Writing task
Write a newspaper article about the value of reading, books in their different forms, and libraries as places funded by local and national taxes. Explore the benefits of reading; consider whether readers should pay for knowledge and entertainment or whether public funding serves the common good; and conclude with your opinion.
Time: 45 minutes (as indicated for this published task).
Marks: 30.
Practise this exact question with personalised feedback on your writing.
Understand the task
Should Libraries and Books Be Free to Everyone? is a argumentative article task that tests audience awareness, evidence-based reasoning, headline and structure. Write with a newspaper readership in mind; use concrete examples and a balanced, clear stance.
- audience awareness
- evidence-based reasoning
- headline and structure
- clarity
Requirements to keep in mind
Recommended writing time: approximately 45 minutes (as indicated in the paper/section); Writing marks: 30 (subject to separately awarded SPaG marks); Published task/option: 2 (where the source offers alternatives, pupils answer the paper's specified number, not all)
Plan your response
- Write with a newspaper readership in mind; use concrete examples and a balanced, clear stance.
- Plan a clear beginning, development and ending within the time available.
- Use precise vocabulary and vary sentence lengths where appropriate.
- Proofread spelling, punctuation and paragraphing before finishing.
Check your response against the task requirements. Leave time to review sentence clarity, punctuation and spelling.
Short atoply teaching example
Written by atoply, not an official school answer or mark scheme. This short illustration shows selected techniques. It does not set a target length or expected mark for the timed task.
Reveal example and teaching notes
A Library Is More Than a Building Full of Books
At a time when public budgets are stretched, it is tempting to treat libraries as optional. That would be a mistake. A library offers a quiet place to study, trustworthy information and books that families may be unable to buy. Children who discover reading there may develop interests that shape their future. Of course, libraries cost money and must show that they serve their communities. That is a reason to improve them, not to close them. Free access to knowledge should not depend on the size of a person's wallet.
Learn from the example
- The response chooses an angle for its intended readers. Its details serve that purpose instead of trying to cover every part of the topic.
- Use the requested article or leaflet form, with each paragraph offering a useful point for that audience. Headings and direct address should serve the purpose of the piece.