The Structure of Articles

Cambridge B2 First (FCE)

The Structure of Articles

Purpose of an article

The goal of an article is usually to talk about a topic you like or in which you are an expert. Also, your article should aim to keep the reader engaged and, in some cases, recommend whatever it is you are talking about.

Language

Articles are usually expected to be less formal than essays. Because they are intended to entertain, you can use more relaxed language, using contractions, phrasal verbs and more informal words. Also, it is common to use rhetorical questions and exclamation marks to keep the reader engaged or to make a point. You should address the reader directly and you can use humour where you think it’s appropriate.

The Structure of Articles

Articles usually have a title. If possible, this title should be catchy so it grabs the reader’s attention. Then, you should have a paragraph for each aspect you are writing about. In your conclusion, you might be expected make a recommendation. It is a good idea to finish your article with a rhetorical question.

Giving your opinion

An article is all about your opinion, so feel free to give it wherever you feel it’s necessary. Usually, you are asked to write articles about topics you like or are familiar with, so it makes more sense for your opinions to be generally positive.

An article is a very personal piece of writing, so you can use first-person sentences freely.

Common topics

You may be asked to write articles on a variety of topics: the Internet, health and fitness, music, plays, hobbies, etc.

Sample Topic

An article is usually written for different kinds of magazines or newspapers. Look at the topic below. Then study the plan and read the model answer.

Topic:

Fitness bloggers wanted!

Our fitness magazine is looking for influencers to write an article on how to stay fit when you are a college student. So if you have any cool ideas, send us an article in which you:

1. Explain the type of exercise you recommend

2. Recommend a healthy but cheap diet

3. Give other ideas you like.

Write your article.

Plan

  1. Title: Always include a title. Find a suitable title for your article.
  2. Opening: Presentation of isue and opinion. Begin with a rhetorical question. Then state your opinion.
  3. Body: Support your opinion by giving raesons and facts.
  4. Closing: A summary and restatement  of your opinion.

Sample Answer

Keep It Healthy!

Title

Are you a busy college student? Do you struggle to keep fit and eat healthily? Don’t worry! I am going to tell you exactly what you should do. Keep on reading, you will thank me later!

Opening

Presentation of issue and opinion

First of all, you must start moving your body. You could go to the gym, if you have the time. But if you’re busy – you’re a student, you should be busy! – don’t sign up for a gym. Instead, start cycling to college and give up using elevators. You’ll see how your fitness improves quickly!

 

Secondly, your diet is just as important. I suppose you live on a low budget, so I suggest you don’t eat out much. Eating out can be unhealthy and expensive. So go to your local supermarket and buy healthy, inexpensive vegetables and fruit.

 

Finally, pay attention to how you sit when you are studying. Posture is super important to feel well, especially if you are a student or an office worker.

Body

Presentation of Specific reasons and facts to support an opinionand opinion

If you follow all these tips, I’m sure you will keep fit easily! And if you already tried that, let me know how you feel now.

Closing

Summing up and restatement of opinion

Useful language:

  1. Rhetorical questions: Have you ever…? Are you one of those people who…? What do you think about…?
  2. Introducing first point: Firstly, First of all, In the first place, To begin with, One thing to consider is…
  3. Introducing further points: Secondly, In addition (to this), Yet another…, Apart from that…
  4. Introducing final points: So, in conclusion, To sum up, To conclude
  5. Introducing your opinion: In my opinion, If you ask me, To my mind, Personally, I believe that…, In my view…

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