Writing
Writing in ORT English assesses task achievement, organization, cohesion, range, and accuracy. You may write a message, email, short article, or opinion response. Marks are lost when the answer is accurate but does not cover the task, or when it covers the task with unclear paragraphing and repeated basic structures.
Core rules
- Answer every bullet or prompt requirement. Underline the task words before planning.
- Use a clear structure: opening purpose, developed points in paragraphs, and a closing that matches the format.
- Cohesion means logical links, not a linker at the start of every sentence. Use reference words and parallel structure.
- Show range with one or two complex sentences, but do not sacrifice accuracy for length.
- Match register to the reader: contractions in a friendly email, full forms in a formal complaint.
Worked example
Task: Write an email to a colleague explaining that you cannot attend a meeting and suggesting a new time. Weak opening: 'I am write to say I cannot come tomorrow.' Revision: 'I'm writing to let you know that I can't attend tomorrow's project meeting. Could we move it to Thursday at 10 a.m.?' Reasoning: The revision corrects the verb form, states the purpose immediately, and adds a specific alternative. It keeps a collegial register and answers both parts of the task.
Traps
- Writing a beautiful answer to a different question.
- Listing ideas without explaining them.
- Overusing linkers such as moreover and furthermore in a short informal message.
- Leaving no time to check verb endings, plurals, and punctuation.