Advice for CAE proposal writing

Summary

In this video, the speaker explains how to effectively write a proposal, with an emphasis on structure, language, and grading criteria. The guide differentiates proposals from reports and highlights essential elements like content, communicative achievement, structure, and language. The speaker offers practical tips on how to use modal verbs, second conditionals, and connectors to craft a convincing proposal. Key vocabulary is shared to avoid repetition, and the importance of formal tone depending on the audience is discussed. Overall, the video equips viewers with all the necessary tools to succeed in writing proposals for exams or professional use.

Takeaways

• 😀 A proposal is a document where you suggest a course of action for a future event or decision, such as building a monument or implementing a business change.
• 😀 The key difference between a proposal and a report is that a proposal focuses on future actions, while a report communicates past events or situations.
• 😀 Language use in proposals differs from reports: proposals often require future tenses, conditionals, and modal verbs to indicate possibilities or suggestions.
• 😀 To maximize your score in writing a proposal, it's important to address all parts of the prompt, stay relevant, and avoid unnecessary content.
• 😀 Communicative achievement involves using the correct register, with more formal language required when addressing higher authorities like council members or bank managers.
• 😀 Structure is critical in a proposal, and it should include subheadings (e.g., Introduction, Suggestions) to ensure clarity and coherence.
• 😀 The introduction of a proposal should clearly state its aim, while the conclusion should summarize the benefits of implementing the proposal.
• 😀 Vocabulary variety is important in proposals to avoid repetition. For example, use alternatives like 'suggest' or 'put forward' instead of always using 'propose'.
• 😀 It’s crucial to practice using verbs that convey change, such as 'strengthen,' 'increase,' and 'improve,' to clearly communicate the benefits of your suggestion.
• 😀 Grammar is key in proposals. Use modals, modal passives, second conditionals, and comparative/superlative structures to express your points effectively.
• 😀 A well-structured proposal uses conjunctions and connectors to create a logical flow between ideas, ensuring the writing is not just a list but a coherent argument.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of writing a proposal?

The primary purpose of writing a proposal is to suggest a course of action, which could range from building a monument to implementing changes in a business or town.

How does a proposal differ from a report in terms of content and purpose?

A report typically focuses on events that have already happened, while a proposal suggests actions for the future. The language used in proposals is future-oriented, utilizing future tenses and conditionals, unlike reports, which often use past or present tenses.

What are the key grading categories for a proposal?

The key grading categories for a proposal are content, communicative achievement, structure, and language. Each category is worth 5 points, and a score of at least 3 out of 5 in each is needed to pass.

What should be included in the introduction of a proposal?

The introduction should briefly state the purpose of the proposal, such as explaining the suggestions being put forward and the expected benefits.

Why is structure important in a proposal, and what should it include?

Structure is crucial to ensure clarity and logical flow. A proposal should include subheadings such as 'Introduction,' 'Suggestions,' and 'Conclusion,' with clear transitions between sections to maintain coherence.

What is the role of language in a proposal, and what are some specific language tips?

Language plays a key role in making the proposal clear and persuasive. Some tips include avoiding repetition, using varied vocabulary, and incorporating advanced grammatical structures like modals, conditionals, and passives.

How can you demonstrate flexibility in vocabulary when writing a proposal?

You can demonstrate flexibility by using a variety of synonyms and phrases, such as replacing 'propose' with 'suggest' or 'put forward,' and using verbs like 'strengthen,' 'increase,' and 'improve' to show positive impacts.

What grammatical structures should be used in a proposal to maximize marks?

Key grammatical structures include modal verbs (e.g., 'could,' 'should'), second conditionals (to suggest unreal situations), and comparative or superlative forms to highlight improvements or benefits.

Why is it important to use subheadings in a proposal?

Subheadings help organize the proposal, making it easier for the reader to follow the structure and locate key points. They also contribute to clearer, more coherent writing.

How can you ensure your proposal is relevant and stays on topic?

To stay on topic, carefully read the question to ensure all points are addressed. Be concise and avoid introducing unrelated information, as staying relevant directly impacts your score in the content category.