There are 5 different types/styels of essays for SPM ( section B - Continuous Writing). Students are given 5 questions and each question focuses on different style of writing although the basic foundation is still th same (Introduction-Body-Conclusion).
1.What is an Expository / Factual Essay?
Expository is a synonym for information.
Expository essay is to expose.
The information it contains is clear and concise.
The writer’s job is to totally expose the topic in a way that makes the information unmistakably clear to his/her audience.
The writer's job is to explain and inform without offering an opinion or developing an argument.
It is always written in the third person.
2.What is a Narrative Essay?
Narrative is a synonym for story.
Narrative essay is to tell someone about a story of our own life or about someone else.
The events are told in a chronological order.
You must tell the story in a very interesting way.
You are encouraged to use descriptive language. Use vivid verbs and colorful adjectives and adverbs.
Make your reader see, hear, feel , taste and touch your story or point of view.
It is usually written in the first person.
3.What is a Descriptive Essay?
Descriptive is synonym for explain / illustrate / describe.
Descriptive essay is to describe what you observe.
A person, place, memory, experience or an object is described.
You must “show” and not “tell” the readers.
I grew tired after dinner. - [ Tell ]
As I leaned back and rested my head against the top of the chair,my eyelids began to feel heavy, and the edges of the empty plate in front of me blurred with the white tablecloth. - [ Show ]
It will enable the readers to imagine or experience for themselves. You are encouraged to use descriptive language. Use vivid verbs and colourful adjectives and adverbs. Make your readers see,hear,feel,taste and touch your story or your experience in your writing.
4.What is a Reflective Essay?
Reflective is a synonym for thoughtful / reasoning.
Reflective essay is to describe.
The information it contains is imagery or real.
The writer’s job is to describe a real or imaginable scene, event, interaction, passing thought, feeling or situation in his or her life.
The writer’s job is not just to describe but to evaluate your feelings and findings from the beginning of your experience until the end.
It is always written in the first person.
5.What is an Argumentative Essay?
Argumentative is a synonym for combative / contrary.
Argumentative essay is to show that you have a valid argument.
The readers are presented with a choice to agree or to disagree with your argument.
Your must use evidence both to substantiate your argument and to refute the opposoing argument.
You must support your arguments with solid evidence and facts.
You have to choose one of them. Choose carefully and wisely. Choose the style you are comfortable with.In my next posting, we will see which style you can use to answer the SPM exam questions for your continuous writing paper.
