Introduction: Informative and Argumentative Writing Tasks

This chapter focuses specifically on two key writing tasks at B2 level: writing essays (essays, opstellen) or reports (rapporten, verslagen) with the primary goal of either passing on information (informatie doorgeven) or giving reasons (redenen geven) for a particular viewpoint or situation.

While Chapter 28 covered general principles of clear writing, this chapter delves into the specific requirements for structuring informative and reason-based texts.

Writing to Pass On Information (Informative Reports/Essays)

Purpose: To present factual information clearly and objectively to the reader.

Key Elements:

1. Clear Introduction: State the topic and the purpose of the text (to inform about X). Briefly outline the main aspects that will be covered.

• Dit verslag/opstel informeert over... (This report/essay informs about...)
• Het doel van deze tekst is om de belangrijkste kenmerken van ... te beschrijven. (The purpose of this text is to describe the main characteristics of...)

1. Logical Organization of Information:

• Group related information into paragraphs with clear topic sentences.
• Use a logical structure (e.g., thematic, chronological, comparison/contrast).
• Employ headings and subheadings, especially in reports, for clarity.

1. Objective Tone:

• Present facts without personal bias or opinion.
• Use neutral language.
• Avoid emotive words (geweldig, vreselijk) unless quoting a source.
• The passive voice can sometimes be used to maintain objectivity (Er werd vastgesteld dat... - It was established that...).

1. Accuracy and Clarity:

• Ensure information is correct and clearly explained.
• Define technical terms if necessary.
• Use precise vocabulary.

1. Use of Evidence/Sources (Especially Reports):

• Support information with data, examples, or references where appropriate.
• If based on research or specific sources, mention them (Volgens het rapport..., Uit de enquëte blijkt dat...).

1. Concise Conclusion:

• Briefly summarize the main pieces of information presented.
• Do not introduce new information.
• Reports might end with recommendations based directly on the presented information.

Example Scenario: Reporting on the results of a survey, describing a process, explaining how something works, summarizing factual information from different sources.

Writing to Give Reasons (Argumentative Essays/Explanatory Texts)

Purpose: To explain why something is the case, or to provide reasons supporting a specific viewpoint or conclusion.

Key Elements:

1. Clear Stance/Point: State the main point, situation, or opinion that you will be providing reasons for.

• Ik ben van mening dat ... om de volgende redenen. (I am of the opinion that ... for the following reasons.)
• Er zijn verschillende redenen waarom [situatie X] plaatsvindt. (There are several reasons why [situation X] occurs.)

1. Structured Presentation of Reasons:

• Dedicate paragraphs to distinct reasons or groups of related reasons.
• Start paragraphs with topic sentences that introduce the reason.
• Use linking words that signal cause, reason, or argument (e.g., ten eerste... ten tweede..., een belangrijke reden is..., omdat, namelijk, bovendien).

1. Elaboration and Support:

• Explain each reason clearly.
• Provide evidence, examples, or further explanation to make the reason convincing or understandable.
• Show the logical connection between the reason and the main point/situation.

1. Logical Flow:

• Order reasons logically (e.g., from most to least important, chronologically if applicable).
• Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs.

1. Consistent Tone:

• Maintain a consistent tone (e.g., persuasive, explanatory, analytical) throughout the text.
• If arguing a viewpoint, the tone might be more persuasive but should remain reasonable.

1. Concluding Summary:

• Briefly restate the main point/situation and summarize the key reasons presented.
• Reinforce the validity of the reasons provided.
• Op basis van deze redenen is het duidelijk dat... (Based on these reasons, it is clear that...)

Example Scenario: Writing an essay explaining the causes of a social trend, justifying a decision in a report, arguing for a particular policy by giving reasons, explaining why you hold a certain opinion.

Combining Information and Reasons

Many texts do both: they present information and use that information to give reasons for a conclusion or viewpoint. The key is to structure the text clearly so the reader understands which parts are factual background and which parts are the arguments or reasons derived from that information.

Writing effectively to pass on information requires objectivity, clear structure, and accuracy. Writing to give reasons requires a clear statement of the point being explained, logically structured reasons, and adequate support for each reason. Mastering the specific organizational and linguistic features for both informative and reason-based writing is a key aspect of B2-level proficiency in essays and reports.