Introduction: Expressing Yourself Clearly in Writing

A core competence at B2 level is the ability to write clear, detailed text (duidelijke, gedetailleerde tekst) on a wide range of subjects related to your interests, studies, or work. This goes beyond simple sentences and involves organizing thoughts logically, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar, elaborating on points, and connecting ideas coherently.

This skill encompasses various text types, from descriptive pieces and narratives to explanations and summaries, forming the foundation for more specific tasks like essay or report writing.

Key Elements for Clear, Detailed Writing

1. **Clarity of Purpose and Audience:

• What is the goal? (To inform, describe, explain, narrate, persuade?)
• Who is the reader? (Friend, teacher, colleague, general audience?) This influences tone, style, and vocabulary choice (formal/informal).

1. **Logical Structure and Organization:

• Introduction: Introduce the topic and briefly state the main point or purpose.
• Body Paragraphs: Develop different aspects of the topic in separate paragraphs. Each paragraph should have a clear focus.
• Logical Flow: Arrange paragraphs in a sensible order (e.g., chronological, thematic, general to specific).
• Conclusion: Summarize key points or offer a final thought.

1. **Detailed Content and Elaboration:

• Be Specific: Avoid vague language. Use precise nouns, verbs, and adjectives.
• Provide Details: Don't just state facts; elaborate with explanations, descriptions, reasons, or consequences.
• Use Examples: Illustrate points with relevant examples (bijvoorbeeld, zoals).
• Sensory Details (for descriptions/narratives): Include details relating to sight, sound, smell, touch, taste where appropriate.

1. **Cohesion and Linking Words (Cohesie en Signaalwoorden):

• Connect sentences and paragraphs smoothly using appropriate linking words and phrases (see Chapter 6).
• Ensure pronouns (hij, zij, het, die, dat) refer clearly to their antecedents.
• Repeat keywords or use synonyms to maintain focus.

1. **Appropriate Vocabulary:

• Use vocabulary relevant to the subject matter.
• Choose words that accurately convey the intended meaning.
• Show variety in word choice, avoiding unnecessary repetition.
• Select the appropriate register (formal/informal) based on audience and purpose.

1. **Grammatical Accuracy and Range:

• Correct Grammar: Pay attention to verb conjugation, word order (especially in subordinate clauses), noun gender (de/het), adjective endings, prepositions.
• Sentence Variety: Mix simple and complex sentences (using conjunctions like omdat, terwijl, hoewel, dat, and relative clauses) to make the text more engaging and sophisticated.
• Punctuation: Use commas, periods, question marks, etc., correctly.

1. **Proofreading and Revision:

• Always reread your text to check for clarity, coherence, and errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Reading aloud can help identify awkward phrasing.
• Check if the text successfully achieves its purpose for the intended audience.

Applying the Skill to Different Subjects

• Describing Experiences: Use past tenses, sequential linking words (eerst, daarna, vervolgens), descriptive adjectives, and reflections on feelings.
• Explaining Concepts: Define terms clearly, use logical structure (e.g., cause/effect, comparison), provide examples, use clear linking words.
• Narrating Events: Use chronological order, varied past tenses, descriptive language for setting and characters.
• Discussing Interests: Use specific vocabulary related to the interest, express opinions with reasons, provide examples.

Writing clear, detailed text at the B2 level requires combining organizational skills with linguistic accuracy and range. Focus on planning your structure, elaborating on points with specifics and examples, connecting ideas smoothly with linking words, and using varied and appropriate vocabulary and grammar. Careful proofreading is essential to ensure clarity and correctness. Practice writing on diverse topics to build fluency and confidence.