Day Five: Review Writing

https://farm3.static.flickr.com/2030/2328829160_186d9a80bc.jpg

In today's class, we will discuss what I consider to be the most enjoyable task type on the CAE exam: the review. Review writing is different from essay writing in a lot of ways. But, as we'll see over the course of our discussion today, there are also similarities between these two types of writing. An outline for today's class can be found below: 

Day Five: Review Writing

Objectives: Students will be able to...

1. Identify several different types of review topics and associated vocabulary
2. Identify several features common to all types of review writing 
3. Identify the structure of a story-based (movie/book/play) review
4. Use key vocabulary to describe a story
5. Produce a short review of their own based on an example 

I. Intro to the Class
How are you? How are things? What's new? Who has done anything fun since our last meeting? How are your other classes going? Do you have any questions?

II. Vocabulary Quiz 
Time to "face the music"!

III. Review Writing Example & Brainstorm
Let's begin by reading this review about the recent movie, The Dark Knight directed by Christopher Nolan and stary Christian Bale. After reading the review, as a class, let's brainstorm what you already know about review writing using the following questions:

1. What is the purpose of review writing? Is there more than one purpose? 
2. How would you describe the actual writing? Is it objective? Subjective? Persuasive? Casual?
3. What are some different topics for review writing? 
4. What are the characteristics of a good review? 
5. What are some key vocabulary words/expressions associated with review writing? 

IV. Review Writing: An Overview
Now, let's review the essential components of a good review (as well as the process for writing one) using this presentation.  

To review, writing a good review for the CAE exam involves...

1. Keeping the content of your review relevant 
2. Being sure to completely answer the question (or questions)
3. Striving to express yourself clearly
4. Following a clear pattern of organization (Hook -> Synopsis -> Pros or Cons -> Final Recommendation)
5. Having fun! Take some chances, use some descriptive expressions, show enthusiasm (lack thereof). Remember, a review is your opinion of something, so don't be afraid to express yourself.

V. Review Writing: Vocabulary & Practice

Now, with a partner, complete the first part of this exercise that asks you to categorize useful vocabulary based on the kind of review you might use it in. 

After completing Part One, we will watch a short film called "Alma". This was be the basis for Part Two of the practice. 

VI. Additional Practice: Review Resources

Below you will find a few example reviews. Take a look and analyze them carefully for 1). similarities and differences (based on the subject matter) and 2). interesting linguistic conventions, phrases and/or expressions. (These websites (and more) can also be found inside the

Music Reviews: Pitchfork
Movie Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes
Restaurant Reviews: Zagat
Travel Stops: Trip Advisor

VII. Homework

Don't forget to check the "Homework Tracker" for this week's assignments!