Article Writing Explained for SHS 1 English Language (Semester 2, Week 12)

Articles are one of the most effective ways of educating, informing and entertaining readers. Learning how to write a well-structured article prepares learners to communicate ideas clearly and address real-life issues through publication.

What You Will Learn

• The meaning and purpose of article writing.
• The features of a well-written article.
• How to organise an article from the introduction to the conclusion.
• The importance of cohesive devices in article writing.
• How to write articles suitable for publication.

Main Explanation

An article is a piece of writing meant for publication. Articles may be published in school magazines, local newspapers, national newspapers, international newspapers, magazines and journals. They are mostly based on facts and may be written to educate, inform or entertain readers.

A well-written article begins with an appropriate title or heading. The title is taken directly from the given topic or question, written boldly and neatly underlined. It immediately tells readers what the article is about and attracts their attention.

The introduction provides an overview of the topic to be discussed. It gives readers insight into the subject by presenting suitable background information supported with factual evidence. A good introduction prepares readers for the detailed discussion that follows.

The main body develops the topic fully. Ideas should be presented logically in clearly organised paragraphs. Each paragraph should be linked to the next using appropriate cohesive expressions such as besides, in addition to, moreover, again and furthermore. Relevant illustrations, short stories and factual information may also be included to strengthen the discussion.

The conclusion brings the discussion to a close and should leave a lasting impression on readers. It reinforces the central message of the article without introducing entirely new ideas.

Every article ends with a subscription written at the bottom right corner. This includes the writer’s full name together with an address or designation, depending on the writing task.

Learners develop article-writing skills through collaborative learning, experiential learning and problem-based learning. They examine sample articles, identify their features, compose introductory paragraphs, prepare story maps and write complete articles for publication. They are also encouraged to use ICT tools and authentic materials such as newspapers, magazines and journals to strengthen their writing skills.

Feature of an Article	Purpose	Description
Title/Heading	Introduces the topic	Written boldly and neatly underlined
Introduction	Introduces the discussion	Provides insight with factual evidence
Main Body	Develops the topic	Ideas arranged logically in linked paragraphs
Conclusion	Ends the discussion	Leaves a lasting impression on readers
Subscription	Identifies the writer	Writer’s full name and address or designation

Worked Examples

Example 1

Scenario: A learner is asked to write an article for publication in the school magazine on The Reasons Why Students Indulge in Examination Malpractice.

Explanation: The learner begins with an appropriate title, writes an introduction containing the central idea and suitable background information, develops the discussion in well-organised paragraphs using cohesive devices and ends with a conclusion and subscription.

Example 2

Scenario: A learner identifies a sanitation problem in the community and prepares an article for publication in a local newspaper.

Explanation: The learner organises factual information into a logical structure, explains the problem clearly, supports ideas with relevant illustrations where appropriate and concludes with recommendations before adding the subscription.

Why This Topic Matters

Article writing equips learners with practical communication skills needed in school, higher education and the world of work. It enables them to raise awareness about important issues, educate the public, present factual information clearly and contribute meaningful ideas to newspapers, magazines and other publications. These writing skills also strengthen creativity, critical thinking, communication and digital literacy.

Quick Practice

• List the five main features of an article.
• Write the introduction to an article on examination malpractice.
• Write an article suitable for publication in a local newspaper on the effects of indiscipline on academic performance.
• Identify a pressing issue in your community and write an article suitable for publication in a national or international newspaper.

Summary

Article writing is a factual form of writing intended for publication. A good article contains a title, introduction, main body, conclusion and subscription. Organising ideas logically, using cohesive expressions and supporting discussions with factual information help writers communicate effectively. Mastering article writing prepares learners to address real-life issues confidently through published writing.