion, and reader engagement. 
• For a sample article along with feedback, click here  

2. Email 

Attempting email is a lucrative strategy when it comes to Directed writing. It terms of format and content, it is an easier choice.   

• When crafting emails, consider your audience and the context. Emails sent to a group tend to be semi-formal, avoiding slang. Tailor the tone based on your relationship; semi-formal is standard, but it can be more relaxed with familiar contacts or formal with superiors. 
• Be mindful of your reader’s time, ensuring clarity and professionalism in your message. Avoid emojis or informal abbreviations unless for casual communication. 
• Organize your email by planning main points, maintaining focus on one topic, and using a three-part structure: a concise subject line, a brief introduction, a well-supported body with short paragraphs, and a closing section outlining the next steps or ending on a friendly note. 
• Make your email reader-friendly by using headings, short lists, and appropriate emphasis. Choose a suitable greeting and sign off based on the recipient and the email’s purpose.
• For a sample email, click here  

3. Report 

The essence of a report lies in presenting well-organized information, combining factual details with considered suggestions. Typically, reports blend objective facts and informed opinions, providing a balanced overview for the reader. They often serve to offer an impartial analysis of a situation, proposing alternatives for consideration.

In professional settings, reports may incorporate statistics to support diverse plans for the future, aiding decision-making. 

• The primary audience for a report is usually someone in authority, such as a teacher or employer, necessitating a formal language and tone. 
• To craft an effective report, consider your audience, maintain a formal and impersonal tone, align your vocabulary with the topic, and assure the reader of the report’s utility by presenting a calm and polite demeanor. 
• Structurally, a report comprises an introduction providing a topic overview, a middle section developing key points, and a conclusion summarizing suggestions or recommendations. 
• Clear organization through paragraphs, strategic use of headings and bullet points, and logical connections between points contribute to a cohesive and reader-friendly report.
• For a sample report, click here .

4. Letter 

The primary purpose of a letter is to convey information or express a viewpoint to the reader, either formally or informally. Letters can serve various functions, from persuading the reader to consider the writer’s opinion, as seen in job applications, to more casual instances like sharing holiday experiences. 

• Language and vocabulary choices depend on the audience and the letter’s purpose, ranging from formal tones for professional correspondence to informal, cheerful tones for personal communication. 
• When writing letters, it’s crucial to consider the audience’s potential reaction, maintain a clear purpose, and influence the reader through a calm and polite tone. 
• The organizational structure typically involves an opening paragraph stating the letter’s aim, a middle section elaborating on relevant points, and a closing section summarizing key points or specifying required actions. 
• Following a conventional structure, including addresses and greetings, and incorporating appropriate linking words enhances the effectiveness of the letter.
• To view a sample letter, click here . 

Speeches primarily aim to inform or persuade an audience, often intending to entertain or influence the listeners. They can also encourage action or behavioral changes, such as joining a club or recycling more. 

• The language and vocabulary used depend on the audience and purpose, requiring formal tones for a speech to teachers and parents, for instance. 
• Tips for writing speeches involve considering the audience, addressing potential objections, aligning tone with the topic, and engaging listeners with inclusive language. 
• Organizationally, speeches typically comprise an attention-grabbing opening, a well-structured argument supported by examples, and a powerful conclusion, often grouped in threes for memorability. 
• Clear paragraphing and the use of linking words ensure coherent connections between ideas. 
• To view a well structured sample speech, click here . 

The purpose of an essay is to express and support an argument on a question or issue, considering different opinions. Essays can present both sides or focus on one, following a formal or neutral register. 

• They should be well-organized, including an introduction, main body, and conclusion, with language appropriate for expressing opinions. Tips include considering the audience, maintaining a neutral tone, and using diverse grammatical structures. 
• Organize the essay coherently, using formal linking words. One approach is a balanced argument, addressing both sides, or a one-sided essay presenting a single viewpoint with supporting examples. 
• The conclusion summarizes the argument and encourages readers to form their own opinion. 
• To view a sample essay, click here  

Conclusion:

Paper 2 of the CIE Exam is a dynamic writing-focused component designed to assess a spectrum of skills, from narrative writing to persuasive essays and creative expression. Students are challenged not only in their language proficiency but also in their ability to structure and convey information effectively.

The diverse tasks, such as Directed Writing, Articles, Email, Report, Letter, Speech, and Essay, demand a versatile approach, allowing candidates to showcase linguistic mastery, creativity, and critical thinking. Navigating through various writing styles, this paper cultivates the essential skills needed for effective communication and expression.

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O Level English Language Updated - Everything You Need to Know

by Linta Rasheed

Greetings, diligent  O Level English Language (1123) students ! Whether you're in Pakistan or beyond, you're undoubtedly aware of the significance of staying well-informed about the latest syllabus changes , particularly the one that takes effect from 2024 to 2026.

This  comprehensive guide will delve into every nook and cranny of the English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus , equipping you with the knowledge and insights needed to conquer this academic frontier . 

Vision & Structure of the English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus

Vision behind the change: .

This change brings a dynamic approach to language learning and assessment in the O Level English paper. This  syllabus aims to provide a more engaging and contemporary learning experience, highlighted by additional command words and revitalized academic objectives.

Assessment Structure for O Levels English Syllabus 2024:

The O Levels English updated syllabus sticks to its two-paper format - Paper 1 and Paper 2. However, with the new O Level English updated syllabus in play, some changes in mark distribution and question types align perfectly.

English Language O Levels Paper Pattern

O levels english paper 1 (reading): the 80/20 challenge .

In O Levels English Paper 1, we dive into a two-hour journey dedicated to the art of Reading. This paper is divided into two sections , with a major focus on Reading (80%) and a sprinkle of Writing (20%) . 

Section A: Comprehension  and Use of Language (25 Marks):

In this section, you'll encounter a 900-word narrative text , Text A, plucked from 21st-century literature to give an updated touch to O Levels English Paper 1. 

Question 1: Comprehension (16 Marks) 

In these Cambridge O Level English Paper 1 comprehension questions, you'll tackle short-answer questions that test your grasp of the text's  explicit and implicit meanings. 

Question 2: Use of Language (9 Marks) 

You'll analyze the author's language choices ( reading between the lines ) and their impact on the text's overall effect. You'll uncover the writer's craft of influencing readers through short-answer questions.

Section B: Summary and Short Response (25 marks) 

For this section's questions, you’ll refer to the shorter Text B, hovering around 600 words.

Question 3a: Summary (20 marks) 

In the English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus , you must write a 150-word summary demonstrating your ability to filter information , organize ideas, use context-appropriate vocabulary , and understand explicit meanings - honing in on reading and writing assessment objectives. 

Question 3b: Short Response (5 marks) 

Through short responses, you, as an O Level student , will display your understanding of implicit meanings and attitudes.  

O Levels English Paper 2 (Writing): The Art of Expression 

In O Levels English Paper 2 , you'll spend two hours showcasing your writing prowess. This paper strongly emphasizes your writing skills, with an impressive 80% weightage given to the Writing component. In comparison, Reading takes up the remaining 20% . 

Section A: Directed Writing (25 Marks) 

This section presents you with one to two 400-word texts to evaluate. Your task? Craft an argumentative speech , email, report, letter, or article within a word limit of 250-300 words . It's a creative buffet of options ! A heads-up: master the speech writing format O Level and report writing format English O Level while reviewing  O Level English past papers . 

15 Marks for Writing Assessment Objectives 

You'll earn 15 marks here by nailing the speech or report writing format English O Level, demonstrating articulation skills, showcasing vocabulary breadth, maintaining an appropriate register, and ensuring grammatical accuracy.

10 Marks for Reading Assessment Objectives 

The remaining 10 marks test your analytical abilities. Can you extract key ideas (such as understanding the theme ), find textual support, and target useful information? This is where your critical thinking skills shine.

Section B: Composition (25 Marks) 

In this section, you'll choose one question from two descriptive and two narrative prompts. Whether you're a vivid scene painter or a storyteller, there's a canvas for your imagination. However, remember that brevity is the soul of wit, so keep your composition within the 350-450 word range. 

The English Language O Levels 1123 new syllabus sets clear expectations for your writing prowess. It would help if you showcased vivid expression, masterful structuring, a rich vocabulary, and grammatical expertise. A heads-up: master composition writing by practicing on O Level English past papers . 

In conclusion, tackling the O Levels English syllabus 2024 might appear intimidating initially. However, by engaging in English Language O Level  past papers practice , refining your speech and report writing format for English  O Level , and embracing the focus on literary analysis, you're off to a promising start on your academic journey. 

And remember, there's no need to feel overwhelmed. Out-Class offers a comprehensive solution to help you excel in the O Levels English new syllabus. With a meticulously crafted and compact course led by a leading tutor, you'll find yourself on a guided path to academic success. 

So, embrace the challenge, and let your academic journey begin!

For more detailed changes, click here: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/news/whats-new/cambridge-o-level/english/

If you want to dive right in, let's start with selecting the course you want

What course are you interested in, choose from the list.

Ultimate Resource For Cambridge Assessment International Education

English language (1123), about english language:.

The Cambridge O Level English Language syllabus enables learners to communicate accurately, appropriately and effectively and to understand and respond appropriately and imaginatively to what they read and experience. They will employ different forms of writing to suit a range of purposes and will show that they can understand the contentand argument of given texts.

General Comments by the Author:

Cambridge O Level English is interlinked with real English. You need to be a good writer to get an A*. You might be able to get away with an A with a bad Paper 1, but for an A*, you definitely need to be good in writing. Of course, you can’t account for stuff like writer’s block happening in the paper, that’s sheer bad luck.

O Level English Paper 1 is more driven on your writing style rather than vocabulary. Only fit in those difficult words that you know will sound right. The more you read, the better your grasp of said words. I personally read a lot of online articles which led me to a good Paper 1. My vocabulary isn’t very broad but I have read articles on news, sports etc and as such I know how to write on such issues with conviction. And yes, keep as less grammar mistakes as possible. You cannot write a good paper in a month without luck; it requires a lot of hard work on your end. There’s a general misconception that for English you don’t need to study anything, but the inverse is true; you need to study/read a lot of things to master the language. You must speak a language if you want to be in good in it.  Regarding what to read, either follow my tip (read articles on politics, sports, reviews, whatever you like) or go to books (more preferred). The more you read, the more you will write (in school or home), the more practice you will have and the better it will be. That’s just how languages work. However, it isn’t that it is tough. The percentile for this subject is low.

Regarding the word limits, don’t worry about them. I, personally, wrote a 900+ words narrative and secured an A*. It’s good to stick to the word limit, but if you exceed the limit then don’t worry at all as it won’t pose any problems. However, you must keep track of time when writing lengthy scripts!

Also, keep a look out on formats and styles (the formats for different directed writings are discussed in their respective sections. Click here to move to the list of directed writings).But remember, formats are just for presentation, which to some extent should not be totally ignored. So yes follow the formats, but don’t stress over them, rather concentrate on the content and language skills shown by your piece of writing.

Do not the count the words! The word limit is given for just a rough estimate of how long your composition should be. You never need to count. Its just wastage of time. But, for summary writing in paper 2, you must take care of words.

Now moving to English Paper 2. This paper has a lot of free time available so you can easily revise and think the best solution. You need some practice, but it’s only those 5 word meanings that can catch you out. Recent comprehensions (solve them here ) aren’t very difficult. Do answer the first question in your head, whether you can analyze the passage and answer. If you can’t, I recommend googling on tips on how to read critically and applying them. This wasn’t a problem for me so I can’t really help you here (all I would say would be rehashing stuff on Google ).

Following are tricks, tips and notes for English Language Syllabus:

Composition Writing

• Narrative Writing
• Argumentative Writing
• Descriptive Writing
• Discursive Writing
• One-Word Essays

Directed Writing

• Letters (Formal)
• Letters (Informal)
• Speech Writing
• Report Writing
• Account Writing
• Articles (News Paper articles)

General Writing tips / advices / expressions / words

• Grammar – Video Lectures

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Can you please make notes for other direct writings as well

their are no note for commerce students please help commerce students also

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English 1123 O Level Example Candidate Responses

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Speech Starting Lines

Ai generator.

Speech starting lines are the initial sentences or opening statements in a speech. They serve to capture the audience’s attention, set the tone for the speech, and introduce the topic or purpose of the address. Effective speech starting lines are engaging, clear, and relevant to the audience, helping to establish a connection and interest right from the beginning.

What is Speech Starting Lines?

Speech starting lines are the initial phrases or sentences used to begin a speech. These opening remarks are crucial as they aim to grab the audience’s attention, introduce the subject matter, and set the stage for the rest of the presentation. Effective speech starting lines engage the audience, clearly present the topic, and establish the desired tone and context for the speech.

Speech Starting Lines Examples

Introduction and Greeting “Good evening, everyone. Thank you all for being here tonight.”   Acknowledgment “It’s an honor to stand before you on this special occasion.”   Introduction “For those who might not know me, I’m John Smith, a member of this wonderful community for the past 10 years.”   Hook “Let me start with a quick story. When I first joined this organization, I had no idea the profound impact it would have on my life.”   Preview “Tonight, I want to share with you some of the lessons I’ve learned and the incredible experiences I’ve had along the way.”

30 Best Speech Starting Lines

• Opening with a Quote : “As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'”
• Personal Anecdote : “When I first walked through the doors of this school, I never imagined how much I would learn and grow.”
• Asking a Question : “Have you ever wondered what it takes to achieve greatness?”
• Start with a Fact : “Did you know that every successful person started with a dream?”
• Engage with the Audience : “Raise your hand if you have ever faced a challenge that seemed impossible to overcome.”
• Imagine Scenario : “Imagine a world where every student feels empowered and motivated.”
• Highlight the Importance : “Education is not just about learning facts; it’s about gaining the skills to navigate life.”
• Personal Achievement : “One of my proudest moments as a student was when I…”
• Historical Reference : “In the words of Martin Luther King Jr., ‘The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically.'”
• Start with a Challenge : “We all face difficulties and obstacles, but it’s how we respond that defines us.”
• Use a Statistic : “According to recent studies, students who set clear goals are 50% more likely to achieve success.”
• Quote from a Famous Person : “Albert Einstein once said, ‘The only source of knowledge is experience.'”
• A Surprising Fact : “Did you know that more than 60% of the world’s population is under the age of 25?”
• An Interesting Anecdote : “I once heard a story about a student who turned a small idea into a global movement.”
• Open with a Joke : “They say school is like a lollipop. It seems fun at first, but then it gets sticky and complicated.”
• A Thought-Provoking Statement : “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
• A Call to Action : “Today, I want to challenge you all to think bigger and dream bolder.”
• An Inspirational Quote : “Walt Disney once said, ‘All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.'”
• Start with a Mystery : “There’s something all great achievers have in common, and today, we’re going to discover what that is.”
• A Relatable Story : “We’ve all had those days when nothing seems to go right. But have you ever had one that turned into something amazing?”
• A Personal Experience : “When I first started this journey, I had no idea where it would lead me.”
• An Inspiring Statement : “Great things never come from comfort zones.”
• A Powerful Image : “Picture yourself standing at the top of a mountain, looking at the vast horizon ahead.”
• Use of Rhetorical Questions : “What if we could change the world? What if every small action we take makes a big difference?”
• A Touching Story : “I recently heard about a student who changed his community through a simple act of kindness.”
• A Surprising Statement : “You have the power to change the world, starting right here, right now.”
• A Provocative Question : “What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?”
• A Vision of the Future : “Imagine the impact we can make if we all work together towards a common goal.”
• An Emotional Hook : “There are moments in life that define who we are, and today, I want to talk about one such moment.”
• An Engaging Fact : “Studies show that students who are actively engaged in their learning are more likely to succeed.”

How to Write Speech Starting Lines

1. use a quote.

Begin with a relevant quote.

Example: “Maya Angelou once said, ‘People will never forget how you made them feel.’ Let’s discuss the importance of empathy.”

2. Tell a Story

Start with a brief personal anecdote.

Example: “At ten, I got lost in a city. A stranger helped me, teaching me the value of kindness.”

3. Ask a Question

Pose a thought-provoking question.

Example: “Have you ever wondered what it takes to make a difference? Let’s explore impactful community service.”

4. Start with a Fact or Statistic

Open with an interesting fact.

Example: “Did you know nearly 70% of employees feel disengaged at work? Let’s discuss creating fulfilling workplaces.”

5. Make a Bold Statement

Grab attention with a strong statement.

Example: “Change is inevitable, but growth is optional. Let’s talk about choosing growth.”

6. Use Humor

Lighten the mood with humor.

Example: “Oscar Wilde said, ‘I have nothing to declare except my genius.’ Now, let’s discuss effective communication.”

7. Create a Vivid Image

Paint a picture with words.

Example: “Imagine standing on a cliff, the ocean before you. This leap of faith is what we’ll discuss today.”

Tips to Deliver Speech Starting Lines

1. Be Confident : Project confidence with your voice and body language.

2. Use Pauses : Pause after your opening line to let it sink in.

3. Engage the Audience : Interact with your audience through questions or direct eye contact.

4. Show Enthusiasm : Express genuine enthusiasm about your topic.

5. Be Natural : Speak in a conversational tone as if talking to a friend.

6. Practice : Rehearse your opening lines multiple times.

7. Breathe : Take a deep breath before you start to calm your nerves.

What is a good way to start a speech?

Start with a powerful quote, a surprising fact, or a personal anecdote to grab the audience’s attention and set the tone.

Why is the opening line of a speech important?

The opening line sets the tone, engages the audience, and establishes your credibility, making it crucial for a successful speech.

How can humor be used in a speech opening?

Use a relevant joke or a light-hearted comment to break the ice and create a relaxed atmosphere.

What role does a question play in starting a speech?

Starting with a question engages the audience and encourages them to think, making them more receptive to your message.

How does a personal story enhance a speech’s opening?

A personal story makes your speech relatable, builds a connection with the audience, and captures their interest.

Can starting with a quote be effective?

Yes, a well-chosen quote can provide insight, provoke thought, and set the stage for your topic.

How do you start a speech with a fact or statistic?

Present a surprising or relevant fact or statistic to grab attention and highlight the importance of your topic.

What is an engaging way to start a persuasive speech?

Start with a compelling fact, a provocative question, or a powerful statement to immediately engage and persuade your audience.

How can you use suspense in your speech opening?

Create suspense by hinting at a story or fact that you’ll reveal later, keeping the audience intrigued and attentive.

What is a strong way to start a motivational speech?

Begin with a personal success story or an inspiring quote to energize and motivate your audience.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

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