Writing With Structure and Authority
- These text types are less about personal expression and more about presenting balanced ideas, evidence, and logical solutions.
- Examiners check whether you can structure your argument and follow conventions precisely.
Essays
Essay
A structured text that develops a central argument with evidence and analysis.
- Purpose, Audience & Register
- Purpose: Present and develop an argument, weigh perspectives, or analyse an issue.
- Audience: Academic or school community.
- Register: Formal, objective, reasoned.
- Layout & Conventions
- Title (optional but recommended).
- Introduction with thesis or main idea.
- Body paragraphs, each with one clear point.
- Linking phrases to connect ideas.
- Conclusion summarising and reinforcing main argument.
- Essays are not stories
- Many students slip into narration.
- Essays must argue, not recount.
Key Features
- Tone: Analytical, balanced.
- Vocabulary: Connectors (“on the other hand,” “therefore,” “in contrast”), topic-specific terms, impersonal style.
Think about your TOK essay :)
How to Write an Essay
- Open with context and a thesis line.
- Develop each paragraph around one reason, with an example, or examples.
- Use linkers to move smoothly between ideas.
- Summarise and restate your stance in the conclusion.
Reports
Report
A factual, structured document that analyses a situation and suggests recommendations.
- Purpose, Audience & Register
- Purpose: Present information clearly and objectively, often with recommendations.
- Audience: Committees, schools, organisations.
- Register: Formal, factual.
- Layout & Conventions
- Title.
- Introduction stating aim or purpose.
- Subheadings for each section.
- Bullet points or short paragraphs for clarity.
- Conclusion with recommendations.
Sub-headings are non-negotiable.
Key Features
- Tone: Objective, factual, clear.
- Vocabulary: Neutral verbs (“analyse,” “record,” “recommend”), passive structures, formal linking phrases.
How to Write a Report
- Title and short intro stating purpose.
- Organise sections with subheadings.
- Present facts clearly (sometimes as bullet points).
- End with recommendations.
Proposals
Proposal
A formal text that presents a plan, supported with reasons and expected outcomes.
- Purpose, Audience & Register
- Purpose: Suggest an idea, justify it, and persuade decision-makers.
- Audience: Committees, school boards, institutions.
- Register: Formal, persuasive.
- Layout & Conventions
- Title.
- Introduction stating aim.
- Sections under subheadings (e.g., “Rationale,” “Plan,” “Benefits”).
- Recommendations or action steps.
Always make the aim explicit in the introduction before outlining steps.
Key Features
- Tone: Persuasive, solution-focused.
- Vocabulary: Persuasive phrases (“This will lead to…,” “It is recommended that…”), formal linking devices, future-oriented verbs.
To: Ms. Patricia Williams, School Principal
From: Student Council Environmental Committee
Date: 22nd June 2025
Title: Proposal for School-Wide Recycling Programme
Introduction
We are writing to propose the implementation of a comprehensive recycling programme at Riverside International School. Currently, our school produces approximately 200 kilograms of waste daily, much of which could be recycled. This proposal outlines a practical plan to reduce our environmental impact while educating students about sustainability.
Problem Statement
Our school currently lacks an organized recycling system. All waste is disposed of in general bins, resulting in recyclable materials such as paper, plastic bottles, and aluminum cans being sent to landfills. This practice is environmentally damaging and fails to teach students responsible waste management habits. Additionally, as an IB World School, we should demonstrate our commitment to creating a better world through concrete action.
Proposed Solution
We propose establishing a three-bin system in every classroom and common area: one for general waste, one for paper and cardboard, and one for plastic and metal containers. Color-coded bins with clear signage in both English and Spanish would ensure easy identification. Student volunteers would be responsible for monitoring bins and educating peers about proper sorting.
Implementation Plan
The programme would be introduced in three phases over one semester. Phase One would involve purchasing 150 recycling bins and creating educational materials. Phase Two would include a week-long awareness campaign with assemblies, posters, and classroom presentations. Phase Three would launch the system with designated student "Recycling Ambassadors" in each grade level who would provide support and answer questions.
Budget
The estimated cost for this initiative is \$2,400, which includes \$1,800 for recycling bins, \$300 for educational materials and signage, and \$300 for an initial celebratory launch event. We have already secured \$1,000 in pledges from local businesses and propose that the school fund the remaining \$1,400 from the sustainability budget.
Expected Benefits
This programme would significantly reduce our school's environmental footprint while providing valuable learning opportunities. Students would develop environmental awareness and responsibility. The school would also save approximately \$800 annually in waste disposal fees, making this initiative cost-effective in the long term. Furthermore, it would enhance our school's reputation as an environmentally conscious institution.
Conclusion
We believe this recycling programme represents an important step toward environmental responsibility. We respectfully request approval to proceed with this initiative and would welcome the opportunity to discuss this proposal in detail at your earliest convenience.
How to Write a Proposal
- Title and short aim in introduction.
- Develop points under clear subheadings.
- Justify each point with benefits or evidence.
- End with a firm recommendation or call to action.
- High-yield sentence stems to drop straight into your introduction:
- “The aim of this proposal is to…”
- “This proposal seeks to address…”
- “The purpose of this document is to recommend…”
- “Our main objective is to improve… by…”
- “This proposal outlines a plan to…”
- “The goal is to suggest practical steps for…”
