PAU Writing Guide

📝 PART 1 –GENERAL OVERVIEW

In the PAU English exam, students must write one composition, choosing between two options.

●​ Suggested length: 125–150 words, though longer texts (up to 200 words) are acceptable
and not penalised.

●​ A brief context is provided to help students understand the purpose, topic, and register.

●​ The topic does not require specialised vocabulary, but clarity, structure, and
appropriacy are essential.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA (4 points)

CRITERIA DESCRIPTION

Correct use of grammar; variety and complexity (e.g. passives,

Grammar (1p)
conditionals)

Vocabulary (1p) Rich, varied and appropriate vocabulary; correct spelling

Cohesion (1p) Use of paragraphs, connectors, pronouns, punctuation

Coherence (1) Clear, mature ideas; logical order; appropriate style and register

⚠️ Penalties
●​ ❌ Wrong text type: -1 point
●​ ❌ Off-topic writing: 0 points
●​ ❌ Copying from the text/prompt: does not count towards word count

✍️ PART 2 – TEXT TYPE: OPINION ESSAY

An opinion essay presents a personal view on a topic, supported by arguments and examples.
The aim is to persuade the reader through logical reasoning.

Structure
Introduction
 ●​ Introduce the topic clearly

●​ State your opinion directly (or indirectly, for more advanced style)

Body Paragraph 1

●​ Present your first reason

●​ Support it with an example or explanation

Body Paragraph 2

●​ Present your second reason

●​ Add supporting details or a short anecdote

(Optional) Body Paragraph 3

●​ Anticipate a possible counterargument and refute it

Conclusion

●​ Restate your opinion

●​ Add a final thought or recommendation

Useful Language
Opinion expressions:

●​ I firmly believe that...

●​ From my point of view,

●​ There is no doubt that...

●​ It seems evident that...

Reasoning and examples:

●​ One major reason for this is that...

●​ This can be clearly seen in...

●​ For instance / For example,

Contrasting and emphasis:

●​ Nevertheless / Even though / Despite this

●​ What is more / In fact / Undoubtedly

Concluding:

●​ In conclusion,

●​ Taking everything into consideration,

●​ All things considered, I maintain that...

Model Opinion Essay (≈190 words)

Topic: Teenagers should be allowed to work part-time while studying. Do you agree?
In recent years, more and more teenagers have been combining school with part-time
jobs. In my opinion, this trend can be highly beneficial, provided it is well balanced.

Firstly, having a part-time job teaches young people important values such as
responsibility, time management and the value of money. For instance, a student who
works a few hours a week learns to appreciate the effort involved in earning an income
and is more likely to spend wisely.

Secondly, early work experience can boost future employability. A teenager who
already knows how to interact with customers or manage tasks under pressure will find
it easier to adapt to more demanding jobs later in life.

Of course, some argue that working may distract students from their studies. However,
as long as the number of hours is reasonable, it can even improve academic
performance by encouraging better time organisation.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that working part-time while studying offers more
advantages than disadvantages, as long as education remains the top priority.
Practice Activities
1. Sentence Completion: Complete the sentences using advanced connectors or expressions from the
Useful Language section.

1.​ ______, many teenagers benefit from part-time jobs.

2.​ One major reason for this is that ______.

3.​ ______ this, some people are still against teenage employment.

4.​ Taking everything into consideration, ______.

2. Rewrite the following sentence using a more formal C1 structure:

●​ “I think teens should work while studying.”

3. Planning Task: Write down 2 reasons for and 1 reason against the following topic:

"School holidays should be shorter."​

Then write a short conclusion (2 sentences) with your final opinion.

🔑 Writing to Impress: Title, Introduction & Conclusion

●​ Title: Your title should reflect your position or the essence of the argument. It can be direct
(“Why Teenagers Should Work”) or thought-provoking (“Work or Study? Why Not Both?”).

●​ Introduction: Start with a sentence that grabs attention and shows clear thinking. Avoid generic
openers like “Nowadays...” — instead, try:

"Balancing school and work is no longer a rare exception — it’s becoming the new normal for
many teens."

●​ Conclusion: Make your final paragraph memorable. Don't just repeat what you've already said —
rephrase it with power:

"Ultimately, a part-time job is not a distraction from education, but a lesson in life itself."

✍️ Tip: The examiner will remember your first and last sentences the most — make them count!
🟦 PART 3 – TEXT TYPE: FOR & AGAINST ESSAY
This type of essay presents both sides of an issue in a balanced and objective way. The writer avoids
giving their opinion until the conclusion (or not at all, depending on the task).

Structure
Title​
Introduction

●​ Introduce the topic neutrally

●​ Mention that there are two sides to the issue

Body Paragraph 1 – Arguments For

●​ Present at least one or two reasons in favour

●​ Support with examples or explanations

Body Paragraph 2 – Arguments Against

●​ Present at least one or two reasons against

●​ Support with examples or explanations

Conclusion

●​ Optionally state your own opinion

●​ Or summarise the key arguments from both sides

Useful Language
Introducing both sides

●​ There are strong arguments both for and against...

●​ Some people claim that..., while others believe that...

Listing arguments

●​ One point in favour of this is...

●​ Moreover / Another benefit is...

●​ On the other hand / However / In contrast...

Examples & clarification

●​ For instance / To illustrate this

●​ This may lead to...

Conclusion

●​ To sum up, / In short, / All things considered,

●​ While there are convincing arguments on both sides,

●​ The advantages outweigh/ outnumber the disadva

●​ Personally, I tend to agree that...

🔑 Writing to Impress: Title, Introduction & Conclusion
Title: Should Everyone Go to University?​
Introduction:

In today's society, the value of higher education is often debated. While some see
university as essential, others believe there are alternative paths to success.

Conclusion:

All things considered, it seems that the decision depends on individual goals and
circumstances, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Model FOR & AGAINST Essay (≈195 words)

Should university education be free?
The idea of making university education free for all students has sparked
debate in recent years. While some believe that this would benefit society,
others are concerned about the economic consequences.

On the one hand, providing free higher education would allow more young
people to access qualifications, regardless of their financial background. This
could lead to a more skilled workforce and reduce inequality. For instance,
countries like Germany offer free university education and have strong
economies.

On the other hand, free university education would place a significant burden
on taxpayers. In addition, if education is free, students might not take their
studies as seriously, potentially lowering academic standards. Maintaining
quality while expanding access could be a challenge.

To sum up, although free university education may seem ideal, it also raises
important financial and practical issues. Personally, I believe a fair solution
could be to offer free education to students from low-income families, while
encouraging others to contribute based on their means.

Practice Activities
A. Complete the Sentences

1.​ Some argue that university should be free, while others….

2.​ A clear advantage of free higher education is…

3.​ On the other hand, opponents claim that ….

 4.​ Personally, I tend to agree that…

B. Connector Challenge. Fill in the gaps with suitable connectors:

●​ _______________ some people support this idea, others find it unrealistic.

●​ This could be beneficial. ___________, it might not be financially viable.

●​ Your own example:

C. Brainstorming: List two arguments for and two against the topic:

"Should mobile phones be banned in schools?"

Then write a one-sentence conclusion summarising your thoughts.

✉️ PART 4 – TEXT TYPE: FORMAL & INFORMAL EMAIL
In the PAU exam, you may be asked to write either a formal or informal email. The task will
always include a clear context (e.g. applying for a job, replying to a friend’s message).

Understanding the register (formal or informal) is essential to choose the correct tone,
expressions and structure.

Structure
Subject line or title (optional)​
Salutation

●​ Formal: Dear Sir/Madam, Dear Mr Smith

●​ Informal: Hi Emma, Dear Jack

Introduction

●​ State the reason for writing

●​ Mention what prompted your email (e.g. an advert, a previous message)

Body Paragraphs

●​ Address the required content points (questions, information, responses) clearly and
politely

●​ Use separate paragraphs for each topic

Conclusion

●​ End with a closing line appropriate to the tone

●​ Formal: I look forward to your reply. / Informal: Hope to hear from you soon!

Sign-off

●​ Formal: Yours sincerely / Yours faithfully

●​ Informal: Best wishes / Take care / See you soon!

Useful Language
Formal expressions:

●​ I am writing to enquire about...

●​ I would be grateful if you could...

●​ I would like to apply for...

●​ Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require further information.

Informal expressions:

●​ Just wanted to let you know...

●​ How have you been?

 ●​ Thanks for your message!

●​ Can’t wait to hear all about it!

Useful closings:

●​ Formal: I look forward to hearing from you. / Thank you for your attention.

●​ Informal: Hope everything’s going well! / Let’s catch up soon!

🔑 Writing to Impress: Tone, Clarity & Closing Impact

●​ Adapt the tone to the situation: One of the biggest errors is mixing formal and informal language.

●​ Be polite and clear: Especially in formal writing, clarity and courtesy go hand in hand.

●​ Close with confidence: Finish with a sentence that leaves a professional or friendly impression.

Formal: I remain at your disposal should you need further details.​

Informal: Let me know how it goes – I’m sure you’ll do great!

📝 Model Formal Email (178 words)

You have seen an advert for a summer course in the UK. Write to request more information.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to enquire about the summer English course advertised on your website. I am
particularly interested in the two-week intensive programme in July.
I would be grateful if you could provide further details regarding the accommodation options
available. Could you also let me know whether meals are included in the price? In addition, I
would like to ask about the average number of students per class, as I am looking for a more
personalised learning experience.
Furthermore, I would appreciate it if you could inform me about the social and cultural activities
organised for participants. Finally, I would like to confirm the total cost of the programme,
including registration fees and any additional expenses.
Thank you very much for your assistance. I look forward to receiving your reply.
Yours faithfully,
SP

📝 Model Informal Email (174 words)

Your friend has invited you to spend a few days at their house in the summer. Write a reply
accepting the invitation and making some suggestions.

Hi Rachel,

Thanks so much for your email! I’m really excited about the idea of spending a few days at
your place this summer – it sounds like a great plan.
 I was thinking of coming in mid-July, if that works for you. Let me know which dates suit you
best. Also, would it be okay if I stayed for four or five days? I’d love to catch up properly and
spend some quality time together.

As for things to do, why don’t we go hiking one day? I remember you mentioning a new trail
near your village, and I’d love to explore it. And maybe we could have a movie night like old
times – I’ll bring the popcorn!

Let me know if you need me to bring anything or help with anything in advance.

Can’t wait to see you!

Best wishes,​
Alex.

Practice Activities
A. Formal or Informal? Write "F" or "I" next to each expression:

1.​ Just wanted to ask if you’re free next week ___

2.​ I am writing to request further details ___

3.​ Can’t wait to hear from you ___

4.​ Yours faithfully ___

B. Rewrite in Formal Style. Rewrite the following in a formal tone:

●​ "Can you tell me how much it costs?"

●​ "Thanks for your help!"

C. Sentence Completion (Formal)

1.​ I would like to enquire about…

2.​ I am particularly interested in …

3.​ I would appreciate it if you could …

📖 PART 5 – TEXT TYPE: NARRATIVE

4.​ Please let me know …

A narrative tells a story based on a given situation or sentence. It usually involves one or more characters
and a sequence of events. The aim is to entertain, engage the reader, and show creativity and language
range.

Structure
Title – Make it catchy or intriguing.

Introduction

●​ Set the scene: who, where, when

●​ Create atmosphere or tension

 Development

●​ Describe events in chronological or logical order

●​ Use past tenses and narrative devices (suspense, contrast, turning points)

●​ Include direct speech or thoughts

Conclusion

●​ End with a twist, a reflection, or an unexpected result

●​ Ensure closure and coherence

Language Tips
✅ Variety of past tenses: Past Simple, Past Continuous, Past Perfect, and Past Perfect
✅ Linking expressions: Suddenly, Eventually, Just then, Without warning, As soon as,
Continuous, would, used to​

✅ Powerful adjectives/adverbs: terrified, breathtaking, miserably, unexpectedly,

In the blink of an eye...​

✅ Sensory detail: sounds, smells, feelings​

incredibly, completely frozen​

✅ Comparisons & similes: as fast as lightning, like a ghost, as silent as the grave​
✅ Verbs in direct speech: groan, gasp, moan, shriek, whisper, sigh, mumble
🔑 Writing to Impress: Dialogue, Description & Surprise
●​ Use descriptive verbs in speech to show emotion and action.

“Don’t go in there!” she shrieked, clutching his arm.

●​ Build suspense through paragraphing and short sentences.

Just then, the lights went out.

●​ Close with an impact: give your story a twist or a thoughtful ending.

I never found out who left that letter on my desk. But I still have it.

📝 Model Narrative (197 words)

“The moment I stepped inside, I knew something was wrong.”

The moment I stepped inside, I knew something was wrong. The air felt thick
and strangely cold, as though the house itself were holding its breath.

“Hello?” I called out, my voice echoing through the silence. No answer. I

moved cautiously down the hallway, each creak of the floorboards tightening
the knot in my stomach.

Just then, I heard a groan coming from the living room. My heart skipped a
beat. Pushing the door open, I found the room empty — except for a
photograph lying face down on the table. I picked it up. It was me, standing in
the exact spot I was now in.
 A gasp escaped my lips. I spun around. Nothing.

The sound of footsteps above made me freeze. I wasn’t alone. I turned and
ran out of the house as fast as I could, not daring to look back.

I never returned. But that photo… I still have it. And sometimes, when I look at
it closely, I’m sure there’s someone else standing just behind me.

Practice Activities
A. Improve the Description. Rewrite the sentence using more vivid language:

●​ “It was dark and cold.”

●​ “She screamed loudly.”

B. Add a Simile or Comparison. Enhance the sentence:

●​ “He ran down the road.”

●​ “The room was silent.”

C. Dialogue Practice. Write a short conversation between two characters using verbs
like: gasp, groan, whisper, shriek.

D. Story Starter. Continue the story:

🎨 PART 6 – TEXT TYPE: DESCRIPTION

“I had never believed in ghosts. Until that night.”

A descriptive text aims to create a vivid image in the reader's mind of a place, person, object or moment.
The goal is to use rich, sensory language and advanced vocabulary to convey atmosphere and detail.

Structure
Title – Can be poetic, evocative, or specific.

Introduction

●​ Identify the subject (place, person, moment, etc.)

●​ Mention your connection or reason for describing it

Body Paragraphs

●​ Focus on different aspects (e.g. appearance, feelings, memories, sounds, smells)

●​ Use well-organised paragraphs and transitions

●​ Be creative with language and imagery

Conclusion

●​ Reflect or express how the subject made you feel

 ●​ End with a memorable phrase or emotional impact

Language Tips
✅ Sensory adjectives and adverbs: tranquil, dazzling, musty, overwhelmingly warm,
✅ Imagery and figurative language: metaphors and similes (the sea whispered like an
eerily silent​

✅ Precise vocabulary: avoid generic words (e.g. nice, big) and aim for precision
old friend)​

✅ Time and space connectors: at first glance, beyond the trees, under the fading light,
(majestic, crumbling, serene)​

✅ Descriptive verbs: shimmer, flicker, echo, linger, exude

in the distance​

🔑 Writing to Impress: Evoke the Senses

●​ Use all five senses to describe the subject, not just sight. Help the reader feel, hear, and
smell the environment.

●​ Focus on atmosphere: go beyond the physical description and evoke a mood or

emotion.

●​ Include a personal touch: memory or emotional reaction to deepen the impact.

The scent of pine mixed with sea salt brought back childhood summers spent on that very hill.

📝 Model Description (192 words)

Topic: Describe a place that means a lot to you.

Nestled between two rolling hills lies the village of Vallverd, a place where
time seems to pause. At dawn, mist floats lazily above the meadows, and the
only sound is the distant clinking of goat bells.

The narrow cobbled streets wind between stone houses with crimson roofs
and blue shutters. Bougainvillaea spills over the balconies like laughter,
adding bursts of colour to the muted tones of stone and clay.

At the heart of the village stands a small square where old men gather under
a giant olive tree, sharing stories in hushed tones. The scent of freshly baked
bread from the nearby bakery lingers in the air, blending with the sweet
aroma of jasmine.

But what makes Vallverd unforgettable is the view from the church bell
tower. As the sun dips behind the mountains, the whole valley glows golden,
and the sky blushes in pink and lavender.

Whenever I think of peace, my mind returns to that hidden corner of the

world, where every detail whispers of simplicity, tradition, and belonging.
Practice Activities
A. Enhance the Description. Rewrite using more precise or poetic language:

●​ “The room was nice.”

●​ “It smelled good.”

B. Add Sensory Detail. Choose one sense and add descriptive detail to this sentence:

●​ “We sat on the beach.”

C. Simile Challenge. Create a simile for each of the following:

●​ A quiet lake

●​ A crowded market

D. Sentence Starters. Write 3 sentences beginning with:

🎬 PART 7 – TEXT TYPE: REVIEW

●​ Beyond the hills, / The air was filled with... / It reminded me of...

A review evaluates and shares your opinion on a book, film, series, podcast, restaurant, place, or any
cultural product or experience. The aim is to describe, analyse and recommend (or not) while maintaining
an engaging tone.

Structure
Title – Make it catchy, clever or informative.
Introduction
●​ State clearly what you are reviewing
●​ Mention its genre/type and your general opinion
Body Paragraphs
●​ Describe key features (plot, service, content, atmosphere, performance, etc.)
●​ Comment on what worked well and what didn’t
●​ Use descriptive adjectives and vivid language
Conclusion
●​ Summarise your thoughts
●​ Recommend it (or not), suggesting the ideal audience

Language Tips
✅ Descriptive adjectives: gripping, thought-provoking, underwhelming,
✅ Useful verbs and phrases: it explores, it deals with, it captures, it succeeds in, it fails
heartwarming, mouth-watering, fast-paced, visually stunning​

✅ Balanced opinion expressions: Although..., I must admit..., What makes it special

to, it features, it delivers, it lives up to the hype​

is..., I was pleasantly surprised by..., On the downside...​

 ✅ Recommendation formulas: I would highly recommend it to..., It’s perfect for anyone
who..., If you’re looking for..., this might be ideal

🔑 Writing to Impress: Voice, Variety & Impact

●​ Add your voice: Reviews are semi-formal — show personality but stay objective.

●​ Use expressive language: Make your adjectives pop. Go beyond good or interesting.

●​ Be specific: Mention scenes, flavours, moments, performances — not vague impressions.

●​ End memorably: Strong final sentence = strong impression.

Whether you're a fan of true crime or simply love compelling storytelling, this podcast will keep
you hooked from beginning to end.

Model Review (199 words)

Topic: Write a review of a podcast you’ve recently listened to.
Dark Truths – A Chilling Podcast That Will Haunt You
If you enjoy gripping storytelling mixed with real-life suspense, “Dark Truths” might
just become your next obsession. This true crime podcast delves into unsolved cases
from around the world, blending high-quality production with meticulous research.

The narrator’s voice is calm yet eerie, perfectly matching the atmospheric sound
design that builds suspense without feeling forced. Each episode focuses on a
different mystery, and the use of interviews, real audio, and expert commentary
makes it feel both authentic and immersive.

What makes this podcast stand out is its storytelling. It doesn’t rely on sensationalism;
instead, it respects the victims and focuses on the human stories behind each case.
That said, it’s not for the faint of heart — the content can be intense and occasionally
disturbing.

I was particularly struck by Episode 4, which explores the disappearance of a young

journalist in Eastern Europe. The pacing, music and narrative arcs are masterfully
balanced.

I would highly recommend “Dark Truths” to anyone who enjoys investigative

journalism and thought-provoking narratives. It’s perfect for late-night listening — if
you dare.

Practice Activities
A. Vocabulary Upgrade. Replace the basic adjectives with more vivid ones:
●​ good →
●​ interesting →
●​ nice →
●​ boring →
 B. Review Brainstorm. Choose one: a film, a book, a series, a restaurant, a podcast, or a place. Write
down:
1.​ One sentence summarising it
2.​ One thing you liked
3.​ One thing you didn’t like
4.​ Would you recommend it? Why or why not?
C. Create a Title. Invent an engaging review title for:
●​ A fantasy novel
●​ A sushi restaurant

🧠FINAL TIPS – MASTERING THE WRITING TASK

●​ A travel blo

Writing a great composition is not only about language — it’s about planning, structure,
clarity and review. Here are some final strategies to help you SHINE:

🗺️ 1. PLAN BEFORE YOU WRITE

●​ Read the task carefully and underline keywords.

●​ Identify the type of text and the appropriate tone (formal/informal).

●​ Brainstorm ideas for content and vocabulary.

●​ Write a quick outline: main points for each paragraph.

🧱 2. STRUCTURE MATTERS
●​ Follow the standard format of the text type.

●​ Use paragraphs: one idea per paragraph. And include a title if possible!

●​ Start with a strong introduction and finish with a powerful conclusion.

🔗 3. CONNECT AND ORGANISE

●​ Use a variety of connectors: however, in addition, what’s more, in contrast...

●​ Link ideas smoothly with pronouns and reference words.

🔍 4. REVIEW BEFORE SUBMITTING

●​ Check for spelling and punctuation mistakes.

●​ Look out for verb tenses and subject-verb agreement.

●​ Ask yourself: Have I answered the question? Have I used formal/informal language
correctly?
 ●​ Count your words — make sure you’re close to 150–200 words.

🌟 5. MAKE IT MEMORABLE
●​ Start and end with impactful sentences.

●​ Use vivid vocabulary and precise verbs/adjectives.

●​ Try including a rhetorical question, quote, or personal reflection to add voice.

🚀 You now have everything you need to succeed in the PAU writing task.
Practice, review, and write with confidence!

 Grammar (1 point)

●​ Correct and appropriate use of grammar structures.

●​ Range and complexity of grammatical forms (e.g. passives, conditionals, relative

clauses, etc.).

 Vocabulary and Spelling (1 point)

●​ Richness, variety, and appropriateness of vocabulary.

●​ Correct spelling and word formation.

 Cohesion (1 point)

●​ Clear paragraphing.

●​ Use of cohesive devices (linking words, pronouns, transitions).

●​ Correct punctuation.

 Appropriacy and Coherence (1 point)

●​ Text suits the required register and type (formal/informal, essay/email, etc.).

●​ Clear and mature thinking.

●​ Well-reasoned and well-organised ideas.