2.3 Writing Different Text Types
Learn to write narratives, descriptive texts, and formal/informal texts.
50 min
3 oppgaver
Formal writingInformal writingNarrativeDescriptive
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Different Text Types
Different situations require different types of writing. A text message to a friend
is very different from an essay for school. Understanding text types helps you write
appropriately for each situation.
Formal vs. Informal Writing
Formal writing is used in official contexts:
- Complete sentences, no contractions
- Professional vocabulary
- Objective tone
- Examples: essays, reports, job applications
- Complete sentences, no contractions
- Professional vocabulary
- Objective tone
- Examples: essays, reports, job applications
Informal writing is for casual communication:
- Contractions OK, shorter sentences
- Casual vocabulary, possibly slang
- Personal tone
- Examples: texts, emails to friends, social media
✏️Formal vs. Informal
Compare these two versions:
Informal (text to friend):
"Hey! Can't make it to the party tonight - stuck at work. Have fun tho!"
"Hey! Can't make it to the party tonight - stuck at work. Have fun tho!"
Formal (email to teacher):
"Dear Ms. Johnson,
I am writing to inform you that I will be unable to attend class tomorrow due to a family commitment. I will complete any missed assignments.
Best regards,
Emma"
Narrative Writing
Narratives tell a story. Key elements:
- Characters: Who is in the story?
- Setting: Where and when?
- Plot: What happens? (beginning, middle, end)
- Conflict: What problem must be solved?
- Point of view: Who tells the story?
Use descriptive language and dialogue to bring your story to life.
Descriptive Writing
Descriptive writing paints a picture with words. Use:
- Sensory details: What do you see, hear, smell, taste, feel?
- Specific adjectives: Not "nice" but "cozy" or "elegant"
- Figurative language: Similes, metaphors, personification
- Show, don't tell: Instead of "She was scared," write "Her hands trembled."
Instead of telling readers how a character feels, show it through actions and details:
Telling: "John was angry."
Showing: "John slammed his fist on the table, his face turning red."
📝Oppgave 1
Which text type would use contractions like "can't" and "won't"?
a
Identify which type of text typically uses contractions.
📝Oppgave 2
Which sentence "shows" instead of "tells"?
a
Identify the sentence that demonstrates "show, don't tell".
📝Oppgave 3
Write two versions of the same message.
a
Imagine you need to ask for a deadline extension. Write an informal message to a classmate asking them to tell the teacher.
b
Now write a formal email directly to your teacher asking for the extension.
c
List three specific differences between your two texts.