Welcome to Task 2: Your Time to Shine as a Writer!

While Task 1 of your NEA (Non-Exam Assessment) is all about analyzing others' work, Task 2 is where you take center stage. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your creativity and your technical skill as a writer of non-fiction. Whether you want to write a hard-hitting piece of journalism, a moving memoir, or a persuasive speech, this task allows you to put your linguistic tools to work.

The Core Requirements

Before you start typing, it is vital to know the "rules of the game" set by the OCR syllabus. These are the fixed boundaries you must work within:

  • The Length: Your original non-fiction piece must be between 1000 and 1200 words.
  • The Introduction: Within that word count, you must include a 150-word introduction.
  • The Focus: This task specifically assesses AO2 and AO5.

Wait, what are AO2 and AO5?
Don't worry about the jargon! Here is what they actually mean for this task:
AO2: This is about how you "shape meaning." It means every comma, every metaphor, and every sentence structure should be a deliberate choice to create a specific effect on your reader.
AO5: This is about "expertise and creativity." The examiners are looking for you to write fluently, choose sophisticated words, and engage your audience effectively.

The 150-Word Introduction: Your "Mini-Manifesto"

Think of the 150-word introduction as a map for the examiner. Since there is no prescribed genre for Task 2, the examiner needs to know what you are trying to achieve before they start reading your main piece.

In this introduction, you should briefly outline:

  1. The Form: What are you writing? (e.g., a travel article, a satirical column, a transcript of a podcast).
  2. The Audience: Who are you writing for? (e.g., teenagers, political activists, readers of a specific high-end magazine).
  3. The Purpose: Why are you writing this? (e.g., to persuade, to entertain, to inform, to provoke thought).
  4. The Persona: Are you writing as yourself, or are you adopting a specific "voice" or character?

Top Tip: Be specific! Instead of saying "I am writing for everyone," say "I am writing for readers of a weekend broadsheet supplement who are interested in environmental issues."

Choosing Your Non-Fiction Genre

Because the syllabus doesn't tell you what to write, the world is your oyster! However, it must be non-fiction. Popular choices include:

  • Biographical/Autobiographical writing: A "slice of life" story or a profile of an interesting person.
  • Journalism: An investigative feature or an opinion piece (column) for a newspaper.
  • Travel Writing: Describing a location while weaving in personal reflections.
  • Speeches: A persuasive address to a specific group of people.
  • Reviews: A sophisticated critique of art, film, or culture.

Did you know?
The best NEA pieces often come from topics the student is actually passionate about. If you love gaming, write a high-level cultural critique of a new release. If you're passionate about social justice, write a powerful speech. Your engagement with the topic will naturally boost your AO5 (Creativity) marks!

The Style Toolbox (Focusing on AO2)

To get those high marks for AO2 (Shaping Meaning), you need to show that you are in control of your language. You aren't just writing; you are crafting. Consider using the following levels of language:

1. Lexis and Semantics (Words and Meanings)

Don't just use the first word that comes to mind. Use precise vocabulary. If you are writing a somber piece, your words should reflect that atmosphere. If you are writing a satire, your word choices should be sharp and witty.

2. Grammar and Syntax (Sentence Structure)

Vary your sentence lengths. Short, punchy sentences can create tension or emphasis. Longer, complex sentences can feel lyrical or authoritative. This is what the syllabus calls "pattern-making" and "pattern-breaking."

3. Discourse (The Big Picture)

How does your piece flow? Use cohesive devices (linking words and themes) to ensure your 1200 words feel like one solid, professional piece of writing rather than a collection of random paragraphs.

4. Pragmatics (Reading Between the Lines)

Think about what you are implying. Sometimes, what you don't say is just as powerful as what you do say. This is especially useful in satirical or persuasive writing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even the best writers can slip up. Watch out for these common "NEA traps":

  • The "Word Count Wobble": Going significantly over 1200 words or falling under 1000 words. Stick to the limit to show you can edit your work professionally.
  • Forgetting the Intro: The 150-word introduction is part of the task! If you leave it out, the examiner won't understand your intentions, and your AO2 marks will suffer.
  • Being Too "Story-like": Remember, this is non-fiction. While you can use narrative techniques (like in a memoir), it shouldn't read like a fictional short story.
  • Losing the Audience: If you start writing for a teenage audience but switch to very formal, academic language halfway through, your "voice" becomes inconsistent.

Key Takeaways

The Goal: Produce a professional-standard piece of non-fiction that shows off your writing "muscles."

The Mix: 150 words of introduction + 850-1050 words of original writing = 1000-1200 words total.

The Focus: Be creative (AO5) and be deliberate (AO2). Every word should have a job to do.

The Strategy: Pick a genre you enjoy, define your audience clearly in your intro, and maintain a consistent "voice" throughout the piece.

Don't worry if your first draft feels messy! Professional writers always "write hot and edit cold." Get your ideas down first, then go back and refine your linguistic choices to make sure you're hitting those AO2 and AO5 targets.