WRITING 5: REPORT

Definition:

A report is a written account of something that one has observed, heard, done, or investigated.

USEFUL LANGUAGE

Stating the purpose:
The purpose/aim of this report is to

describe/present

In this report I will…

This report gives a description/presentation…

This report is intended to…

Formal linking words: However,…

In addition…

Furthermore…

Moreover…

As a result…

Final suggestions/recommendations:

I would strongly recommend…

My suggestion is…

If these changes are introduced…

I can recommend…

In conclusion…

In my opinion…

  

TIPS

·        Think carefully about how many sections you need. Use the question to help you.

·        Check that the register you have used is consistently formal.

·        Use a variety of formal structures.

·        Check that you have not repeated points.

·        Check you have included all the necessary information and points.

PLAN

1.      Consider the advantages and disadvantages of any options and make your report interesting.

2.      Use passive voice and set phrases to sound more formal.

3.      Use headings to make your ideas clearer.

Paragraph 1

a.      Say why you are writing the report.

Paragraph 2

a.      Describe the first option.

b.      Evaluate the option.

Paragraph 3

a.      Describe the second option.

b.      Evaluate this option.

Paragraph 4

a.      Summarise your arguments.

b.      Recommend one of the options/ refer to future action.

EXAMPLE

Transport in my town

Introduction

The purpose of this report is to describe the situation with transport in my town.  It describes what kind of transport the town offers, explains the good points of the system and makes suggestions for improvements.

The transport system

In the town there are buses, local trains and taxis.  The buses run in the centre of town and are fairly regular.  Tickets can be purchased on the bus.  The trains run to the surrounding areas during the main part of the day.  Taxis are always available, especially from the main station.

The good points of the system

Transport is reasonably cheap and also there are special weekly tickets which are cheaper.  In addition, the buses and the trains offer a good service, usually every ten minutes and there are maps to help visitors.

Suggestions for improvements

The buses and trains are very old and quite often there is not enough space.  My suggestion is that the companies should invest in larger, more modern buses and extra carriages on the trains to accommodate all the passengers.

Revising

Did I write a title?	YES	NO
Did I use neutral or formal vocabulary?
Did I explain the purpose of my report?
Did I describe my options thoroughly?
Did I evaluate my options?
Did I recommend one of the options?

Proofreading

	YES	NO
Did I check spelling using a dictionary?
Did use articles correctly?
Did use quantifiers correctly?
Did I include reflexive and reciprocal pronouns?
Did I include prepositions?
Did I include verbs with two objects?
Did I use at least three new vocabulary words?