PART 1: ESSAY You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. You have recently had a class project on animal welfare and vegetarianism. Now your teacher has asked you to write a composition, giving your opinions on the following statement: Some people believe that humans should not eat meat. Do you agree? Notes Write about: - meat as a main ingredient of our diet - vegetarians - ………………(your own idea) Sample answer: Most people think that since animals eat other animals, it is natural for humans to eat meat. However, some religions disagree, and a growing number of people are choosing to become vegetarians for nonreligious reasons. You start with Paragraph 1 - Introduction Here you include: A general statement/rhetorical question (it’s already given on the topic, your task is to paraphrase it - use different words or grammar structures). In the sample answer we’ve used ‘most’ instead of ‘some’, ‘believe’ was changed to ‘think’ etc. Qualify the argument Explain further and maybe try to show several sides of the issue, consider it from different angles, thinking, “This part is right if… This is true, except when… This might work if… The reason this happens is because… The underlying issues are…” First, I would like to put the argument in favour of eating meat. Humans have always hunted and eaten animals. We use their fur and skin for clothes and shoes. Besides, when people stop eating meat they are avoiding the main food that gives them energy. Paragraph 2 - Body Advantage 1 —– Reason Advantage 1 —— Specific example 1 Advantage 2 —– Reason Advantage 2 —— Specific example 2 One of these advantages should have the point mentioned in the task included. In our sample answer we have the point about meat being the main source of energy included. Make sure you use the following phrases when writing paragraph 2: Introducing the topic First of all I would like to say that … The first point I would like to make is … I would like to begin by … Many people think that … Some people say/claim … Why do some people believe…? However , if that is the case, then why…?
Advantages In the first place … The main advantage is that you are free to … There is no one else to … Then there is … What’s more … Another advantage is that … On the other hand , many vegetarians believe that eating meat is not only unnecessary but it is also unhealthy. We can easily grow plants that give us all we need in our diet, and meat may cause serious diseases. Also, the way we farm animals is cruel and we are destroying rainforests to provide land for animals. Paragraph 3 - Body Disadvantage 1 —– Reason Disadvantage 1 —— Specific example 1 Disadvantage 2 —– Reason Disadvantage 2 —— Specific example 2 Make sure you include the other point mentioned in the topic and add your own idea + the following phrases when writing paragraph 3: Disadvantages On the other hand, ... Secondly, … Another disadvantage is … Last but not least, … In my view , there are strong health reasons for not eating meat. However, if we become vegetarians for moral reasons, I think we should also not wear fur or leather. Paragraph 4 - Conclusion Summarise your view using different words from the introduction. You might want to add some further comment. Summarising phrases you have to use: In conclusion (I believe that)… To sum up, there are arguments … However, in my view … Most people think that since animals eat other animals, it is natural for humans to eat meat. However, some religions disagree, and a growing number of people are choosing to become vegetarians for nonreligious reasons. First, I would like to put the argument in favour of eating meat. Humans have always hunted and eaten animals. We use their fur and skin for clothes and shoes. Besides, when people stop eating meat they are avoiding the main food that gives them energy. On the other hand, many vegetarians believe that eating meat is not only unnecessary but it is also unhealthy. We can easily grow plants that give us all we need in our diet, and meat may cause serious diseases. Also, the way we farm animals is cruel and we are destroying rainforests to provide land for animals. In my view, there are strong health reasons for not eating meat. However, if we become vegetarians for moral reasons, I think we should also not wear fur or leather. (168 words)
Now, it’s your turn. Here’s the topic: A) You recently had a class discussion about television. Now your t eacher has asked you to write a composition. Young children watch too much television. Do you agree? You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. Notes Write about: - busy parents - sports - ………………(your own idea)
Here’s another topic: B) You recently had a class discussion about women rights. Now your teacher has asked you to write a composition. Most high level jobs are done by men. Should the government encourage a certain percentage of these jobs to be reserved for women? You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. Notes Write about: - education - equal rights - ………………(your own idea) CHECKLIST!
Once you have written the essay… do check if you have the following: 1. I have answered the question. 2. The sentences and organisation are clear and logical. 3. Arguments are followed by reasons and examples. 4. Both sides of the argument are given equal treatment. 5. It is clear what I think by the end. 6. The style is consistent and neutral. 7. I have checked: length, grammar, spelling, punctuation and linking expressions.
6 points to remember when writing a great essay: In your introduction…
1. Start with a general statement. 2. Introduce the topic in the first paragraph, giving the ‘whole picture’ and an introduction to both sides of the argument. In your 2nd and 3rd paragraph….
3. Explain the topic, giving specific examples. 4..Have a separate paragraph for the other side of the argument. 5. Use linking words to show the sequence of your ideas and when you are making an extra point. In your conclusion….
6. Summarise your view using different words from the introduction. You might want to add some further comment.
Here’s a bit of practice before your initial writing: Mark the correct phrase in each pair. 1. Flatmates often don’t get on very well at first. In addition / In fact, they can have a lot of arguments. 2. Flats in my city are very expensive for one person. In addition / In other words, I like sharing. 3. Most people share household tasks. For instance / That is to say, they take it in turns to wash up. 4. I haven’t got room for a flatmate. Moreover / For example, I like living on my own. 5. I think that house would be too expensive. Similarly / Besides, it’s a long way from the centre. 6. He’s a nice guy to live with. Nevertheless / What’s more, he needs to help out more. 7. The flat’s on the fifth floor, and there’s no lift. Because of this / Even so, we decided to rent it. 8. It’s not very big. Even so / On the other hand, it’s right in the centre. ANSWERS
1. In fact — reinforcing a point, perhaps with an example. In addition is used to add a further point. 2. In addition — adding a further point. In other words is used to rephrase, to say the same thing in a different way. 3. For instance — to introduce an example. That is to say is used to rephrase or explain a point. 4. Moreover — adding a further point. 5. Besides — adding a further point. 6. Nevertheless — introducing a contrasting point. On the other hand is used to introduce the opposite point of view. 7. Even so — introducing a contrasting point. 8 On the other hand — introducing the opposite point of view.
PART 2: ARTICLE You see this competition in an international magazine. COMPETITION Imagine you were on a desert island. What would you miss most? Write an article briefly describing an important object, person or place in your life and give reasons for your choice. The best article will be published and the writer will receive £500. Write your article in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. Sample answer: Life away from home How would you feel about living on a desert island? I can’t imagine anything worse. I would miss a lot of things, but most of all I would miss my home. You start with Paragraph 1- Introduction In the introduction you : - think of a title that will catch the reader’s attention - include the topic - you might not know the reader personally, but still, you can address him/her directly (e.g. ask them a question) Phrases you can use in the introduction: Add ressing the reader
Have you ever…? You absolutely must … Can you imagine … I’m sure you’d agree… I must tell you about … You wouldn’t believe... REMEMBER: It’s a semi-formal/ informal piece of writing make it interesting by including a range of language, e.g. adjectives and adverbs, phrasal verbs, collocations, relative clauses, linkers, one or two idioms. DON’T copy out the task - use synonyms My home is a small house on the outskirts of a city. It was built about fifty years ago and has a small garden. In the summer our country gets very hot but our house is always cool. Note that the question/topic says the description should be ‘brief’. Phrases you can use to in the 2nd and 3rd paragraph: Giving a strong op inion
It’s absolutely stunning / terrible (strong adjective). It took my breath away. I will never forget it. There’s nothing in the world like it. Adding and developing ideas For a start .. Secondly. / Thirdly./ Finally…. And then there’s the fact that .. On top of that…. Apart from that…. I must also mention … As if this wasn’t enough, … Giving examples …. such as ../.. particularly …/ ….like…
You would probably think our house is nothing special, but I have lived there all my life and all my friends live nearby. It is a happy place, where I feel completely safe. Whenever I go away, I look forward to coming back, lying on my bed, reading a book and listening to my brother and sister arguing downstairs! In the 3rd Paragraph you : - give specific examples to bring your article to life - use informal language to involve the reader - don’t forget to express your opinion - be personal I love travelling and meeting new people, but if I were on a desert island I would be away from the place I love most — my home — and I would hate that. In the last paragraph you : - finish with a sentence which summarises what you have said - end with an interesting last sentence - give your opinion or express your feeling Phrases you can use to end the letter Giving a personal respon se
For me, / To me….. Personally, I think / find / believe … It seems to me … In my view…. One thing I love / remember … I’ll never forget … Life away from home How would you feel about living on a desert island? I can’t imagine anything worse. I would miss a lot of things, but most of all I would miss my home. My home is a small house on the outskirts of a city. It was built about fifty years ago and has a small garden. In the summer our country gets very hot but our house is always cool. You would probably think our house is nothing special, but I have lived there all my life and all my friends live nearby. It is a happy place, where I feel completely safe. Whenever I go away, I look forward to coming back, lying on my bed, reading a book and listening to my brother and sister arguing downstairs! I love travelling and meeting new people, but if I were on a desert island I would be away from the place I love most — my home — and I would hate that. (160 words)
Over to you! A) You have seen this advertisement in an international magazine. INSPIRING PEOPLE Tell us about a person you admire and why they inspire you. We will publish the most interesting articles next month. Write your article. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.
B) You have seen this advertisement on an international travel website. CITY BREAKS What’s your favourite city, and why? Write us an article: • describing the city. • saying why it is special for you. We’ll publish the most interesting articles online next month Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.
Exam tips * Write a catchy title that gives the main idea * Try to involve the reader by using lively, chatty, semi-formal style, don’t sound too formal * You can address the reader directly (I’m sure you’ll agree that …) or ask one or two questions (Have you heard …?) * Use colourful language! Make your article more interesting by including a range of language, e.g. adjectives and adverbs, phrasal verbs, collocations, relative clauses, linkers, one or two idioms. * Give personal opinions, include description, examples, stories to support your views. Think of a suitable start and finish for your article * Make sure you answer all the points in the question * Use the correct number of words * Check your work for accuracy
PART 2: REPORT Your college has been asked to accept a group of 50 students from another country for two weeks. You have been asked by your principal to find out what the advantages and disadvantages would be of accepting this group. Is it a good idea? Write your report to the principal in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. Sample answer: Report on Proposed Visit by 50 Overseas Students Introduction The purpose of this report is to consider the advantages and disadvantages of accepting a large group of students from overseas for two weeks. I have discussed the issue with all the senior members of college staff. You start with Paragraph 1- Introduction In the introduction you : - use headings – this makes it easier to find the main info - state the aim of the report and where you got/ collected the information - don’t begin with Dear Sir/ Madam – it’s not a letter Phrases you can use in the introduction: * This report is intended to show / discuss / outline … * The aim / purpose of this report is to … * In this report I will REMEMBER: It’s a formal piece of writing that means: use a formal, neutral style: no contractions, no colloquial language, no direct questions, no informal punctuation such as exclamation marks. Advantages All those I interviewed believe that for students this would be an exciting opportunity to explore a foreign culture, both in the classroom and socially. Overall, they thought the visit would be stimulating for the college at a quiet time of the year. In the 2nd Paragraph you : - balance the positive and negative points fairly - you can use numbering or bullet points to highlight main points - use a range of specific vocabulary or set phrases e.g. Some thought this was … / other students said they preferred… - don’t use a lot of adjectives and dramatic language. A report gives factual information Phrases you can use to in the 2nd and 3rd paragraph: Suggesting additional ideas
Another option would be to … I would also suggest … Another point to consider is hat … Alternatively…. Moreover. / Furthermore. Apart from this / In addition to this Making recom mendations
I would strongly / highly recommend … My first / second recommendation would be to .. It would be (highly) advisable to …
If my recommendations are followed, then … The best solution / ideas would seem to be … Listing ideas
I would suggest the following: … might like to consider the following: The following are highly recommended: 1….. OR 2. ………. They gave/ suggested the following reasons: They made the following points: 1….2… Reporting finding s
It appears that the majority of … The only problem is that … . Most …(students seem) … . Not surprisingly, … According to … Disadvantages Some members of staff are concerned that: 1 there would be insufficient seating in the library at bus ti mes; 2 the visitors might be more interested in enjoying themselves than studying; 3 the restaurant queue would be very slow at lunchtime. In the 3rd Paragraph you: - balance the positive and negative points fairly - you can use numbering or bullet points to highlight main points - use a range of specific vocabulary or set phrases e.g. Some thought this was …../ other students said they preferred… Conclusion and recommendation Clearly, the group might cause some practical difficulties but on the whole everyone thought that the visit should seen as an opportunity not to be missed. In the last paragraph you : - give the recommendations - generalise - express opinions impersonally Phrases you can use to end the letter Concluding and making recommendations All things considered, … We have no hesitation in recommending… Report on Proposed Visit by 50 Overseas Students Introduction The purpose of this report is to consider the advantages and disadvantages of accepting a large group of students from overseas for two weeks. I have discussed the issue with all the senior members of college staff. Advantages All those I interviewed believe that for students this would be an exciting opportunity to explore a foreign culture, both in the classroom and socially. Overall, they thought the visit would be stimulating for the college at a quiet time of t he year. Disadvantages Some members of staff are concerned that: 1 there would be insufficient seating in the library at bus times; 2 the visitors might be more interested in enjoying themselves than studying; 3 the restaurant queue would be very slow at lunchtime. Conclusion and recommendation Clearly, the group might cause some practical difficulties but on the whole everyone thought that the visit should seen as an opportunity not to be missed.
Over to you! A group of students from Australia are going to visit your town or city next month as part of an exchange visit. Their teacher has asked you to write a report about shopping in your town / city, including the following information: • local specialities which the students could buy as souvenirs • the best places for teenagers to go shopping • cheap cafes or restaurants where the students could eat. Write your report in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. B) Your teacher wants to recommend a television programme for students who are learning your language. Write a report on a television programme, which you know well, saying why you think it would be helpful and interesting for foreign learners. Write your report in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.
Points to remember! Organise your ideas into a clear report: either rely on paragraphing or use subheadings (or both). Briefly introduce the programme, include its title and say what it is about. Mention a few things about the programme that support your recommendation from the foreign learner’s point of view. Checklist When writing the answer to any task, check that you have paid attention to the following points. Make sure you: - Think about who your reader is and what they want to know - Begin with an introduction explaining the purpose of the report - Address all of the points in the instructions - Organise your ideas clearly, with headings if appropriate - Include a personal recommendation if you are asked for one. - Use a variety of formal expressions and structures - Use the correct number of words - Check your work for accuracy
PART 2: REVIEW An international arts website is looking for reviews of novels for a new section called ‘A Reader Writes’. You have decided to write a review of a novel you’ve recently read for this section. Describe the novel and say what you think about it. Would you recommend this novel to other people? Write your review in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. Sample answer: I really enjoyed the film version of The Bourne Identity starring Matt Damon, but I thought the original novel by Robert Ludlum was even better. This book is so well-written, I didn’t want to finish it! You start with Paragraph 1- Introduction In the introduction you : - make your review more interesting with personal comments
- mention the title, the type of the book/ play/ film/etc, the setting (when/where), the theme, the main characters, etc. Phrases you can use in the introduction: * This well-written/ informative / fascinating/ thought-provoking book is… * The film/ book/ play/ etc. is set in….. / tells the story of…../ is based on….. * The film/ play starts …../ is directed by…../ is the sequel to….. Comparing and contrasting *… is even better than … *… is (not) nearly as good as … *… is twice as good as … *… is the best I have ever seen / read / been to. in comparison with … *One of the strongest / weakest things about … *In contrast, … / On the other hand, … REMEMBER: A review is a special type of article written for publication in a magazine, newspaper, etc giving a brief description and evaluation of the film, book, play, TV/ radio programme, etc . It may be formal or semi-formal in style, depending on its intended readership, and is usually written using pr esent tenses. The plot is gripping right from the start. When we first meet the lead character, Jason Bourne, he is being rescued from the sea. His identity is a mystery to everyone, including himself! Over the course of the novel we gradually find out who Bourne is, and follow him through a series of exciting adventures. In the 2nd and 3rd Paragraph you: - include the main points of the plat (without revealing the ending), and evaluate such features as the acting, writing style, directions, characters etc - you can also add what you learnt, found out from the book, etc Phrases you can use to in the 2nd and 3rd paragraph: Describing a book / film / TV programme * … is set in … * The main character is … * It tells the story of … * The plot / dialogue / acting / characterisation is … Giving an opinion * The only criticism I would make is that … * What I really loved about … is … *To me, … seemed …
* … was … from start to finish. + exceptional / good value / gripping / lively / memorable / perfect / realistic / stunning / superb / well-written / -acted / -cooked etc. — disappointing / dreadful / dull / inadequate / poor / predictable / sub-standard / unconvincing / unimaginative / uninteresting As well as a highly original plot line, the novel includes a number of fascinating characters, especially the villains! I only have one negative -comment: in my view, the novel is strong on action but weaker on description. However, this is a small criticism of an otherwise excellent book. Phrases you can use to in the 2nd and 3rd paragraph: To explain the plot: * The plot revolves around …involves …/focuses on …/has an unexpected twist. * The story begins with …/unfolds / reaches a dramatic climax when … Evaluating various features: * The play/film/series has a strong/star-studded/mediocre cast. * The acting is moving/powerful/excellent/weak/disappointing/unconvincing. * The plot is gripping/dramatic/fascinating/suspense-filled/fast-moving. farfetched/predictable/ confusing/dull /unimaginative. * The script/dialogue is touching/witty/hilarious/boring/mundane. * It is beautifully/brilliantly/sensitively written/directed. I would highly recommend The Bourne Identity to anyone who enjoys action or crime stories. However, if you prefer more descriptive or romantic novels, then you should give it a miss. Personally, I can’t wait to start reading the sequel! In the last paragraph you: - include an overall assessment of the work and/or a recommendation, usually with justification - you may also be asked to give reasons why someone should see the film/ play or read the book, how it has influences you, etc. Phrases you can use to end the letter Making a recommendation *I would highly / strongly recommend … * I certainly wouldn’t recommend … * I strongly advise you (not) to … * Everyone should see / do / read this … immediately! * … is not to be missed! * You should give … a miss! * Don’t bother reading / seeing / going … * It is a classic of its kind/ It is sure to be a hit/ best -seller I really enjoyed the film version of The Bourne Identity starring Matt Damon, but I thought the original novel by Robert Ludlum was even better. This book is so well-written, I didn’t want to finish it! The plot is gripping right from the start. When we first meet the lead character, Jason Bourne, he is being rescued from the sea. His identity is a mystery to everyone, including himself! Over the course of the novel we gradually find out who Bourne is, and follow him through a series of exciting adventures. As well as a highly original plot line, the novel includes a number of fascinating characters, especially the villains! I only have one negative -comment: in my view, the novel is strong on action but weaker on description. However, this is a small criticism of an otherwise excellent book. I would highly recommend The Bourne Identity to anyone who enjoys action or crime stories. However, if you prefer more descriptive or romantic novels, then you should give it a miss. Personally, I can’t wait to start reading the sequel!
Checklist 1- Write for the reader. Always bear in mind who you are writing for. If you’re writing for a magazine, think of the kind of people who read that particular magazine. A book review is intended for people who have not read the book, so don’t assume that your readers already know the story. 2- Don’t talk about yourself. When giving your opinion, whether in a review or elsewhere, be careful not to fall into the trap of talking about yourself. Try to be objective. One way of testing for objectivity is to check your writing for the words I, me, my, myself . Similarly, phrases such as in my opinion, to my mind, I think should be used as little as possible; any more than once in the first paragraph and once in the last, and your review seems to focus on yourself, not your subject. 3- Write in an impersonal style. Many students spoil their articles and reviews by writing in a chatty, informal style as if they were talking to a friend. On the contrary, essays,
articles
and
reviews should be relatively impersonal. Your readers are not particularly interested in you: they need information, description and narrative more than they need your opinion. 4- You don’t know your reader, so be careful about using the word you. 5- Use precise, descriptive vocabulary. Generalizations such as This book is boring communicate very little to the reader. Specific observations and concrete facts, on the other hand, help the reader to share your experience. If you have strong feelings about your subject, this should make your writing more interesting – but be careful! Strong feelings must be given form and coldly translated into precise words.
Over to you: A) You have seen the following announcement in a magazine. ENTER NOW!! OUR READERS AND THE BOOK THEY TREASURE • Is there one special hook that has had a great influence on your life? • Write in and tell us about it. • Tell us briefly about the book and, more importantly, what it t aught you or how it helped you. • The best entry will he published in the near future. Prize: £100 in book tokens to help you build up your own library! Write your review in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet. B) Here’s the next task you can do: The magazine published by your school’s English club is asking students to give opinions on the coursebooks they have been using. Write a review of a coursebook, giving your views on the following points: • its content • its design • how well it prepares students for the exam • how much it has helped you improve your English Write your review in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.
PART 2: LETTERS, EMAILS……. http://englishexamhelp.com/fce-writing/
