ACADEMIC WRITING

Sandra HernándezLizzeth ReyesDiana Riapira

TIMING

Total Academic Writing: 60 minutes

Task 1: They need to write 150 words in about 20 minutes.

Task 2: They need to write 250 words in about 40 minutes.

TEST PARTS

In Task 1 test takers are

asked to describe some

visual information

(graph/table/chart/

diagram), and to

present the description

in their own words.

TEST PARTS

In Task 2 test takers are presented with a point of

view, argument or problem.

TIPS AND STRATEGIES Use paragraphs clearly; put one idea in each

paragraph.

Do not repeat ideas using different words.

Do not write about unrelated subjects.

Pay attention to the number of words required for each task; 150 words for Task 1 and 250 words for Task 2.

Pay attention to spelling, grammar and punctuation; you will lose marks for mistakes

Avoid informal language

ASSESSMENTEach task is assessed independently. The assessment of Task 2 carries more weight in marking than Task 1.

Task 1 assesses the test takers’ ability to identify the most important and relevant information and trends in a graph, chart, table or diagram, and to give a well-organised overview of it using language accurately in an academic register or style.

Task 2 assesses the test takers’ ability to present a clear, relevant, well-organised argument, giving evidence or examples to support their ideas, and to use language accurately.

MARKINGTask 1 and Task 2

Task achievement This criterion assesses how appropriately, accurately and relevantly the response fulfils the requirements set out in the task, using the minimum of 150 words.

Coherence and cohesion This criterion is concerned with the overall clarity and fluency of the message: how the response organises and links information, ideas and language.

Lexical resource This criterion refers to the range of vocabulary the test takers have used and the accuracy and appropriacy of that use in terms of the specific task.

RUBRIC

RUBRIC

BROCHURE

BROCHURE