Question 1 Directed Writing Skills: Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar (SPaG)

 In Directed Writing, your writing skills are assessed, and spelling, punctuation, and grammar (SPaG) play a key role in achieving high marks. Examiners look for accuracy, a variety of sentence types, and purposeful punctuation. To secure top marks, consistency is essential, and leaving five minutes at the end to proofread your work can help avoid careless mistakes made under exam pressure.

 

 

 

Examples of Sentence Demarcation

Incorrect:

Smartphones have become part of our lives they are no longer just phones we use them to socialise, study, and even work we depend on them for everything.

 

Correct:

Smartphones have become part of our lives. They are no longer just phones. We use them to socialise, study, and even work. We depend on them for everything.

 

Why this is better:

• Sentences are clear and easy to follow.
• Correct punctuation helps the reader understand each idea.

 

Using a Range of Punctuation

To achieve the highest marks, use a variety of punctuation accurately. However, only use advanced punctuation (e.g., colons, semi-colons) if you know how to use it properly.

Examples:

• Colons: Used to introduce lists, explanations, or quotations.
• The media spokesperson explained: ‘Our main priority is ensuring public safety.’
• Semi-Colons: Link two related sentences or separate long items in a list.
• Many people dislike social media; however, it remains a powerful tool for communication.
• Apostrophes: Show possession or contraction.
• The teacher’s comments were helpful.

 

Varying Sentence Forms

Using different sentence types makes your writing more interesting and effective. Try the following:

1. Sentence Openers:
• Avoid starting every sentence the same way.
• Use adverbs (Suddenly, Silently), connectives (Furthermore, However), or prepositions (In the distance, Over the horizon).
2. Sentence Length:
• Alternate short and long sentences to create rhythm and impact.
• The forest was silent. Suddenly, a branch snapped. Something was watching.
3. Sentence Types:
• Simple: Social media is popular.
• Compound: Social media is popular, but it can be harmful.
• Complex: Although social media is popular, it can sometimes be harmful.

 

Standard English and Grammar

Examiners expect you to use Standard English for formal writing tasks. This includes:

• Correct subject-verb agreement:
• He walks to school. (not He walk to school.)
• Consistent use of tense:
• Stick to past, present, or future, unless a purposeful change is needed.
• Yesterday, we visited the park and had a picnic.
• Accurate apostrophe use:
• The student’s essay was excellent. (possessive)
• It’s a great day. (contraction of it is)

 

Using Sophisticated Vocabulary

Ambitious vocabulary can impress examiners, but only if it’s used accurately and appropriately. Avoid inserting fancy words that you don’t fully understand—this can lead to confusion and lower marks.

 

Example:

• Instead of: The teacher’s advice was nice.
• Try: The teacher’s advice was invaluable.

 

Key Takeaways

• Proofread: Spend 5 minutes checking for errors.
• Demarcation: Always start with a capital letter and end with the correct punctuation.
• Variety: Use a mix of sentence structures and punctuation to show control and skill.
• Be Clear: Ambitious language is great, but clarity is better.

 

By practising these skills and reviewing your work carefully, you can ensure your SPaG is spot-on and score top marks in Directed Writing!