Review
Learn how to introduce what you are reviewing, judge key features fairly and recommend whether others should try it.
Watch the lesson
Watch the matching Path to Selective lesson when available, then review the structure before you practise.
Purpose, audience and tone
Purpose
Help the reader decide whether a book, film, product or place is worth their time.
Typical audience
People deciding whether to read, watch, visit or buy something.
Tone
evaluative, honest, engaging
Core structure
Follow these steps so your response matches the expected Review format.
Introduction of the subject
Name what you are reviewing and give a quick overview.
Summary without spoilers
Share enough context so the reader understands the subject.
Strengths
Explain what worked well, with specific examples.
Weaknesses
Explain what could be improved, still using clear evidence.
Recommendation
Give a clear final judgement and say who would enjoy it.
Exam time plan
A clear 30-minute plan for exam conditions.
Example opening or extract
Sample opening
Key features
- A clear introduction of the subject
- Specific examples that support judgements
- Balanced comments on strengths and weaknesses
- Evaluative vocabulary
- A final recommendation
Common mistakes
- Only retelling the plot
- Giving opinions with no examples
- Hiding the final recommendation
- Being unfairly one-sided without reasons
Planning checklist
- What am I reviewing?
- What are two strengths and one weakness?
- Which examples prove my points?
- Who would enjoy this?
- What is my overall recommendation?
Practice options
Apply what you learned in a timed exam using the Path to Selective exam experience.
Timed Exam Practice
Complete the response under realistic 30-minute NSW Selective exam conditions.
Start 30-Minute ExamFinal editing checklist
- Did I introduce the subject clearly?
- Are my judgements supported with examples?
- Have I included a recommendation?
- Is the tone honest and helpful?
Related formats
Continue with a nearby format to strengthen transferable skills.