A REVIEW is usually written for an English-language magazine, newspaper or website. The main purpose is to describe and express a personal opinion about something which the writer has experienced (e.g. a film, a holiday, a product, a website etc.) and to give the reader a clear impression of what the item discussed is like. Description and explanation are key functions for this task, and a review will normally include a recommendation to the reader.
It is a good idea to give your review an interesting title.
In the first paragraph, say what you are reviewing and try to get the reader's interest.
Give your opinion of what you are reviewing linked to the question in the second paragraph. Remember a review is not just a list of facts - it's largely your opinion.
Give more details of what your are reviewing linked to the questions in the input in one or two more paragraphs, but only focus on those you've been asked to develop.
Summarise your view, using different words from the introduction, and include a recommendation.
Remember:
o Use a personal or more neutral style, according to the target reader.
o It is important that you show a range of structures in the language of opinion, description and recommendation.
o Add vivid language to add interest.
What I liked
What I liked most was …..
The thing I liked most was ….
I was pleasantly surprised by …..
….. would appeal to …..
If you get a chance to ….
What I disliked
What I disliked most was …..
I was disappointed by/with ……
Reviews of books
main character
is set in
Fiction: science fiction / thriller / fantasy / mystery / historical / romance ...
Non-fiction: cook book / travel book / textbook / manual / coffee-table book ...
atmosphere / plot
author
written by
chapter
factual
unbelievable
bestseller
ending
Reviews of concerts
artist / band / musician / (bass/lead/rhythm) guitarist / (backing/lead) singer / drummer / soloist / trio / orchestra
auditorium / hall / venue / lyrics / (catchy) tune / score / gig
Reviews of exhibitions
painting / sculpture / handicrafts
gallery / catalogue / display
Reviews of films
lead role
star role
star
star actor/actress
starring
secondary role
He plays a …….
written by ….
cast / director / producer
is set in …..
based on a true story …..
believable
true to life
not very believable
far-fetched
(As for fiction books +): animation / adaptation / comedy
Costumes / design / photography / script / special effects / soundtrack
ending
Reviews of TV programmes
Chat shows / current affairs programme / debate / documentary / series / soap opera/ sitcom (situation comedy)
Host / presenter
Reviews of hotels, restaurants, etc
location
service
setting
attractive / disappointing setting
owned by
run by
head chef (restaurant)
waiters (restaurant)
staff …….
staff at reception …….(hotel)
hotel facilities ….
reasonable prices …..
good/excellent/poor value for money …..
(a bit/somehow) expensive
overpriced
not worth the money
always fully booked
book in advance
Criticism
The script seemed rather conventional/predictable to me.
The plot struck me as completely bizarre/absurd/incomprehensible
The characters are appealing and true to life
The dancers were quite brilliant/amateurish
Recommendations
Judging from this CD / show ...
Overall, if you like ..., you'll love / you should ...
Although some of ... he/she/it's still a great...
You really must/should buy/see/read/visit ...
I would definitely recommend seeing/visiting/reading/having a look at ...