READY FOR WRITING

Introduction
For the Writing paper you have to complete two different writing tasks in 1 hour 20
minutes; the compulsory Part 1 task and then another from a choice of three in Part 2.
For each task you write between 140 and 190 words.
Writing Part 1
For Part 1 you have to write (1 ) an essay on a particular topic. You are given the title of the
essay, together with some notes to guide your writing.
Writing Part 2
For Part 2 you write one from a choice of three tasks. The possible task types are
(2) an article (5) an email or letter, which could be either:
(3) a report a formal
(4) a review b informal
Decide which writing task type (1–5) each extract (A–F) is taken from.

A And remember, we can always put you up for the night if you want – just let us know when
you’re thinking of coming.

B Some people are strongly opposed to keeping animals in cages. Others, however,
argue that zoos have many important benefits.

C It is full of action and adventure and the acting is very convincing, but I have to admit,
I found the plot rather too predictable.

D I have gained a considerable amount of relevant experience in this field, and consequently
feel I would be well suited to the position.

E Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live without a mobile phone for a month?
I have, and I’m really not sure I’d be able to survive that long.

F A visit to the Museum of Modern Art is an option worth considering. However, queues can
be long, so it is advisable to buy your tickets online before you go.

Register
1 The following comments were made about extracts similar to those above. Circle the
appropriate alternative and match each sentence to the feature of language which is
being commented on.
1 The use of ‘can’t’ and ‘isn’t’ show that a phrasal verbs
the letter is formal / informal.
2 ‘Furthermore’ is a very formal / informal b question forms
word.
3 ‘Own up’ is a more formal / informal way c punctuation
of saying ‘confess’.
4 An exclamation mark would not be d contractions
used in formal / informal writing.
5 ‘Could you possibly tell me what time it e linking words
starts?’ sounds quite formal / informal to me.
2 Now look at extracts A–F again and decide whether the register in each one is
formal, informal or neutral. Give reasons for your decisions, commenting on the
language used.
Extract A is informal. There is a contraction and a phrasal verb, ‘put up’, is used.
Starting a sentence with ‘And’ is informal, and so is the use of the dash.
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Marking
When marking answers for the Writing paper, examiners consider the features in the box. Match each category
to the general advice and information in a–f below. The first one has been done for you.
Accuracy Content Organisation & cohesion Range Register
1 Range
a Use a variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary appropriate to the task.
2
b Check that your answer addresses all the points in the task.
3
c Write in clear paragraphs of a suitable length.
d Ensure the content is logically ordered and ideas are connected using appropriate linking words
and expressions.
4
e Consider the task and the target reader, and decide whether the language of your answer should
be formal, neutral or informal.
5
f Avoid making too many mistakes, particularly basic ones or ones which prevent understanding.

Planning and checking

The sentences below show the stages to follow when planning and checking your written work. Match each
stage 1–6 to the piece of general advice in a–f above to which it corresponds.
1b
1 Read the task at least twice, underlining key information and requirements.
2 Pay particular attention to the person or people for whom your piece of writing is intended.
3 Make a list of ideas for your answer, then select the best ones and arrange them into logical groupings.
This is your basic plan.
4 Note down words and expressions which might be suitable for linking your ideas.
5 Write down relevant words, collocations and structures which you might be able to include in your answer.
6 When you have written your answer, check spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Writing Part 1 Essay

Type one
In the model answer below, both sides of the argument are considered, before a conclusion is reached in
the final paragraph.
In your English class you have been discussing the role of technology in the home.
Now your teacher has asked you to write an essay.
Write an essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.

Do you agree that modern domestic appliances have improved

the quality of our lives?

Notes

Write about:
± effect on household chores
2 time saved for other activities
3 (your own idea)

Write your essay in 140–190 words.

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Model answer

Have domestic appliances improved the quality of our lives?

a general Nowadays, many people have a wide range of appliances in their home, all of which are
introduction designed to make life easier. However, they also have some disadvantages. appropriately
formal style
On the one hand, they have reduced the amount of time needed to complete domestic
positive aspects chores. Cleaning, ironing and cooking can be done far more quickly and efficiently than
(points 1 & 2 of fifty years ago, while washing up has become almost extinct in households with a
Notes)
dishwasher. As a result, people have more time to spend on leisure activities, and are
free to do the things they want to rather than what they have to. use of linking
words and phrases
On the other hand, some modern appliances have made our lives less interesting
negative aspects than before, particularly when it comes to cooking. Food which has been taken from
(point 3 of Notes the freezer and heated in a microwave is not as tasty as fresh food cooked in a
– your own idea)
conventional oven; and many people prefer to prepare meals themselves rather than let
sophisticated food processors do it for them.

conclusion, To sum up, although modern appliances have made life easier in the home, this does not
summarising opinion always make everyone happier.

Task
In your English class you have been talking about education in schools in your country.
Now, your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.
Write an essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.

Some people think that school does not prepare students

adequately for real life. Do you agree?

Notes

Things to write about:

± the content of lessons
2 social relationships
3 (your own idea)

Write your essay in 140–190 words.

Useful language for essays

Expressing your opinion Saying what people think

I personally feel that … Some/Many people feel that …
I firmly believe that … Others argue that …
I partly/fully agree that … One/Another point of view is that …
In my opinion … It is sometimes said/claimed that …
My personal view is that … It is widely believed that …
It is generally agreed that …
See page 43 of Unit 3 for linking devices.

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Writing Part 1 Essay

Type two
In the model answer below, only one point of view is considered. This is clearly stated in the first paragraph
and supported with reasons in the subsequent paragraphs.
In your English class you have been talking about relationships with family and friends.
Now, your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.
Write an essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.

Is it better to go on holiday with family or friends?

Notes

Things to write about:

± which is cheaper
2 which is more fun
3 (your own idea)

Write your essay in 140–190 words.

Model answer

Is it better to go on holiday with family or friends?

introduction, stating Provided there are reasonably strong and healthy relationships between parents and
opinion children, it is my opinion that a family holiday has more advantages than one with friends.

To begin with, it is much more economical to spend your holiday with your family,
first reason particularly if you are a teenager. Parents are happy to pay for almost everything,
(point 1 of Notes) enabling their children to do things they would not be able to afford to if they were
with friends. appropriately
formal style
Secondly, even though the two types of holiday are very different, you can have just as
second reason
much fun with your family as with your friends. Parents and children may not always
(point 2 of Notes)
agree on what to do each day, but this is also true between friends.

Finally, an important advantage of having fun with your family is that it helps to
third reason strengthen relationships between the different members. In their busy lives, they
(point 3 of Notes) have little time to spend with each other; a holiday helps bring everyone together in a use of linking words
relaxed situation. and phrases

conclusion, restating In conclusion, whilst time spent away with friends can be very enjoyable, a holiday spent
opinion with the family has a much more beneficial effect.

Task
In your English class you have been talking about the effects of fame.
Now, your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.
Write an essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.
Write your essay in 140–190 words.

Is it better to be famous or unknown?

Notes

Write about:
± money
2 friends
3 (your own idea)

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Writing Part 2 Article

You see this announcement in an international magazine.

MY IDEAL JOB
We’re interested to know what jobs people would most like to do.
Write us an article telling us what your ideal job would be and why.
The best articles will be published in next month’s magazine.

Write your article in 140–190 words.

Model answer

interesting title to attract Working with wildlife – naturally!

reader’s attention
What else would a zoology student and keen nature photographer possibly want
opening sentence to do? Office jobs are dull, sales jobs are stressful and industry is out of the question.
relevant to title The ideal job for me is that of a warden on a nature reserve.

Can you imagine being outside all day, surrounded by nature and wildlife? You would hear
the sound of birdsong rather than the noise of traffic, smell flowers and trees instead direct questions and
statements addressed
of exhaust fumes and cigarettes, and see peaceful rivers, not busy roads. You have to to the reader
admit, those are wonderful working conditions.

Importantly, with a job like this, I would be doing something I believe in, helping to
preserve the environment for future generations. And although I’d be far from built-up informal linking devices
a lively informal style
throughout the article areas and large populations, I would still have contact with people through teaching
visitors to the reserve about nature conservation.

Of course, it’s not the best-paid job in the world. But I’d probably be able to afford to
rent a small cottage with a cosy fireplace and a vegetable garden. It’s not everybody’s
idea of luxury, but personally, I couldn’t imagine anything better. a closing comment

Task
Either:
a write your own answer to the task above in 140–190 words; or b answer the following question.
You see this announcement in your school’s English-language magazine.
Write your article in 140–190 words.

We’d like to hear about your ideal evening out. Where would
MY IDEAL
you go, who would you go with and what would you do?
EVENING
Write us an article answering these questions and giving your
reasons. We’ll print the three most interesting articles in next
OUT month’s magazine.

Useful language for articles

Involving the reader Attitude adverbs

Can you imagine …? Naturally, … Importantly, …
Have you ever …? Personally, … (Not) surprisingly, …
How would you feel if …? Interestingly, … Worryingly, …
Did you know that …? (Un)fortunately, …
Just think …
You have to admit …

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Writing Part 2 Email and letter (Informal)

This is part of an email you receive from your English friend, Emma.

It was a brilliant holiday, but my health and fitness have suffered. Too many ice creams and
not enough exercise! You’re the healthiest person I know – can you give me some advice on
how to get fit and healthy again?
Thanks
Emma

Write your email in 140–190 words.

Model answer

Hi Emma

brief, relevant Thanks for your email. It sounds as if you had a good time on your holiday – perhaps a
opening paragraph little too good! You definitely need to change some of those bad habits you picked up.
language for
Firstly, you should do some regular physical exercise. If I were you, I’d go jogging at least giving advice
three or four times a week. You live in a beautiful area with lots of lovely country paths,
use of linking words so there’s no excuse for not getting out and going for a run. It’s also a good idea to
leave the car in the garage and walk to the shops instead. They’re not far from your
house, and you’ll be surprised how much better you’ll feel as a result.

appropriately And as I’m sure you realise, you should also change your diet. Try cutting down on fried
informal style food, butter, cheese and fatty meat – and cut out ice creams completely! Getting fit use of phrasal verbs
and healthy takes time, so be consistent and don’t give up after just a couple of weeks.

I hope that’s useful. Good luck and let me know how you get on.

appropriate ending All the best,

David

Task
This is part of an email you receive from your English friend, Simon.
Write your email in 140–190 words.

Useful language for informal emails and letters

Beginning the email/letter Ending the email/letter

I won’t be here next week,
as I’ve rented a holiday Thanks for your email/letter. I hope that’s useful/helpful.
cottage with some It was great/lovely to hear from you. Let me know (what happens).
friends near the coast. That’s good news about/Pleased to hear Give my love/regards to (your mum).
Unfortunately, it looks as about (the new house) Looking forward to hearing from you.
if it’s going to rain a lot, It’s a shame about/Sorry to hear about
so we want to take some
Hope to see you/hear from you soon.
(your exam).
games with us to play Closing phrases
(The holiday) sounds wonderful/terrible.
in the house. Can you All the best
suggest any? How do you Giving advice and making suggestions Bye for now
play them? If I were you, I’d/I wouldn’t (take some
Best wishes
Thanks board games).
(Lots of) love
Simon Make sure you (take a pack of cards).
You could/should try (eating more fruit).
It’s (not) a good idea to (go on your own).
It’s best (not) to (do too much)
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Writing Part 2 Email and letter (formal)

You have seen this advertisement in an international magazine.

UK SUMMER CAMPS
Helpers required to work on
one of our UK Summer Camps.
Applicants should be hard-working, energetic and able to
organise activities for young children in these areas:

workshops
sports
outdoor pursuits
indoor and outdoor games

Write to the director, Mrs Simpson, giving your reasons for

applying and saying why you would be suitable for the job.

Write your letter of application in 140–190 words.

Dear Mrs Simpson

introduction I would like to apply for the job of Camp Helper as advertised in this month’s issue of
‘International Student’.

I like being with children very much and I would certainly enjoy the challenge of working use of linking words
with them on one of your camps. Moreover, I have just finished school and in October
reasons for applying
I will be starting a degree course in English. I am therefore very keen to improve my
language skills in an English-speaking country before I go to university.

There are a number of activities I could organise for the children. My interests include appropriately formal
basketball, tennis and orienteering, and I also play the guitar and compose my own style
relevant skills
songs. For the past seven years I have attended summer camps in my country with
and experience
the scouts, and last year I helped to run a number of events, including an orienteering
competition and a kite-making workshop.

personal qualities and I feel I have the necessary patience and energy to make a positive and enthusiastic
suitability for the job contribution to your camps and I hope you will consider my application favourably.

I look forward to hearing from you. appropriate ending

Yours sincerely,

Costas Sergis

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Task
You have seen this advertisement in an international magazine.

COASTAL CAMPSITES REQUIRE

Reception Assistants Bar and Restaurant Staff
Swimming Pool Attendants Entertainers
to work in the UK on our busy, five-star campsites this summer.
Applicants must have a reasonable command of English and be
willing to work long hours.
Write to the director, Mr Peabody, and explain why you would be
suitable for the job.

Write your letter of application in 140–190 words.

Useful language for letters of application

Beginnings and endings

Dear Sir or Madam and Yours faithfully
Dear Ms Bentley and Yours sincerely
Reason for writing
I saw/have seen your advertisement in …
I am writing to apply for the job/position of (a shop assistant) …
I would like to apply for a grant to study/for …
I would like to volunteer to work with (the elderly) …
Describing skills and experience
I have (a great deal of/some) experience of (looking after animals).
I spent (two months) working as (a kitchen assistant).
I have excellent communication/computer/organisational skills.
I have a good knowledge of (first aid/French/website development).
Personal qualities and suitability
I have a/an friendly/sensitive/easy-going/enthusiastic nature.
I feel I have the necessary (patience) and (energy) for the job.
I am confident I would be well suited to the job.
I believe I am an ideal candidate for a grant/the job.
Closing remarks
I hope you will consider my application.
I look forward to your reply/hearing from you.

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Writing Part 2 Report

A group of elderly tourists will be spending a morning in your town as part of a ten-day tour of the
region. The local tourist office has asked you to write a report for the group leader, suggesting ways
in which the tourists might spend the morning. You should give advice on sightseeing and shopping,
as well as information on where they could have lunch.
Write your report in 140–190 words.
Model answer

a suitable heading Introduction

for each section of summarise the aim
the report The aim of this report is to give suggestions to a group of elderly tourists on how to of the report without
make the most of their morning in Roxburgh. copying the wording
of the question
Sightseeing
The group might like to begin the morning with a visit to the 16th century church, with
its impressive stained-glassed windows. Within easy walking distance of the church is
the Roxburgh Folk Museum, containing numerous exhibits which show what life was like
in the town in former centuries.

Shopping
For those who would like to go shopping, the farmers’ market in the main square is
a range of language a variety of words
an option worth considering. A wide choice of fresh, organic produce is on sale, together and phrases to
for giving advice
with locally made cheeses, bread and wine. The square also contains a number of describe amounts
interesting pottery shops, some of which offer discounts to senior citizens. and quantities

Lunch
After a busy morning, lunch in one of the reasonably priced restaurants on the a consistent style,
in this case formal
seafront is to be recommended. Non-vegetarians should try one of the many fresh fish
dishes for which Roxburgh is famous.

conclude with Conclusion

summarising
comment and/or final
Although the group is only in Roxburgh for a short time, everyone is guaranteed a warm
recommendation welcome and a memorable morning.

Task
A group of foreign teenage students on an exchange programme in your region is planning to visit
your town for an afternoon and evening. You have been asked to write a report for the leader of the
group, suggesting ways in which the students might spend their time in your town. You should give
advice on places to go for shopping and entertainment, explaining why you recommend these places.
Write your report in 140–190 words.
Useful language for reports

Giving advice and making suggestions Describing amounts or quantities

I would recommend/advise them to (go to the a wide range/selection/variety of (clothes shops)
shopping centre). a large number of (restaurants)
I suggest you/they (shop for clothes at ‘RHN’). a great deal/large amount of (litter)
The best place for (music) is (‘Spins’). plenty of/several/many/numerous (parks and gardens)
You/They should/really must/are advised to Talking about facilities
(go to ‘Aquaworld’).
The shopping/sports/cultural/leisure/restaurant, etc.
(A visit to the zoo) is an option worth considering. facilities are …
(A boat trip) is a must/is to be recommended. … excellent/outstanding/second to none.
It is advisable/a good idea to (book in advance). … adequate/reasonable.
… poor/inadequate/basic.

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Writing Part 2 Review

You have seen this notice in an
English-language magazine Have you been to see a musical, a concert, a circus, a comedian or any other kind
called Stageshow. of live show recently? If so, write us a review, telling us what you did and did not
enjoy about the show and whether you would recommend it to other people.
Write your review in 140–190 words. The best reviews will be published next month.
Model answer

Wizard Warren Whizzbang

introduction, including I had a truly magical evening when I went to see Warren Whizzbang with my ten-year-old
a general opinion nephew last month. It was the first live magic show I had been to, and it won’t be my last.

Warren started the show with a few of the typical tricks you often see on television,
but it was so much more impressive to see them performed live. The audience watched
open-mouthed as he made a variety of objects disappear, turned rabbits into birds and
positive points about seemed to cut his assistant in half. a range of adjectives
the show
The most entertaining part of the show came when he invited members of the audience
onto the stage. We couldn’t stop laughing as he produced pencils from people’s ears
and mice from their pockets. It was absolutely hilarious.

The card tricks were a little disappointing, mainly because it wasn’t always easy to
use of linking words negative point about
see what was happening. My nephew and I both lost interest at this point, although
and phrases the show
fortunately, this section of the show was quite short.

Whatever your age, Warren Whizzbang is definitely worth going to see, even if you are
recommendation
unimpressed by magic on the television. The live experience is simply unforgettable.

Task
Either: a write your own answer to the task above in 140–190 words; or b answer the following question.
You have seen this notice in your school’s English-language magazine.

TELEVISION REVIEWS NEEDED

We’d like to hear about a television series you watch regularly. Write us a review, telling us
what you enjoy about the series and whether there is anything you don’t like about it.
Don’t forget to say who you would recommend it to.

Write your review in 140–190 words.

Useful language for reviews

Giving information about a film, TV series, play or book

It is set in (Wales) in (the nineteen eighties). It tells the story of (a family in crisis).
The main character is (Owen, an unemployed miner). The play/film/series stars (Paul Fairburn) as (Owen).
Giving an opinion
One of its strengths/weaknesses is …
It is full of drama/romance/humour/mystery/action/suspense.
The (acting) is/was impressive/exceptional/outstanding/disappointing/awful.
The funniest/best/most entertaining part of the (play) came/comes when …
I particularly enjoy(ed) …. I don’t/didn’t particularly like …
Making a recommendation
It is definitely worth watching/reading/buying/going to see. It is suitable/ideal for (teenagers).
I would certainly recommend it to (anyone interested in cycling). It will appeal to (all fans of the crime genre).
(Young children) are sure to enjoy it.

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