Form Five English: Writing Skills (Topic)

Topic: Writing Skills

Essay Writing

Name and Signature of the Sender

What is an Essay?

An essay is a short piece of writing on a subject, often as part of a course of study. There are several types of essays, but the main ones are classified based on their purpose:

1. Narrative Essay
   • A narrative essay gives an account of an event witnessed by the writer, intended to share with the reader. Effective narration requires careful writing to help the reader understand the incident.

   Guidelines for Effective Narration:

   • Choose an Incident: Write about an amusing, exciting, or significant incident, providing essential details to engage the reader.
   • Structure: Have a clear beginning, middle, and end. The beginning should capture attention, the middle should narrate events chronologically, and the end should satisfy the reader.
   • Climax and Suspense: Place the climax near the end to create suspense, delaying it to enhance the story.
   • Imagery: Use powerful imagery to evoke emotions and shape the reader’s response.
   • Consistency: Maintain a consistent point of view, either first or third person, to ensure the story is easy to follow.
2. Descriptive Essay
   • Descriptive essays describe people, events, or places, focusing on their physical features.

   Guidelines for Effective Description:

   • Memories: List vivid memories, categorize them, and choose interesting items to include in your essay.
   • Variables: Consider your audience, topic, purpose, and format.
   • Organization: Start from a focal point and proceed logically (e.g., top to bottom).
   • Metaphors: Use metaphors to enliven ordinary subjects.
   • Five Senses: Incorporate sensory words to make the description vivid.
   • Impression: Be mindful of the impression you want to create (e.g., using “skinny” vs. “slim”).

   Example of a Descriptive Essay:

   • Kigamboni: Describes the population, environment, weather, and economy of Kigamboni, emphasizing its unique qualities and future potential.
3. Expository Essay
   • Expository essays present information, explanations, opinions, or ideas. These essays rely on the writer’s experience.

   Strategies for Expository Essays:

   • Familiar Topic: Choose a topic you are knowledgeable about.
   • Thesis Statement: Develop a thesis statement to guide your explanation.
   • Purpose and Audience: Determine the purpose and style based on the audience.

   Example Topic:

   • “Bride price is outdated” – Discuss and explain your stance.

Business/Official Letters

Business or official letters fall into several categories:

• Application Letters: For job applications.
• Query Letters: Seeking information.
• Complaint Letters: Claiming something.
• Resignation Letters: Resigning.
• Inquiring/Order Letters: Ordering goods.
• Confirmation Letters: Confirming actions.

Application Letter Example:

MWINJU STREET P.O. BOX 232 11th July 2013

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER MWANANCHI COMMUNICATION LTD P.O. BOX 1123 DAR ES SALAAM

Dear Sir/Madam,

RE: APPLICATION FOR THE NEWS EDITOR POST

I read with interest your advertisement in the Mwananchi newspaper on 10th July 2013 for a qualified news editor. I am a graduate from the University of Dar es Salaam with a degree in journalism (2008). I have been freelancing as a news editor for various newspapers in Tanzania, gaining ample experience in the field. My qualifications are detailed in my CV and enclosed certificates.

I am eager to work with an esteemed newspaper like yours to further my career. I am confident that my experience meets your standards. I look forward to a positive response and am ready for an interview at your convenience.

Yours faithfully, C.S Caroline Senga