Writing Skill Focus: Writing Essays or Reports (Passing Information/Giving Reasons - B2 Level)

At B2 level, you can write structured essays and reports that present information, explain reasons, or develop an argument on a variety of factual or familiar topics. This requires not only good language control but also skills in organization and logical presentation.

Key Abilities for B2 Essays/Reports:

1. Clear Purpose and Structure:

• Having a clear introduction that states the purpose or main topic of the essay/report.
• Organizing information logically into paragraphs, each dealing with a specific aspect, reason, or point.
• Using a clear conclusion that summarizes the main points or restates the overall finding/opinion.

1. Presenting Information:

• Selecting and presenting relevant factual information clearly and accurately.
• Summarizing information gathered from sources (if applicable, though extensive research isn't typically required at B2).
• Describing processes or situations systematically.

1. Giving Reasons and Developing Arguments:

• Clearly stating reasons for a particular situation, phenomenon, or opinion.
• Developing points with supporting details or examples.
• For argumentative essays: presenting arguments for and/or against a viewpoint, weighing different factors (see Skill: Developing Arguments).
• Using appropriate language to express cause and effect (daardoor, als gevolg van, leiden tot), contrast (maar, echter, terwijl), and justification (omdat, aangezien, namelijk).

1. Cohesion and Linking:

• Using a range of linking words and phrases to connect ideas within and between paragraphs, ensuring smooth transitions (e.g., ten eerste, vervolgens, daarnaast, bovendien, desondanks, concluderend).

1. Appropriate Language:

• Using vocabulary suitable for the topic, including more formal or specialized terms where necessary.
• Employing varied sentence structures, including complex sentences.
• Maintaining a relatively objective and often formal tone, especially for reports.
• Good control of grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Typical B2 Essay/Report Tasks:

• An essay discussing the advantages and disadvantages of a particular proposal or trend (e.g., working from home, social media).
• A report summarizing information about a situation or event (e.g., a company event, a survey result - simplified).
• An essay explaining the reasons behind a certain phenomenon (e.g., reasons for popularity of a hobby).
• A report describing a place or project.
• An essay presenting your opinion on a contemporary issue, supported by reasons.

Importance for B2:

• Fundamental skill for academic study (writing papers, assignments).
• Often required in professional contexts (writing reports, summaries, proposals).
• Develops skills in organizing thoughts and presenting information logically in writing.

Learning Strategy:

• Analyze Examples: Study examples of well-structured essays and reports in Dutch.
• Practice Planning: Always create an outline before writing: identify the purpose, main points/arguments, supporting details for each paragraph, introduction, and conclusion.
• Focus on Paragraph Structure: Ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and supporting details.
• Work on Transitions: Learn and practice using a variety of linking words and phrases.
• Develop Topic Vocabulary: Build vocabulary related to common essay/report topics.
• Write Different Types: Practice writing both informative reports and argumentative/discursive essays.
• Seek Feedback: Ask for feedback specifically on structure, cohesion, clarity, and language use.