Schrijfvaardigheid (Writing)
What the domain tests
Schrijfvaardigheid is an SE component. You produce formal letters or emails, informal messages, essays, articles or reviews. Assessment covers task fulfilment, range and accuracy of grammar and vocabulary, coherence, and register. The opdracht usually lists bullet points that must all be covered, plus a word count.
Core rules
- Identify text type, audience and register before writing. A formal email to a hotel manager is not an informal message to a friend.
- Formal conventions: 'Dear Mr/Ms [Surname]' if known, 'Dear Sir/Madam' if not; 'Yours faithfully' with no name, 'Yours sincerely' with a name; avoid contractions and slang.
- Use one paragraph per function: state purpose, give details, request action. Topic sentences and linkers ('firstly', 'in addition', 'therefore') make coherence visible.
- Cover every bullet point explicitly. If you omit one, you lose content marks even if the English is strong.
Worked example
Opdracht: write a formal email to a hotel manager complaining about a double booking and asking for compensation. Bullet 1: booking details. Bullet 2: explain the problem. Bullet 3: request compensation. Opening: 'I am writing to complain about a double booking made on 3 May.' Then give the reservation number and explain the check-in failure. Close: 'I would appreciate a full refund and written confirmation.' Reasoning: this covers bullets 1–3, keeps a polite formal register, and uses a modal for the request.
Traps that cost marks
Missing a bullet point; wrong salutation or closing; contractions in formal writing; copying Dutch word order; no paragraphing; overlong sentences that lose control; ignoring the word count.