Page 10 - Layout

Test 1

Writing Part 1 FCE for Schools

You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140-190 words in an appropriate style on
the separate answer sheet.

1. In your English class you have been talking about ways of finding out about foreign countries.
Now your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

Write your essay using all the notes and give reasons for your point of view.

‘The best way to find out about a foreign country is to live there.’
Do you agree?
Notes
Write about:
1. living there gives deeper understanding
2. takes time to meet local people
cheaper alternatives such as reading and TV
3. ................................................................................... (your own idea)

General advice: PROPOSED ESSAY PLAN:
Do not forget to address Introduction: (Introduce the topic and your • It seems to me that ...
the points in the notes argument by answering the question): • I (do not) agree / disagree ...
including your own idea. Two ways to find out: reading and TV vs. my • I am for / against the idea ...
Explain what you think way: living there. • The way I see it / As I see it ...
and why you think it. Body: • As far as I am concerned ...
Your own idea must be Second Paragraph: Reading and TV are easy, • Personally, ...
a separate point and not cheap and fast Putting your arguments in a logical order /
the conclusion of the Third Paragraph: Impossible to see what it’s supporting your argument
essay. really like if you don’t live there • In the first place, ... / First of all, ...
• Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly, ...
Conclusion: (Summarise your argument and
Give your essay a clear give a balanced personal opinion.) • To begin / start with ...
and logical structure. Two ways to find out: reading and TV vs. my • Finally, / Lastly, ...
• Introduce the topic way: living there. • Last but not least, ...
(state your opinion Linking Points / Adding Information
clearly and briefly). Opinion Essay Essential Tips and • Furthermore, / What’s more, / Moreover, /
• Deal with one aspect Vocabulary In addition,
of the topic at a time ESSENTIAL TIPS • Not only ... but also ... / Both ... and
(one idea in each 1. First write down the arguments supporting Introducing Opposing Viewpoints
paragraph). your opinion. • Some people argue / claim / say / feel that
• Give supporting 2. State your opinion in the opening • On the one /other hand, ...
evidence. paragraph (using the expressions given). • However, there are also a number of
• Consider the opposite 3. Begin each paragraph with a clearly stated disadvantages.
point of view. reason/idea and follow it with two or more • Although it is true that ...
• Consider a response supporting statements.
to the opposite point 4. Use appropriate linking words to link Introducing Examples
of view. paragraphs and sentences within • For example / instance,
• Conclude the topic paragraphs. • In other words,
•... such as ...
(restate introduction in 5. Conclude by restating your original opinion • Take, for example, someone who ...
different words). using different words.
USEFUL VOCABULARY Concluding
Expressing opinions • In conclusion, / To sum up, / To conclude,
• I believe / feel / think that ... / In short, / All in all, ...
• In my view / opinion ...

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