B1.2 How to write an article

Articles are written to give information (e.g. news reports) or express/ opinions (e.g. argumentative articles). They can be either formal or informal depending on the audience they are addressed to and thetopic they deal with. A good article consists of:

a) an eye-catching headline which suggests the topic of the article that follows;

b) an interesting introduction;

c) a main body consisting of two or more paragraphs in which the topic is presented in detail; and

d) a conclusion which gives an appropriate ending to the article.

Such pieces of writing can be found in newspapers, magazines or newsletters.

Points to consider

• ·         Decide on the style of the article before you start writing.
• ·         Always think of a short, clear, appropriate headline which attracts the reader's interest.
• ·         Each paragraph should deal with one aspect of the topic. You can use linking ideas or time expressions to join your ideas or introduce paragraphs.
• ·         Avoid using simplistic adjectives (good, nice, bad, etc). Always try to use more sophisticated vocabulary instead, (splendid, gorgeous, awful, etc)
• ·         Address the reader in the second person (you) if the topic of the article and the style you have adopted permits this.