Essay conventions for IGCSE ESL

What is the purpose of an essay?

• To present an argument or point of view and give examples or reasons to support it

• To summarize a topic without providing any evidence

• To confuse the reader with complex language

• To list random facts without any structure

What should an essay include in terms of organization?

• No specific structure is required

• Multiple introductions to engage the reader

• Just a clear thesis is enough

• Introduction, main body, and conclusion

What type of language should be used in an essay?

• Neutral or formal

• Informal and colloquial

• Slang and jargon

• Poetic and flowery

How should an essay be organized when presenting a balanced argument?

• Mix arguments randomly without any structure

• Present one side of the argument, then the other side, followed by a conclusion

• Only present one side of the argument without any conclusion

• Start with the conclusion, then present both sides of the argument

What is a common mistake to avoid when writing an essay?

• Using colloquial language and slang

• Writing about wider, more general issues instead of focusing on the argument

• Having a clear introduction and conclusion

• Including too many ideas without developing any of them

What should candidates do to improve their essay writing?

• Overuse linking words like 'Firstly', 'Secondly', etc.

• Use pre-learned language for introductions and conclusions

• Avoid checking their work for mistakes

• Include fewer ideas and develop them in greater depth

What is a recommended strategy for learners to practice essay writing?

• Never seek feedback from peers

• Pray to your preferred god or gods in hopes for divine inspiration

• Avoid planning and directly start writing the essay

• Brainstorm ideas, create a plan, and draft their writing

What should learners do during the development stage of essay writing?

• Include as many ideas as possible without any structure

• Use informal language and slang throughout the essay

• Skip the planning stage and directly start drafting

• Consider how they will engage the reader, support their statements, and state their overall opinion

What is a common mistake learners make in essay writing?

• Introducing too many different ideas without developing any of them

• Using a neutral or formal register

• Avoiding overlong introductions and conclusions

• Including pre-learned language for the essay

What should learners do in the plenary stage of essay writing?

• Swap their work with someone else for feedback and provide 1 clarify, 1 strength, 1 concern, 1 suggestion

• Ignore any mistakes in their writing

• Use the same vocabulary and structures as in the essay

• Avoid seeking feedback from peers