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Paper 2: Writing Reviews
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A review is an article in a newspaper or magazine in which someone gives their views on a book, play, film, TV programme, etc. The purpose of a review is firstly to give factual information about the subject, and secondly to give an opinion about it which will help the reader to decide whether to buy the book, see the play or film, etc. FORMAT: it is a good idea to try and follow this basic plan: I) Introduction: a description of the subject. Book: What kind of book is it (thriller/ historical novel/ science fiction, etc.)? Is it different in any way from other books of this type? Play/ Film/ TV programme: What is it about? Is there anything special/ unusual about the production? Where/ Which channel is it on? Are there any well-known actors? Who is the director/ producer? Is it part of a series? II) Plot: What happens? Remember to use the present tenses. Give an outline but don’t give the ending away! III) A general consideration of the subject: Comment on the successful and unsuccessful features giving reasons for your comments. Play/ film/ TV programme: Who starred in the (film)? Was the acting convincing? Was it well directed? Book: How good is the characterisation? Comment on as many aspects as you can. IV) A recommendation: Do you feel the (film) will appeal to most people? Why/ why not? Your conclusion should contain a judgement/ recommendation, backed up by good reasons for your comments. USEFUL LANGUAGE: The (film) is directed/ produced by... / It stars ... The role of X is played by ... X gives a superb/ thrilling/ disappointing performance ... It is extremely readable/ rather heavy ... It is set in ... It is a beautifully written novel It is published/ illustrated by... It portrays/ shows/ describes/ tells the story of/ deals with ... The plot centres on ... I found the plot rather weak/ unconvincing I can thoroughly recommend ... USEFUL VOCABULARY: Instead of repeating simple adjectives like good, bad, funny, interesting, boring try to use a wider range of adjectives. Which of the adjectives above are the following words similar in meaning to? amusing appalling awful brilliant dramatic dreadful dreary dull witty excellent superb fascinating fast-paced gripping hilarious humorous outstanding tedious thrilling Use the links on the right to choose the book or film you can write your review about |
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