TIPS TO PREP FOR WRITTEN EXPRESSION EXAM

The Written Expression Examination is coming up for Grade 10s throughout the country, in fact it’s tomorrow, and even after sitting for your mock exams, you might still feel a little nervous, after all, this is your first Written Expression Exam.

Well, here are few study tips to help you out before and on the day of your exam.

1. Understand the Question

• Read the question more than once to understand.
• Identify the type of writing required:
  • Narrative (story)
  • Descriptive
  • Expository (explain an idea)
  • Argumentative (give your opinion)
  • Formal letter

1. Structure Your Writing

 Essay Format

1. Introduction
   • Brief and clear.
   • State what the essay is about and your main idea.
2. Body Paragraphs (2–3)
   • Each paragraph should:
     • Have one main idea
     • Be supported by examples or explanations
     • Use linking words (e.g., firstly, however, for example)
3. Conclusion
   • Restate the main idea.
   • End with a strong closing sentence.

Writing Tips

 Use Simple, Clear English

• Avoid using big words you’re not sure about (no need to show off).
• Make sure your ideas are easy to understand.
• DO NOT use slangs or Tok Pisin!

 Stick to the Topic

• Don’t go off-track—every paragraph must relate to the main question.

 Use Paragraphs Properly

• Leave a line between each paragraph or indent the first line.
• Start each new idea in a new paragraph.

 Use Connectors and Transitions

These help your ideas flow smoothly:

• To begin: Firstly, In the beginning
• To add: Also, Furthermore, In addition
• To contrast: However, On the other hand
• To conclude: In conclusion, Finally

After Writing

Check your work (yes, your teachers were right):

• Spelling
• Punctuation
• Capital letters (start of sentences, names, places)
• Sentence structure (no run-on sentences)

Check word count:

• Aim for 250–300 words, depending on the instructions.
• Too short = lost marks. Too long = may go off-topic or have more errors.

 Final Exam Tips

• Practice writing essays before the exam (your mock exam helped but practice makes perfect).
• Read news articles or essays to learn how ideas are presented.
• Arrive early and stay calm during the exam.

• Spend the first 5–10 minutes planning your answer.

And yes, your teachers were right all along.