RECOUNT TEXT

 A recount text is a piece of writing that tells the reader about past events or experiences. Its purpose is typically to inform or entertain the audience by retelling events in the order in which they happened. 

1. Generic Structure

A standard recount text has three main sections: 

• Orientation: The introduction that sets the scene for the reader. It provides background information by addressing the 5 W's: Who was involved, What happened (briefly), Where it took place, When it occurred, and sometimes Why it happened.
• Events: The main body of the text where you describe the series of events in chronological order (the order they happened in time). Each new event or sequence of events should ideally be grouped into new paragraphs.
• Reorientation (Optional): The concluding paragraph that wraps up the story. It may include a personal comment, reflection, or summary of the experience. 

2. Language Features

To write an effective recount text, use the following linguistic elements:

• Past Tense: Since the events already happened, use the simple past tense (e.g., went, was, ate, felt).
• Personal Pronouns: Use first-person pronouns (I, we, my family) to indicate personal involvement.
• Time Connectives and Conjunctions: Use words and phrases that show the sequence of events (e.g., first, then, next, after that, finally).
• Action Verbs: Use verbs that describe actions (e.g., walked, swam, ate, ran).
• Adverbs and Adverbial Phrases: Use these to add detail about the time, place, and manner (e.g., yesterday, at the beach, in the morning, quickly). 

3. Step-by-Step Writing Process

1. Plan: Decide on an experience or event you want to recount. Use the 5 W's to outline your orientation and list the main events in the order they occurred.
2. Write the Orientation: Start with an engaging introduction that quickly tells the reader the basic details of the story.
3. Describe the Events: Write the body paragraphs, detailing each event sequentially. Use time connectives to ensure a smooth flow between sentences and paragraphs.
4. Add Details: Use descriptive language, adjectives, and adverbs to help the reader visualize the experience.
5. Write the Reorientation: Conclude with your final thoughts or feelings about the experience.
6. Review and Edit: Check your text for correct past tense usage, chronological order, and grammar mistakes. 

Example Recount Text

Here is an example:

Title: My First Time Riding a Motorcycle

(Orientation)

When I was 17 years old, I wanted to learn how to ride a motorcycle. My father agreed to teach me in a large field near our house. 

(Events)

First, my father sat behind me on the motorcycle, guiding the handles and giving instructions. Then, I tried to ride it by myself. I was happy and proud that I could do it. A few days later, I tried riding on the narrow street of my house. I felt nervous when another motorcycle came toward me. Unexpectedly, I hit a wall and fell off the motorbike. 

(Reorientation)

I was afraid of being scolded when I got home, but my father was proud of me for trying. He advised me to be more calm and careful when driving in the future.