Choose a genre by asking who the reader is, what the piece must do, and whether you can fill it with specific detail in the time you have. The easiest-sounding task is not always the easiest to write.
This lesson completes extended writing. The four genres are taught in structuring an article, writing a review, writing a report and developing a story.
How do the four genres compare?
| Genre | Reader | Purpose | Tone | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Article | A chosen audience | Inform or persuade | Engaging, fits the reader | Hook, main point, supports, closing |
| Review | Someone deciding | Judge fairly | Honest, specific | Feature, detail, judgement |
| Report | Someone who must act | Present findings | Formal, neutral | Purpose, findings, recommendation |
| Story | A general reader | Entertain | Varied | Setup, turning point, ending |
What are the three decision questions?
- Can I name three specific details for this topic right now?
- Do I know the tone and shape the genre needs?
- Can I plan it in five minutes and write it in the time left?
Worked example: four tasks on one theme
This is an original set of task choices, all about a school recycling scheme.
- A. An article for parents about joining the scheme.
- B. A review of the scheme’s first month.
- C. A report on how many students used the bins.
- D. A story about a student who finds something surprising in a recycling bin.
A student who has no figures cannot do C well. Someone who took part in the scheme can list three details for B. A student who enjoys plotting may choose D, but must be able to control pace. A is safe if the student can name what parents care about.
Applying the questions: for this student, who has joined the scheme, B passes all three. The student names the bin placement, the weekly collection and the notice board as details, knows the review pattern, and can plan in five minutes.
The mistake: choosing by label
A student picks the story because it sounds more creative. Halfway through, the plot has no turning point, and the ending is a rush.
| Choice by label | Choice by questions |
|---|---|
| “Story sounds fun” | “Do I have a turning point?” |
| Starts writing | Plans for five minutes |
| Changes mind at the midpoint | Commits with a reason |
A five-minute plan avoids the midpoint switch.
Check yourself
You have clear memories of a school trip but no figures. Which of the four genres suits this best? Name two details that would fill it.
Answer
A review of the trip, or a story, both draw on memory. A report needs figures, so it is weaker here. For a review: the bus was late by twenty minutes, and the museum guide used a model to explain the exhibit. Any two specific, real details would do.
What to study next
Test your choices with the extended writing practice set. Use the English writing task checklist to check each draft.
For a teacher to go through your task choices with you, see online one-to-one English tuition.