Ways to improve written expression
Dahlia Bartley, Contributor

Last week, we looked at the aims of the English A syllabus and the format of the examination. You will recall that there are two papers - Paper 01 and Paper 02. I introduced the four sections of Paper 02, on which you will be expected to write objectively, creatively and persuasively. So many students are unable to express themselves clearly and precisely. Many would fail their tests and examinations miserably if all subject teachers were to allocate marks for expression. In today's lesson, therefore, I will make suggestions that should help to improve the standard of written expression.

READING

Aldous Huxley, an English novelist and critic, correctly states the values to be reaped from reading - "Every man who knows how to read has it in his power to magnify himself, to multiply the ways in which he exists, to make his life full, significant and interesting. In other words, reading will enrich your experience." May I also add that it will widen your vocabulary and provide hours of fun and entertainment. You will also be able to pattern the writing styles of good authors. Here are some texts which lend themselves to hours of delightful reading. They have been chosen from the reading list given at the end of the CSEC English A syllabus.

You may also read some of the texts on the English B syllabus, where you will also find interesting material from West Indian writers. The newspaper is also a useful and powerful tool.

Do not shy away from poetry. Two poems that my own students enjoy are 'My Mother (May I Inherit Half Her Strength)' by Lorna Goodison and 'Carpenter's Complaint' by Edward Baugh.

WRITING

One of the keys to success in English language is writing correctly and in such a way that the information you give flows. That is, whatever you say must not only be clear, but must make sense and be well-organised.

There are two levels of usage - standard English and colloquial English. Standard English is used when writing or speaking in a formal situation, for example, when you invite the guidance counsellor to address your class on 'Studying effectively for examinations'. The standard is free from slang and follows the basic rules of grammar. Colloquial English, on the other hand, is more informal and should only be used in certain informal conversations and circumstances. The use of the slang is, therefore, permitted but it should not be overused. When you ask a friend to lend you a newly released CD by your favourite artiste, or when you ask your parents for money to buy a new outfit for a school function, you may choose to use colloquial language.

Practice becomes perfect. You may look at a passage from one of your favourite writers and have fun by imitating his/her style. Try to write stories, articles for a newspaper, poems and skits. Do a variety of pieces! I am asking that you do not discard the pieces you have written. Share them with your friends, ask your teacher to look at them. I encourage you to keep these pieces in a journal and revisit them as you prepare for internal or external examinations. You should soon realise that the best way to learn to write is through writing.

SPEAKING

Too many of us in the society have allowed ourselves to believe that there is something wrong when we speak standard English. We are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to be fluent in at least two languages - English and Patois. After all, this once-vast world of ours is now a global village and those of you who have travelled (and I know many of you have) will appreciate the need for correct speech. Again, practice is important and speaking correctly will develop your ability to put down your thoughts correctly on paper.

LISTENING

You must listen to good speakers. The experience gained from doing so is worth it. Not only will this enhance your own ability to speak well, but this, too, will help you to improve your writing styles.

Consider seriously the suggestions I have made. Begin now to write, speak and listen well. See you next week.

Christopher Levy (left) and Dadrian Greene are busy studying in the library. - Photo by Michael Lee

Dahlia Bartley teaches at Glenmuir High School.