The extended writing task (100 to 200 words)

Welcome to the Extended Writing Task!

In Paper 3 (Listening and Integrated Skills), the "extended writing task" is often the most important part of your exam. This task usually asks you to write between 100 and 200 words. It is where you show the examiners that you can take different pieces of information from a Data File and a recording and turn them into a clear, professional, or friendly piece of writing.

Don’t worry if this seems a bit scary! Think of it like a jigsaw puzzle. All the pieces you need are already there in the Data File. Your job is simply to find the right pieces and fit them together in your own words.

1. What Exactly is the Extended Task?

While some tasks in Paper 3 are short (like filling in a poster or an invitation), the extended task requires more "meat." You might be asked to write a presentation script, a formal letter, a report, or even a blog post.

Key Statistics to Remember:
According to the official framework, this task is a core part of Part B1 (easier) and Part B2 (more difficult). In recent exams, the target length has been around \(100\) to \(200\) words. For example, in the 2025 paper, one task required a script of approximately \(120\) words.

Key Takeaway: This is your chance to gain the most marks for Organization and Language, so it deserves your best effort!

2. The "Golden Rule": No Outside Knowledge

One of the best things about Paper 3 is that you must not use your own ideas or outside knowledge. Everything you need to write is hidden in the documents provided to you. If you write about a famous singer or a news event that isn't mentioned in your Data File, you won't get marks for it!

Step-by-step to finding your points:
1. Read the Instructions: Usually, a "Task" page tells you exactly what to do.
2. Check the Recording: Look at the notes you took while listening. Often, the most important "tone" or "latest updates" come from the audio.
3. Scan the Data File: Look for emails, meeting minutes, or articles that contain the facts you need.

3. Organizing Your Writing

Because you only have 100 to 200 words, you need to be very organized. You don't have space for long, rambling introductions.

Use Headings:
The syllabus mentions that candidates may be given headings to write to. If the question gives you headings, use them! They act as a map for your writing and help the examiner see that you have covered all the points.

Structure of a 150-word task:
- Opening (10-20 words): State the purpose (e.g., "I am writing to update you on...").
- Body Paragraphs (100-150 words): Group related points together. For example, put all "costs" in one section and all "dates" in another.
- Closing (10-20 words): A simple call to action or polite sign-off.

4. Language: The "Copying" Trap

A common mistake students make is copying sentences word-for-word from the Data File. This is called verbatim copying, and it can lower your Language mark.

How to avoid copying:
- Change the Verb: Instead of "We will give a discount," try "A price reduction will be offered."
- Change the Structure: Turn a bullet point into a full sentence.
- Combine Points: If one document says the event is on Friday and another says it is at 2 PM, write: "The event will take place this Friday afternoon at 2 PM."

Quick Tip: Use connectives like "Furthermore," "However," and "Consequently" to make your writing flow smoothly. This shows the examiner you are "integrating" the information, not just listing it.

5. Tone and Appropriacy

Who are you writing to? The syllabus emphasizes register and tone.
- If you are writing to a friend, you can use "I" and "you" and slightly more relaxed language.
- If you are writing a formal report for a boss, avoid contractions (like don't or won't) and use a professional tone.

Note: For more details on this, see the chapter on "Appropriacy: register and tone in work and study tasks."

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Your Real Name: This is a big "No-No." The HKEAA is very strict about this. You must use the neutral name supplied in the paper (like Chris Wong or Pat Ng). Using your own name can lead to mark deductions.

2. Ignoring the Word Count: If the task says 100-200 words, try to stay within that range. If you write only 50 words, you probably missed key points. If you write 400 words, you are wasting time and likely being repetitive.

3. Forgetting the Audience: Always check who the "Recipient" is. Writing a "Hi!" to a CEO is usually a mistake!

Quick Review Box

Target Length: \(100\) to \(200\) words.
Source of Info: Data File and Recording only (no outside ideas!).
Names: Use the provided name, never your own.
Top Goal: Combine information clearly and use your own words where possible.

Did you know?
The Data File is designed to be messy on purpose! It simulates a real-life office or study situation where you have to find information from different emails and notes. Staying calm and marking the points you need with a highlighter is the first step to success!