Reading: Understanding Different Text Types
B2 Lesson 1: Identifying Common Genres
Before You Read 🧠
Key Vocabulary
A skilled reader understands that not all texts are the same. Recognizing a text's genre allows you to predict its content and adapt your reading strategy.
An Analysis of Five Common Text Genres
Purpose: To inform the public objectively about a recent, factual event.
Key Features: A headline, a dateline (location), a neutral tone, and the most important information first.
New Coastal Road Construction Completed Ahead of Schedule
KEP – June 12, 2025The new 12-kilometer coastal road connecting the Kep pier to the Angkol beach area was officially opened to the public yesterday, two months ahead of schedule. The Head of the Provincial Department of Public Works stated that the road will improve local access and boost tourism.
Purpose: To persuade the reader to agree with the author's viewpoint on an issue.
Key Features: An argumentative tone, persuasive and emotional language, and a clear stance.
While the new coastal road is visually impressive, the project is a tragic example of poor planning. The construction has irreversibly damaged sensitive mangrove forests that protected the coastline. This is not progress; it is a shortsighted decision that prioritized speed over sustainability.
Purpose: To inform and entertain with an in-depth look at a topic.
Key Features: A catchy title, an engaging or descriptive style, and a mix of facts, quotes, and storytelling.
The Keepers of the Salt
Under the brilliant Cambodian sun, the salt fields of Kampot stretch out like a vast, shimmering chessboard. For generations, local families have practiced the ancient and arduous art of harvesting pure sea salt. I spoke with Mr. Sareth, a 60-year-old farmer whose hands tell the story of a lifetime spent working this unique landscape...
Purpose: To evaluate something (a product, service, etc.) and give a judgment.
Key Features: A clear subject, a rating, and a mix of objective summary and subjective opinion.
"The Kampot Secret" Guesthouse ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
This guesthouse has a fantastic location right on the river. The rooms are basic but clean. However, the shared bathrooms were not well-maintained, and the noise from the nearby street was quite loud. A decent option if you are on a tight budget.
Purpose: To communicate in a professional or official capacity.
Key Features: A clear subject line, a formal greeting (e.g., Dear Mr. Chan,), a polite tone, and a formal closing (e.g., Sincerely,).
Subject: Inquiry Regarding Job Application
Dear Mr. Chan,
I am writing to follow up on my application for the position of Hotel Receptionist. Could you please confirm if my application has been received?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Sophea Keo
Practice What You Learned 🎯
Quiz: Identify the Genre
1. Read the text below. What is its genre?
"The film's plot was confusing and the acting was unconvincing. The special effects were impressive, but they were not enough to save this boring movie. I cannot recommend it. 1/5 stars."
→ Answer: Review. The star rating, opinionated words ("boring"), and recommendation are clear clues.
2. Read the text below. What is its genre?
"The Ministry of Health today announced a new public vaccination campaign starting on July 1st. The campaign aims to reach 500,000 people in the southern provinces."
→ Answer: News Report. It informs the public about a recent, factual event with a neutral tone.
Key Vocabulary Reference
- Genre A style or category of writing, such as a news report, story, or review.
- News Report A text that gives objective, factual information about a recent event.
- Editorial An article that gives the strong, persuasive opinion of the writer.
- Magazine Article An in-depth article that informs and entertains.
- Review A text that gives a critical evaluation and personal judgment of something.
- Formal Correspondence Official or professional communication, like a business letter or email.
Your Reading Mission ⭐
Be a Genre Detective!
Find two different genres of English text this week. For example, an editorial (opinion piece) from a news website and a review of a hotel in Kampot on TripAdvisor.
For each text, identify its genre and write down two key features (from the format, tone, or language) that helped you know what it was.