Guided Writing I
Complete Tutorial
Master all seven writing types tested in Guided Writing I — from paragraph anatomy to rules & regulations — with theory, annotated examples, and universal templates.
A paragraph is a group of logically connected sentences that develop one central idea. Think of it as a small essay with its own beginning, middle, and end.
What Is a Paragraph? — Core Concept
The word paragraph comes from the Greek paragraphos, meaning "a side writing." In English composition, a well-written paragraph must satisfy three rules:
| Principle | Meaning | How to achieve it |
|---|---|---|
| Unity | Every sentence must relate to the topic sentence. | Ask: "Does this sentence support my main idea?" If no — cut it. |
| Coherence | Ideas must flow logically from one to the next. | Use transition words (furthermore, however, in addition, as a result…). |
| Cohesion | Sentences must be grammatically linked. | Use pronouns, synonyms, and connectors to refer back to earlier ideas. |
The Anatomy of a Perfect Paragraph
Topic Sentence
The first (or second) sentence. States the one main idea of the entire paragraph. Think of it as a headline.
Elaboration / Controlling Idea
Expands on the topic sentence. Tells the reader why or how the main idea is true.
Major Supporting Sentences
2–3 key points that directly prove the topic sentence. Each introduces a new supporting argument.
Minor Supporting Sentences
Follow each major support. Add detail, statistics, examples, or explanation.
Concluding Sentence
Wraps up the paragraph. Restates the topic sentence in different words or offers a final thought.
Detailed Explanation of Each Part
🎯 Topic Sentence
The topic sentence has two parts: the topic (what you are writing about) and the controlling idea (what aspect of the topic you will discuss).
Example: "Walking is a simple yet effective physical activity that offers numerous health benefits."
💡 Elaboration / Controlling Idea (2nd sentence)
This sentence zooms in on the topic sentence. It answers the question: In what way? How specifically?
Example: "As a form of aerobic exercise, walking contributes to overall well-being by improving both physical and mental health."
Notice how this sentence doesn't add new information — it clarifies what the paragraph will prove.
📌 Major + Minor Supporting Sentences
A typical exam paragraph uses 2–3 major supports, each followed by 1 minor support:
| Level | Function | Sentence Starters |
|---|---|---|
| Major 1 | First key proof | Regular … helps / minimises / promotes … |
| Minor 1 | Detail/example for Major 1 | It … / This … / For instance … |
| Major 2 | Second key proof | Walking also … / Moreover, it … |
| Minor 2 | Detail for Major 2 | Additionally … / Furthermore … |
| Major 3 | Third key proof | Beyond … / Apart from … / Not only that … |
| Minor 3 | Detail for Major 3 | A leisurely … / Studies show … |
🔚 Concluding Sentence
This sentence must:
- Restate — NOT repeat word for word — the topic sentence.
- Give a sense of closure (a quotation, a recommendation, or a final reflection).
- NOT introduce any new idea.
Example: "Walking truly exemplifies the saying 'a sound mind in a sound body,' as it nurtures both mental and physical health effectively."
Useful Transition Words
| Purpose | Words / Phrases |
|---|---|
| Adding ideas | furthermore · moreover · in addition · not only … but also |
| Contrasting | however · although · on the other hand · despite this |
| Cause & Effect | therefore · as a result · consequently · thus |
| Giving examples | for instance · for example · such as · namely |
| Concluding | in conclusion · in short · to sum up · ultimately |
📌 Annotated Model Answer
🗂 Universal Template
Paragraph Writing Template
Data description means converting visual information (bars, pie slices, percentages, rows) into clear English sentences. It is a factual, objective task — no opinions, no guesses.
Types You Must Know
Bar Chart
Compares quantities across categories or time. Focus on the highest, lowest, and any notable differences.
Pie Chart
Shows percentages of a whole. Always mention the largest and smallest slices. All slices must add to 100%.
Line Graph
Shows change over time. Describe the trend (rising, falling, stable, fluctuating).
Table / Data Chart
Rows and columns of data. Identify the highest/lowest values and compare rows or columns.
Step-by-Step Writing Process
Essential Vocabulary Bank
| Category | Words & Phrases |
|---|---|
| Upward trend | rose · increased · grew · climbed · shot up · surged |
| Downward trend | fell · decreased · declined · dropped · plummeted · reduced |
| No change | remained stable · stayed constant · held steady at |
| Comparison | compared to · in contrast · whereas · while · unlike |
| Approximate | approximately · roughly · nearly · just over/under |
| Proportion | the majority · almost half · only a minority · more than twice |
📌 Annotated Model Answer
Describing the "Who Uses the Internet?" Bar Chart
The bar chart illustrates the percentage of Internet users by age group — younger than 15, 16–30, 31–50, and 50+ — for the years 1998, 1999, and 2000. Overall, the 16–30 age group dominated usage across all three years, though there was a noticeable narrowing of the gap by 2000. In 1998, the 16–30 group had the highest usage at 53%, while those younger than 15 had the lowest at just 2%. By 1999, the 31–50 age group rose sharply to 45%, nearly matching the 16–30 group. The 50+ category, although the smallest throughout, increased steadily from 4% to 10%. The data clearly shows that Internet usage was expanding beyond young adults and reaching older populations by the year 2000.
🟡 Yellow = Topic/Introduction | 🟢 Green = Overall trend | 🟠 Orange = Conclusion
🗂 Universal Template
Chart / Table Description Template
Instructions tell a reader how to do something in the correct order. They must be clear, numbered, and use the imperative (command) form of the verb.
Key Language Features
Imperative Verbs
Every step begins with a command verb. Example: Place, Add, Switch on, Wait, Remove.
Sequence Connectors
First, Then, Next, After that, Finally guide the reader through the process.
Precision
Be specific about quantity, time, temperature, or manner. "Add two cups of water" is better than "Add some water."
Safety Notes (if needed)
Include warnings where necessary: "Be careful not to…" or "Caution: the surface may be hot."
Structure of a Good Set of Instructions
| Part | What to Include | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Gerund (-ing) phrase naming the task | "How to Charge a Mobile Phone" or "Charging a Mobile Phone" |
| Materials (optional) | List of what is needed, if relevant | You will need: phone, charger, power socket |
| Steps | Numbered, each starting with a verb | 1. Switch off… 2. Connect… 3. Plug in… |
| Final Note | Caution, tip, or outcome statement | "Your phone will be fully charged in approximately two hours." |
Sequence Connector Vocabulary
| Position | Connectors |
|---|---|
| Beginning | First · To begin · Start by |
| Middle | Then · Next · After that · Subsequently |
| Simultaneous | Meanwhile · At the same time · While doing this |
| End | Finally · Lastly · When finished |
📌 Model Answer
Charging a Mobile Phone
Follow these steps carefully to charge your mobile phone safely and efficiently.
- First, switch off your mobile phone if the battery is critically low.
- Next, take the correct charger for your phone model.
- Then, insert one end of the charger cable into the charging port of your phone.
- After that, plug the other end into an electrical socket.
- Switch on the power socket and wait for the charging indicator to appear on the screen.
- Finally, leave the phone to charge until the battery reaches 100%, then unplug the charger to preserve battery health.
⚠️ Caution: Do not use the phone while charging, and avoid charging overnight.
🗂 Universal Template
Instructions Template
A recipe is a specialised set of instructions for preparing food. It differs from regular instructions because it has two compulsory sections: Ingredients and Method.
Differences: Recipe vs. Instructions
| Feature | Instructions | Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Numbered list of steps | Ingredients list then numbered method |
| Quantities | Sometimes optional | Always required (1 cup, 2 tsp, 200g…) |
| Title | How to [do task] | Name of the dish |
| Serves | Not applicable | Mention servings: "Serves 4" |
Recipe-Specific Language
Preparation Verbs
Chop, slice, dice, peel, grate, mix, blend, mash, knead
Cooking Verbs
Boil, fry, roast, bake, simmer, steam, grill, sauté, stir-fry
Time & Degree
For 5 minutes, until golden, on medium heat, until cooked through, to taste
Measurements
cup, tablespoon (tbsp), teaspoon (tsp), gram (g), litre (L), a pinch of
📌 Model Recipe Answer
Vegetable Noodle Soup (Serves 4)
A quick, healthy soup ready in under 20 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients- 200g noodles
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrot, cabbage, peas)
- 1 litre vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- First, heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic paste and sauté for one minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook for five minutes.
- Then, add the noodles and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper, and simmer for a further three minutes.
- Finally, remove from heat and serve hot.
🗂 Universal Template
Recipe Template
An advertisement is a piece of writing designed to attract attention, create interest, and persuade an audience to take action — buy a product, attend an event, or apply for a job.
Types of Advertisements
Product Ad
Sells a product. Features: name, price, benefits, contact.
Job / Vacancy Ad
Announces a position. Features: post, qualifications, salary, deadline.
Event Ad
Promotes a programme. Features: event name, date, venue, entry fee.
Lost & Found
Reports missing items/persons. Features: description, contact, reward.
Property Ad
Rents/sells property. Features: location, size, price, contact.
Social / PSA Ad
Promotes a cause (environment, health, safety). Features: message, call to action.
The 4 Essential Parts (AIDA Model)
| Part | Purpose | How to Write It |
|---|---|---|
| A — Attention | Eye-catching headline | Bold, short, punchy. Use a question, exclamation, or statistic. |
| I — Interest | Body text with features/benefits | 3–5 short sentences. Use positive adjectives and power words. |
| D — Desire | Create an emotional connection | "Don't miss this…" / "Limited offer…" / "Your dream … awaits" |
| A — Action | Call to action + contact details | "Contact us at…" / "Visit us today!" / "Apply before [date]" |
Power Words for Advertisements
| Category | Words to Use |
|---|---|
| Quality | premium · superior · world-class · finest · exceptional |
| Value | affordable · best price · value for money · free · discount |
| Urgency | limited time · don't miss out · hurry · last chance · only X left |
| Benefit | guaranteed · proven · effective · reliable · trusted by thousands |
📌 Model Advertisement
✔ Bachelor's degree in the relevant subject
✔ Teaching licence (preferred)
✔ Minimum 2 years' teaching experience
✔ Fluent communication skills in English
The Principal, Bright Future Secondary School
Tel: 01-4XXXXXX | Email: brightfuture@edu.np
Deadline: 15th Ashadh, 2082
🗂 Universal Template
Advertisement Template
A notice is a formal, written announcement displayed publicly to inform a specific group of people about an event, instruction, or important information.
What Makes a Notice Different from a Letter?
| Feature | Notice | Letter |
|---|---|---|
| Audience | A group (students, members, public) | A specific individual |
| Tone | Formal, impersonal, concise | Formal or informal depending on recipient |
| Salutation | None (no "Dear…") | Always present |
| Length | Short and precise (~80–120 words) | Can be longer |
| Placement | Displayed on a noticeboard | Delivered/sent directly |
The 7-Part Structure of a Notice
1. Organisation Name
Full name of school, institution, or organisation at the top. Centred and in bold.
2. "NOTICE" Heading
The word NOTICE in large, bold, centred font. This is mandatory.
3. Date
Written on the left margin below "NOTICE". Format: 3rd March 2025 or 2082-01-20.
4. Subject Title
A bold, centred title describing the notice content. Example: "Annual Sports Day."
5. Body
2–4 sentences: what is happening, who should attend/know, when, where, and any action needed.
6. Signature & Name
Name and designation (position) of the writer on the right side at the bottom.
Language in a Notice
| Function | Phrases to Use |
|---|---|
| Notifying | It is hereby notified that… · All students are informed that… · This is to inform… |
| Inviting | All are cordially invited to… · Students are requested to attend… |
| Requiring action | Interested students may register… · Submit your names to… |
| Deadline | by [date] · on or before [date] · not later than [date] |
| Further info | For more details, contact… · Refer to the office for queries. |
📌 Model Notice
This is to inform all students, parents, and staff that the Annual Prize Distribution Ceremony will be held on 15th June 2025 at the school auditorium at 10:00 a.m. The programme will honour academic achievers and sports champions of the year.
All students are required to attend in full school uniform. Parents and guardians are cordially invited. Interested students who wish to participate in the cultural programme should register their names with their class teacher by 10th June 2025.
Principal
🗂 Universal Template
Notice Template
A set of rules and regulations is a formal list of what people must do, must not do, are allowed to do, or are expected to do in a particular setting.
The Grammar You Must Master: Modal Verbs
| Modal Expression | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
must / have to | Strong obligation | "Visitors must wear an identity card." |
must not / are not allowed to | Strong prohibition | "Smoking is strictly prohibited on the premises." |
should | Recommendation/expectation | "Students should arrive on time." |
are expected to | Social obligation | "Visitors are expected to keep the area clean." |
are permitted to / may | Permission | "Students may use the library during free periods." |
are allowed to / can | Permission (informal) | "Visitors are allowed to take photographs." |
are strictly prohibited from | Strong formal ban | "Hunting is strictly prohibited in the park." |
shall | Formal rule/requirement | "Fees shall be paid by the 15th of each month." |
Structure of Rules & Regulations
| Part | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | "Rules and Regulations for [Place/Group/Occasion]" |
| Numbered List | Each rule = one numbered sentence. 6–10 rules typically. |
| Variety | Mix prohibition, obligation, permission, and expectation rules — don't use the same modal for every sentence. |
| Person | Third person passive preferred: "Visitors are not allowed to…" not "You cannot…" |
Categorising Your Rules (Exam Tip)
Prohibition (2–3 rules)
Things people must NOT do. Use: must not, are prohibited from, are not allowed to, strictly forbidden.
Obligation (2–3 rules)
Things people MUST do. Use: must, are required to, shall, have to.
Permission (1–2 rules)
Things people CAN do. Use: are allowed to, may, are permitted to, can.
Expectation (1–2 rules)
Things people SHOULD do. Use: should, are expected to, are requested to.
📌 Model: Rules for Visitors at a National Park
Rules and Regulations for Visitors at Shivapuri National Park
- Visitors must purchase an entry ticket before entering the park.
- Hunting and poaching of any wildlife are strictly prohibited.
- Visitors are not allowed to light fires or carry flammable materials inside the park.
- Littering anywhere within the park premises is strictly forbidden.
- Photography for personal use is permitted, but commercial filming requires prior permission.
- Visitors are expected to respect local flora and fauna and refrain from picking plants.
- Pets must not be brought inside the park boundaries.
- All visitors should follow the marked trails and must not stray into restricted zones.
- Children under 10 years of age may enter free when accompanied by an adult.
- The park authority shall not be held responsible for any personal injuries due to negligence.
📌 Model: School Library Rules
Rules and Regulations for the School Library
- Students must maintain complete silence inside the library at all times.
- Eating and drinking are not permitted in the library.
- Students are allowed to borrow a maximum of two books at a time.
- Borrowed books must be returned within seven days.
- Students are expected to handle all books and materials with care.
- Mobile phones must be switched off or kept on silent mode.
- Students shall be fined for damaging or losing library property.
- Use of the computer section is permitted only for academic purposes.