Improving Essay Specificity Techniques

The video discusses common mistakes in B2 First and C1 Advanced essays, focusing on vague sentences that add no value. It highlights the importance of specificity in writing and provides examples of how to improve generic sentences by adding context and advanced vocabulary. The video concludes with a reminder to avoid bland statements and offers tips for crafting meaningful sentences.

What does the speaker dislike more than themselves?

• Short essays

• Long essays

• Generic essay sentences

• Complex vocabulary

Which of the following is an example of a generic sentence?

• The sun rises in the east.

• Family is an evergreen topic.

• The earth is round.

• Water boils at 100°C.

Why are generic sentences problematic in essays?

• They use complex vocabulary.

• They lack specific information.

• They are too detailed.

• They are too short.

What is the purpose of the 'switch the subjects' game?

• To shorten sentences

• To test if sentences are specific

• To make sentences longer

• To improve vocabulary

What do generic sentences fail to do according to the speaker?

• Impress examiners

• Increase word count

• Use simple words

• Make essays shorter

How can sentences be improved according to the speaker?

• By using simpler words

• By reducing word count

• By making them longer

• By adding specific context

What is an improved version of 'sports centers are really important'?

• Sports centers are fun.

• Sports centers are everywhere.

• Sports centers, considering the rise in obesity levels nationwide, are really important.

• Sports centers are big.

What is a better way to say 'pollution is an important topic'?

• Pollution is everywhere.

• Pollution is bad.

• Pollution is a big issue.

• With global temperatures rising, pollution is becoming a more important topic by the day.

What should you do if you can change the subject of a sentence without changing its meaning?

• Use simpler words

• Make the sentence longer

• Leave it as it is

• Make the sentence more specific