ENGLISH FIRST ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE
TRANSACTIONAL WRITING GUIDELINES
NAME
CLASS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
1
YEAR
Question 2




FOUR topics will be set from the categories indicated below:
Answer ONE.
120 -150 words (body of the response)
Start on a new page.
Category A:
a letter – informal/ formal/ business/request
friendly/application/sympathy/congratulations/thanks/letter to
the press
Category B:
obituary/ CV and covering letter(asked as a combination)
Category C:
Book and film reviews/ newspaper article/ magazine article/
minutes and agenda of a meeting(asked as a combination)/
formal + informal reports
Category D:
written formal + informal speech/ written interview(formal)/
dialogue(informal)
Question 3:





Longer transactional text 30 marks
Short transactional text
20 marks
THREE topics will be set from the categories below:
Answer ONE.
Start on a new page
80 – 100 words (body of the response)
Category A:
advertisement/ invitation card/ flyer/poster
Category B:
diary entries/ postcard
Category C:
instructions/ directions
PLEASE NOTE: If a postcard is asked, no form will be provided. Make sure to
draw a form. Write the message on the left-hand side of the paper and the
address on the right-hand side.
For Category A above: No pictures are required. Only the text is assessed.
2
LONGER TRANSACTIONAL WRITING (30)
Category A: Letters
LETTER TO THE PRESS (formal)
The Editor
The Herald
Private Bag X467
Port Elizabeth
6001
Sir/Madam (NOT: Dear Sir)
Subject line (E.g. Abortion or not)
Introduction – paragraph
Body – 1/2 paragraphs
Conclusion – paragraph
Yours faithfully
Concerned Citizen (pseudonym) - Optional
B. Nell (signature)
Brian Nell
PO Box 12 (Own address)
Port Elizabeth
6001
3 March 2016
 TIPS
 You send the letter to the editor, but not for him/her to react, advise, correct or promote
particularly.
 Therefore, you use only
‘Sir’ as you are not writing to the editor, but to the public.
 Your subject line should get to the heart of the matter. It should be crisp and striking.
 Briefly repeat what someone else has expressed and then offer your viewpoint.
 You can use a pseudonym, (nom-de-plume) at the end if you do not wish to have your name used
BUT must still supply your name.
 NO CONTRACTIONS: E.g. don’t
 NO SLANG: E.g. guys, dudes
 Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
 Start counting after “Subject line” and stop before “Yours faithfully.”
3
LETTER OF COMPLAINT TO A FIRM (formal)
12 Eden Road
Delft
7102
11 January 2016
The Manager
The Complaints Department
Gellington’s Shoes
P. O. Box 1479
CAPE TOWN
8000
Dear Sir/ Madam
COMPLAINT ABOUT A PAIR OF SHOES
I bought a pair of shoes from the LUX Shoe Shop, in St George’s Mall on 27 December
2007. After wearing them once, the heel broke off and I was left looking foolish on a
dance floor.





Give all the necessary, relevant details.
Explain the inconvenience, nuisance-value, embarrassment, etc.
Ask for improved service, ratification, etc.
Show that you will not accept shoddy workmanship, poor products or service.
Explain clearly that it was not irresponsibility on your behalf that caused the heel
to break.
I should be grateful if you would attend to this matter as soon as possible and let me
know what you advise me to do. At the least, I expect a refund.
Yours faithfully
Signature
K. P. Garies



Register is formal. No contractions. No slang.
Be firm but remain polite and reasonable.
Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
4
FRIENDLY LETTER (informal)
14 Range Street
Durban
4001
2 January 2016
Dear John (Mother and Father; Uncle Roy)
I really enjoyed receiving your letter and learning about …
Do not use slang at all.
Avoid being over-chatty / under-enthusiastic.
Avoid clichés and endless questions.
Write maturely about things of interest.
Avoid being silly or trying to be too clever.
Register: Friendly, polite, sincere.
I look forward to hearing what you think of my idea. Please give my regards to Gillian.( not send)
Yours sincerely
Sally
Tips
 The number of the house comes before the street, road, house/flat name.

‘Street’ is written out in full! (The same applies to ‘Road’ / ‘Avenue’ / ‘Crescent’)

The date is written out in full.

Uncle and Aunt/ Mother and Father have capitals as this is what you call them.

You should have an opening bridging paragraph, linking you to them and their affairs in some
way.

Start your letter by referring to a previous letter or somehow establishing a relationship.

You should have a closing paragraph giving an opinion, an opener for a reply or a query.

The address and the salutation do not have any punctuation at the end of the lines.

Colloquial language is acceptable. Avoid SLANG.

Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.

Do not count the address, salutation or ‘Yours sincerely”.
5
Category B:
CURRICULUM VITAE and COVERING LETTER (asked in combination)






Curriculum vitae = “history of the life of”
Must be compact, clear, correct and easy to read.
Use good spacing and clear headings.
The document should present a strong first impression of the candidate.
The CV must address the post for which the candidate is applying.
The following aspects must be included:
Personal details
Formal qualifications
Work experience
Referees
CURRICULUM VITAE OF MARYNA BASSON
PERSONAL DETAILS
Name
Date Of Birth
Id Number
Contact Details
Marital Status
Nationality
Criminal record
EDUCATIONAL DETAILS
Secondary education
Name of institution
Highest qualification obtained
Year of completion
Tertiary education
Name of institution
Highest qualification
Year obtained
WORK EXPERIENCE
Name and address of employer
Date of employment
Position
REFEREES
1. Mr C Vorster
Contact details
2. Mrs G Roux
Contact details
3. Rev. F Smith
Contact details
Maryna Basson
2 April 1993 in George
890402 8998 990
Tel:
044 8736953
E-mail:
m.basson@global.co.za
Cell:
083 8765 432
Single
South African
None
Outeniqua High School
Grade 12
2011
South Cape College
Business Management Diploma
2013
Edgars, Hibernia Street, George
1 December 2013
Cashier, floor supervisor
Headmaster, Outeniqua High School, George
044 8744 156
Manager Edgars, Hibernia Street, George
044 8732 345
Bergsig Dutch Reformed Church, George
044 8713 265
6
COVERING LETTER
4 Primrose Street
George
6530
30 August 2016
The Manager
Joshua Doore
68 York Street
George
6530
Dear Sir/ Madam
APPLICATION FOR POSITION OF ASSISTANT MANAGER
I am applying for the position of Assistant Manager as advertised in the George Herald on 12 August
2016. In support of my application, I include my CV and the names and contact numbers of three
referees.
I am interested in this position as I have gained experience in supervising others’ work. I possess the
required qualifications and I have the necessary people skills. I am responsible and reliable. As a
result of my commitment and hard work I have received two performance awards from my current
employer.
I would appreciate being granted an interview. Please contact me by phone or e-mail as indicated in
my attached CV. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully
M Basson (signature)
Marina Basson
OBITUARY
Include the following:
• Notice of a death/Formally announces the death
• Name and surname of diceased
• Full dates of birth and death – must make sense
• Place of birth
• Place of death
• Cause of death
• Names of parent(s)
• Tribute – NB! Only ONE aspect
• Funeral details: place, date and time, flowers
7
•
Names of loved ones – Optional, but will put content into higher category if mentioned all of the
above
Basic Obituary Template
Year of birth and death
must correlate with age
of person, e.g. a
grandmother will be
different than a learner
at school
Full name and
surname must be
given
Heading: name and surname of deceased
Year of birth and year of death
Name and surname of deceased ...... , age ….., passed away on ……..(date) at
…..(place). Cause of death ….. .
Born in …(town/city), he was the son/daughter of …… (parents). He/she attended…
(school) / graduated at … ( University/College). He/she was employed at …
(place of work) and worked as …. (job title).
He/she (name) was a member of (church /organisations/ groups/ committees/RCL).
Tribute is where you say positive
things about deceased. Refer to the
requirements in the paper, e.g.
‘sports’, then you mention sport
achievements or ‘person helped
poor’ – give examples.
He /she enjoyed .... (hobbies/activities, etc.)
Pay tribute (depending on what is asked in question paper)
He/she is survived by his/her wife/husband, children, grandchildren, etc. (be very careful
to determine this. If it is a child, then it will be parents and siblings. If a
grandmother/grandfather then there must be grandchildren).
The funeral service will be held on .... (date) at ....(time) at ....(place and address).
He/she (name) will be remembered for his/her ... (personality traits/things)
8
Category C
WRITING AN INVESTIGATIVE REPORT (very formal)
REPORT ON THE REASONS FOR ABSENTEEISM
1.
2.
3.
4.
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.3
FOR ATTENTION: The Headmaster
TITLE: Absenteeism among grade 12 learners at Outeniqua High
TERMS OF REFERENCE
The headmaster requested the Kwagga Council to investigate the reasons
for the high level of absenteeism among grade 12 learners.
PROCEDURE:
Information was collected from Mrs van As.
Gr12 learners with the most days absent were identified.
A questionnaire was compiled by the head boy and head girl.
Interviews were conducted with these learners.
5. FINDINGS
5.1 Most learners were absent on Mondays and Fridays.
5.2 More boys were absent than girls.
5.3 Learners stayed at home to complete tasks for school-based assessment.
5.4 Learners stay at home after sports training sessions.
5.5 Learners make doctor’s appointments in school hours.
5.6 Appointments for driver’s licenses are made in school hours.
6. RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1 Mondays and Fridays to be set apart for formal assessment tasks.
6.2 The principal to put in a formal request to the Traffic Department to
reserve afternoons for gr 12 driver’s licence appointments.
6.3 A new policy be adopted by the Governing Body which would give the
school the right to deny learners access to the next examination if they
were absent for more than 6 days in that term.
7.
8.







SIGNATURES: G. Botha (head girl) H. Hanekom (head boy)
DATE: 14 May 2016
For Attention: for whom this report is being done / who gets the copy of the final report when it is
printed and compiled.
Terms of reference: EXACTLY what the compiler has to do – not more or less.
Procedure: exactly what procedure was followed to reach the findings, in order to be reliable
otherwise the recommendations mean nothing.
Findings: what was found after certain procedures were followed, to be objective so that the
recommendations are accepted.
Recommendations: made after careful procedures were followed and should be acceptable
because reliable procedures were followed and objective findings were made.
The report should be thoroughly done, accurately recorded and clearly expressed.
The recommendations do not have to be accepted. Sometimes some recommendations are
accepted and others ignored.
9
WRITING A SHORT REPORT (more informal)
Report on the Summer Camp in Gem Park
from 10 – 18 October 2007
for 26 Grade Learners
from Dulwich Secondary School
For the attention of The Principal, Ms H. H Hudson.
1. TRANSPORT:
The bus hired for transport to and from the camp site was punctual, comfortable and wellmaintained. It is recommended to use them again at a later stage.
2. ACCOMMODATION
The double-bunk beds were clean, comfortable and well-spaced. The ablution blocks were
also clean and well maintained.
3. FOOD and DINING AREA
The dining section was very clean and well-aired. There were more than enough tables
and chairs. The kitchen was spotless and there was every facility available. It might be a
good idea to use a four-slice toaster instead of the open toaster which is dangerous for
children.
4. ENTERTAINMENT
The learners were extremely inventive and entertaining and the final concert was a huge
success. Thanks should be extended to Ms Carolinus for her enthusiasm and hard work.
5. SECURITY
The staff and learners felt safe at all times as there was 24-hour security at the gates and
at night security staff patrolled the fenced area.
6. RECOMMENDATIONS
This was a very successful camp. It is suggested that the site be used again and that the
booking be done early as it is a popular campsite.








Signed:
J. F. Cupido
Date:
25 October 2016
A report indicates clearly what the report is dealing with (in the heading).
You should indicate who should receive the report first.(For Attention: )
It is written in the past tense.
The passive voice is used for objectivity.
The main points are highlighted.
The sub-headings are in capital letters.
The points are numbered for easy reference.
The report must be signed by the writer and the date given.
10
AN AGENDA FOR A MEETING (Asked with minutes)
Agenda of the meeting of the Academics Committee of the Student Representative
Council to be held on Monday, 23 May 2016 at 19:00 in Room 25.
AGENDA
1.
2
3.
4.
5.
6.
Welcome
Present
Apologies
Minutes of the last meeting
Matters arising from the last minutes:
5.1 Top Twenty
New business
6.1 Awards Ceremony
6.2 Technology
7.
Meeting closes
8.
Date for next meeting
9.
Signed:
R. Gerber
I. Els
R. Gerber
Secretary
I. Els
Chairman
Date: 20 May 2016

TIPS

All the information for the meeting is listed so that members can find out extra information / do
their homework / consider their options / get quotes BEFORE the meeting so that they arrive,
informed.

Members can see whether they will be called on to make a report.

Once the meeting has been called to order, BEFORE the meeting starts, the Chairman asks if
there is anything members would like to add to the agenda. These points will be written under
‘General’. After that, nobody can introduce new items for the agenda!

Date for next meeting is given. It is then up to members to diarise this date and not to be reminded
of the date!
11
MINUTES OF A MEETING (Asked with agenda)





Minutes can be shortened. Only the important points need be recorded. All motions must be
recorded.
As minutes record what WAS said at a meeting, they are written in the past tense.
The passive voice is preferred as it keeps the minutes objective, e.g. It was felt that ... / it was
agreed that ...
Use sub-headings. Number and underline them.
Minutes are a record of decisions taken at the meeting; they do not reflect the opinions or feelings
of individual members.
Minutes of the meeting of the Academics Committee of the Student Representative Council
held on Monday, 23 May 2016 at 19:00 in Room 25.
1.
Welcome:
The Chairman welcomed the members.
2. Present:
R. Gerber(Secretary), I.Els(Chairman), J. van Zyl, S. Theron, R. du Toit.
3. Apologies:
H. Roberts.
4. Minutes of the last meeting were read and signed as correct.
5. Matters arising from the last minutes:
5.1
Top Twenty: It was decided that this matter would be discussed at the next meeting.
6.
6.1
New business:
Awards Ceremony:
S. Theron proposed that an Academic Awards Ceremony be held at the end of the year. This
was seconded by R. du Toit and the motion was approved. After further discussion it was
decided that S. Theron would submit planning for the event at the next meeting.
Top Twenty:
J. van Zyl proposed that the names of the top twenty learners in each grade appear in the
next issue of the school magazine. R. Gerber seconded the motion and it was adopted.
Technology:
After a lengthy discussion on the lack of current technology in classrooms it was decided that
the Chairman would approach the headmaster with a request for internet access in each
classroom. This proposal was made by R. du Toit and seconded by S. Theron. The decision
was unanimous. The Chairman would report back to the committee at the next meeting.
6.2
6.3
7.
Closing:
The meeting closed/ adjourned at 20:00
8.
Date for next meeting: 30 May 2012 at 15:00 in Room 25.
9.
Signed:
Secretary : R. Gerber
R. Gerber
Chairman: I. Els
Date: 30 May 2016

Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.(agenda and minutes)
12
I. Els
NEWSPAPER REPORT
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Purpose: to inform
State the FACTS briefly + accurately.
Write in the 3rd person.
Give a balanced report. Be objective.
Use passive voice to help you sound objective.
Include quotes, comments and opinions of experts or witnesses to add credibility to your
report.
Write a catchy TITLE. (Short. Use rhyme, alliteration and idiomatic language etc.)
Add a sub-title.
Byline: who wrote the article?
Start with the most important facts.
4 Women in a Hotel= 4 W questions + 1 H question
WHO; WHAT; WHEN; WHERE; HOW?
First paragraph: summary of whole story. . WHAT? WHO? WHERE? WHEN?
•
Next 2/3 paragraphs: more details about questions. Include quotes of witnesses, experts)
EXTRA DETAIL: If there is extra space, then details can be added. The longer the article, the
more trivial information can be added.
Texting May Have Played Part in Fatal Teen Car Crash
By Georgia May
When five high school cheerleaders in western New York died in an automobile accident after going
out to celebrate their graduation on Friday, 4 December 2015, a community was crushed.
Now, authorities say it is possible that the fiery, head-on collision with a tractor trailer may have been
caused by a distracted driver sending text messages. "Cell phones are a distraction and could be a
contributing factor in this accident," said Ontario County Sheriff Phillip Povero.
Cell phone records show a text message was sent from the phone belonging to the driver, Bailey
Goodman, at 10:05:52. A reply was sent to her phone at 10:06:29. Thirty-eight seconds later,
someone called 911 to report the accident that killed Bailey and her friends. "Cell phone records
indicate the phone was in use," Povero said. "We'll never be able to clearly state that she was the one
doing the text messages."
Text messaging may be one of the most dangerous distractions for any driver. "Clearly, the problem
with texting is the same portion of your mind that you need to be using when you're focusing on the
road is the same portion that you're using when you're texting," said Michael Pina of AAA.
For young, inexperienced drivers, texting could be even more dangerous. And yet, 46 percent of
teens in a new AAA/Seventeen magazine survey admitted to texting while driving. Fifty-one percent
said they talk on cell phones while driving, another distraction. "I do and it's very dangerous," one
woman said. "I have these little flashes in my mind of thinking about getting into an accident while I'm
doing it."
Four states have made it illegal to drive and talk on a cell phone without a hands-free device. But so
far, only Washington state has enacted a law banning text messaging while driving.
13
FILM REVIEW
SHOULD INCLUDE:
Name of film
Name of director
Cast: names of actors
What kind of film
Brief outline of plot
Comments on quality of acting
Comments on quality of directing/ production
Parts liked/disliked
Recommendation to readers
Rating
EXAMPLE
HOOK *****
CRITIC: Tony Jackman
DIRECTOR: Stephen Spielberg
CAST: Dustin Hoffman, Robin Williams, Bob Hoskins, Amber Scott
RUNNING TIME: 140 minutes
AGE RESTRICTION: None
GENRE: Fantasy
What a production. Spielberg at his very best! A strong cast, impressive sets and incredible special
effects make for a fantasy the whole family can enjoy.
Peter Banning(Williams) is Peter Pan. He is a successful American attorney with the standard
problems of a family. However, off the Bannings go to London and while they’re there, Captain
Hook(Hoffman), who has been bearing a grudge against Peter Pan, takes his revenge by snatching
Peter’s children. If Pan wants his family back, he has to go to Neverland to get them.
Hoffman is very good as the evil Hook and Williams doesn’t disappoint.
Although it is a long movie, it is consistently riveting and funny and visually fantastic. There’s
something for everyone in this production.

Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
14
BOOK REVIEW





Give the relevant facts:
The name of the author
The title of the book
The name of the publisher
The price

Comment on the cover.
Discuss, briefly:
The style of writing
The characterization
The atmosphere
The setting
The genre


Come to a conclusion: What is its suitability?
Possibly, give it a rating.
A review is subjective. So, a reader might not agree with a reviewer’s view.
NEVER tell the whole story or how it will end! Give only an outline of the story (plot)
Also, explain what the author is trying to do and whether you think (s)he has succeeded.



PARTITIONS OF APARTHEID by Koba Plaajies
Published by Henman Books
Review by Christine Palmer
Koba Plaajies has succeeded in drawing us into a world of madness during the Apartheid years. She
has tried to show the real horrors of the system on a family who were not interested in politics, but
merely trying to live a decent life.
Her book, Partitions of Apartheid, is published by Henman Books and is a good read – fact covered
by fiction. Creative. Imaginative. Brave. Soft-covered, it is priced right and should appeal to all ages,
but especially those who feel for families and children in particular. The tragedy does not overwhelm
the reader, but rather makes the reader respect the approach to hardships and admire the grit of
poor, decent people.
It is a story of a small family in Cape Town with two young children who cannot accept that their life
on earth will be controlled by unreasonable and unhearing people. So they try to protest and to
improve their lives against all odds and against a mammoth state operation. Their struggle is
extraordinary and their small successes are triumphant.
The style is personal, poignant and inspiring. I believe this novel will do extremely well. And so it
should. Highly recommended. I look forward to a film!

Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
15
Category D
WRITTEN SPEECH
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
A speech is SPOKEN.
Write shorter sentences.
Include humour if it’s appropriate.
Ask rhetorical questions.
Use simple ideas with familiar examples.
Use repetition to emphasise.
Use alliteration.
Consider the following
WHO is the AUDIENCE? Women, classmates, family, older people, athletes...
WHERE? At a wedding, school function, birthday party ...
HOW? What style will you use? Serious, humorous, aggressive, gentle...
WHY have you been invited to speak?
PURPOSE of the speech:
To entertain; To convince; To motivate; To congratulate; To welcome; To introduce a speaker.
STRUCTURE OF SPEECH
Introduction:
Strong opener will attract audience’s attention.
Greet/ acknowledge the chairman, members of the audience
E.g. Madam Chair, Ladies and Gentlemen ....
Use quote/ anecdote/ statistics...
If purpose requires it, mention the main 2/3 points of speech.
BODY:
Use 2/3 main points to organise the content of speech.
Use more quotes and examples
Concentrate on the instructions in the question!
CONCLUSION:
Link up with introduction.
Bring to a natural conclusion.
Ladies and Gentlemen
It is my pleasure to say a few words about the birthday girl. And may I start by saying that she is
looking particularly charming in her favourite pink.
I have known Nora for many years. We grew up together. We went to the same primary school. Then
our paths divided and to my joy I met up with her again last year. She has not changed at all and is
the same fun-loving, honest, kind and happy person that I knew so many years ago.
Now that she is turning eighty, I can just wish her continued good health, genuine happiness, real fun
with her children and grandchildren (and she has TEN!) and let the sparkle in her eye never diminish.
She has made a wonderful contribution to the world (as a teacher, mother and wife). Her travels to
so many different countries have made her wiser and richer. She continues to spread her gentleness
and gentility with her friends and family.
Please raise your glasses to toast our special lady, Nora.
16
DIALOGUE
The guard finds a small boy standing on his own at the door of the Traffic Department.
Guard
:
Why are you standing here all by yourself?
Boy
:
(on his guard) I am waiting for my mother, the tall lady.
Guard
:
Where is your mother?
The little boy gestures towards a woman with a red face.
Boy
:
There she is, waiting in the very long queue; waiting for her licence.
.
The guard gazes at the queue, but cannot spot the woman. He stands arms akimbo.
Guard
:
Why are you not waiting with her?
Boy
:
(embarrassed) She is at the end of the queue, I am pretending that I do
that I do not know her.
(125)
Points to remember:












You must set the scene. Write no more than two sentences. In the present tense & third person.
Stage directions are written after the colon (:) in the present tense.
A colon is used to indicate a speaker’s words.
The colons should form a “line” from top to bottom.
Do not draw a line instead of using colons.
When a new speaker speaks, start on a new line.
Leave a line open between speakers.
NO INVERTED COMMAS ARE USED.
The speaker’s words must be directly below the previous speaker’s words.
Do not use ME as a name. Use names or titles, e.g Father
Do not write in the margin.
Use a comma before and after the name of the person that is addressed, e.g.
Joan
: (friendly) Mother, may I go to the cinema tonight, please?
17
INTERVIEW





An interview is similar to a dialogue.
The major difference is that the one speaker probes the other by asking questions – longer
responses.
NB: It should be noted that most journalistic reports are a result of an interview.
The play-form dialogue format should be used.
Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
Zwelakhe Shangase(Zwe) interviews Ray Levin(Ray), Kia SA Chief Executive Officer, about the
2010 team buses handed over to FIFA.
Zwe:
Good day, Ray. How many buses did your company hand over to FIFA?
Ray:
Thirty-two buses were handed over yesterday.
Zwe:
What will the buses be used for?
Ray:
They will transport teams, members of the organizing committee, other FIFA officials,
referees and the media between hotels and stadiums.
Zwe:
What features do the buses have, Ray?
Ray:
These 54-seater buses are equipped with two bar fridges, a toilet, cameras mounted on
the rear window and a monitor on the dashboard to give the driver a clear view when
reversing
Zwe:
Are teams allocated individual buses, or can we have different teams in the same bus?
Ray:
That’s a good one, Zwe. Each team is allocated a personalized Hyundai Universe
Express Noble bus, decorated with the team flag and slogan. For example, the bus that
ferries Bafana Bafana will display the slogan: “One team united under one rainbow” and
the South African flag.
Zwe:
This must have cost Kia and Hyundai an arm and a leg.
Ray:
It did not come cheap, Zwe. The buses cost R2 million each and were manufactured
specially for the World Cup.
Zwe:
Finally, Ray, what is going to happen to the buses after the World Cup?
Ray:
The buses will be sold to defray from costs.
Zwe:
Thank you very much for the information, Ray.
Ray:
You are welcome.
18
SHORTER TRANSACTIONAL WRITING (20)
Category A: advertisement/ invitation card/ flyer/poster
ADVERTISEMENT
To successfully create an advertisement, you have to decide beforehand on the product or service
you want to promote.
This should fit your TARGET MARKET.
•
Use the following checklist:
a. Product or service: is it clear and understandable?
b. Can the reader identify the target market?
c. Which visual effects are used to attract the consumer's attention?
different fonts
shapes or forms
textures
colours
graphics
photos
d. Which language devices are used intentionally?
Emotive words
Alliteration
Rhyme
Rhetorical questions
Word play(puns), wit, humour
Figurative language
Repetition
Promises, gimmicks and statistics to convince the consumer
e. Did you use the AIDA principle?
ATTENTION: Catch the attention of the readers.
INTEREST: Keep the readers interested. Keep their attention.
DESIRE: Create a desire to own the product or use the service.
ACTION: Go out and buy the product or use the service.


Give information about the product (It is called the copy or text of the advertisement)
Give contact details of the manufacturer/ advertiser, e.g. website, e-mail address,
telephone numbers).
 No pictures are required. Only the text is assessed. However, proper layout will
add to the effectiveness of the advertisement.
 Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
19
FORMAL INVITATION
The following things must be included:
 the date, venue and time at which the occasion will start.
 the subject of the invitation must be clearly communicated, e.g. wedding, graduation, birthday,
etc.
 an inviting font, relevant to the occasion.
 The content and nature of the invitation determines the choice of language used.
 No contractions or slang.
 Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
OUTENIQUA HIGH SCHOOL
Outeniqua High School cordially invites the presence of
Dr and Mrs Basson to the 2016 Prize-giving Ceremony.
The occasion will be held at 19:00
in the Volschenk Hall , at Outeniqua High School,
on 15 October 2016.
Dr Basson is requested to introduce the keynote speaker
of the evening, Prof. Jonathan Jansen.
You are requested to confirm attendance by contacting
Christine on telephone number 044 874 4156
not later than 5 October 2016.
You are advised to study the format and vocabulary used in this example.
20
INFORMAL INVITATION (same information - but in informal language)
POSTER
TIPS:

Give all the important facts; make it attractive to draw attention; especially the heading:

Text font and size
Text should be clear and large enough to read from a distance; headings should be larger than
sub-headings and body text.

Colour
Colours need to complement each other. Too much colour will make the poster seem cluttered.

Visuals
Do not use too many as they will make the poster look cluttered. Make sure the size of the visual
is suitable. It must be clear, but not overpowering.

Layout
Your poster should have a clean simple layout. Use headings to draw attention to sections in your
poster. These headings should stand out (a bigger font, different colour or bold print).
21

Have some attention grabbers on your poster. As you do not have much time to get the attention
of your audience, you need to make a quick impact, e.g. a catching and interesting statement,
photographs, graphics, colours, layout, etc. - all of these play a role in attracting your audience.
FLYER
Small pamphlet, often put in post boxes or handed out at a stop street, etc,
Usually advertising an event or a business.
Usually distributed for free.
Layout is a cross between a poster and a pamphlet.
It often has graphic(s).
22

Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
23
Category B: diary entries/ postcard
POSTCARD
FRONT OF THE CARD:
The Colosseum, Rome
BACK OF THE CARD:
Mom and Dad
10 May 2016
Having wonderful time. Rome
HUGE; romantically huggable. Have
seen Colosseum, the Roman Forum,
St Peter’s Basilica, the statue of
of Moses (Michelangelo was a
wonder). Eaten everything Italian!
Gaining weight. Love to Muffin.
Richard
P. S. Please keep this card.
Mr and Mrs S.Nel
17 Oros Road
Bloemfontein
9301
SOUTH AFRICA
HOW TO WRITE A POSTCARD





Purpose is to keep in touch, to let others know where
you are and what you are doing. Usually while away
on holiday/ tour, etc.
There is not much space, so language can be brief /
abbreviated.
The tone should be enthusiastic, excited, curious,
because of the many new experiences you are feeling.
The address must be accurate.
PLEASE NOTE: No form will be provided. Make sure
to draw a form. Write the message on the left-hand
side of the paper and the address on the right-hand
side.
24
DIARY ENTRIES
Tuesday, 28 March 2016
The last week of the term! My class have done well, especially as they were nervous,
timid, anxious newcomers at the beginning of the term. Slowly they have gained
confidence as they reached out by taking part in cultural activities, stretching their
imaginations, their skills and facing their fears bravely. I am SO proud of their
achievements: The class who collected the most recycled products, winner of the junior
braaiing competition and Hlanti, winning the Junior Toastmasters’ Competition was the
cherry on top!
However, even the quieter learners have done well and become calm within themselves,
accepting their weaknesses and working on their strengths. I have really enjoyed this
class this term.
We moved into a new school this year and I can honestly say that pride in oneself, as few
rules as possible, a dignified uniform, a unified staff and a stern, but fair principal are
essential qualities for success. Learners are adults-to-be and basically all good. That is
how I see them.
Wednesday, 29 March 2016
I woke this morning with a terrible headache and did not get much sympathy from my
class (feel like taking back all the compliments I gave them yesterday!) However, by the
third period, I was feeling fine. I suppose it is the end-of-the-year tiredness setting in.
Still have the reports to do and the cumulative cards to fill in. Then I need to find time to
reflect on where things went well and things went badly and to think about what I hope to
achieve next term. I want to make sure that Charleen is not so shy and to help Jamie with
his handwriting. He really is Spiderman! I must remember why I wanted to teach in the
first place!
(85)




Note the spelling of ‘d i a r y ‘ - not ‘dairy’, where you buy your milk!
You must always give the date.
You always write in the 1st person.
A diary entry can have a few paragraphs.
You should mention . . .
 some personal thoughts and feelings
 some idea of what is happening in your world at this moment (of great interest to future
generations - especially your family members).
 Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
25
Category C: instructions/ directions
INSTRUCTIONS













Must be in POINT FORM.
Use bullets, numbers or letters.
No contractions. No slang.
Think about what you will need to carry out the task, e.g. ingredients or tools.
The title should explain what the instructions are about, e.g. How to wire a plug.
Give step-by-step instructions (these must be in the correct order/logical sequence if the
question requires it).
You have to be accurate and precise.
Write simple, clear sentences that are easy to understand.
You should use many connectors, such as next, then, first, finally, etc.
Use adjectives and adverbs only when needed.
Usually in the imperative (the infinitive without the word ‘to’).
Finally, ask yourself whether or not someone who knows nothing about this could
successfully follow your instructions
Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
How to wire a plug
1. Firstly bare the ends of the three wires inside the electrical cord for about half a centimetre, by
cutting away the plastic insulation.
2. Gently twist the strands of copper wire with your fingers until each strand is tight.
3. Fold over the twisted strands.
4. Now remove the plug cover by either ‘snapping’ or unscrewing it.
5. Unscrew the little screws on each of the pins of the plug.
6. Insert the twisted copper wires into the holes in the pins.
7. The green and yellow wire must always be inserted into the top pin.
8. The blue wire is inserted into the left pin (the pin is marked with a blue spot or the letter N).
9. The brown wire is inserted into the right pin (the pin is marked with a brown spot or the letter L)
10. Tighten the little screw on each of the pins of the plug.
11. Make sure the electrical cord is firmly gripped by the arrestor clips.
12. Finally replace the cover of the plug.
(90)
26
DIRECTIONS
Turn right as soon as you leave the station. You will then be in Main Road. Go straight
down Main Road until you come to the first set of traffic lights. Turn left here into
Forest Avenue and travel for about 500 metres down this road until you come to a Tjunction. You will cross three streets and will pass a garage on your left and a church
on your right. At the T-junction turn right into Pine Way. You will find the bank about
100 metres down Pine Way on the left-hand side.
Words indicating position:
next to
above
across
under
below
behind
in front of
beyond
behind
through
on the corner of
diagonally opposite
directly opposite
on the right-hand side of
in the shopping mall
at the bottom of the hill
opposite to
Words indicating direction:
drive/walk down…
walk past …
follow the signs to …
cross over
turn left into
turn around and …
where the road forks …
drive in the direction of …
drive up …
pass the blue building and …
walk in an easterly direction towards
at the third set of traffic lights turn …
go halfway round the circle and …
the road curves to the right
the road curves to the left …
at the second intersection …
TIPS:
 We use directions when we are telling someone how to get somewhere Usually in the imperative
(the infinitive without the word ‘to’). E.g. Turn left. Drive for a mile.
 When giving directions be concise and clear.
 The directions must be in chronological order.
 Always refer to a specific direction. Turn right, left, north, in a northerly direction
 Give approximate distances: After about 200 metres, turn ... / Drive straight for two blocks ….( No
more than 2)
 Give the approximate number of streets to be crossed to reach the destination
 Provide information about landmarks along the way, e.g. You will pass George High School on
your left. (At least 3)
 Mention ALL street names.
 Write out Street, Avenue, Lane, Crescent.
 No contractions. No slang.
 Number of words in brackets at the end of the piece.
27