Tips for Paper 2, as promised

DOs and DON'Ts

Before you start writing:
Read each question very carefully.
Remember that Part 1 is compulsory.
Choose Part 2 questions on the basis of what interests you the most but also bear in mind the task type.
Decide exactly what information you are being asked to give.
Identify the target reader, your role as writer and your purpose in writing.
Check which task type you are being asked to write.
Organise your ideas and make a plan before you write.

Don't attempt a set text question if you have not read the book or seen a film adaptation of the book.
Don't attempt a question if you feel unsure about the format.

When you write:
Use a pen.
Write your answers in the booklet provided.
Write in an appropriate style.
Remember in Part 1 to use all the content points and to add your own ideas.
Make sure in Part 2 that you deal with all parts of the question.
Calculate how many words on average you write on a line and multiply this average by the number of lines to estimate how much you have written - don't waste time counting words individually.
Follow the plan and keep in mind your purpose for writing.
Use as wide a range of structure and vocabulary as you can but think carefully about when to use idioms.
Use paragraphs and indent when you start a new paragraph.
Check the use of punctuation such as capital letters, apostrophes and commas.
Cross out errors with a single line through the word.

Don't include irrelevant material.
Don't write out a rough version and then try to write a good copy - you will not have time

After you have finished writing

Check for spelling and punctuation errors.
Check structures: subject – verb agreement, tenses, word order, singular and plural nouns.
Make sure that your handwriting can be read by the examiner.