Text Types and Purposes

A narrative essay is a type of essay that tells a story. The story can be something you imagined, saw or personally experienced. It usually follows a clear order.

Structure of a Narrative Essay

₁. Exposition: The beginning of the story where background information is given.

2. Introduction of Characters: Characters are the people or animals in your story.

3. Setting: Where and when the story happens.

4. Climax: The most exciting or important part of the story.

5. Falling Action: What happens after the climax, as things begin to settle.

6. Resolution/Denouement: How the story ends or how the problem is solved.

Key Features of a Narrative Essay

₁. Storytelling: Telling a story with a beginning, middle and end.

2. Personal Point of View: Most narrative essays are written in the first person ("I", "my", "we") to talk about our experience.

3. Descriptive Language: Using detailed words that help the reader see, feel and imagine what’s happening.

4. Emotions: Good narrative essays make the reader have a feeling of happiness, sadness, surprise, or fear.

Table 5.2: Types of Narrative Essays

Type Definition Example

Personal Narrative A true story about something that happened to you The day I got lost at the market Autobiographical Narrative A true story about an important event in your life How I overcame stage fright in school Imaginative Narrative A made-up (fictional) story using your imagination The day I met a talking lion in my dreams

Activity 5.4 Discussing Elements in Narrative Essays

1. In groups of five, discuss the key elements of a narrative essay.

2. Read the sample narrative essay below.

3. In a table form, list five examples each of the elements of a narrative from the sample essay.

It was a cloudy Monday morning, and the school compound buzzed with excitement. I stood quietly in the corner of the assembly grounds, my heart thudding as I waited for my name to be called. This was the day of the big debate, the one event I had dreaded for weeks. I had always been shy. Speaking in front of a crowd felt like standing on the edge of a cliff. But Miss Adjei, my English teacher, saw something in me. “You have strong ideas,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to share them.” So, I had reluctantly agreed to represent my class in the school debate competition.

The debate topic was “Social Media Does More Harm Than Good.” I was on the side opposing the motion. As I watched other contestants speak, I grew more nervous. Some were confident and loud, others fumbled, just like I feared I would. Then I heard my name: “Ama Mensah from Class 3B.”

I stepped forward, legs trembling. I took a deep breath, glanced at the audience, and began. At first, my voice was shaky, but as I continued, I found strength in my words.

I spoke about how social media had helped connect people, promote businesses, and raise awareness on social issues. The more I spoke, the more confident I felt. By the time I finished, there was applause.

Later that day, when the results were announced, I didn't win. But I didn't care. I had conquered my fear. I had spoken in public, and people had listened.

From that day, I realised that fear only has power when you allow it. Sometimes, it takes just one moment of courage to change how you see yourself forever.

Activity 5.5 Story Mapping

1. In groups of three, use a story map to create a short story of about 350 words.

2. Share your work with a different group.

3. Discuss the moral lessons in the story your friends have written.

4. Review each other’s work and give written or oral feedback. Check for appropriate use of story mapping and grammatical expression.

A debate is a formal and structured argument between two opposing sides on a specific topic or motion. Each side aims to convince the audience or judges to support their viewpoint through logical reasoning, evidence, and persuasive language. Key terms used in debate include motion, argument, proposer/proposition, opposer/opposition and rebuttal/counter-argument. A good debate must follow a clear structure which includes an introduction, a body and a conclusion. The language used in debates should be persuasive and formal and avoid slang or informal expressions.

Note: Debate has already been covered in Year One and Year Two. You are expected to revise your previous notes and materials to refresh your understanding. After that, kindly proceed to the activities in this section, which are designed to assess your ability to apply what you have learnt. Thorough preparation is essential.

Activity 11.4 Analysing, Organising and Presenting Arguments

1. In your mixed-ability groups, carefully analyse the motion: ‘Examinations are not a true test of knowledge.’

a. Identify and write three key arguments in support of the motion (for).

b. Identify and write three key arguments against the motion (against).

c. Share your group’s ideas with the class and explain your reasons.

2. In your group, read the motion below and do the following:

‘Success is more about who you know than what you know.’

a. Choose a stance on the motion (for or against).

b. Select three speakers to represent your team.

c. Appoint two judges from another group to observe and assess the debate.

Activity 11.5 The Ultimate Debate Challenge

In groups of four, read the motion carefully: Promoting agriculture in Ghana is the surest way of solving the unemployment problem in Ghana.

a. In your group, write out a full speech for your debate team based on the motion above.

b. Use appropriate vocatives to address the audience or judges.

c. Include persuasive language and rhetorical questions to strengthen your arguments.

d. Ensure that your ideas are logically and systematically arranged from the introduction to the conclusion.

e. Present your group’s work to the class.

f. The winning group from each round will face another winning group in the next stage of the debate.

g. This process will continue until the best group emerges as the overall winner.

Activity 11.6 Your Voice, Your Argument

1. In your small group, read the motion below.

‘Social media does more harm than good among Ghanaian youth.’

a. Write down your group’s position on the topic (for or against).

b. Write down three strongest arguments your group can make to support your stance.

c. Share your answers with the class.

2. In your group, use the concept map to organise your ideas on the given debate topic.

‘The use of mobile phones in senior high schools should be allowed’

A Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume is a written document that shows your background, education, skills, and experience. You write a CV when you are applying for a job, scholarship, internship, or admission to a school. It helps the employer or institution know more about you and why you are a good choice for the opportunity. A good CV must be clear, well-arranged, honest, and free from errors. This lesson in the section will help you understand the parts of a good CV or Resume. You will also learn how to read, discuss, and write your own CV. You will practise by looking at sample CVs and writing one based on a job advert or scholarship offer. By the end of your reading, you should be able to create a strong CV that fits the opportunity you are applying for.

KEY IDEAS

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A formal document that gives detailed information about your education, skills, and experience. Used for applying for jobs, scholarships, or admission.

• Resume: A shorter version of a CV that focuses on the most important and relevant information.

A Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume is a formal document that gives information about a person’s education, skills, work experience and achievements. It is usually written when applying for a job, internship, scholarship or admission to a school.

Your CV or Resume is often the first impression you give to an employer or institution, so it must be clear, well-organised and free from errors.

What is the Difference Between a CV and a Resume?

In many situations, both CV and Resume are used to mean the same thing. Nevertheless:

A CV is usually longer, giving detailed information about your education and experience.

A Resume is usually shorter, focusing only on what is most relevant to the opportunity you are applying for. In Ghana, the two terms are often used interchangeably.

Components of a Good CV / Resume _(When) writing a CV or Resume, include the following parts:

1. Personal Details: This section shows your basic information, such as:

a. Full name

b. Address

c. Phone number

d. Nationality

2. Profile or Career Objective: This is a short paragraph that introduces you to the employer or school. It should tell the following.

a. Who you are

b. What you are good at

c. What you want to achieve in the future

3. Educational Background: List your schools and qualifications starting from the most recent. Include:

a. Name of school

b. Town or city

c. Dates attended

d. Subjects studied (especially at SHS level)

4. Work Experience: Mention any of the following

a. Jobs

b. Internships

c. Volunteer work

5. Give details

a. Name of organisation

b. Location

c. Period

d. Duties and responsibilities

6. Skills: Write about what you can do well.

Examples

a. Computer (ICT) skills

b. Public speaking

c. Teamwork

d. Writing and communication

7. Achievements and Awards: Include anything you are proud of, such as:

a. Academic awards

b. Leadership positions

c. Certificates of participation in competitions or projects

8. Referees: These are people who can speak well about your commitment, attitude and work. Choose people like teachers, religious leaders or community leaders (not family members). Include:

a. Their full name

b. Job title or position

c. Phone number

d. Email address Sample CV / Resume Template Your Full Name: Elikem Ewoenam Town/City/Region/Nationality: Ho Phone Number: 024xxxxxxx Email Address: [email protected] Profile / Career Objective I am a hardworking and well-organised SHS graduate with good communication and teamwork skills. I am ready to support any work environment while learning more through practice. I am looking for a chance to use what I have studied in school, gain new skills, and improve myself.

Education Background

Senior High School Certificate (WASSCE)

Name of School: Sogakofe Senior High School

Town/City: Sogakofe

September 2020 – June 2023 Elective Subjects: Elective Mathematics, Management, Accounting, Economics Core Subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Integrated Science, Social Studies Junior High School Certificate (BECE) Name of School: Dora Memorial School Complex Town/City: Ho September 2017 – June 2020 Subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Science, Religious Studies, Creative Arts Work Experience Intern – Administrative Assistant Organisation Name: Selpat Enterprise Town/City: Ho July 2022 – August 2023

• Filed documents and organised records

• Assisted with preparing reports and managing schedules

• Provided support for visitors and staff Volunteer – Community Clean-up Project Local Assembly or NGO Name: Pencil of Hope Location: Akome April 2023

• Participated in organising and leading a sanitation campaign

• Educated residents on proper waste disposal methods

• Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Good leadership and teamwork abilities

• Time management and attention to detail Achievements and Awards

• Best Student in English Language – 2023

• Certificate of Participation – 2023 Ghana National Essay Competition

• Assistant School Prefect – 2022/2023 Academic Year Referees Mr. Benjamin Orrison Akrono English Tutor, Islamic Girls’ SHS, Suhum 020XXXXXXX [email protected] Ms. Perfect Selasi Quarshie Assembly Member Community Name 024XXXXXXX [email protected] Important Note A CV for a job may be slightly different from a CV for a scholarship. The structure is mostly the same, but you must adjust some sections to match the purpose.

• A job CV may focus more on work experience and skills.

• A scholarship CV may focus more on academic achievements and interests.

Points to Note When Writing a CV / Resume When writing your CV or Resume, keep the following important points in mind to make it clear, organised and suitable for the purpose:

1. Use the Correct Format

a. Follow a simple and neat structure with clear headings.

b. Use the British format (e.g., write dates as "June 2023", not "06/23").

2. Keep It Short and Relevant

a. Your CV should be one to two pages long.

b. Include only information that is relevant to the opportunity you are applying for (job, scholarship, or internship).

3. Start with the Most Recent Information: For education and work experience, list the most recent first and move backwards. This draws focus to your major strengths.

4. Use Formal and Polite Language

a. Avoid slang or casual expressions.

b. Write in full sentences or use clear bullet points for your duties and skills.

5. Be Honest

a. Never include false information. Truth is vital even though you are ‘selling yourself’.

b. Write only what you have truly done or achieved.

6. Check Spelling and Grammar before you send it off.

a. Make sure your writing is free from spelling, punctuation and grammar mistakes.

b. Ask a teacher or friend to read through and give honest feedback.

7. Use Action Words: Begin points in the work experience section with action words like: Organised, Filed, Participated, Assisted, Managed, and Presented.

8. Choose Referees Carefully: Your referees should be people who know your personality and abilities well, such as teachers, religious leaders or community leaders.

9. Use a computer if Possible: If you have access to a computer, type your CV using a word processor like Microsoft Word.

a. Format it well using:

b. Bold for headings

c. Clear font (e.g., Arial or Times New Roman)

d. Proper spacing and bullet points

10. Update Your CV Regularly

a. Add new achievements, certificates or work experience when they occur.

b. Remove outdated information that is no longer relevant.

These points will help you prepare a strong CV or Resume that creates a good impression and increases your chances of success when applying for any opportunity.

Scan the QR code or click on the link below to watch a video on writing CVs/Resumes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhYvD0RGCHc&t=42s There is a range of excellent advice in the QR code selection above.

Activity 16.1 Identifying Key Components In Sample CV/Resume

Your facilitator will give you two sample CVs/Resumes

1. In your study groups, identify all key components of the CV/Resume

2. Evaluate the sample CV/Resume to identify the strengths and weaknesses

3. In pairs, rewrite any poorly written CV/Resume

4. Share the group’s work with other group members

Activity 16.2 Composing CV/Resume

1. You have seen a job advertisement in a local newspaper below.

Compose a CV that highlights your qualifications, skills, and experience that match the job.

Job Title: Shop Assistant

Location: GhanaMart Supermarket, Ho

Requirements: SHS graduate, good communication skills, basic computer knowledge, willingness to work flexible hours.

2. You are applying for a scholarship to study a diploma programme at a local tertiary institution. The scholarship is awarded to students who show academic promise and leadership potential. Write a CV to support your scholarship application.

In this section, you will engage in hands-on, collaborative activities aimed at developing business proposals that address real-life challenges within your school or community.

Through guided class discussions and analysis of sample proposals, you will learn to distinguish clearly between a business proposal and a business plan. In your groups, you will brainstorm ideas, select a relevant problem, and develop creative solutions.

You will then organise your ideas into a clear and convincing proposal, using visual aids to support your presentation. Throughout the process, you will practise teamwork, critical thinking, and persuasive communication. These lessons are not only meant to improve your understanding of business writing but also to prepare you with important life skills such as planning, presenting, and problem-solving. By the end of the week, you should be able to present a proposal with real confidence that responds to real needs, demonstrating your creativity and readiness for future academic and entrepreneurial tasks.

KEY IDEAS

• Budget: A plan showing how money will be earned and spent.

• Business Proposal: A formal document that explains a business idea and aims to convince others to support it.

• Executive Summary: A brief section that highlights the key points of a proposal.

A business proposal is a written plan that explains a business idea or project in detail.

It is like a pitch that shows how your idea can work and why it is worth supporting.

Imagine you want to start a small business, perhaps selling handmade crafts, organising clean-up services in your community, or offering tutoring for younger students. A business proposal would help you explain your idea clearly to others, such as teachers, investors, or community leaders.

It includes important information like what the business is about, who your target customers are, what resources you need, how much it will cost, and how you expect to make a profit. It also highlights what makes your idea unique and how it can benefit others if they are attracted to it. Writing a good business proposal requires creativity, planning, and clear communication. It helps you organise your thoughts and persuade others to support or invest in your business idea.

Key Components of a Business Proposal

When writing a business proposal, it is important to include specific parts that clearly explain your idea and how it will work. These key components help others understand your plan, see its value, and decide whether to support or invest in it. Below are the main parts you should include in your business proposal:

Business Idea

This is the foundation of your proposal. It describes what your business is about. What product or service will you offer? Is it a snack shop, a cleaning service, mobile phone repairs, or tutoring for younger students? Be clear and creative. State the name of the business, what it does, and why it is needed in your school or community.

Target Market

Explain who your customers will be. These are the people you expect to buy your product or use your service. Are they classmates, teachers, parents, or community members? Be specific about their age group, interests, or needs. Understanding your target market helps you design a business that truly serves others.

Marketing Plan

Your business idea will only succeed if people know about it. This explains how you will promote your business to attract customers. Will you use posters, school notice boards, word of mouth, social media, or announcements? Describe the tools and methods you will use to advertise and persuade people to support your business.

Financial Plan

Money matters. Here, you outline the estimated costs of starting and running your business. What materials or equipment will you need to buy? How much will each item cost? How will you price your product or service? How much income do you expect to make in a week or month? This section shows whether your idea is affordable and profitable.

Operations Plan

This part explains how the business will be run day to day. Who will be responsible for which tasks? What tools or supplies will be needed? Will you need a team, or can you run it alone? How often will the business operate: daily, weekly, or only on special days? A good operations plan makes your proposal practical and realistic.

Importance of a Business Proposal

A business proposal is more than just a written document. It is a powerful tool that helps bring a business idea to life. Whether you are proposing a small school-based project or a real business in your community, understanding the importance of a business proposal will help you become a better planner, communicator, and problem- solver. Below are three key reasons why a business proposal is important:

A Business Proposal Clarifies Your Idea

Before starting any business, it is important to fully understand what you want to do.

Writing a proposal allows you to think deeply about your business idea. You are forced to ask questions like, 'What is my product or service?' Who will buy it? How will I deliver it? In this process, you may discover gaps in your thinking or challenges you hadn’t considered. This clarity helps you strengthen your idea before taking action.

It Helps You to Prepare

A business proposal requires you to plan. You must think about costs, target customers, needed resources, and how to make a profit. This preparation helps you stay focused and organised when the business begins. A proposal also serves as a reference guide, helping you track your progress and make improvements when necessary. Being prepared increases your chances of success and reduces the risk of failure.

It Persuades Others

One of the main purposes of a business proposal is to convince others. Whether you are seeking permission from school authorities, support from your community, or investment from sponsors, a strong proposal can make a big difference. If your proposal is clear, detailed, and well-presented, it can persuade others that your idea is worth supporting. This can open doors to funding, partnerships, and useful advice.

A Simple Business Proposal

A business proposal shows what you want to do, how you will do it, and why it will succeed. A proposal is important because it helps you think carefully about your idea, prepare for challenges, and persuade others to support you. Below is an example of a simple business proposal and what each part means.

1. Business Idea: This is a short description of what your business will do. E.g., To sell homemade baked goods such as cupcakes and cookies at school or in the neighbourhood.

2. Target Market: This tells who your customers will be. E.g., Classmates, teachers, and neighbours.

3. Marketing Plan: This document explains how you will promote your business, so people know about it. E.g., Create posters and flyers to advertise, and use social media to promote the business.

4. Financial Plan: This shows the costs to start the business, how much you will charge, and how you will make a profit. E.g., Estimate the cost of ingredients and baking supplies, then set a price for each item that covers costs and gives a profit.

5. Operations Plan: This explains how the business will run day-to-day. E.g., Bake goods at home and sell them during lunch or snack breaks at school.

How to write a business proposal A business proposal is a formal document that presents your business idea to potential investors, partners, or clients, intending to persuade them to support, fund, or collaborate with you. Writing a clear and well-structured business proposal increases your chances of gaining approval and achieving your goals.

Before writing, you must have a solid understanding of your business concept.

a. State what product or service you intend to provide. Be specific and avoid vague descriptions.

b. Know exactly who your customers are (e.g., age, location, interests) and the problems they face.

c. Highlight what makes your business different from others and why people should choose you over competitors.

Conduct Market Research

Good proposals are backed by facts, not guesses.

a. Gather data and insights: Study your target market size, customer preferences, industry trends, and competitors. Use surveys, interviews, and online research.

b. Analyse your findings: Identify gaps in the market, potential demand, and possible threats.

c. Purpose: This shows that your business idea is realistic and has growth potential.

Figure 19.1: Image showing steps in writing business proposals Create a clear structure before writing. A typical business proposal may include:

Table 19.1: Content of a typical business proposal Executive Summary Brief highlights of the whole proposal.

Company Description Who you are and what you do.

Problem Statement The issue or need you are addressing

Solution Overview How your product/service solves the problem Market Analysis Data and insights about the industry and customers Financial Projections Expected income, costs, and profitability Implementation Plan Steps and timelines for execution.

Conclusion A final persuasive summary Summarise your business idea, goals, and why it matters. Highlight key benefits: Investors or readers should see the value at a glance.

Write Your Company Description: Introduce your company by providing background details. When and how the business started, and its structure. State your purpose, long-term goal, and values. Build credibility by highlighting achievements, awards, or relevant experience.

Write Your Problem Statement: Clearly state the problem or opportunity. This is the need your business will address. Explain how this problem affects your target audience’s lives, productivity, or well-being. Make it clear why solving it now is important.

Activity 19.1 Identifying Local Needs for Business

1. What are some local needs you have identified in your school or community?

2. Why do you think addressing them would benefit your school or community?

3. From the real-life examples discussed, which one would your group choose to develop further?

4. What key reasons support your choice?

5. What differences can your group identify between a business proposal and a business plan?

6. Why do you think it is important to understand these differences before starting a business?

Activity 19.2 Evaluating Sample Business Proposals

In groups of three, read the two business proposals below.

Sample Business Proposal 1

Business Name: Healthy Bites School Canteen

1. Executive Summary

Healthy Bites aims to provide nutritious and affordable meals for students at Abuakwa State College. By replacing junk food with balanced meals, the canteen will promote healthy eating habits and improve student well-being.

2. Company Description

Healthy Bites will be a school-based canteen run by a team of students and supervised by a teacher. Our mission is to encourage healthy lifestyles through accessible, tasty, and affordable meals.

3. Problem Statement

Currently, most food sold around the school consists of fried snacks and sugary drinks. This leads to unhealthy eating patterns, low energy levels during classes, and poor concentration among students.

4. Proposed Solution

Healthy Bites will offer fresh fruit juices, whole-grain sandwiches, salads, and locally prepared meals at affordable prices. The menu will rotate weekly to ensure variety and balance.

5. Market Analysis

A recent student survey revealed that 80% of learners are willing to buy healthier food if it is affordable and tasty. Competitors are limited to small kiosks selling less healthy options.

6. Financial Projections

Start-up Cost: 1,200 (for equipment, utensils, and initial stock) Monthly Sales Target: GHS 2,000 Expected Profit: GHS 500 per month after expenses.

Sample Business Proposal 2

Business Name: Kwabotwe Printing Services

1. Executive Summary

Kwabotwe Printing Services will provide affordable printing and photocopy services within Mfantsipim School. This business will save students and teachers time and money by offering quick and reliable document services without leaving the school premises.

2. Company Description

Kwabotwe Printing Services will be managed by a group of entrepreneurial students under the supervision of the Business Studies Department. Our mission is to make academic document preparation easy, affordable, and accessible for the entire school community.

3. Problem Statement

Students and teachers currently travel outside the school to print or photocopy documents. This is time-consuming and costly, especially during peak academic periods like examinations.

4. Proposed Solution

Kwabotwe Printing Services will operate a small printing station within the school. Services will include black-and-white printing, photocopying, and basic document formatting. Competitive prices will make the service affordable for all.

5. Market Analysis

A quick survey showed that 95% of students and teachers use printing or photocopying at least twice a month. Currently, the nearest service is 15 minutes away from the school, leading to delays and disruptions.

6. Financial Projections

Start-up Cost: GHS 2,500 (for printer, photocopier, paper, ink) Monthly Sales Target: GHS 1,800 Expected Profit: GHS 400 per month after expenses

7. Implementation Plan

Week 1: Purchase and set up equipment.

Week 2: Advertise services through posters and announcements.

Week 3: Begin operations and offer a 10% discount for the first week.

Questions

a. How would you rate the sample business proposals in terms of clarity, feasibility, grammar, format, and persuasiveness?

b. What are the main strengths of the proposals?

c. What are the weaknesses, and how could they be improved?

Activity 19.3 Innovative Ideas for Local Problems

In pairs, discuss a business idea that can solve the stated problem in Activity 19.2.

a. How does your idea address the problem effectively?

b. Share your idea with the class for feedback.

c. What feedback did you receive from the class, and how will you use it to improve your idea?

Activity 19.4 Business Proposal Presentation in Pairs

In pairs, present your business proposal to the class as if you are pitching to potential investors.

a. Use visual aids such as posters or slides to make your presentation clear and engaging.

b. Listen carefully to the constructive feedback given by your classmates and the teacher during your presentation.

c. Note the feedback and plan how you will improve your proposal or presentation based on it.

A personal statement is a short formal essay that tells others about you, your background, achievements, interests, and plans. You usually write it when applying for a university course, scholarship, internship, or special programme. It helps the school or organisation understand who you are, why you are interested in the opportunity, and what makes you a good candidate. A strong personal statement can make you stand out from other applicants, especially when many people have similar grades.

In this section, you will learn the key parts of a personal statement, how to plan and write one, and how to explain your goals clearly and confidently. You will also study examples, work in pairs or groups, and write your own personal statement step by step.

Just like the CV production earlier, tell the truth, use a critical reader, and remove all inaccuracies from the work.

KEY IDEA

Personal Statement: A short formal essay that explains who you are, what you’ve done, and what you hope to do, often used for school or job applications.

A Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose is a formal essay that talks about who you are, what you have done, and what you hope to do in the future. It is usually written when you are applying for:

a. A university or college programme (undergraduate or postgraduate),

b. A scholarship,

c. An internship, or

d. A professional or exchange programme.

This statement helps the institution or organisation know more about you, your background, goals, interests and reasons for applying.

Your personal statement is often the first impression you give to an admissions committee or employer. A strong statement can help you stand out from other applicants, especially when grades and qualifications are similar.

Ask yourself these important questions before writing your personal statement

a. What is the purpose of the statement?

Are you applying for a university course, a scholarship, or an internship?

b. What field or subject are you interested in?

example, Science, Business, Medicine, Engineering...

c. Which school or institution are you applying to?

Name of the university or organisation.

d. What is your academic background?

Subjects you studied and any awards or achievements.

e. What are your future goals?

What do you hope to achieve in your career or life?

Structure of a Good Personal Statement

A personal statement usually has four main parts:

1. Introduction: Introduce yourself and state the programme you are applying for.

Mention your interest or passion in that field.

2. Education and Experience: Talk about your school background and subjects you were good at. Include any projects, research, or internships that gave you practical experience.

3. Skills and Activities: Mention any clubs, volunteer work or jobs you have done. Talk about the skills you learned (e.g., leadership, teamwork, communication).

4. Future Goals: Explain what you want to achieve in the future. Say why the programme you are applying for will help you reach your goals.

Sample Personal Statement

My name is Ama Mensah. I would like to apply for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing programme at the University of Ghana. I have always been passionate about helping people and learning how the human body works, which is why I am interested in studying nursing.

I completed my WASSCE at E. P. C Mawuko Girls Senior High School, where I studied General Science. I performed well in subjects like Biology, Chemistry and Integrated Science. During school, I developed a strong interest in healthcare and human biology, which led me to do a holiday attachment at a local clinic in my community. This gave me hands-on experience and helped me understand the real-life work of nurses.

Aside from academics, I was the assistant health prefect and a member of the Red Cross Club, where I took part in health outreach programmes and peer education. These

activities helped me develop my leadership and communication skills.

I believe the Nursing programme at the University of Ghana will give me the right knowledge and training to become a professional nurse. I am especially excited to learn from experienced lecturers and use the school’s modern laboratories.

My dream is to become a community health nurse and help improve healthcare delivery in rural areas. I believe this programme is a great step towards achieving that goal.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, Ama Mensah

Tips for Writing Your Personal Statement

1. Use clear and simple English.

2. Be honest about your experiences.

3. Keep it formal avoid slang or casual language.

4. Use the first person (I, my).

5. Make sure your statement is well organised and easy to read.

Activity 20.1 Explaining Key Features and Usefulness of Personal Statement

1. In your study groups, explain the key features of a Personal Statement.

2. Discuss the usefulness of Personal Statements

3. Share your discussions with other group members

Activity 20.2 Analysing Written Personal Statement

Your facilitator will give you samples of Personal Statements Use the sample statements to do the following:

1. Work in pairs, label each part of the statement.

2. Highlight specific language choices such as verbs, transition words, and formal tone.

3. Discuss with your partner what makes the tone of the statement formal.

Activity 20.3 Drafting Personal Statement

1. In pairs, plan and draft a personal statement using the sample statement provided for Activity 20. 2 above.

2. Take turns to review each other’s drafts, focusing on clarity, structure, tone and relevance.

3. Present your work to your facilitator for final review.