Writing a report
Structure
A report is highly factual and informs the reader rather than trying to make them feel or react in a particular way. It is likely to include facts, figures and statistics to support the points being made and might also use quotes from experts to lend weight to the report’s findings.
Language
The language in a report is objective. It states facts rather than attempting to To change or edit as desired. the reader’s emotions.
The purpose is usually to provide the reader with relevant information in an ordered way. Conventionally, a report is written in A form of speech that lays claim to a grammatical 'correctness' and clear pronunciation. This is sometimes called 'BBC English'. and presents the topic precisely.
Here’s an example question and response:
Your school/college is considering running a fundraising event for a local charity.
Write a report for the Headteacher/Principal suggesting ways this might be done.
You could include:
- reasons why schools benefit from fundraising
- your suggestions for events
Fundraising at Frecklewood
The Frecklewood Donkey Sanctuary is a charity that cares for rescued and unwanted donkeys. The sanctuary is based a mile away from Frecklewood Academy and the school has a long history of partnership, having sent many year 10 students there for work experience week. The charity is currently in need of funds, having seen a 12% dip in charitable giving during the past few years.
They have asked Frecklewood Academy for their help. This report aims to explore the potential benefits to staff and students of fundraising for this cause and to outline a number of possible activities that could be undertaken.
Benefits of fundraising
As part of this investigation we have spoken with school leaders at the five state secondary schools in the Danshire area about the fundraising activities that they undertake. Collectively they raise funds for numerous causes, including Shelter (a charity that tackles homelessness), Stonewall (a charity that promotes equality for lesbian, gay, bi and trans people) and Young Dementia UK (who provide support for people whose lives are affected by young onset dementia).
Each of the schools report that their students benefit in a variety of ways from supporting these charities. The main benefits cited are:
- Students develop a wider sense of community finding.
- Students have opportunities to develop team working and leadership skills.
- Students learn to think about people other than themselves and learn about different causes.
- Staff and students often work together on these projects.
One team leader said ‘Some of our students have pursued careers in the charity sector as a result of their fundraising work at school.’ Another said ‘It’s fantastic to see young people working together to make a genuine difference in the world.’
Suggestions for activities
As Frecklewood has a student population of more than 1500, we could easily raise a substantial sum for the Donkey Sanctuary through a non-uniform day in which each student pays £1 for the pleasure of wearing ‘normal’ clothes to school.
However, if we view this as an opportunity for team building, we could run an event such as a summer fete. Teams of students could be responsible for different aspects of the organisation and promotion. Funds could be raised from ticket sales in advance and also from raffles, duck races and other fun events on the day.
Alternatively, we could give groups of students the challenge of raising the most funds. This will encourage them to work collaboratively, creatively and independently.
Ultimately the benefits of fundraising events are huge. Whichever approach Frecklewood Academy takes, the charity, students and staff are all set to benefit.
The writer communicates clearly and effectively using a formal and unbiased tone suitable for a report. The information is well organised into paragraphs, that make good use of transitional words. The writer focuses on each of the bullet points from the question in turn and develops these. Statistics and quotes from official sources give the report credibility. Subheadings and bullet points are used to highlight key information.
