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← O Level English

O Level · English Medium · Cambridge · English

Paragraphs, essays and functional writing

Write a directed response and a controlled composition.

Original Kidemy O Level progression. This level has its own text, examples and questions. Curriculum versions share the progression; complete board-specific coverage still needs specification matching and additional material.

Learn the idea

Directed writing draws on supplied viewpoints for a specified audience and purpose. Transform source material rather than copy it without selection. A composition also needs structure, purposeful detail and a controlled ending instead of a list of disconnected events.

Worked example

A student letter about a new club should weigh timetable, access and value for participants. A story about its first day should instead develop a scene, viewpoint and change.

  1. Read the text and identify the purpose.
  2. Support your answer with a specific detail.
  3. Revise meaning, structure and accuracy.

Your written practice

Show your working on paper and enter your answer here. If it does not match, compare the model and try again.

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headteacher

The prompt determines the audience.

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rather than

It contrasts purposeful development with listing.

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audiences

Add s.

Write in your own words. A guardian or teacher should review this response.

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I would like to propose a small after-school reading club, while recognising that staffing and transport arrangements need careful planning.

State purpose and a relevant constraint.

Write in your own words. A guardian or teacher should review this response.

Show model answer and explanation

I checked the classroom number twice, smoothed my crumpled note and waited with my hand just above the door.

Use purposeful physical detail rather than a flat label.

Apply the idea

Draft one directed paragraph and one narrative paragraph, explaining how their purposes differ.

Review with a guardian or teacher

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