Writing in Extended Matura: How to Write a Text for 100%?
A written statement, or the Writing section of the extended matura in English, is your chance to showcase rich vocabulary and language fluency. However, it requires iron discipline and strict adherence to the instructions. The Central Examination Commission (CKE) does not assess „creative inspiration” here, but how precisely you can meet the requirements of the chosen text form. In this guide, we discuss three main types of statements and key strategies that will ensure your success.
Types of written expression in the English exam
In the exam, you usually have a choice of two topics. They will require writing a text of 200 to 250 words (the limit is sacred!). The most commonly appearing forms include:
1. Essay
The king of matriculation expressions. It can be an essay of the type „for and against essay” or an opinion essay (opinion essay). It requires a 100% formal register, an objective tone (especially in „for and against”) and well-thought-out arguments.
The golden rule of essay structure:
- Introduction: Introduction to the topic + clear thesis in accordance with the prompt.
- Development 1: Discussion of the first element from the prompt.
- Development 2: Discussion of the second element from the prompt.
- Conclusion: Summary and (in the case of „for and against”) expression of your own, balanced opinion.
Useful phrases: It is a widely held belief that…, On the one hand…, Conversely…, Taking everything into consideration…
2. Article (Artykuł publicystyczny)
A form that is somewhat more relaxed than an essay, but still linguistically advanced. The article must be engaging, interesting for the reader, and have a catchy title. Although the register is semi-formal, we use rich vocabulary, rhetorical questions, and vivid descriptions here.
Characteristics of a good article:
- Title: Short, intriguing (e.g. Are Smartphones Stealing Our Minds?).
- Introduction: Should „catch” the reader (the so-called hook) and often ends with a rhetorical question.
- Conclusion: A punchline, an appeal to readers, or an encouragement to reflect.
3. Formal Letter (List formalny)
Most often, this is a letter to the editor (e.g. in response to a read article). The key here is a very rigorous, cool, and polite, but firm language. Abbreviations, colloquialisms, or slang mean an immediate loss of points.
Strategies for the English exam: How to plan writing?
Writing without a plan is a bad idea for the exam. Before you start writing the actual text, spend 5-10 minutes on a rough draft:
| Step | Action to take |
|---|---|
| Analysis of the prompt | Underline two main elements/topics in the subject that you MUST address in the development. |
| Brainstorming | List arguments (e.g. 2 for, 2 against) in bullet points. Don’t come up with complicated theories – choose those arguments for which you know the best English vocabulary. |
| Selection of „pearls” | Note down a few advanced structures in the margin that you want to sneak in (e.g. inversion: Not only is it dangerous, but also…, conditional mood, interesting idiom). |
Most common traps – what causes you to lose points?
- Failure to address the prompt (Off-topic): If the topic requires discussing the impact of technology on HEALTH and EDUCATION, and you focus on ENTERTAINMENT, the examiner will significantly deduct points in the „content” criterion.
- Poor register (Register/Style): Using contractions (e.g. isn’t, don’t, gonna) and colloquial language (e.g. cool, a lot of) in an essay or formal letter.
- Lack of logic and connectors: Examiners look for so-called linking words (connectors). Transitions between paragraphs must be smooth (use: Furthermore, Nevertheless, Consequently).
- Lack of paragraphs: A text that is one big block of words looks unappealing and costs valuable points for composition. An introduction, 2-3 paragraphs of development, and a conclusion are an absolute requirement.
Summary
The Writing part of the English exam is painfully schematic – and that is its greatest advantage! If you learn a specific structure, memorize a package of advanced phrases, and strictly adhere to the prompt, the examiner will have no choice but to give you a high score. Start writing regularly, submit texts to your teacher for checking, and develop the habit of counting words.
I keep my fingers crossed for a sharp pen and light thoughts! You can do it!
🤖 Inteligentny Weryfikator Esejów
Wybierz rodzaj egzaminu, wklej polecenie oraz swoją pracę, a sztuczna inteligencja sprawdzi ją i oceni zgodnie z oficjalnymi wytycznymi.