Appendix D An Introduction to Report Writing

Lesson Objectives In these lessons you will learn: what a report is the aim of writing a report how to set out a report standard formats for reports how to write and present your own report Report Writing

A report is a presentation of facts and findings, usually as a basis for recommendations; written for a specific readership, and probably intended to be kept as a record. A report has three core sections – Introduction : which sets out the purpose of the report and what it hopes to achieve – Main body : which contains the body of evidence presented in the report. The main body of the report may be divided into several sub-sections. – Conclusion : which summarizes the findings of the report and, where appropriate, makes recommendations. Report Writing

Blocking Out a Report Introduction Main Body Subsection Conclusion Report Writing

1. Introduction 2. Section 1 of my report 1.1 Sub sections can be numbered 1.2 Or paragraphs can also be numbered. 2. This is section 2 of my report 2.1 This is section This is section 2.2 This is section This is section 3 of my report 4. Conclusion Your report must end with a conclusion and/or recommendations. Report Writing Headings Each of the sections of the report MUST be given a heading and in complex reports it is usual to number each section as well. So a report might look like this:

Report Writing Headings Mini Task Assume that you have been tasked with writing a report about the problems or dangers of playing computer games. Block out your report indicating what you would put in each section of the report. Introduction Main Body Conclusion

Your Audience Reports are usually written for a specific audience or target group and are rarely written to be read by everyone in the general public. You have to be careful though that you do not overestimate or underestimate your reader's knowledge and blind them with science or bore them to tears. Report Writing

Selecting our material The two golden rules to follow when deciding what to put into a report are: a) Simplify, and be ruthless about it. Reject the irrelevant, and make sure you've got the essential. b) Justify your conclusions with facts, and state their sources. Build the facts into a logical and consistent case, so as to lead the reader to the same conclusions as your own. Report Writing

Presentation It is quite normal (and often helpful) to use tables, graphs, bar charts, or other diagrams in a report to help make data or ideas clear to the reader. In your exam answer you will be expected to use at least one chart or table. Set your report out generously. Use wide margins; space out paragraphs; and indent subheadings. It makes the report much easier for the reader to read and understand and will make a big difference to the mark you get in the exam. Report Writing

Exam Mark Scheme Layout and clarity of presentation including any use of graphs and tables – 10 marks Introduction – 5 Marks Main Body – 20 marks Conclusion – 10 Marks Spelling Punctuation & Grammar – 5 marks Total 50 Marks Report Writing

The Task From the information presented in the Global Warming PowerPoint and your own research, write a report which outlines the effect that global warming is having on the planet. Note: You must use at least one image and one chart in your report. This report will count as a project assignment for this half semester and must be submitted by Wed 17 April. Report Writing

Principal Source Report Writing