Crafting a clear point of view in non-fiction writing | Exit Quiz | Oak National Academy

'Initially', 'To conclude' and 'Finally' are all examples of...

• discourse markers

• language devices

• topic sentences

• embedded quotations

Answer explanation

Different discourse markers perform different tasks. For example some discourse markers work well for illustrating examples ('For example') whilst others can introduce ideas ('Firstly').

Which of the below would be appropriate discourse markers to counteract opposing arguments?

• Some may argue that

• However

• To conclude

• For example

• On the other hand

Answer explanation

Refuting opposing ideas is a key part of transactional writing and these discourse markers work particularly well for introducing counter-arguments.

Andeep wanted to know why we use discourse markers in our work. What would you tell him?

• They help signpost our ideas to our reader

• They break our work up into manageable chunks

• They make our writing more persuasive

• They elevate our writing as they are sophisticated techniques

Answer explanation

Using discourse markers will signpost to our reader what to expect from our writing (e.g. 'For example' lets our reader now we are about to illustrate our ideas further with an example from the text).

What is being described here: 'a type of language that is used for important or official pieces of writing'?

Answer explanation

When writing in the formal register our word choices will be more serious and formal.

Which of the below are conventions of a formal register?

• uses slang and colloquial language

• uses humour and sarcasm

• uses complex sentence structures

• uses standard English

• impersonal and unemotional

Answer explanation

If we were writing a letter to our local newspaper editor or writing an opinion piece for a broadsheet newspaper then these would be in the formal register.

Sofia wrote a letter to her local newspaper editor. She was given a target of including an 'ask' in her letter. What does this mean?

• More questions directed to the editor

• A thing relevant to the recipient's role that you want them to do

• Answers to follow-up questions they may have

• A more formal opening where you politely 'ask' them to consider your ideas

Answer explanation

When writing letters it is important to consider the role, action and potential involvement of the recipient.