TA2 U12 p126 writing essays

Writing: ESSAY

​Essays appear in PAPER 2 PART 2 of the FCE.

An essay is a composition in which you are required to express your opinion about a given topic.

​When writing an essay at the FCE, you are tested on your:

• vocabulary range,

• grammar, such as linking words

• register (neutral to formal)

• coherent organization,

• well-supported arguments,

• observation of requirements,

• ability to address the topic given.

​There are three basic formats of essays:

• 3 paragraphs,

• 4 paragraphs,

• 5 paragraphs.

​Three-paragraph essay:

1. introduction: state your opinion;

2. support your opinion, list your reasons;

3. conclusion.

​Four-paragraph essay:

1. introduction: what will be discussed, how it will be done;

2. arguments for;

3. arguments against;

4. conclusion: your position.

​Five-paragraph essay:

1. introduction: what you are going to write, how you are going to do it;

2. idea 1: arguments for and against;

3. idea 2: arguments for and against;

4. idea 3: arguments for and against;

5. conclusion: your position.

​Writing checklist: did you...

• write between 140 to 190 words?

• organize your essay into paragraphs?

• introduce and order your main points?

• use linker to go from one idea to the next?

• use different ways of contrasting and balancing ideas?

​Choose one of the topics below and write your essay in a Word document.

Then, send it to the teacher for comments and review.