Diary & Blog (Leaving Cert English): Revision Notes

Blog

Blog Post Structure

• Title: Weblink, blog entry title, online pseudonym, date and time.
• Introduction: Introduce the topic of the blog.
• Body Paragraphs: 3 experiences/issues
• Conclusion: Provide reflexion on experiences/ideas

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Using TAGS to Plan Your Response:

Topic: The experiences and reflections on your chosen topic.

Audience: Blog readers who are interested in the experiences you detail.

Genre: Use structural features such as a catchy title, engaging introduction, informative body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion. One or two emojis can be used/drawn to emphasise the digital nature of the entry

Style: Choose an informal, chatty tone to make the blog post engaging and personal. Avoid text-speak and maintain a clear, readable structure.

How to Write a Blog Post

General:

• A blog post is more informal than an article in a newspaper.

• Blog posts are not professionally edited, so they are more personal and possibly biassed.

• The main focus of a blog is to express the blogger's view on a particular topic.

• Despite the informality, it is an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, so avoid being overly informal. Title:

• Make up a domain/weblink for your blog.

• Use a title and underline it to make it stand out.

• Write the blogger's name (it should not be your real name).

• Include the date and the time of posting the blog. Example:

www.leavingcertsblogposts.com/wanderlustjane

Title: Exploring the Wonders of New York

Blogger: WanderlustJane

Date: 14th November 2023, 8:00 am

Introduction:

• Begin with a compelling hook to engage the readers.
• Introduce the topic and state the purpose of your blog post.
  • Example:

"Last week, I finally fulfilled my dream of visiting New York City, and it was an adventure I'll never forget."

Body Paragraphs:

• Make occasional references to the fact that this is a blog post.
• Most blogs are written in the first person.
• Address all the elements of the question.
• Include underlined "hyperlinks" to add authenticity.
• Discuss 3 main highlights of your trip.
  • First Highlight: Describe a significant experience.

"The moment I stepped into Times Square, I was mesmerised by the vibrant nature and energy. You can see some amazing photos here."

• Second Highlight: Detail another memorable event.

• Third Highlight: Share a unique or personal insight. Conclusion:

• Summarise the main points of your blog post.

• Depending on the topic, you may wish to include a call to action.

  • Example:

"In conclusion, New York City exceeded all my expectations. If you ever get the chance to visit, don't hesitate. Start planning your trip today and experience the magic for yourself!"

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Literary Techniques Used in Blog Posts

Literary Technique	Description	Example
First-person Narrative	Writing from the "I" perspective to create intimacy and personal connection.	"I couldn't believe my eyes when I first saw the New York skyline."
Anecdotes	Short, personal stories to illustrate a point or add interest.	"While strolling through Central Park, I stumbled upon a charming little café that served the best hot chocolate."
Imagery	Descriptive language that appeals to the senses.	"The vibrant lights of Times Square lit up the night, casting a magical glow over the bustling crowd."
Hyperlinks	Links to additional content or resources for authenticity and further reading.	"Check out some of my favourite photos from the trip here."
Dialogue	Writing conversations to reveal character and advance the narrative.	"A local said to me, 'You must visit the Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise; it's a sight to behold.'"
Emotive Language	Words and phrases that evoke an emotional response.	"The thrill of standing at the top of the Empire State Building was indescribable."
Rhetorical Questions	Engage the reader and provoke thought.	"Who wouldn't be enchanted by the dazzling lights of Broadway?"
Metaphors and Similes	Create vivid imagery and comparisons to illustrate points.	"New York is a melting pot of cultures, a true urban jungle."
Alliteration	The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words to create rhythm and emphasis.	"Bright lights, big city, boundless excitement."
Call to Action	Encouraging the reader to take specific steps or actions.	"Start planning your trip to New York today and experience the magic for yourself!"