Exercise 6: Writing a Review

So, what’s a review?

A review is a piece of writing someone writes expressing their opinion about something such
as a new product or service that is usually published in a newspaper or a magazine.
Review writing could be for:
1. Books, Movies, or TV shows
2. Places such as hotels, restaurants, cafés, cinemas, amusement parks, shopping
centres, museums, gyms, etc.
3. Events such as concerts, festivals, exhibitions, trips, etc.
4. Digital or physical products or services such as apps, games (video games, board
games, etc.), websites, courses, products (such as electronics or appliances)
The main purpose of a review is to give your opinion about something. The review needs
to engage the audience from the beginning to the end. As a side note, it’s better to be
positive and write about whatever you are reviewing in an overall positive way since it will
generally be easier to write; however, a negative review is also totally acceptable.
The tone and register of a review
The tone of the review can be personal and informal. If writing for adults the style may be
more formal than if writing for teenagers. But in both cases, you should sound
professional as if you know about the subject.
If the review is for the school magazine (and it mostly is), then the main audience is the
students at your school. Therefore, the register should be informal to semi-formal but
should avoid language that is too idiomatic and colloquial.
The ideal format of a review
Introduction: Provide general information about what is being reviewed
Body (2-3 paragraphs): Give your opinions and/or highlight interesting points about some
aspects (e.g. the facilities of a museum, the special effects in a film, the quality of
food/service in a restaurant, etc.)
Conclusion: Give your overall opinion and recommendation
Title
The title should include the name of what is being reviewed. Here are some examples:
 Discover Your Talent — A Course Review
 Samsung Galaxy S24 Review
 Fitness Time: The Best Gym in Riyadh?
 Book Review: The Alchemist
Don’t stress too much on the title as you can simply write the name of what you’re reviewing
without any other details. For example: “VOX cinema”.
Introduction
The purpose of the introduction is to inform the reader about what is being
reviewed and engage the reader to make them interested and continue reading.
The main components of an effective introduction are:
 1. Something to engage the reader from the beginning right away such as a rhetorical
question or an attractive statement highlighting a unique aspect of what you’re
reviewing.
2. General information about what is being reviewed. This will depend on what
you’re reviewing. For example, if you are writing a film review, you should mention its
name, genre and the director’s name.
You could also add details of when and with whom you watched/visited/attended this
movie/cinema/course, etc., and a quick overall opinion, which hints to the reader whether
the rest of your review is overall positive or negative.
Here is an example of an effective introduction:
“Do you love superfast rollercoasters and other exhilarating rides that make your hair stand
on end? If so, then Sky Zone Amusement Park is a must-visit. My friends and I visited it
recently, and we were blown away!”
Body
In the body,
1. Mention more relevant details of what’s being reviewed
2. Mention your personal opinion (what you liked and/or disliked), while providing
evidence, reasons or examples. You can write entirely positively, entirely negatively
or have a balanced approach
The details to include depend on what you’re reviewing. These will be discussed later.
Conclusion
The purpose of the conclusion is to give your overall opinion and recommendation.
In the conclusion, make sure to say whether you recommend this movie/book/product/service,
etc. and to whom, stating why.
Here are some examples of useful concluding phrases:
 In a nutshell, you should definitely read/watch/use …
 All in all, I strongly/highly recommend …
 On the whole, I wouldn’t recommend it (in view of the fact that … / because …)
 Overall, it’s worth seeing/reading/using …
 I strongly advise you (not) to …
+
 It’s more suited for … / It will change the way you see… / Don’t miss it! / It’s absolutely
worth a visit! / If you like …, then (the name of the movie/restaurant/course, etc.) is
definitely for you! / If you’re looking for a …, don’t give it a second thought! / Or any
other similar phrase.
Here is an example of an effective conclusion.
“I strongly recommend Sky Zone Park to anyone who wants to have an unforgettable
experience whether alone, with friends or family. It’s absolutely worth a visit!”
Special types of review writing
Book review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Summary of the book
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Summary of the book
Paragraph 3: What you liked
Paragraph 4: What you disliked
Paragraph 5: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such as a rhetorical question or an
attractive statement about something bold in this book that makes the reader want to
know more.
2. Summarize the main background information of the book, for example, the book
title, its genre (fiction, non-fiction, sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, etc.) and author’s name.
Here is an example of an effective book review introduction. “Have you ever been so inspired
by a book that it completely changes your perception of life? If not, then I suggest you read
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.”
Body
In the 1st body paragraph, write an outline of the story (do not describe the whole story,
especially the ending). Use the present tense.
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review:
 The plot focuses on/revolves around/involves …
 Set in …, this marvelous story explains …
 This is an enchanting story of …
In the 2nd (and 3rd) body paragraph(s), mention what you liked and/or disliked and state
why, giving examples if possible.
You could write about:
 The plot (captivating, entertaining, fascinating, thrilling, predictable, confusing,
implausible, etc.)

 What you learned
 How the book made you feel? Were you satisfied by the book’s ending? Note: don’t
mention the ending itself; just how it made you feel (e.g. The book was heart-touching//
The book had me hypnotised! // It kept me absorbed from the beginning to the end! // I
couldn’t stop reading it until the end! // I was impressed by… // What struck me most
was… // , etc.)
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, give your overall opinion and recommendation (whether you
recommend it or not, and if yes, to whom and why? If not, why not?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned earlier.
Film Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Setting of the film and main plot
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked.
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Setting of the film and main plot
Paragraph 3: What you liked
Paragraph 4: What you disliked
Paragraph 5: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
 Start with something to engage the reader such as a rhetorical question or an
attractive statement about something bold in this movie that makes the reader want to
know more.
 Mention general information about the movie, for example, the movie’s title, its
genre (sci-fi, comedy, thriller, horror, etc.) and the director’s name.
Here is an example of an effective film review introduction:
“Are you looking for an intriguing action-packed film where you can turn off your brain and
enjoy the ride? If so, then “London Has Fallen”, directed by Babak Najafi is the film for you!”
Body
In the 1st body paragraph, mention the setting of the film (place and time) and
an overview of the plot, including the main character(s) and plot twists (if any). Don’t
describe the full story, especially the ending. Use the present tense.
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review.
 The plot focuses on/revolves around/involves …
 Set in (time and place), the movie …
 … provides the setting for …
 As the film opens, …
In the 2nd (and 3rd) body paragraph(s), mention what you liked and/or disliked about
the film and state why, giving examples if possible. For example, you could write about:
 The plot (captivating, entertaining, thrilling, fast-paced, predictable, confusing,
implausible, etc.)
 The acting (excellent/exceptional/remarkable/awful/unconvincing/weak, etc.)
 The script (e.g. the script is dull/exciting/clever/witty, etc.)
  The special effects (realistic, brilliant, spectacular, breathtaking, mediocre, terrible,
etc.)
 How the movie made you feel (the film literally brought tears to my eyes// The film was
heart-touching// The film was heart-pounding // I was on the edge of my seat the whole
time// I didn’t want to miss a scene! // I was impressed by… // What struck me most
was… // By the final scene I was already half-asleep, etc.)
It’s also important to note that you should focus on the main things rather than writing
about every aspect of the film. Writing a few well-developed points is better than many
unjustified ones.
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, give your overall opinion and recommendation (whether you
recommend it or not, and if yes, to whom and why? If not, why not? Is it suitable families?
Why?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned earlier.
Here are some useful expressions for describing a movie:
 The film combines (suspense) with (horror) …
 a must-see
 a box-office success/failure
 a blockbuster
 a masterpiece
 well-worth seeing
 not to be missed
Important points to keep in mind
 Include film-related vocabulary in your review, e.g. lead role, actors, director, plot,
script, special effects, etc.
 Any expression you use should be consistent with your opinion of the film. For example,
if you’re writing positively about the film, it’s not appropriate to write “By the final
scene I was already half-asleep”!
Place Review
Restaurant/Cafe Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked OR disliked (mention 2 points)
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked (mention another 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked
Paragraph 3: What you disliked
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
The 2nd and 3rd paragraphs don’t have to be balanced. For example, in an overall positive
review, you can write 3 points you liked about the restaurant and only 1 point you disliked
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such as a rhetorical question or an attractive
statement about something unique in this restaurant that makes the reader want to
know more.
2. Mention general information about the restaurant, for example, its name, its location,
when it opened, why you visited it, and with whom you visited it (if any). Note that you
don’t have to mention all these details and that some of them, such as its location or
when it opened, can be included in the 2 nd paragraph.
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention what you liked and/or disliked according to the format
you choose.
You can write about:
1. Location (the city? close to/far from? Is it easily accessible?)
2. Its physical features (if any striking one, e.g. extreme size, unusual architectural shape,
etc.)
3. The food: type of food (fast-food, fine dining), food options (varied, limited), taste
(delicious, mouth-watering, lip-smacking, scrumptious, appetizing // awful, overcooked,
salty, etc.)
4. Staff (polite, helpful, friendly, amiable // awful, rude, unskilled, careless, slow, etc.)
5. Setting: décor (modern, contemporary, magnificent, etc.), atmosphere (lively,
soothing // dull, crowded, noisy, etc.)
6. Cleanliness (immaculate, spotless, tidy // filthy, dirty, untidy, etc.)
7. Price (expensive, exorbitant, overpriced // inexpensive, affordable, reasonable, low-
priced, etc.)
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review:
 Located in …, this (sumptuous, luxurious, sophisticated, impeccable, exceptional, or
any other suitable adjective) restaurant offers …
 As you enter the place, you …
 Just as you step in, …
 The ambience of the restaurant was …
 The menu offers …
 What I particularly enjoyed was …
 I was pleasantly surprised by …
 The best thing about it is …
 However, I disliked …
 I was disappointed by …
 I was extremely dissatisfied by …
  What you may find unfavourable is …
Describe the restaurant in the present tense and describe your experience in the past tense.
Remember to write about the important parts of the experience, not every detail.
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, mention your overall opinion and recommendation (Do you recommend
it or not? If yes, to whom and why? If not, why not? Is it suitable for families?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned earlier.
Other places
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked OR disliked (mention 2 points)
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked (mention another 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked
Paragraph 3: What you disliked
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such as a rhetorical question or an
interesting point about it, such as its exploding popularity, its long-awaited opening,
etc.
2. Mention general information about the place, for example, its name, its location,
when it opened, why you visited it, and with whom you visited it. Note that you don’t
have to mention all these details and that some of them, such as location, can be
included in the 2nd paragraph as part of your opinion about the place. For example, the
following sentence could be used to begin the 2 nd body paragraph: “Located right at the
heart of (city name), (place) is easily accessible by car.”
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention what you liked and/ or disliked according to the
format you choose.
You can write about:
1. Location (the city? close to/far from? Is it easily accessible?)
2. Its physical features (if any striking one, e.g. extreme size, unusual architectural shape,
etc.)
3. Atmosphere (lively, soothing // dull, crowded, noisy, etc.)
4. Cleanliness (immaculate, spotless, tidy // filthy, dirty, untidy, etc.)
5. Facilities (depends on the place you’re reviewing. For example, in a gym review, you
could write about the variety of gym equipment available and whether there’s personal
 coaching; and in a shopping centre, you could write about the variety of shops available
and whether there’s a children’s play area.)
6. Price (expensive, exorbitant, overpriced // inexpensive, affordable, reasonable, low-
priced, etc.)
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review:
 Located in …, this (sumptuous, luxurious, sophisticated, impeccable, exceptional, or
any other suitable adjective) (place) offers …
 As you enter the place, you …
 Just as you step in, …
 The ambience of the place was …
 The place offers …
 What I particularly enjoyed was …
 I was pleasantly surprised by …
 The best thing about it is …
 However, I disliked …
 I was disappointed by …
 I was extremely dissatisfied by …
 What you may find unfavourable is …
Describe the place in the present tense and describe your experience in the past tense.
Remember to write about the important parts of the experience, not every detail.
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, mention your overall opinion and recommendation (Do you recommend
it or not? If yes, to whom and why? If not, why not? Is it suitable for families? Why?).
Examples for concluding phrases have been mentioned earlier.
Event Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked OR disliked (mention 2 points)
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked (mention another 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked (mention 2 points)
Paragraph 3: What you disliked (mention 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
 1. Start with something to engage the reader such as a rhetorical question or an
attractive statement about something unique in this event that makes the reader want
to know more.
2. Mention general information about the event, for example, its name, location,
when it’s held, why you visited it, and with whom you visited it. Some of these details
can also be mentioned in the following paragraph.
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention what you liked and/or disliked according to the format
you choose.
You can write about:
1. Location (the city? close to/far from? Is it easily accessible?)
2. The program of the event (For example, what band will be playing in the concert?
What’s their album name? What will be displayed in the exhibition?)
3. The performance, including the stage lightening and the musicians’ attire (if it’s a
concert or a festival)
4. Atmosphere and sounds (lively, boisterous // dull, crowded, noisy, etc.)
5. How did it make you and the audience feel? (fascinated, excited, mesmerized,
captivated, enthusiastic// didn’t live up to my expectations, dull, etc.)
6. Ticket price (expensive, exorbitant, overpriced // inexpensive, affordable, reasonable,
low-priced, etc.)
Conclusion
In the conclusion, mention your overall opinion and recommendation (Do you recommend
attending this event or not? If yes, to whom and why? If not, why not?)
Examples for concluding phrases have been mentioned earlier.
Product Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Positive aspects of the product
Paragraph 3: Negative aspects of the product
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such as a rhetorical question or an
attractive statement about something unique in this product that makes the reader
want to know more.
2. Mention general information about the product, for example, its name, the brand
name, and its release date. You could also include when you bought it, why you bought
it and your first impression.
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention the positive and/or negative aspects of the product
according to the format you choose.
You can write about:
 1. The product’s core features and your comment on them
2. The benefits and uses of the product
3. Any notable improvements or changes to previous versions (if applicable), and your
comment on them (Are they useful? Not many? Disappointing?)
4. Price (mention its price and comment on it: expensive, exorbitant, overpriced //
inexpensive, affordable, reasonable, low-priced, etc.)
Conclusion
In the conclusion, mention your overall opinion and recommendation (Is it worth buying?
Why? Why not? Who are the target users?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned earlier.
Points to keep in mind
Dos:
 Organize your review into 4-5 paragraphs. Leave a line between paragraphs or
indent the first line of each new paragraph. Don’t do both!
 Take care of spelling, punctuation, and grammar. This is important as the
examiner will look at the accuracy of your language.
 Use a wide range of cohesive devices and linking words. Here are some
examples:
 Addition: and, also, as well as, plus, what’s more, apart from that, not only … but also
…, but that’s not all, above all, and best of all, on top of that, one of the best things …
 Contrast: but, yet, though, while, however
 Reasoning: because, as, so, that’s why, for this reason,
 Giving examples: for example, like
 Highlighting and stressing: specifically, especially
 Use a combination of simple, compound, and complex sentences. A series of
long sentences will make your writing difficult to read, and a series of short simple
sentences will make your writing boring to read. Balance is the key.
 Place longer sentences next to shorter ones for a dramatic effect.
 Use a wide range of vocabulary, including some advanced and less commonly
used ones. Don’t use common adjectives such as happy, nice, bad, sad, etc. Try to
think of more advanced and interesting alternatives such as ecstatic, pleasant, terrible,
heartbroken, etc. We recommend reading a lot of samples to improve your vocabulary.
You can find them on our samples page.
 Use a variety of adjectives and adverbs
 Include a range of topic-related vocabulary to show that you have a good
understanding of the topic. For example, if you’re writing a film review, you could
include vocabulary such as “director, “cast”, “special effects”, “scene”, “protagonist”,
“blockbuster”, etc.
 Use advanced punctuation sparingly (1-3 in the whole review), for example, colon
(:), semicolon (;) and em dash (—).
 Aim to complete towards the maximum word limit (approximately 160 words).
Exceeding the word limit slightly (15-20 words) is fine as long as you write accurately
 and complete the task within the correct time. If you exceed the word limit by any
number of words, no marks will be cut directly, but you increase your chances of
making more mistakes and spending more time than required for this exercise, which
may affect your mark indirectly. If you write towards the lower limit or below, you are
highly unlikely to achieve the highest band for Content as your content is not well
developed.
 Develop your content by including reasons, evidence or examples to support
the opinions expressed.
 Spend about 30 minutes on this exercise: the initial 5 minutes for planning and the
last 2-3 minutes for checking your work for simple spelling and grammatical mistakes.
 Include your audience throughout by using pronouns such as “we”, “us” and “you”.
 Use phrasal verbs, examples: pick up, left off, takes you on, etc.
 Use contractions but stay away from ones which are too informal such as wanna,
gonna, etc.
 Write legibly
Don’ts
 Avoid writing very simple sentences with simple vocabulary, e.g. “The film is
very nice. The actors are also good, and the story is also great.”
 Avoid repetition of vocabulary and beginning your sentences with the same
words. Sometimes students write 3 or more sentences in a row starting with “The” or
“I”!
 Avoid very formal linking words and vocabulary like “moreover”, “furthermore”,
etc. as this may have a negative effect on the target audience (i.e. other students if
you’re writing for your school magazine).
 Avoid abbreviations and slang (texting language) such as, wanna, gonna, etc.
 Avoid listing (firstly, secondly, thirdly, etc.). If necessary, you might use other informal
alternatives to “firstly”, such as “To start with”, “For a start”, or “For starters”, but
listing is not preferred whatsoever.
 Avoid including too many different ideas in your review. It is better to include
fewer ideas and develop one or two in greater depth rather than writing many ideas
which are not well-developed.