Writing – Part 1 Essay Introduction

PART 1 – WRITING AN ESSAY (also known as a discursive essay or composition)

The student must write 140-190 words.
There are basically 4 types of essay/composition.
1. Advantages/Disadvantages (Pros and cons).
2. Agree or disagree with the title (in a logical way!)
3. Giving opinions or suggestions about the title.
4. Writing about issues in modern society such as: health, pollution, internet, technology, ecology, men
and women, economic crisis.

How to write a good discursive essay (composition)

Before you start
Read the question carefully. DO NOT write an irrelevant answer. ANSWER THE QUESTION!
 Plan your essay. Spend about 5 minutes on this. It will make your life easier
 Give your essay a title
 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 more formal than an article, 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 3 paragraphs with a clear introduction, contrast of arguments and a logical
conclusion
 Make sure your argument is clear
 Use difficult grammar and more complex sentences
 Use conditional and passive sentences
 Don’t worry if you make small mistakes. You will get more points for using difficult grammar
 Give an opinion ONLY when appropriate
 Give your opinion at the end, NOT at the beginning
When you have finished
 Make sure you have expressed yourself clearly
 Check your writing for grammar mistakes
 Check your writing for spelling mistakes
Structuring your composition
Most people write about 10-12 words per line.
Mathematics! You have to write a total of 190 words, so you should write about 15 lines in total.

Here’s an example of how to set out your essay

Introduction 3 lines
Contrasting arguments
Paragraph 1 4 lines
Paragraph 2 4 lines
Conclusion
3 lines
Writing – Part 1 Essay Introduction
Here’s an example of some good expressions you could use in the 4 parts of the essay

Introduction To begin with/ Firstly,

First of all I would like to consider…

The first thing (I would like to consider) to be considered is…

Nowadays, it seems that…/ In recent times…

Contrasting arguments Paragraph 1

On one hand, it could be said that…

Despite the fact that …/ In spite of…

Although it could be said that…

It is often thought that…

Paragraph 2

On the other hand, it could be argued that…

Although it appears that…

Apart from that…

What is more, …

It would seem, however, that…

Conclusion

To sum up,/ In conclusion,

Because of / As a result of this / Owing to / As a consequence of

Therefore, in my opinion,

On this basis, I can conclude that

Writing – Part 1 Essay 1
You recently had a discussion in class about going abroad to improve your English. Your teacher has
asked you to write a composition giving your opinions on the following question.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad?
Write your composition in 140-190 words in an appropriate style on the opposite page.

Essay Sample Answer 1

My Essay Plan
Introduction: In recent years it’s a fashion. Is it effective?
Paragraph 1: Advantages Au pairs with a family. Working and going to classes.
Paragraph 2: Disadvantages Drawbacks. Bad family. Native speakers. Expensive.
Conclusion: Choose the right place and family. Avoid speaking your own language.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad?

In recent years studying English in Britain or the U.S.A seems to be the latest fashion for students
who hope to improve their language skills. According to tour operators, it is the quickest and most
effective way of learning. Whether this is true remains to be seen.

Living with an English speaking family as an au pair or doing a summer job are currently the most
popular choices. Older students generally prefer to stay with a family while attending ‘intensive’
English courses at a language school. In theory, this means speaking English 24 hours a day.

It could be argued, however, that looking after children can actually be stressful and even a negative
experience unless you stay with the right family. Although going to classes will obviously improve
your level, in many schools you may meet people from your own country and end up communicating
in your mother tongue.

In conclusion, therefore, it could be said that studying abroad is only a good option if you avoid
mixing with people of your own nationality. Language courses can be expensive and living with the
wrong family could be a serious mistake.

NOTES
 Think for a few minutes and make a simple plan. It will save time later.
 You only need a couple of ideas for each argument in paragraphs 1 + 2.
 Expressions I used for style are in bold print.
 Note the use of passive to express opinions indirectly (scientifically!).
Writing – Part 1 Essay 2
You had a discussion in class about pollution in cities.
Your teacher has asked you to write an essay giving your opinions on the following statement.
Cars should be banned from city centres.
Write your essay in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.

MY ESSAY PLAN: I made it in only 5 minutes!

INTRO: Different lifestyle in previous years
PARAGRAPH 1 AGREE WITH THE TITLE: Pedestrian areas, greater population, pollution and dangers.
PARAGRAPH 2: DISAGREE WITH THE TITLE: Exceptions: Residents, pensioners and delivery men.
CONCLUSION: Banning is inevitable because of progress.

SAMPLE ESSAY

Cars should be banned from city centres.

In recent times our lifestyle has changed dramatically in many ways. In the past people could drive
freely around the city without any problem, but nowadays traffic in city centres has become a serious
headache. The authorities now feel obliged to take urgent measures to solve this issue.

Most modern cities and large towns have turned their centre into pedestrian zones due to the
increase in population and a greater number of car users. Parking is almost impossible and space
is running out, not to mention the health risk from pollution and the question of road safety.

Although banning cars from the city centre seems to be an inevitable consequence of all this, we
should not forget about those people who must be able to access these areas without restrictions.
Pensioners, disabled people and local residents are an exceptional case, and lorry and van drivers
should be allowed to deliver to shops or offices.

In conclusion, the prohibition of cars from city centres is probably the only practical solution owing
to lack of space. These measures should not, however, affect those who live or work there.

NOTES
 Use introductory phrases to talk about the current situation.
 Include expressions such as: due to, owing to, as a result of this.
 Use modal verbs like: should, ought to or must in this type of essay.
 Check carefully for a few minutes when you have finished your essay.
 Always answer the question! Don’t forget what you’re writing about.
Writing – Part 1 Essay 3
Writing – Part 1 essay 3

Your English class has had a discussion about advertising.

Your teacher has asked you to write a composition about the following statement:
Advertising plays an important role in modern life.
Write your composition in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.

MY ESSAY PLAN: It took only 5 minutes to make a simple plan

INTRO: The media, T.V. radio and films, magazines. Big audience.
PARAGRAPH 1 AGREE WITH THE TITLE: Convince people to buy with fear, humour and creating ‘need’.
PARAGRAPH 2 DISAGREE WITH THE TITLE: Competing with the neighbour. Consumerism. Out of touch
if you don’t buy.
CONCLUSION: People believe it. Brainwashing. Obsession with image + fashion. Has created stress and
envy.

SAMPLE ESSAY

Advertising plays an important role in modern life.

In recent times, T.V. has been reaching a huge worldwide audience while advertising has become
increasingly important in our daily lives. It is also present, however, in the cinema, magazines,
newspapers and Internet. It now dominates our lives.

Although this is a great opportunity for the media to make money, it can have a negative influence
on the general public. Nowadays it seems there are no limits. Advertising campaigns sell products
using fear, sex, humour, violence and above all by creating competition between people and a
‘need’ for a product.

Buying a bigger car, a T.V. or more expensive perfume than your neighbour is causing excessive
consumerism. We are victims of fashion. If you do not buy the latest smart phone or computer you
are out of touch with the modern times. A teenager wearing the wrong clothes or using an old mobile
is seen as a ‘freak’.

In conclusion, there is no doubt about the importance of advertising in modern life. Nevertheless, it
has created stress and envy. Many people do not realize they are being brainwashed and spend
money without thinking.

NOTES
 You only need a couple of ideas for each argument in paragraphs 1 + 2.
 Try to use more descriptive adverbs and adjectives such as; huge, increasingly, the latest.
 Include stylish language like: although, however, above all or nevertheless.
 Prepositions followed by gerund are good style and win marks in writing exams!
Writing – Part 1 Essay 4
Your teacher has asked you to write a composition about the following statement:
The roles of men and women are changing in modern society
Write your essay in 140-189 words in an appropriate style giving your opinion.

MY ESSAY PLAN: Took me 5 minutes to write

INTRO: Changes in the 60s/feminist movement
PARAGRAPH 1 AGREE WITH TITLE: Women study more/better jobs
PARAGRAPH 2 DISAGREE WITH TITLE: Earn less money/work and look after kids/domestic violence
CONCLUSION: Progress made, but still discrimination/roles must still change

SAMPLE ESSAY

The roles of men and women are changing in modern society

Since the sexual revolution in the sixties and the progress of feminist movements in recent times,
the roles of men and women in society have been constantly evolving.

Fifty years ago most women finished school early and left home to get married, become a housewife
and look after the children. Nowadays, however, a high percentage of women have university
degrees and careers in a previously male-dominated world. Presently, it is not surprising to see
female Members of Parliament or women occupying executive positions in companies.

On the other hand, despite these positive changes, many men still earn more money than women
for doing the same job. While male partners contribute more with basic tasks such as housework
and caring for children, many women have to do both! Besides this, it seems that domestic violence
is increasing alarmingly, and may be a consequence of men losing power and control.

In conclusion, it could be said that in spite of great advances in sexual equality, discrimination is
still a serious social problem and men are finding it difficult to adapt to their new role.

NOTES
 Note the use of time expressions such as: in recent times, nowadays, presently, previously.
 Remember to include ‘contrast’ expressions like: on the other hand.
 Win marks by using: despite, while, besides, in spite of.
 Make a plan and always write the maximum number of words; 180.
Writing – Part 1 Essay 5
You recently had a discussion in class about how modern technology is changing people’s lives.
Your teacher has asked you to write a composition giving your opinions on the following statement.
Internet has changed our lives.
Write your composition in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.

Sample Answer
MY PLAN: Took 6 minutes to write
INTRO: 20 years ago very different-work, hobbies
PARAGRAPH 1: AGREE WITH TITLE Work, studies/friendships/relationships/ holidays/ free time
PARAGRAPH 2: DISAGREE WITH TITLE Exceptions: old people, we still meet friends + go out
CONCLUSION: In general, yes, but some things haven’t changed

Internet has changed our lives

Most people take internet for granted nowadays, but 20 years ago it was just beginning. We were
all expecting a revolution at work and in our everyday life, but has it really happened?

On one hand, it could be said that our working habits and study techniques have changed
dramatically. Easy access to information can save a lot of time, energy and money. Social networks
such as Facebook have changed personal relationships, while arranging holidays or buying and
selling products online have become increasingly popular and efficient.

It could, however, be argued that for old people, life has not changed so rapidly in many cases
unless they move with the times. Many people still prefer to go out and meet their friends rather
than chatting online. Personal contact is still important, especially in business, despite the rise of
Internet.

In conclusion, it would be fair to say that, although Internet has inevitably changed many aspects
of our daily lives, it is not always a positive change. Some people prefer personal contact instead
of more impersonal ways of communicating.

NOTES
 I used 5 minutes to plan my essay, 25 minutes to write it and 5 minutes to check for mistakes
after finishing.
 Note the use of passive to express an opinion indirectly.
 Rather than means the same as instead of. Avoid repetition.
 Note the use of a rhetorical question in paragraph 1.