Article Definition An article is a written text published electronically (e.g. online magazines, websites) or in print (newspapers, scientific journals). Articles can have different purposes, which you need to bear in mind when writing your text: informing about a topic, entertaining, convincing or giving advice. Good articles try to present their topic from different angles. Try to show various perspectives and opinions on the issue in question. Include examples, facts, figures, research results. Use convincing evidence to be credible in your line of argument. Express a personal opinion if necessary. Before starting to write, make sure that you know what the purpose(s) of your article should be and collect ideas. Structure and layout For an article to be reader-friendly, a clear text structure is important (introduction – body – conclusion). The introduction gets readers interested in your article: Briefly explain what the article is about but don’t give away too many details. In the main body of your text, structure your information by using topic sentences and paragraphs. Use linking expressions to connect your ideas and provide structure. In your conclusion, briefly summarise your main points. Finally, think of a catchy title. Style and register Depending on the audience and the topic, the style of your article can range from informal to formal. If you’re writing an article about a personal or humorous topic, or something that is intended for people your age, the style you employ will be more informal. However, if your article deals with a more serious topic and is written for a general audience, the language has to be neutral or formal. Include examples and direct speech in order to make your article more lively. Involve your audience by using rhetorical questions. Useful expressions Sequence: To begin with, … / First of all, … / Secondly / Finally, … Adding information: Apart from that, … / In addition … / Moreover, … Expressing a contrast: While … / Although… / However,… Stating the obvious: Arguably, … / As everyone can imagine, … Clearly, / Obviously, … Making a point: Let’s suppose … / Keeping in mind that … / With regard to / It has been suggested by … Explaining: To demonstrate / … to illustrate … / Take, for example, … Referring to a time span: Over the past few months, … / recently / Recent findings show … / Nowadays, … Expressing a result / consequence: As a result, … / Therefore, … / Consequently, … Concluding: In conclusion, … / To sum up, … / Altogether, it can be said that … Sample task English Targets, a magazine for learners of English as a second language, has asked its readers for contributions to its next issue, which is going to include a special section on environmental problems and a green lifestyle. The author of the best entry will win a trip to London. You have decided to submit an article. In your article you should: ■■ explain what you think a green lifestyle is ■■ describe in detail one way of actively protecting the environment ■■ discuss what each of us can do to save the environment Write around 250 words. Give your article a title. 198 W Writing guide Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv
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