Mastering the Art of Report Writing

Report Writing LO: To revise the skill of report writing

What are reports? Reports are intended to present information in as clear a way as possible. They use headings and sub-headings to make it easier for the reader to follow. Reports are written in very direct and straightforward language.

Purpose of a Report Explain a process Report an event Impart information on a topic Present results of an investigation. What is the purpose of your report?

Reports normally follow the following pattern: The Introduction: This explains the topic and purpose of the report. It should give an indication of why the report has been written. It s best to write your introduction last, after you know exactly what the report says.

An Example Topic: Are savage dogs a problem in our community? Recently there have been many reports in the newspapers about attacks on people by savage dogs. As a result, many people are calling for stricter laws governing the control of dogs. Are savage dogs a problem and are stricter laws needed? To answer these questions, it is necessary to How would you start your introduction? The first two sentences indicate the reason/ background for the report. The writer has used a question to indicate what the report is about.

Reports normally follow the following pattern: The Body: This is divided into a number of different sections which will vary with the topic. A brief description of each section can serve as a heading. They can be numbered .

An Example Topic: Are savage dogs a problem in our community? Headings: 1. Recent attacks on people 2. Responses to these attacks 3. The scientific evidence about various breeds 4. Current laws

Reports normally follow the following pattern: The Conclusion: It should sum up the main points. It should offer the conclusions you have come to as a result of your research. It might also make suggestions for action.

An Example It is clear from the evidence presented in this report that much of the current concern about dog attacks is largely unjustified hysteria. While an attack by a large dog would be a frightening experience, the number of attacks is quite small compared to the number of injuries caused by car accidents, for example. It is clear I believe that most dog attacks could be prevented by a big increase in the fines for people who do not control their dogs. This would discourage unsuitable people from owning a dog in the first place. The writer has used firm language to add force to the report. Summary of main points covered. The report finishes by providing a suggestion for action this gives more point to the report.

Steps in report-writing Define your topic; Research the topic, making notes; Think about your research and decide on appropriate headings; Draft the body of the report using the headings; Draft the conclusion; Draft the introduction; Edit your drafts; Write the final report. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Question- Write a report for the Governors of your school, informing them of changes that the Student council would recommend to the school buildings. Discuss: What is the purpose of reports? How should it be structured/look on a page? 1. 2. Draw up a success criteria for writing reports.

Success criteria: Usually 3rd person Formal Introductory paragraph- overview of the report s topic Divide the topic into sub-topics (use sub-titles) Write a conclusion with some recommendations of how to improve Needs to be accurate and detailed

Look at the 5 grade model answer: The question: Write a report for the Governors of your school informing them of the facilities available for students and teachers and the community. Task: Read the report and the examiner s comments 1.