How to Score in Primary School Compositions
How did your child fare in the mid-year exams? Are you looking for him to do better in the second half of the year? Here are some quick tips how.
5 Ways to Make Your Composition Outstanding
1. Use a range of expression and grammatical structure
A wide range of grammatical structures showcases your English language ability more effectively. If you want to impress the examiner, be more experimental and try to use compound and complex sentences in your work.
2. Experiment with interesting uses of language
Be creative with your choices. Interesting vocabulary and playful use of allusion and other linguistic devices can help create atmosphere in your work.
3. Explore stylistic devices i.e. the five senses, rule of three, flashback
Learning to use devices such as these can add variety to your work. This has an impact on the examiner and leads to a favourable impression of the writer. It also helps to create a more exciting mood and tone.
4. Utilise figurative language i.e. onomatopoeia, simile, metaphor, pathetic fallacy
Mastering these kinds of techniques is essential to creating a rich tapestry of language which engages and immerses the reader in the writer’s vision. The use of interesting literary devices which generate powerful imagery adds to the examiner’s impression that the student is a confident and masterful user of the English language.
5. Use clear supported arguments with a recognisable structure (Point, Elaborate, Example, Link)
Using a clear structure helps the examiner to follow the ideas the student wishes to convey. A clearly outlined essay structure moves the reader through a well-signposted journey. The clarity of the message cannot be mistaken.
This article is written by Duncan Rose, Head of Schools, British Council. For more useful tips and updates from the British Council, follow us on Facebook.