Here are some key points about the activity:
- The activity involves debating the issue of school uniforms.
- There are reasonable arguments on both sides of the issue. School uniforms could promote equality and reduce distractions, but they may also limit self-expression.
- The passage outlines some of the main pros and cons. Uniforms may prevent judging students based on wealth, but they could also reduce individuality and comfort.
- In the end, the author concludes that the benefits of uniforms, such as promoting equality, generally outweigh the disadvantages like limiting self-expression. However, reasonable people could disagree on this conclusion.
- The issue involves weighing competing factors, and reasonable people can have different views based
2. An anecdote is a brief and engaging story
that is used to illustrate a point. Most
importantly, anecdotes are true stories
about your life.
3. An anecdote is a brief and engaging story that is used to illustrate a point. Most
importantly, anecdotes are true stories about your life.
An anecdote is a brief story used to make a larger point. Anecdotes can add a storytelling
touch to your explanatory and persuasive writing—connecting your ideas to real life and
real people.
College admissions committees are interested in your life experiences, what makes you
different from other students, and why you would make a great college student.
By using anecdotes in your college essay writing, you have the ability to create a powerful
bond between you and your audience.
These stories help convince readers of your sincerity and engage them in your life story.
4. What makes an effective anecdote?
Anecdotes should not be used thoughtlessly to
build word count. Rather, be purposeful in the
stories that you tell.
Effective anecdotes are:
• Brief
• Descriptive
• Relevant
5. Where should I include an anecdote?
Here are some ways you can use anecdotes in the main parts of
formal writing.
Beginning: To Introduce a Topic
Middle: To Support an idea
Ending: To make a final point
6. If you can tell the personal anecdote in 4-5 sentences, I would use it. If you
can’t – I would avoid it or think of a story that you can get across in fewer
words. Also, make sure that even though you are telling a story – you are
maintaining a professional voice. It’s okay to use a more conversational tone
when telling the story – but maintain your sense of professionalism and your
authoritative tone.
7. From a student who loves languages:
As I spoke with numerous professionals at the conference, I felt like
French had been a part of my life since the very beginning.
From another student who did some great charity work:
Altogether, we raised $15,000 for veterans. During the process, not
only did we pair veterans with corporate mentors, but our team
became more involved with veterans PTSD issues and fundraising. I
had found my calling.
8. Transitioning from an anecdote
It is important not to “drop” an anecdote into your essay
without transitioning back to your main idea.
If you don’t use transition statements, your reader might be
left confused as to why you used an anecdote and your college
essay could seem disjointed.
Consider these sentence starters when transitioning from an
anecdote back to the main body of your essay:
This experience led me to understand/realize…
This is just one example of how…
[Summary of anecdote] was significant because…
9. FORMAL INFORMAL
• No contractions (short forms
such as don’t, didn’t, etc.).
• No slang, abbreviations or
vague expressions.
• Complex sentences joined
by formal connectives
(linkers).
• Use of the passive voice.
• Use of abstract nouns and
noun phrases.
• Use of sophisticated
vocabulary
• Use of contractions.
• Use of vague language,
phrasal verbs and idiomatic
expressions.
• Shorter sentences.
• Use of active voice (subject
+ verb).
• Show a friendly, chatty style
in terms of vocabulary.
10. Dear Ms Christine,
I, as the head of English Department, am writing this letter to recommend my student Beth for a
scholarship programme in your university. She has been a student of ASIS for 2 years and I have been her
English teacher her school life. I have known Beth for 8 months now and I feel proud to tell you that she has
been one of our best students until last 2021.
As Ms Beth’s teacher, I can assure you of her excellence in the field of speaking and writing. During her
time here, the teacher’s panel always knew that this student was meant for greatness. Her projects and
presentations were amazing that we still use it as an example for our current batches. As you can make out,
Beth has been one of the most intelligent students of this institution along with being an ideal example for the
generations to come. I remember when I became the one of the panel during her final defense, she was one
the students to stand out who answers the questions well.
Our institution is proud of Ms Beth and we are well aware of her educational goals in life. Your institution
can add another glorious feather to her cap and this scholarship can help her immensely in realizing her
ambitions. I am sure of Beth capabilities and intelligence, and I am positive about her being an ideal choice
for this scholarship. If you have any doubts or queries regarding Ms Beth, feel free to connect with me at
vpomantoc@gmail.com. You can also call me at 09516671383 in the case of any questions.
Respectfully yours,
Vanessa Rose
11. There are many good arguments for and
against school uniforms
However, school uniforms mean that you can’t
tell the difference between rich and poor
students. They also create a small identity.
On balance, it is better to keep school
uniforms as the benefits outweigh the
disadvantages
School uniforms crush people’s individuality
and are very comfortable