Text Types

In the IB English Ab Initio course, students learn to produce various text types for different audiences and purposes. Each text type has specific conventions—structures, language, and styles—that students should understand and use to communicate effectively. Here are some key text types in English Ab Initio along with their conventions:

1. Decalogue

A Decalogue is a list of ten rules, principles, or guidelines often used to provide advice or outline important steps in a process.

• Conventions:
  • Title that indicates the purpose of the Decalogue (e.g., “10 Rules for Success” or “Top 10 Study Tips”).
  • Organized into ten clear, numbered points.
  • Concise, direct language, often imperative (command) form (e.g., “Respect others,” “Stay focused”).
  • Each point should be brief and to the point, summarizing essential information.
  • Can use motivational or inspirational language.

2. Informal Letter / Email

   - Conventions:

     - Salutation (e.g., “Dear [Name],” or “Hi [Name],”).

     - Informal tone, using contractions and casual expressions.

     - First-person perspective, often conversational.

     - Includes a closing remark (e.g., “Best wishes,” or “Take care,”) and signature (e.g., “[Your Name]”).

     - Short paragraphs with personal updates, questions, or opinions.

 3. Formal Letter / Email

   - Conventions:

     - Formal salutation (e.g., “Dear Sir/Madam,” or “To whom it may concern,”).

     - Professional tone, avoiding contractions and slang.

     - Clear structure with an introduction, main content, and conclusion.

     - Purpose stated early (e.g., “I am writing to inquire about…”).

     - Ends with a formal closing (e.g., “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,”) and a full name.

 4. Blog Post

   - Conventions:

     - Often informal, engaging tone to connect with readers.

     - Title that captures attention or summarizes the topic.

     - May include subheadings for different sections.

     - Personal perspective or anecdotes to make it relatable.

     - May end with a question or call to action (e.g., “What do you think?”).

- Personal Blog

A Personal Blog is an informal, personal online post where the writer shares their thoughts, experiences, or reflections on various topics.

• Conventions:
  • Title or headline that hints at the blog’s main topic or theme (e.g., “My Travel Adventures in Italy”).
  • Written in the first person with a personal and conversational tone.
  • Organized in paragraphs, often with subheadings for clarity.
  • Uses informal language, anecdotes, and expressions to engage readers.
  • Can include questions to engage readers (e.g., “What do you think?”).
  • Often ends with a call-to-action or invitation for readers to comment or share their experiences.
  • May include dates, locations, or images if presented in an online format.

 5. Article

   - Conventions:

     - Title at the top, often catchy or descriptive.

     - Introduction to introduce the topic or main idea.

     - Organized into paragraphs, often with subheadings.

     - Objective or semi-formal tone; may present facts, opinions, or analysis.

     - Ends with a concluding statement or summary.

6. Postcard

A Postcard is a short, informal message usually written when traveling to update someone about the trip or location.

• Conventions:
  • Begins with a greeting (e.g., “Dear [Name],” or “Hi [Name]!”).
  • Brief, friendly tone, with personal or informal language.
  • Mentions specific details about the place, such as the weather, activities, or impressions.
  • Limited space means it focuses on a few highlights.
  • Closing remark with sender’s name (e.g., “Wish you were here!” or “Love, [Name]”).
  • Date and location are sometimes included at the top or bottom.

7. Speech / Presentation Script

   - Conventions:

     - Greeting at the beginning (e.g., “Good morning, everyone…”).

     - Clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion.

     - Directly addresses the audience using phrases like “Ladies and gentlemen…” or “Today, I want to talk about…”.

     - Engaging language, sometimes rhetorical questions or repetition for emphasis.

     - Closing remarks (e.g., “Thank you for your attention.”).

 8. Review (Book, Movie, Restaurant, etc.)

   - Conventions:

     - Title indicating what is being reviewed.

     - Brief summary or description of the subject (e.g., plot, setting, menu).

     - Personal opinion with justification (e.g., “I found the storyline very engaging because…”).

     - Rating or recommendation at the end (e.g., “Highly recommended!” or “3/5 stars”).