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Chapter 4 An Information Report
In chapter 2-3, you’ve learned how to write reports for business purposes, in this
chapter reports for academic purposes will be explored. Academic report writing is used
for experiments, observations, survey, case studies, and in most kinds of work-based and
vocational learning. Most programs include project work at some stage, and require a
project or survey report. (Cottrell, 2003) Some or all of your assessments may be based on
reports. This course will focus on short information reports, survey reports and interview
reports. Here short information reports will be discussed. Developing a short information
report includes the following steps – choosing a topic, making an outline, researching the
topic, note taking, writing the first draft and editing and finally writing final report. Let’s
learn how to write a short information report step by step.
4.1 Getting Started
A. Look at the pictures of animals below and in pairs tell your partner which animal you
hate. Then vote the animal nobody loves, and give reasons why.
Sharks
Snails
Rhinos
Cockroaches
Source (Animal Photo Album, 2010)
The animal nobody in our class loves is ........................................................
Here are the reasons why nobody loves it. .....................................................
.........................................................................................................................
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B. How much do you know the animals in A? Read the information of these animals taken
from the homepage describing each of them. Match the name with the correct
description.
a. Sharks
b. Snails
c. Rhinos
d. Cockroaches
What do they look like? Their characteristics
..... 1. They have powerful jaws and razor-sharp teeth.
...... 2. They scurry away on long, strong legs at nearly one foot per second.
...... 3. Their soft bodies are protected by hard shells .
...... 4. They come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors.
Where do they live in the wild? Their habitats
...... 1. anywhere
...... 2. in the sea
...... 3. in gardens, ponds or in jungles
...... 4 in swampy areas and the rain forests
What do they do? Their habits
......1. They crawl all over the food left out in kitchens.
......2. When being disturbed, they simply withdraw or pull themselves back into
their shells.
......3. They survived for more than 350 million years - since before the age of
dinosaurs.
......4. They may attack and kill swimmers with no warnings
C. Read a part of the text describing the rhino taken from San Diego Zoo homepage and
complete the list below with the information from the text.
The five types of rhinos are the Sumatran, Javan, black, white, and Indian. Javan rhinos
and Indian rhinos have only one horn, while Sumatran rhinos, black rhinos, and white
rhinos have two. What they all have in common are large heads, broad chests, thick legs,
poor eyesight, excellent hearing, and a fondness for rolling in the mud. Because they are
very nearsighted, they often charge when they are startled. This has given them an
undeserved reputation for having a bad temper. All rhinos are herbivores, eating grasses or
leaves, depending on the species. At the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park, the rhinos
are fed hay and high-fiber biscuits, along with carrots and apples
Source (San Diego Zoo homepage, 2010)
Types: .........................................................................................................
Characteristics: ...........................................................................................
Food: ...........................................................................................................
herbivore NOUN
ˈhɜːbɪvɔː(r)
ˈɜːrbɪvɔːr
ˈhɜːrbɪvɔːr
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4.2 Reading the model text
A. Read this short information report, which gives interesting and important information
about cockroaches. Then complete the notes below using information from the text.
Cockroaches
It’s usual to see insects in our homes especially in the kitchens. One
of these insects, which can be seen on the dirty floor, is cockroaches. It is
disgusting to see them crawling all over the food left out in kitchens. And
that makes people have a very hard time getting rid of them. However, like
them or not, cockroaches are truly amazing creatures.
Few animals are better equipped for life on earth than they are.
They can live almost anywhere, eat almost anything, and survive for weeks
on almost nothing. They can withstand heat waves and cold spells.
When cockroaches scatter, they scurry away on long, strong legs at
nearly one foot per second. At the same time they flatten themselves as
thin as a dime and squeeze safely through cracks and narrow openings.
Cockroaches are so successful at staying alive that they have survived for
more than 350 million years – since before the age of dinosaurs. The lives
of these small creatures are unbelievable.
Source (Bye, 2005, p.24)
Main Idea: (paragraph 1)
.......................................................................................................................
Supporting Details: (What makes them amazing?)
(Choose from the phrases below. Note that some are not true. Correct them.)
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
-
eat almost anything
need to eat every day or they will die
live almost anywhere
can’t live in cold weather
are easy to kill because they move slowly
can move around in very tiny places
were on Earth before dinosaurs
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4.3 Language Focus
Since the purpose of writing an information report is to inform readers about a
particular facts. The topic of the report should be interesting and it is what you think
others would like to know about. The facts should be researched from some resources
either printed or electronic materials, and only some interesting and important facts
should be selected in the form of note taking. Later these selected facts will be presented
step by step in the form of well organized written text so that it will be easy to understand.
Words and structures used in the report should be correct. Let’s notice how to organize
the paragraphs and how to apply the basic structure in writing information reports.
4.3.1 Paragraph organization
An information report should include 3 paragraphs – an introductory paragraph ,
a detailed paragraph or body and the conclusion paragraph. Let’s look at the text in 3.2.
Cockroaches
It’s usual to see insects in our homes especially
in the kitchens. One of these insects, which can be seen
on the dirty floor, is cockroaches. It is disgusting to see
them crawling all over the food left out in kitchens. And
that makes people have a very hard time getting rid of
them. However, like them or not, cockroaches are truly
amazing creatures.
Few animals are better equipped for life on earth
than they are. They can live almost anywhere, eat
almost anything, and survive for weeks on almost
nothing. They can withstand heat waves and cold spells.
When cockroaches scatter, they scurry away on
long, strong legs at nearly one foot per second. At the
same time they flatten themselves as thin as a dime and
squeeze safely through cracks and narrow openings.
Cockroaches are so successful at staying alive that they
have survived for more than 350 million years – since
before the age of dinosaurs. The lives of these small
creatures are unbelievable.
TITLE
INTRODUCTORY
PARAGRAPH
SUPPORTING
PARAGRAPH
SUPPORTING AND
CONCLUDING
PARAGRAPH
Note that a short information paragraph usually consists of three paragraphs.
However, a variety of terms can be applied, such as Introduction, Body and Conclusion,
or Introduction, Supporting and Conclusion. Now, let’s look into details of each
paragraph.
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a. Introductory paragraph
In an introductory paragraph, a topic sentence is included so that readers
can be attracted to the writer’s main point. The topic sentence is important because it tells
readers what the paragraph is about. It is often the first sentence in a paragraph, but not
always. Sometimes the first sentence is an ‘attention getter’. It attracts readers and makes
them interested in the topics. Let’s see the example from the model text.
A. Read the introduction paragraph taken from the model text. Guess which sentences
serve as ‘attention getter’. Note that each sentence is numbered in the bracket.
(1) It’s usual to see insects in our homes especially in the kitchens. (2) One of
these insects, which can be seen on the dirty floor, is cockroaches. (3) It is disgusting to
see them crawling all over the food left out in kitchens. (4) And that makes people have a
very hard time getting rid of them. (5) However, like them or not, cockroaches are truly
amazing creatures.
Which sentences are ‘attention getter’?
Which is topic sentence?
Note that sentences 1 – 2 are attention getter because the writer starts introducing
the topic by talking about ‘insects’, which are common in our homes, before focusing on
cockroaches. In sentences 3 – 4 , the writer points out how disgusting cockroaches are.
Finally in sentence 5, the writer directs readers’ attention to main idea of the report,
which is how amazing cockroaches are.
b. Supporting paragraph
Let’s read paragraph 2 which is a supporting paragraph.
(1) Few animals are better equipped for life on earth than they are. (2) They can
live almost anywhere, eat almost anything, and survive for weeks on almost nothing. (3)
They can withstand heat waves and cold spells.
Note that in this paragraph, writer supports the main idea by giving more
examples to show how amazing cockroaches are. Here are supporting details.
They can live almost anywhere, eat almost anything, and survived ...
They can withstand heat waves and cold spells.
c. Supporting and concluding paragraph
In the last paragraph of the report a conclusion should be included. Let’s
notice the last paragraph below, and find out the concluding sentence.
(1) When cockroaches scatter, they scurry away on long, strong legs at nearly one
foot per second. (2) At the same time they flatten themselves as thin as a dime and
squeeze safely through cracks and narrow openings. (3) Cockroaches are so successful at
staying alive that they have survived for more than 350 million years – since before the
age of dinosaurs. (4) The lives of these small creatures are unbelievable.
Note that sentence 4 is a concluding sentence while sentences 1-3 are supporting
sentences.
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B. Read the paragraphs below and follow the instructions.
What is it?
Are you ready for a game? Here are the characteristics of a “mystery item”. Can
you guess what it is? It is something a lot of people use every day. In fact many people,
especially Americans, say they cannot survive without one. People rub them on the
outside with special liquids so that they stay bright. The inside is sometimes filled with
music from a radio, a cassette player or a CD player. Some people even put telephone
inside. They come in different colors, shapes, and sizes, but they all have two things in
common. First, they have windows and four black round things on the bottom. Second,
they need people to control them.
Source (Kelly & Gargagliano, 2001, p. 34)
1. What is the mystery item?
.................................................................
2. What clues are helpful?
.................................................................
3. Which sentence is attention getter?
.........................................................................................................................
4. Which sentence is topic sentence?
..........................................................................................................................
C. Here are introductory paragraphs which basically include ‘the attention getter’, ‘the
topic sentence’, and ‘the guide’. Read the introductory paragraphs of two essay below
and follow the instructions.
Today I became an Australian. Although I originally came here to study for just
two years, something terrible happened in my home country that made me decide to stay.
In order to understand my decision, you must hear the story of my life. I will tell you
about the kind of person I was before this terrible event, what happened, and how it made
me decide to call this country my home.
Source (Kelly & Gargagliano, 2001, p. 44)
1. Circle the sentence that is an attention getter.
2. Underline the sentence that shows the main idea.
3. Put a box around the sentence that is the guide.
Now let’s notice the organization of the introductory paragraph.
Today I became an Australian.
Although I originally came here to study for just
two years, something terrible happened in my
home country that made me decide to stay.
The attention getter
The topic sentence
In order to understand my decision, you must
hear the story of my life.
I will tell you about the kind of person I was
before this terrible event, what happened, and
how it made me decide to call this country my
home.
The guide
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You’ve been dreaming about taking a big trip for years, and the time has finally
come. You know where you want to go, but the big question is whether you should go on
your own or sign up for a group tour. You’re thinking of going alone, but wait! The
simple comparison of independent versus group tour travel might change your mind. It
compares cost, safety, and use of time.
Source (Kelly & Gargagliano, 2001, p. 44)
1. Circle the sentence that is the attention getter.
2. Underline the sentence that shows main idea.
3. Put a box around the sentence that is the guide.
Note that to write an information report, you should begin with an introductory
paragraph, which includes the attention getter, the topic sentence and the guide. Now let’s
practice writing the attention getter in introductory paragraphs.
D. Complete this chart with an attention getter for each given topic. Then choose your
own topic, and write an attention getter and a topic sentence.
Topic
Shoes
Studying
abroad
Cameras
Health
Candles
Sharks
Recording
Food
chain
Attention getter
The shoes you choose in the
morning can affect your mood
for the rest of the day.
Since English is widely used
globally, learning English is
becoming more and more
popular.
How can you make your special
memories last forever?
Topic sentence
There are basically four types of shoes.
There are many advantages of studying
abroad.
A camera records your experiences.
Good health depends on good habits.
Candles are becoming increasing popular
because they can be used in a variety of
settings.
The shark is the most feared animal in the
sea.
Some people still choose to buy LP
records rather than CDs because they say
they like the look, feel, and sound of
them.
Animals are linked to other animals and
plants through food chain.
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4.3.2 Sentence Types
Based on the model report and the texts you’ve learned, each text includes
sentences which can be categorized in to 4 basic sentence types of English. These types
are simple sentence, compound sentence, complex sentence and compound complex
sentence. Note that every sentence is normally made up of three elements: the subject, the
main verb, and the object or the complement. Let’s take a look at how the sentences
you’ve learned are broken into elements of basic sentence pattern – subject / main verb
/object or complement.
a) Simple sentence: A simple sentence expresses a complete thought and is made
up of a subject and a main verb. Most sentences also have an object or a complement. The
subject is usually placed before the verb. Notice the elements of basic sentence pattern
below.
Subject
It
They
And
that
main verb:
helping v+ finite v
is
can live
makes
object/complement
Tense/voice
usual to see insects ...
almost everywhere ..
people have a very
hard time getting rid
of them.
unbelievable.
Present Simple
Present Simple
Present Simple
The lives
are
Present Simple
of these small
creatures
The inside
is sometimes filled music from a radio, .. Present Simple
with
Passive voice
Note that in some cases subject will be placed after main verb when the words –
‘here’ or,’ there’ is placed before main verb. Study the table below.
Obj./Comp. main verb
subject
Tense/voice
helping v+ finite v
Here
are
the characteristics
Present Simple
of a “mystery item”.
From the table, the word ‘are’ agrees with the subject ‘the characteristics’, which
is a plural noun.
b) Compound sentence: A compound sentence contains two statements that are
connected by a coordinating conjunction. These conjunctions are and, but, for, nor, or,
and so. Let’s study the table below.
Subj. main v. obj./comp
conj. subj. main v. obj./comp.
They came
in different
but
they have
two things in common.
colors, shapes,
all
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c) Complex sentence: A complex sentence has a main (independent) clause and at
least on dependent clause. A main clause contains a subject + a main verb, and it can
stand alone with complete idea. It is a complete sentence. A dependent clause also
includes a subject + a main verb, but it can’t stand alone because it depends on the main
clause. A dependent clause, which is dependent on the main clause for its meaning, may
function in a sentence as an adjective, an adverb or a noun. Let’s study example
sentences taken from the texts above.
i. Adjective clause: An adjective clause (or relative clause)normally begins with a
relative pronoun, such as who, whom, which, that, etc. and these pronouns will be placed
right after the nouns they modified. In case these pronouns function as an object of the
adjective clause they can be omitted. Study the tables below.
Subject
adjective clause
main verb
obj./comp.
helping v+ finite v
One of
which can be seen is
cockroaches.
these insects on the dirty floor
In case the relative pronouns function as object in the adjective clause, they can be
omitted. Look at the example sentences below.
S main v. obj./comp.
adjective clause
It is
something
a lot of people use every day.
I will tell you about the kind I was before this terrible event,
of person
ii. Adverb clause: An adverb clause functions as an adverb which modifies verb in
main clause. It normally begins with adverbial conjunctions; because, although, if, when,
or while. These conjunctions are frequently placed after main clause.
Adverb clause
Conjunction subject
When
main
v.
cockroaches scatter,
Main clause
obj./comp subject
main v.
----------
Although
I originally
came
scurry
away
something happened
they
here for
...,
Main clause
Subject
main v.
obj./comp conjunction
Cockroaches scurry
..............
when
away
Something
happened in my home
although
obj./comp.
in my
home
Adverb clause
subject main v. obj./comp.
they
scatter.
I
came
here for ...
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iii. Noun clause: A noun clause usually functions as an object of main clause. In
some cases it functions as a subject of main clause. It begins with the connectors; that, if,
whether or question words – who, what, when, where, why, how, etc. Study the example
sentences below.
Main clause
Subject
main v.
You
know
The big question is
noun clause
connector subj. + main v. + obj./comp.
you want to go
where
you should go on your own or ...
whether
4.3.3 Subject-verb agreement
Since a sentence in English consists of a subject and a main verb. The basic rule
states that a singular subject needs a singular verb, while a plural subject needs a plural
verb. It’s important to recognize whether the subject is singular or plural noun. Most
plural nouns end with ‘s’ or ‘es’, while some plural nouns do not, such as men, children,
people, etc. Verbs do not form their plurals by adding an ‘s’ or ‘es’ as nouns do.
Remember that verbs in the present tense for third-person, singular subject (he, she, it and
anything those words can stand for ) need singular verbs or verbs with ‘s’ or ‘es’ ending
or is or has . Other verbs do not need ‘s’ or ‘es’ ending. Look at the example sentences
below.
Subject
And that
People
It
Few animals
main verb
makes
rub
is
are better
equipped
object/comp.
people have a very hard time.
them on the other side ...
usual to see insects ...
for life on earth ...
Note
singular noun / singular verb
plural noun / plural verb
singular noun / singular verb
plural noun / plural verb
Sometimes modifiers will get between a subject and its verb, but these modifiers
must not confuse the agreement between the subject and its verb. Study the example
sentences below.
Subject
main verb object/comp. Note
In fact many people,
that ....
plural noun / plural verb
say
especially Americans,
One of these insects,
cockroaches. singular noun / singular verb
is
which can be seen on the
dirty floor,
Note that when you make a mistake concerning ‘subject-verb agreement, your
assignment will be marked with the homework marking key ‘SV’, In this case it is
suggested that you should find the agreement between the subject and verb especially the
verb form of present simple tense. .’
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A. Read the text below and follow the directions.
A Birthday Present
(1) Choosing a birthday present for a friend or family member is fun, but it can be
difficult. (2) The present should be personal and has to be thoughtful. (3) For example, the
best birthday present I ever got wasn’t fancy or expensive. (4) Last year my mother gave
me a photograph of my father when he was my age. (5) He is standing with his mother
and father (my grandparents) in front of their house, and he looks happy. (6) I think of my
father every time I see the photo. (7) It was a perfect birthday present.
Source (Zemach & Islam, 2005, p.13)
1. What is the topic of the paragraph?
a. celebrating birthdays
b. the writer’s family
c. choosing presents
2. What is the writer’s most important opinion about the topic?
a. Presents should be old.
b. Presents should be chosen carefully.
c. A photograph is a good birthday present.
3. Which sentences are simple sentences?
..............
4. Which sentences are compound sentences?
..............
5. Which sentences contain an adjective clause?
..............
6. Which sentences contain an adverb clause?
..............
B. There is ONE word missing in each line of the text. Where does the missing word go?
What could it be? What part of speech is it?
Last year I went to for my holiday. I spent the
first week Sydney staying with a couple of friends,
and then I a flight to Melbourne, where I spent
another ten days there. It is beautiful city and I had a
marvelous time. I stayed in a very hotel right in the
center, but I didn’t mind spending a lot money
because it is a wonderful and very convenient. My
brother recommended it; he goes Australia a lot and
he stays anywhere else.
1. ...................................
2. ...................................
3. ...................................
4. .................................
5. ...................................
6. ...................................
7. ...................................
8. ...................................
9. ...................................
Note that to do this exercise, you’ll have to apply the following steps: 1) locate
subject and main verb of each simple sentence, then follow the rules of subject-verb
agreement. 2) in case of a compound or complex sentence, identify connecter or
conjunction, and locate subject and main verb of each clause. 3) follow the rules of
subject-verb agreement. While you’re applying these steps, you’ll be able to identify the
missing words. If the subject of a sentence or a clause is missing, a noun or pronoun of
main verb is required. If a main verb is missing, a verb of the subject is required, and
you’ll also have to think of the agreement of subject and verb. If there are two sets of
subject and verb in a sentence, you’ll have to think of sentence types, and their forms, then
you’ll have to locate the connector or conjunction. It the above main elements of
sentences are complete, think of noun modifiers-adjective or participle or nounpreceding nouns.
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C. Read the text below and look carefully at each line. Some of the lines are correct, and
some have a word which should NOT be there. If a line is correct, put a tick by the
number at the end of each line. If a line has a word that should NOT be there, write this
word next to the number at the end of each line.
Computer games they are now so popular that anyone can walk
1. ..................
down a main street in town and to pass a computer games arcade,
2. ..................
which is crowded with youngsters with their eyes fixed on video
3. ..................
screens. They are being completely unaware of the world outside as
4. ..................
they are put more money into the machines to play one more game,
5. ..................
and some of young people have been known to become addicted to playing. 6. ................
Many of parents disapprove of their children playing such games, but
7. ..................
there some benefits. Playing a video game it does help to improve
8. ..................
the construction. In order to get a high score, the player has to try
9. ..................
and ignore all the flashing lights and noises. This could be
10. ................
improve a student’s ability to concentrate while they are
11. ................
studying. It is also a way to improve hand-eye co-ordination,
12. ................
because of the player has to operate several buttons and watch the
13. ................
screen at the same time. This is useful for learning to drive, and other
14. ................
physical activities. So before you forbid your child to play, think about
15. ................
the benefits.
Source (Copage, 2000, p.7)
D. Use the words in the box to complete this text.
is (2)
are (2)
after
If
who
so (2)
Three Special Places
Near my apartment there (1) ................. three places I like to go to. The first is the
Thai Orchid Restaurant. Thai food is my favorite kind of food, and the chef there (2)
................. excellent. The restaurant isn’t too expensive, (3) ................. I often go there
with my friends. It’s a nice place to relax, talk, and enjoy a delicious meal. The second
place is Powell’s Bookstore. Powell’s one of the biggest bookstores in my city, (4)
................. I can find books on almost any subject there. The people (5) ................. work
there (6) ................. very friendly. (7) ................. I can’t find a book, they will gladly order
it for me. The third place I like to go to (8) ................. the park down the street from my
apartment. It has huge trees and a beautiful garden. I sometimes go there (9) .................
eating a fine Thai meal, and I sit under a tree to read a book from Powell’s.
Source (Kelly & Gargagliano, 2001, p.10)
Note that to complete the texts above you’ll have to read sentence by sentence and
apply the following steps: 1) identify subject and main verb of each sentence, 2) think of
the rules of subject-verb agreement, 3) if each sentence consists of 2 or more clauses,
think of sentence types and its pattern, then find out the connector, and 4) identify
subject and main verb of each clause, then think of the rules of subject-verb agreement.
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4.4 Vocabulary Building
4.4.1 Expressing purpose, result and condition
A. Read sentences taken from the texts above and identify the function of each sentence by
matching the correct function with each one. Then circle all connectors or conjunctions.
a. Expressing purpose
b. Giving result
c. Expressing condition
..... 1.Cockcroaches are so successful at staying alive that they have survived for more
than 350 million years.
..... 2. People rub them on the outside with special liquids so that they stay bright.
..... 3. If I can’t find a book, they will gladly order for me.
..... 4. Computer games are now so popular that anyone can walk down a main street to
pass a computer games arcade.
Note that sentence 2 expresses purpose. Sentences 1 and 4 express result, while
sentence 3 expresses condition. Now let’s notice more example sentences expressing
purpose, result and condition.
Expressing purpose
Subj. main v obj./comp. conjunction subj. main v.
We
moved our hours so that
we
could send
I
bought this book
can
improve
From the table, you can see that ‘so that’ can be used to express purpose, while in
spoken English ‘so’ without ‘that’ is often used. It is also common to use modal verb, e.g.
can, could, may, might, will, or would after the word ‘so that’.
so that
I
obj./comp.
our children to their
school.
my English.
Expressing result
Subj.+main v.+obj./comp. so adj./adv
that subj.+main v.+obj./comp.
She spoke
so quietly
that I could hardly hear her.
The presentation was
so successful that the speaker was given long applause.
Based on the table, the conjunction ‘so’ precedes adjective or adverb, and ‘that’ is
followed by a clause expressing result.
Expressing condition
Subj. modal v.+main v + obj. conj. subj. main v. + obj.
We
will be late
we
don’t leave now.
if
We
will be late
leave now.
unless we
main v.+obj.,
subj. modal v.+main v.+obj.
Conj. subj.
the
weather
improves,
we
won’t be able to go.
Unless
If
the weather doesn’t improve, we
won’t be able to go.
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From the table, the conjunctions used in expressing condition include ‘if’ and
‘unless’, and note that ‘unless’ implies negative meaning.
B. Combine the two sentences into one sentence using ‘so ...... that’, ‘so that’, ‘if’ or
‘unless’.
1. It was very late. I didn’t phone you.
......................................................................................................................................
2. I can meet you for dinner on Friday. I have to work late at the office.
......................................................................................................................................
3. I turned up the radio in the lounge. I could hear it in the kitchen.
......................................................................................................................................
4. The weather was terrible. We couldn’t eat outside.
......................................................................................................................................
5. I don’t write the letter now. I’ll forget to do it.
......................................................................................................................................
6. We agreed to buy my daughter a dog. She takes it for a walk every day.
......................................................................................................................................
7. The restaurant was full. We had to go to the bar next door.
......................................................................................................................................
8. I learned to drive. My mother didn’t have to take me everywhere.
......................................................................................................................................
9. You tidy your room. Your mother will get very angry.
......................................................................................................................................
10. The light was very bad. The referee had to stop the game.
......................................................................................................................................
11. You can borrow my dictionary. You bring it back on Monday.
......................................................................................................................................
12. I stayed at home. I could get enough sleep.
......................................................................................................................................
C. Complete the memo below with the words in the box.
so that
To: All staff
From: The manager
unless
As
As a result
Date: 9th August
Subject: Temporary roadworks
From next Monday, there will be roadworks on all major approach roads to the factory.
(1) ............... this will create long delays, could I please ask staff to leave home a few
minutes early in the morning (2) ............... everyone can arrive on time. The roadworks
also mean that you won’t be able to park on the street. (3) ............... it may be a good idea
to leave your cars at home (4) ............... it is absolutely impossible for you to use public
transport.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Source (Redman, 2005, p.87)
14
4.4.2 Using a dictionary: verb pattern
Besides definition, a dictionary provides grammatical features, word usage and
example sentences or phrases. Let’s practice using a dictionary to assist writing.
A. Read the sentences taken from the text above and notice the definition and the word
usage of the word ‘spend’. Then read the dictionary entry, and answer the questions..
a. I spent the first week in Sydney staying with a couple of friends.
b. I didn’t mind spending a lot of money.
spend VERB
spend
spend spent, spent
spent
spent
1 [TRANSITIVE, INTRANSITIVE] to give money to pay for goods, services, etc spend something I've
spent all my money already. spend something on something/on doing something She spent £100 on a
new dress. spend (something doing something) The company has spent thousands of pounds
updating their computer systems. I just can't seem to stop spending. 2 [TRANSITIVE] to use
time for a particular purpose; to pass time spend something + adverb/preposition We spent the
weekend in Paris. How do you spend your spare time? Her childhood was spent in Italy. spend
something on something How long did you spend on your homework? spend something doing something
I spend too much time watching television. I've spent years trying to learn Japanese. spend
something in doing something Most of her life was spent in caring for others.
Source (Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, 2010)
1. What is the definition of the word ‘spent’ in a.?
The word ‘spent’ means ‘..................................................................................’.
2. Based on definition 2, is the word ‘spend’ always required an object? ..............
3. Based on the example sentence of definition 2, identify object of the word ‘spent’.
......................................................................................................................
4. Based on verb patterns of the word ‘spend’ definition 2, copy example sentence of
each of the verb patterns below.
1) spend something + adverb / preposition
........................................................................................................................
2) spend something on something
........................................................................................................................
3) spend something doing something
........................................................................................................................
4) spend something in doing something
........................................................................................................................
Note that from the 4 verb patterns above, the word ‘something’ refers to ‘time’,
and the term ‘doing’ refers to the gerund form of verb.
5. Write an example sentence based on each verb pattern, using your own words.
1) spend something + adverb / preposition
......................................................................................................................
2) spend something on something
.......................................................................................................................
15
3) spend something doing something
........................................................................................................................
4) spend something in doing something
........................................................................................................................
6. What is the definition of the word ‘spent’ in b.?
The word ‘spent’ means ‘....................................................................................’.
7. Based on definition 1, is the word ‘spend’ always required an object? ................
8. Based on the example sentence of definition 1 below, is the word ‘spending’ a transitive
or intransitive verb?.
“I just can’t seem to stop spending.”
........................................................................................................................
9. Based on verb patterns of the word ‘spend’ definition 1, copy example sentence of
each of the verb patterns below.
1) spend something on something/on doing something
........................................................................................................................
2) spend (something doing something)
........................................................................................................................
10. Write an example sentence based on each verb pattern, using your own words.
1) spend something on something/on doing something
.......................................................................................................................
2) spend (something doing something)
.......................................................................................................................
Note that based on the dictionary entry of the word ‘spend’, you can see grammar
terms; ‘TRANSITIVE’ and ‘INTRANSITIVE’. Let’s learn more about the difference of
these two terms, then follow the directions.
If you look up a verb in a dictionary, you will see note about grammar usage in
brackets, e.g. [TRANSITIVE], [INTRANSITIVE], [VN], [V],[vt], or [vi]. This tells you
whether the verb is transitive or intransitive. A transitive verb needs an object, e.g. put: I
put the vase on the table.’ Put’ is transitive because it must have an object (the vase). You
can also say, ‘The vase is put on the table’. Here the object of vase is put as a subject in
passive voice.
An intransitive verb does not need an object, e.g. rise: The sun rises every
morning. Rise is intransitive because it has no object. Some verbs can be transitive or
intransitive, e.g. carry: I carried the table to another room. (Transitive; the object = the
table): His voice carried across the room. (Intransitive: His voice didn’t carry anything.).
B. Look at the dictionary below, and find out whether the word ‘overlook’ is a transitive
or intransitive verb.
overlook VERB [VN] 1 overlook something to fail to see or notice something He seems to have
overlooked one important fact.
16
4.5 Making a plan for writing
A short information report
Since a short information report is a kind of academic reports, which will be
assigned by university lecturers in any field of studies, who apply the notion of workbased or project-based learning, it’s necessary to practice writing this kind of report step
by step. However, due to the fast growing information technology, it’s easy for students to
be in habit of applying ‘copy, cut and paste report’. To avoid this limitation, we’re going
to look into ’Easy steps to generate idea to find the topic for a report’.
1. Brainstorm ideas for a topic
- First think of 5 topics you could write about. Jot them down.
- To brainstorm ideas for a topic, ask yourself;
How interested am I in the topics? Rank the topics on the list.
How easy are the topics? Rank them on the list.
- Choose the best topic and write an outline based on the questions;
who? what? when? where? why? etc.
- Since your report consists of 3 paragraphs: introductory paragraph,
supporting paragraph, and concluding paragraph, you may narrow the details of your
list.
2. Research the topic and take notes
- evaluate the information
- take notes as outlined in 1, and jot down references
- Here is a sample note form.
Title
...............................................................
Introductory paragraph Who? ............... What? ................
Supporting paragraph When? Where?
Concluding paragraph Why? ....................................................
References
...............................................................
Note that notes can be in list points, rather than a whole paragraph. You can also
write your notes as a mind map or diagram.
3. Organize your ideas.
- Read the notes in 2 and make some changes or add something and put the
ideas in order so that your report will be interesting and easy to understand. Most of all
the ideas are well organized.
4. Write the first draft and edit it.
- expand the notes in a paragraph with 5-6 sentences.
- think about subject-verb agreement.
- think about sentence types and verb patterns.
5. Find pictures, maps, drawings and diagrams.
Note that any report can be improved by adding things such as pictures,
maps, or diagrams. These can be used to support important points or to clarify and extend
what you’ve written.
6. Plan the layout.
7. Prepare to present your final report.
17
4.6 Researching the topic
A. You’re going to write a short information report about the oldest hotel in Thailand.
Read the text taken from the Atlanta Hotel homepage, and complete the notes below..
Title
Introductory
paragraph
Supporting
paragraph
Concluding
paragraph
References
.The oldest hotel in Thailand
What? ................................? How old? .....................................
Where? .......................................................................................
Who designed it? ........................................................................
When? ........................................................................................
Its customers? .............................................................................
Comment ? .................................................................................
.....................................................................................................
The Atlanta Hotel
The Atlanta is run on conservative principles and
fosters traditional values.
The Atlanta caters to respectable families and couples
for whom there are attractive small (one bedroom) and large (two bedroom) suites.
78 Soi 2 Sukhumvit Road,
Bangkok 10110,
Thailand
no e-mail
Ethos
The Atlanta is popular with cultured occidentals, with writers, academics, artists, cinema & theatre and other
professional people, with dreamers and innocuous eccentrics, and their families, who can afford to stay at more
expensive places but choose to stay at The Atlanta.
The Atlanta has a 'zero tolerance' policy with regard to trouble-makers and all illegal activities, including the use
or possession of illicit drugs. Such miscreants are reported to the police without advance warning, without
hesitation and without apology.
Those who object to this policy, and those who wish to spend their time in Thailand whoring, indulging in alcohol
abuse, drugs or other illegal activities should stay elsewhere.
The Atlanta is against sex tourism.
Sex tourism is exploitative, socially damaging and culturally demeaning:
those who want to buy sex should do so in their own country.
SEX TOURISTS ARE NOT WELCOME
The Atlanta's Distinctive Features
1 The oldest unaltered hotel foyer in Thailand,
designed by Berliner Dr Max Henn (1906 - 2002) and his wife in the 1950s
and influenced by central European theatre architecture and set designs
of the 1920s and 1930s.
2 The most photographed and filmed hotel foyer in Thailand.
3 The first hotel swimming / diving pool in Thailand.
4 The first children's swimming pool in Thailand.
5 One of the oldest travel agencies in Thailand.
Source (The Atlanta Hotel homepage, 2010)
18
B. Organize your ideas. Read the notes in A, and make some changes or add something
or put the ideas in the order. Below are the revised notes. Complete each gap with
only ONE word.
Title:
The oldest (1) ............... in Bangkok
Introductory paragraph:
- Attention getter; Bangkok center of foreign (2) ............... for more than 200
years.
- Topic:
What? The Atlanta Hotel the oldest
How old? / around (3) .............. years old
Where? Soi 2 (4) ................ Road
Supporting paragraph
- Details:
The influence of its (5) ................: Central European theatre
architecture and set designs of the (6) ............... and 1930s
the most photographed and (7) ................. hotel foyer in
Thailand
the first hotel swimming/diving (8) ................ in Thailand
Concluding paragraph
- Details:
Its customers: cultured occidentals, with writers, academic,
(9) ................, cinema & theatre and other profession
people.
Its atmosphere: calm with no (10) ....................., and all
illegal (11) ................
No (12) ............... tours
..... – Comment:
..........................................................................
C. Write an introductory paragraph using the notes in B.
Bangkok / center of foreign trading for more than 200 years. Lots of business persons /
here to do business, and they / in hotels. Many kinds of hotels / available for foreign
business persons and tourists. The oldest hotel in Bangkok / The Atlanta Hotel. It / around
60 years’ old. It / on Soi 2 Sukhumvit Road.
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
19
4.7 Writing the first draft and editing
A. In pairs, use the information in the revised note above to write a short information
report entitled ‘The oldest hotel in Bangkok’.
B. Getting it right. Now take careful look at what you have written. Use this guide to edit
your report and write final draft.
CheckBox1
Ask yourself
1. Does the report consist
of 3 paragraphs?
2. Are there attention getter
and topic sentence in
paragraph 1?
3. Are there supporting
sentences in paragraph 2?
4. Are there supporting
sentences and concluding
sentence in paragraph 3?
5. Do subject and verb in
each sentence agree?
6. What is the sentence type
of each sentence?
How to check
Put a check mark(√ ) in front
of each paragraph.
Underline attention getter
and topic sentence.
How to revise
Add more paragraph.
Underline all supporting
sentences.
Underline all supporting
sentences and put a box
round supporting sentence.
Draw circles around each
subject and verb in each
sentence and check if they
agree.
Check the form of sentence
types in 4.3.2.
Add supporting sentences.
Add attention getter and
topic sentence.
Add supporting sentences
and concluding sentence.
Check the rules of subjectverb agreement.
Correct the mistake.
4.8 Chapter Conclusion
In this chapter a short information report is presented. The purposes of this report
are to inform readers, and to attract readers to the topic. It includes 3 paragraphs:
Introductory paragraph, Supporting paragraph, and concluding paragraph. In an
introductory paragraph, there are sentences containing attention getter and topic sentence.
In a supporting paragraph, there are sentences supporting the main idea mentioned in the
introductory paragraph. Finally it is concluding paragraph which consists of supporting
sentences and concluding sentences. In terms of how to write grammatically correct
sentences, you’ve reviewed the forms of sentence types; simple sentences, compound
sentences, and complex sentences. Moreover, the rules of subject-verb agreement are
presented. In vocabulary building, connectors or conjunctions used in sentences
expressing purpose: so that, expressing result: so adj./adv that, and expressing condition:
if / unless, are exemplified. You’ve also practiced using a dictionary to figure out verb
pattern of the word ‘spend’. Finally easy tips to generate ideas to find topic for a report are
presented, and you are required to write an information report in learner-based activity.
20
4.9 Quiz
Directions: Read an information report below and use information from the text to
complete the following outline.
Shark
While swimming in the sea, most people think of a horrifying scene of the movie:
Jaw. The shark is the most feared animal in the sea. Some sharks are large and dangerous.
Others are just a few feet long and eat small fish. Sharks come in many different sizes,
shapes, and colors. Hammerheads, tiger sharks, and mako sharks have powerful jaws and
razor-shape teeth. Some sharks can bite three hundred times harder than a human.
The most dangerous shark is the great white shark. It usually swims in the open
sea. But sometimes a great white shark may attack and kill swimmers with no warning. It
may even attack small boats. Its large, saw-edged teeth can rip through wood and even
metal. The great white shark has a huge appetite and will eat any animal or person that
finds in its path. The stories of sharks make these animals even fierce and cruel.
Source (Bye, 2005, p.28)
Paragraph 1
Attention Getter:
.............................................................................................................................................
Topic sentence:
.............................................................................................................................................
Supporting sentence 1:
.............................................................................................................................................
Supporting sentence 2:
.............................................................................................................................................
Paragraph 2
Topic sentence:
.............................................................................................................................................
Supporting sentence 1:
.............................................................................................................................................
Supporting sentence 2:
............................................................................................................................................
Supporting sentence 3:
............................................................................................................................................
Concluding sentence
............................................................................................................................................
21
Learner-based Activity
Write a short information report with 3 paragraphs on any topic that you like and you
think it’s interesting to readers. Follow a plan for writing below.
A plan for writing
1. Brainstorm ideas to find a topic
(Show how you brainstorm for the topic by jotting down your ideas here.)
2. Research the topic from websites
2.1 Resource of information
(Attach the text taken from websites here.
Highlight parts you’ve applied in your report!)
2.2 Take note
Title
Introductory
paragraph
Supporting
paragraph
Concluding
paragraph
Reference
....................................................................................................
What?
How old?
When?
Where? Why?
How?
3. Organize your ideas
(Write your outline here)
Outline
Introductory paragraph
- Attention getter: .........................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................
- Topic: .........................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................
Supporting paragraph
- Details: .......................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................
Concluding paragraph
- Conclusion: ................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................
- Comment: ...................................................................................................
4. Write the first draft and edit it.
5. Find picture and plan layout
6. Write final report
22