FCE WRITING GUIDE

Writing PART 2 - AN ESSAY

Writing Part 2 (140-190 words)
General Advice

Read the question carefully, underlining the points you must deal with.

Make a plan with the main ideas for each paragraph.

Think of vocabulary you want to use and note it down.

Write following your plan.

An essay (Formal)
In writing part 2, one task my be an essay in which you are asked to give your opinion on a subject.
The first thing you must do is decide if you should write an opinion essay or an argumentative one.
If you decide that the best thing to do is to write an opinion essay, have a look at the following
scheme/ layout.

AN OPINION ESSAY

In an opinion essay you must give your opinion on a subject so, you must basically say if you agree
or disagree with the statement. This type of essay is ideal if you feel very strongly about something
and you have more than one reason for your opinion.
Paragraph 1 / Introduction
Present the topic of discussion and express your opinion. You must imagine that whoever reads
your essay has no idea what the topic is. You must also show clearly that youll be expressing one
opinion, either in favour or against.

Paragraph 2

Explain your first reason for your opinion. Talk about possible consequences and give examples or
vice versa.

Paragraph 3

Explain your second reason and maybe a third one, but only if it is closely related. Mention
possible consequences and give examples, or vice versa.

Paragraph 4 / Conclusion

Summarise your reasons and / or talk about possible consequences if nothing is done. You can
also give a more personal opinion and even finish your essay with a rhetorical question.

Useful language for an opinion essay

Introduction
-There are people who claim/ believe/ say/ think (that)...
-There is no doubt that...
-I feel...
-According to... /...new research,...
-It is believed... / said (that)...
-It is believed by experts / scientist (that)...
-It seems / appears that...
(Use the expressions above but introduce the topic in your own words. Do not use the exact words
in the question and say what your opinion is clearly. Although you are expressing your opinion,
some of the expressions above allow you to distance yourself from the ideas).
Body
Paragraphs 2-3
State your first / main reason like this:
-I think that...
-Firstly/ first of all/ to start with...
-I think there are two aspects of... The first is...
Give an example/ examples
-For example: For instance/ -ing illustrates the way/ how...
Talk about consequences
As a result,
Therefore,
Consequently,
In this case,
The second aspect is...
Secondly,
Another reason why...
We should also consider the fact that...
Another matter/ aspect to consider...
Let us not forget...

Conclusion
Paragraph 3 or 4

In short,
In brief,
To conclude,
In conclusion,
Do we really want to make our children pay for our mistakes?

AN ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

When you write an argumentative essay, you should try to keep a balance between opposing
ideas. It is also very important to use connectors to organise your reasoning. And finally, don't
forget to introduce your ideas, explain them, and give examples and / or talk about possible
consequences.

Paragraph 1 / Introduction
Explain the topic and / or problem in your own words. Assume the reader doesn't know anything
about the question.
Body
Paragraph 2
Present the positive or negative aspects of the topic / problem.
Deal with each one separately and try to give an example and mention a possible consequence.
Add another reason if you can and repeat the process.
Paragraph 3
Present opposite points of view. Deal with each one separately and try to give an example and
mention a possible consequence. Add another reason if you can and repeat the process.
Conclusion / Paragraph 4
Summarise and give your own personal opinion whether in favour or against.

Useful language for an argumentative essay

Introduction
Many people think that... / It is thought that... Others believe that... I will present both points of view
and express my opinion on the matter.
Here, I've presented the opposing points of view and explained that will not only talk about the
differences but also give my personal opinion. You'll have to be brave in the conclusion.
Body
Paragraph 2
On the one hand... / First of all, I should like to consider... / The first thing to be considered is... For
instance, / To be specific,... Consequently,... In addition (to this), / A second benefit is... /
Furthermore, we should also consider the fact that... / -ing illustrates the way... / For example,... As
a result, / Therefore, ...
In this paragraph I've presented a positive / negative aspect of the problem. I've then given an
example and mentioned a possible consequence. Then, I've added another reason to support this
particular view and repeated the process of giving an example and / or mention a possible
consequence. You can also talk about the consequences first and then give an example or even
more than one, but be careful with word length.
Paragraph 3
On the other hand, / However, there are also disadvantages. The most important of these is that...
Consequently,... For instance,... The second point is that, / Secondly, / Furthermore, / In addition, ...
For example,... Therefore,... / Due to the fact that... / Finally, it is worth stating that...
In this paragraph you must present one or two opposing points of view and explain the
consequences and / or give relevant examples.
Conclusion / Paragraph 4
In my opinion, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. To sum up, / On the basis of the
arguments I have presented in favour / against, it can be concluded that... All in all, I personally
believe...
Yes, summarise and give your own personal opinion.

FCE - review

Paper 2 Part 2 - Review

A REVIEW is usually written for an English-language magazine, newspaper or website. The main
purpose is to describe and express a personal opinion about something which the writer has
experienced (e.g. a film, a holiday, a product, a website etc.) and to give the reader a clear
impression of what the item discussed is like. Description and explanation are key functions for this
task, and a review will normally include a recommendation to the reader.
Hints
It is a good idea to give your review an interesting title.
In the first paragraph, say what you are reviewing and try to get the reader's interest.
Give your opinion of what you are reviewing linked to the question in the second paragraph.
Remember a review is not just a list of facts - it's largely your opinion.
Give more details of what your are reviewing linked to the questions in the input in one or two more
paragraphs, but only focus on those you've been asked to develop.
Summarise your view, using different words from the introduction, and include a recommendation.
Remember.
Use a personal or more neutral style, according to the target reader.
It is important that you show a range of structures in the language of opinion, description and
recommendation.
Add vivid language to add interest.
Useful language for a review
What I liked
What I liked most was ..
The thing I liked most was .
I was pleasantly surprised by ..
.. would appeal to ..
If you get a chance to .
What I disliked
What I disliked most was ..
I was disappointed by/with

Reviews of books
main character
is set in
Fiction: science fiction / thriller / fantasy / mystery / historical / romance ...
Non-fiction: cook book / travel book / textbook / manual / coffee-table book ...
atmosphere / plot
author
written by
chapter
factual
unbelievable
bestseller
ending
Reviews of concerts
artist / band / musician / (bass/lead/rhythm) guitarist / (backing/lead) singer / drummer / soloist / trio
/ orchestra
auditorium / hall / venue / lyrics / (catchy) tune / score / gig
Reviews of exhibitions
painting / sculpture / handicrafts
gallery / catalogue / display
Reviews of films
lead role
star role
star
star actor/actress
starring
secondary role
He plays a .
written by .
cast / director / producer
is set in ..
based on a true story ..
believable
true to life
not very believable
far-fetched
(As for fiction books +): animation / adaptation / comedy
Costumes / design / photography / script / special effects / soundtrack
ending
Reviews of TV programmes

Chat shows / current affairs programme / debate / documentary / series / soap opera/ sitcom
(situation comedy)
Host / presenter
Reviews of hotels, restaurants, etc
location
service
setting
attractive / disappointing setting
owned by
run by
head chef (restaurant)
waiters (restaurant)
staff .
staff at reception .(hotel)
hotel facilities .
reasonable prices ..
good/excellent/poor value for money ..
(a bit/somehow) expensive
overpriced
not worth the money
always fully booked
book in advance
Criticism
The script seemed rather conventional/predictable to me.
The plot struck me as completely bizarre/absurd/incomprehensible
The characters are appealing and true to life
The dancers were quite brilliant/amateurish
Recommendations
Judging from this CD / show ...
Overall, if you like ..., you'll love / you should ...
Although some of ... he/she/it's still a great...
You really must/should buy/see/read/visit ...
I would definitely recommend seeing/visiting/reading/having a look at ...
Model questions and answers
Review- Model question 1
TASK
You have seen this announcement in your college English-language magazine.

Music reviews wanted

Have you been to a great music concert recently?
Write us a review of the concert, telling us about the band or singer and their performance. Say
whether you would recommend seeing them perform live.
We will publish the best reviews next month.
Write your review in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.
Review - Model answer 1
A gig to remember
Without doubt, the British rock band Arctic Monkeys have given this year's best live show. As
teenagers a few years ago, they made the fastest selling album ever but seemed shy and awkward
on stage. Now they have matured and become an amazing live act.
Since the frontman Alex decided to cut his hair and dress like a skinny rock star of the 1950s, he
moves confidently around the stage, waving his arms and encouraging us to shake our hips. The
crowd were ecstatic!
The set began with their hit, Do you wanna know. The guitar playing was tight, as always, and the
rhythm supported by Matt's powerful drumming. The band were on top form throughout, winning
fans with a list that combined older with new hits.
My only reservation is that although the songs have clever lyrics and great melodies and sound
fresh every time, some lack the emotional and poetic force of their best.
But this is a minor criticism. Overall, it was a performance to remember and all fans should try and
catch them while they're on tour.
[+/- 185 words]
Review- Model question 2

TASK
You have seen this announcement in an international magazine.

Book reviews wanted

Have your read a book recently with a story that has held your attention? Write a review of the
book, explaining what the story is about and whether the characters are convincing. Tell us whether
or not you would recommend it both to younger and older readers
The best reviews will be published in the magazine.
Write your review in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.
Review - Model answer 2
Animal Farm, by George Orwell
This is an unusual book, set on a farm. The characters, led by the pigs, are mainly animals, who
get rid of the cruel, drunken human owner and take over the farm. They set up a government of
their own.
The story isn't exciting but it's clever. At first, after the revolution, the animals are equal but later the
pigs become more powerful and start to change everything. By the end of the novel, the animals
realise they have gone back to where they started.
In one way, the story is obviously not a true story but in another way, it is meant to tell the story of
communism from a satirical point of view.
The characters are very convincing. Napoleon, the leader of the pigs, is strong and corrupt. Other
animals are honest but weak. They all represent people and the events in Russia in the 1920s and
30s.
Although I enjoyed this book, I can imagine older people who were brought up when communism
was still strong in the world and have probably read a lot about the Russian Revolution, would
enjoy it even more.
[+/- 190 words]

FCE - report

Paper 2 Part 2 - Report

A REPORT is usually written for a superior (e.g. a teacher) or a peer group (e.g. members of an
English club). Candidates are expected to give some factual information and make suggestions or
recommendations. A report should be clearly organised and may include headings.
Hints
Begin by stating the purpose of your report.
You may invent where you got the information.
Use a clear layout with:
Headings. They will make it clear that your report is not an essay or review.
Lists of numbered points or bullets where appropriate. (DON'T overdo it, though. If you use them in
more than one section, you won't be able to show the full range of structures and vocabulary you
know.)
Divide your report into sections according to the input.
Develop the ideas in the task input. Focus on a maximum of two points.
Give a clear summary of the situation and make a comment/suggestion only in the last paragraph.
Use an impersonal, semi-formal style.

Useful language for a report

Stating the purpose of the report (paragraph 1)
The main aim/objective/purpose of this report is to
Describing how you got the information (paragraph 1)

To prepare for this report, I conducted interviews with... / I visited three of the most popular... / I
discussed the issue with

Reporting your results (paragraphs 2, 3, ...)

According to ...
All those who were interviewed believe that/are concerned that... / It is thought that... / It was
commented upon by a number of people we talked to that...
A cause of dissatisfaction was..
Presenting a list

The arguments against ... are the following:

1 ...
2 ...
The following were the main reasons given for supporting ...: firstly, ..., secondly, ...
Points mentioned in favour of/against ... were:
1 ...
2 ...
There are several ways in which ... might be ... :
1 ...
2
Making recommendations (Last paragraph)

Taking all the factors mentioned into account...

I would therefore recommend ....
Clearly, more could be done to .... I would make the following recommendations:
1 ...
2 ...
3

Model questions and answers

Report - Model question 1
TASK
Your English teacher has asked you to write a report on where people can eat out in your area. You
should include the views of visitors and local people, comment on any recent trends and
dissatisfaction and make a recommendation.

Write your report in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.

Report - Model answer 1
Local eating places
The main purpose of this report is to give an overview of the town's eating facilities. As part of the
survey, both tourists and local residents were asked their views.
Cafs, pubs and restaurants
There are a number of good quality restaurants in the area, which cater for most tastes: pizza
houses, sushi bars, exclusive French restaurants and gastro pubs. We are also fortunate to have
several cafs and sandwich bars, which are very popular in the mornings with young mothers and
children and with office workers at lunchtime.
Recent trends/Dissatisfaction
It was reported that in recent years most of the fast food restaurants had extended their hours, with
most open until midnight. It was also stated that prices had gone up dramatically in some of the
better restaurants and, as a consequence, people are going out less than they used to or eating at
cheaper restaurants.
Room for improvement/Recommendations
The main area of concern among a number of people interviewed was the lack of vegetarian meals
available in many of the restaurants and it is recommended that restaurants are made aware of this
view.
[+/- 185 words]
Report - Model question 2
TASK
Your college has been asked to accept a group of 50 students from another country for two weeks.
Your principal has asked you to write a report. What would be the advantages and disadvantages
of accepting this group? What would you recommend?
Write your report in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.
Report - Model answer 1
Report on proposed visit by 50 overseas students

Introduction
The purpose of this report is to consider the advantages and disadvantages of accepting a large
group of students from overseas for two weeks. I have discussed the issue with all the senior
members of college staff.
Advantages
All those I interviewed believe that for students, this would be an exciting opportunity to explore a
foreign culture, both in the classroom and socially. Overall, they thought the visit would be
stimulating for the college at a quiet time of the year.
Disadvantages
Some members of staff are concerned that:
there would be insufficient seating in the library at busy times.
the visitors might be more interested in enjoying themselves than studying.
the restaurant queue would be very slow at lunchtime.
Conclusion and recommendation
Clearly, the visit might involve some practical difficulties, but on the whole, everyone thought that it
should be seen as an opportunity not to be missed. I would therefore suggest that the college
accepts the group.
[+/- 170 words]
Report - Model question 3
TASK
You work for the Student Travel Agency of your college. The principal of the college is interested in
the experiences of students who have worked abroad during their summer holidays. She has asked
you to write a report on the advantages and disadvantages of such work. In particular, she wants to
know whether the college should recommend "working holidays" to its students.
Write your report in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.
Report - Model answer 3
Working holidays for students
Introduction

The purpose of this report is to consider the advantages and disadvantages of working holidays
abroad. In order to obtain this information, I interviewed more than 30 students who had worked in
different countries.
The benefits of working holidays
A large number of the students I spoke to said that they had enjoyed working abroad and had
become more open-minded as a result. Apparently, they felt they had learnt a lot about the local
people and their way of life by working side by side with them.
The disadvantages of working holidays
Not surprisingly, many students complained that they had worked too hard in certain countries.
They believed that they had been exploited by their employers, who paid them very little money.
According to some students, there had also been problems with documents such as work permits.
Conclusions and Recommendations
It appears that the majority of students found the experience of working abroad very beneficial.
Therefore, I believe that the college should recommend "working holidays" to its students. However,
it should also warn them about the problems they could face and the precautions they need to take.
[+/- 190 words]