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Our Garden Behind the Gym
Writing
Writing task
Before you submit, check: ✓ I gave my article an engaging opening that makes readers want to continue ✓ I used passive structures where appropriate (for example "was started by", "are being grown") ✓ I mentioned two clear benefits with a reason or example for each ✓ I ended with a direct invitation to the reader
Write an article of about 180 words for your school magazine about a new school garden that students have started behind the sports hall. In your article: explain how the project began, describe what students are growing and who looks after it, discuss two benefits of the project for the school community, and invite readers to get involved.
Show sample answer
Model answer: Walk behind the sports hall at lunchtime and you may be surprised by what you find: rows of green seedlings, a wooden compost box and a group of students in muddy shoes. This is the new school garden, and it is already becoming one of the most popular corners of the campus.
The idea was first suggested by Year 10 students, who had noticed that a patch of neglected ground was being used for nothing at all. After persuading the headteacher and collecting donations from local families, they cleared the soil last autumn. Tomatoes, peppers, herbs and sunflowers are now being grown there, and a rota has been created so that every class takes turns watering the plants.
The benefits go beyond fresh vegetables. Firstly, the garden gives students a calm place to take a break from screens and exams, and several teachers have noticed that pupils return to lessons more relaxed. Secondly, it has brought different year groups together. Older students teach younger ones how to plant seeds, and friendships have grown as quickly as the vegetables.
If you would like to help, come along on Wednesday afternoons, when new volunteers are always welcome. You don't need any experience, only a little enthusiasm and a pair of old trainers.
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