写作考试 Summary Writing.docVIP

SUMMARY WRITING Definition and characteristics Steps in writing a summary How to write a summary Writing Practice 1. What Is Summary? A summary is a shortened passage, which retains the essential information of the original. It is a fairly brief restatement --- in your own words --- of the contents of a passage. Note: You simply report back what the writer has said, without making value judgments. 2. Characteristics of a good summary Briefness Omit unnecessary details like examples, explanations and other unimportant information. (length: 1/4-1/3 of original text) Completeness to include all the main and supporting points delivered in your own words in a condensed manner Coherence rather than an outline listed as key words and phrase, a summary is a paragraph with necessary transitions and function structures to make it flow. Objectivity to contain only the ideas or information of the original. Do not include your own ideas or emotions on the topic. Some Useful Expressions of Transition On one hand,…….On the other hand,…… One reason is ……Another reason is ……Still another reason is ……The final reason is …… To begin with, ……What’s more,……In addition,……Finally,…… In short, From what is mentioned above, we can come to the conclusion that …. 3. Steps in Writing a Summary Read the article 1). Divide the article into sections of ideas. Each section deals with one aspect of the central theme. 2). Label (classify) each section with a general phrase that captures the subject matter of the section. 3). Highlight or underline the main idea and key points Topic: _________ Outlines: 1. ________a….. b….. c. …. 2. ________3. ________ Begin with a proper citation of the title, author, source, date of publication and the main idea of the article summarized. Write according to your outlines. Use transitions for a smooth and logical flow of ideas. Compress supporting details 1). Omit the details 2). Reduce the examples 3). Simplify the descriptions 4). Eli