Writing Test tasks: Task types V (essays)

Introduction and tips (Writing essays)

- ANSWER THE QUESTION
- PLAN your essay
- REVISE your essay to correct mistakes.
- 4 or 5 PARAGRAPHS, with Introduction and Conclusion
- The first paragraph should be a general introduction to the subject
- Develop your arguments in the middle paragraphs
- Give reasons to support your argument
- Use a variety of discussive words and phrases
- Give examples where possible
- Use formal language
- Don't use contractions (we're, I've etc.)
- Sum up your argument in the final paragraph
- The final paragraph is the best place to express your opinion clearly.

Useful Phrases (Writing articles)
Presenting two advantages or disadvantages together:
- not only … but … also
- not only … but also

Presenting two opposing views:
- on the one hand, on the other hand

Expressing Contrast:

- nevertheless
- even so
- even though
- however
- in spite of
- despite
- but
- although

Expressing results:
- because of this
- therefore
- thus
- as a result
- for this reason
- consequently

Giving examples:
- such as
- like
- for example
- for instance

Expressing the opinion of someone else:

- some people say
- some people say that
- many people say
- many people say that
- people often say
- it is said
- it is said that
- according to

An example of an essay:
http://www.flo-joe.co.uk/fce/students/writing/makeover/makeover9.htm
http://www.buowl.boun.edu.tr/teachers/sample%20student%20essays/sample%20student%20essays.htm