Bac English: Writing an Article and a Formal Letter – Structure and Model Answers – 3rd Year Secondary School

Bac English: Writing an Article and a Formal Letter – Structure and Model Answers

Introduction

In the Baccalaureate English exam in Algeria, you may be asked to write either an article or a formal/informal letter. These two writing formats have specific structures and conventions that you must follow to get top marks. This lesson covers how to write both with clear models and practice exercises.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the structure of a newspaper/magazine article
• Learn the format and language of formal and informal letters
• Master the use of appropriate tone and register for each text type
• Practice with model answers for BAC-style writing tasks

Part 1: How to Write an Article

An article is a piece of writing intended to be published in a newspaper, magazine, or on a website. It expresses opinions, presents information, or argues a point of view. For the BAC exam, you will typically write an opinion article on a given topic.

Structure of an Article:

1. Title (العنوان): Catchy, short, and reflects the content. It should grab the reader’s attention. Use techniques like: questions (“Is Technology Taking Over Our Lives?”), alliteration (“The Plastic Problem”), or direct statements (“Climate Change: A Global Emergency”).

2. Introduction (المقدمة): 2–3 sentences that introduce the topic and state your main argument or thesis. Hook the reader with a surprising fact, a question, or a bold statement.

3. Body (المتن): 2–3 paragraphs, each covering one main point. Use linking words (firstly, furthermore, however, in addition, consequently) to connect ideas smoothly. Support your points with examples, evidence, or personal observations.

4. Conclusion (الخاتمة): 2–3 sentences that summarize your main points and end with a final thought, recommendation, or call to action.

Language Tips for Articles: Use a semi-formal tone, address the reader directly using “we” or “you,” use rhetorical questions, and include opinion phrases (“In my view,” “It is widely believed that”).

Model Article: “The Importance of Learning Foreign Languages”

In today’s globalized world, learning foreign languages has become more important than ever before. As Algeria continues to strengthen its international relations, mastering languages such as English, French, and Spanish opens many doors for young Algerians.

Firstly, knowing a foreign language significantly improves career prospects. Multinational companies actively seek employees who can communicate in multiple languages. Moreover, language skills often lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities both in Algeria and abroad.

Secondly, learning a language exposes you to new cultures and ways of thinking. Through language, you gain access to literature, films, and scientific research that would otherwise remain inaccessible. This cultural awareness makes you a more open-minded and adaptable person.

In conclusion, learning a foreign language is an investment in your future. Whether for professional success or personal growth, the benefits are invaluable. Start learning today — your future self will thank you!

Part 2: How to Write a Formal Letter

A formal letter follows a specific format. For the BAC exam, you might be asked to write a letter to a newspaper editor, a job application, or a letter of complaint.

Format of a Formal Letter:

[Your Address] [City, Postal Code] [Date] [Recipient’s Address] [City, Postal Code]

Subject: Brief description of the letter’s purpose (e.g., “Application for the Position of…”)

Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam, (if unknown) or Dear Mr. Smith, (if known)

Body Paragraph 1: State the purpose of your letter clearly.
Body Paragraph 2-3: Provide details, evidence, or reasons.
Closing Paragraph: State what you expect (a response, action, etc.)

Closing: Yours faithfully, (if Dear Sir/Madam) or Yours sincerely, (if Dear Mr./Ms.)
[Your Signature] [Your Printed Name]

Model Letter: Letter to the Editor about Environmental Pollution

123 Rue Didouche Mourad
Alger, 16000
20 June 2026

The Editor
Algeria Times
Alger

Subject: The Urgent Need to Address Plastic Pollution

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express my deep concern about the growing problem of plastic pollution in our cities and along our coastline. As a resident of Algiers, I have witnessed the alarming increase in plastic waste on our streets and beaches.

According to recent studies, Algeria produces over two million tons of plastic waste annually, much of which ends up in the Mediterranean Sea. This pollution threatens marine life, damages our tourism industry, and poses health risks to local communities. The current waste management system is clearly insufficient to handle this crisis.

I strongly urge the authorities to take immediate action. Implementing a ban on single-use plastics, investing in recycling facilities, and launching public awareness campaigns would be important first steps towards solving this problem.

I look forward to seeing your newspaper cover this important issue and hope that my concerns will be taken seriously.

Yours faithfully,
Ahmed Benali

Part 3: BAC Exam Tips

• Plan your writing before you start: 5 minutes of planning saves 15 minutes of rewriting.
• For articles: always use a catchy title — this is worth marks!
• For letters: memorise the format (addresses, salutation, closing) — format errors lose easy marks.
• Use paragraphing: a wall of text is hard to read and loses marks for organisation.
• Include linking words to show logical progression: firstly, moreover, however, consequently, in conclusion.
• Check your word count: BAC writing tasks typically require 120–180 words.
• Leave 5 minutes at the end to check for spelling and grammar mistakes.

Summary

Writing an article or a formal letter for the BAC exam follows clear conventions. An article needs a catchy title, clear introduction, well-structured body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion. A formal letter requires the correct format, appropriate salutation, clear purpose, and professional closing. Master these formats with regular practice, and you will excel in the writing section of your Bac exam.

📍 Similar Lessons

• Bac English: The Argumentative Essay – Complete Writing Guide
• Bac English: Linking Words and Connectors – Writing Guide