PART 1 – WRITING AN ESSAY (also known as a discursive essay or composition)
The student must write 140-190 words.
There are basically 3 main types of essay/composition.
1. Advantages/Disadvantages (Pros and cons).
2. Agree or disagree with the title (in a logical way!)
3. Writing about issues in modern society (argumentative essay) such as: health,
pollution, internet, technology, ecology, men and women, economic crisis.
Before you start
Read the question carefully. Make sure you include all points (notes).
•Plan your essay. Spend about 5 minutes on this. It will make your life easier.
•Jot down arguments for each point.
•Control your time. Spend about 40 minutes
Remember this!
•You MUST write your essay in 140-190 words. Write 190 words, NOT 140!!
•A composition is usually quite formal, so present your work as a ‘scientific’, coherent argument
•Use formal language. DO NOT use contractions, colloquial expressions or a ‘chatty’ style
•Write at least 4 paragraphs with a clear introduction, one paragraph for each note (or contrast of
arguments) and a logical conclusion. It’s also a good idea to add your own idea before the
conclusion.
•Make sure your argument is clear
•Use difficult grammar and more complex sentences
•Use conditional and passive sentences, linking words and logical devices.
•Give your opinion at the end, NOT at the beginning
PARAGRAPHS:
1 INTRODUCTION OF THE TOPIC (IT COULD INCLUDE THE AUTHOR’S OPINION)
2 DEVELOPING THE FIRST NOTE
3 DEVELOPING THE SECOND NOTE
4 YOUR ARGUMENTATIVE PARAGRAPH/YOUR OWN IDEA: YOU ADD YOUR SPECIAL BIT OF
INFORMATION, WHERE YOU BACK UP YOUR FACTS WITH GOOD POINTS, QUOTATIONS,
