KS2 SATs KS2 Writing Skills & Vocabulary 5

Question 1

What is the difference between formal and informal language?

Accepted Answer

Formal uses Standard English and avoids contractions; informal uses casual language and contractions

Answer

Formal language is appropriate for official or professional contexts: it uses Standard English, avoids slang and contractions, and has an impersonal tone. Informal language is relaxed, uses contractions and colloquialisms.

Question 2

What does 'varying the sentence openings' mean in writing?

Accepted Answer

Not starting every sentence the same way — using adverbials, -ing words, or subordinate clauses to vary the beginning

Answer

Varying sentence openings keeps writing interesting and demonstrates range. Instead of starting every sentence with 'The' or a noun, writers use fronted adverbials, participle phrases, or subordinate clauses to add variety.

Question 3

In a persuasive letter, what is the correct layout feature at the top?

Accepted Answer

The writer's address and date

Answer

A formal letter begins with the writer's address (top right or left) and the date. This is followed by the recipient's address, the greeting (Dear...), paragraphs, and a formal sign-off (Yours sincerely/faithfully).

Question 4

What does 'cohesion' mean in a piece of writing?

Accepted Answer

How smoothly ideas link together through connectives, pronouns, and repetition

Answer

Cohesion is how well a text 'sticks together'. It is achieved through pronoun reference, connecting adverbials, repetition of key vocabulary, and synonyms that refer back to earlier ideas, making the text flow smoothly.

Question 5

What makes a good story ending?

Accepted Answer

Resolving the main conflict and leaving the reader feeling satisfied or thoughtful

Answer

A good ending resolves the central conflict or question of the story, gives a sense of closure, and may leave the reader with a final thought or feeling. It should feel earned and connected to the story.

KS2 SATs Practice Test

KS2 SATs Practice Test

KS2 SATs KS2 Writing Skills & Vocabulary 5