Writting

The writing test lasts 1 hour and 20 minutes and consists of two parts. You must write two texts, each between 140 and 190 words. The first text is an essay, and the second consists of a report, article , email, or review.



Part Task Type What's in?
1 (Writing) Compulsory question You’re given an essay title and two ideas clearly linked to the title. You write an essay giving your opinions about the title, using the ideas given. You must also add a third, different idea of your own linked to the title. The title will be a subject of general interest – you won’t need any specialised knowledge.
2 (Writing) Situationally based writing task You write a text from a choice of text types – article, email/letter, report or review. To guide your writing, you’ll be given information about
context, topic, purpose and target reader.
Video of Linking words and expressions for your writting part
Link to practice Vocabulary


WRITING PART 1

What is it?

You are required to write an essay giving your opinion on a topic, based on two ideas provided, plus one idea of your own.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Always write in a formal tone.

  • Structure matters:

    1. Introduction – present the topic

    2. Body Paragraph 1 – discuss the first idea

    3. Body Paragraph 2 – discuss the second idea

    4. Body Paragraph 3 – add your own idea

    5. Conclusion – summarize and state your opinion

  • Use linkers and connectors:

    • Firstly, In contrast, Moreover, Therefore, To conclude

  • Avoid contractions (don’t → do not) and personal language (I think) unless used carefully.

TIP: Learn to paraphrase the question when introducing your essay.

How to plan an Essay   How to structure an Essay Link to Practice

WRITING PART 2

You choose one task from four options. Each has a specific purpose, audience, and tone.

Type Purpose Style How to do it?
Article Inform or entertain Neutral to informal Watch
Email/Letter Reply, request, invite, complain Formal or informal Watch
Review Recommend, describe, evaluate Neutral to informal Watch
Report Describe, suggest, propose Formal, factual Watch

Tips & Tricks:

  • Identify:

    • Who you're writing to

    • Why you're writing (purpose)

    • What style is appropriate

  • Use headings in reports, informal tone in articles, and structured paragraphs in all.

  • Learn opening/closing phrases for each genre.

TIP: Use memorized phrases to save time:

  • Article: “Have you ever wondered…?” / “Let me tell you why...”

  • Email: “I hope you’re doing well.” / “I look forward to your reply.”

  • Report: “This report aims to…” / “It is recommended that…”

  • Review: “What I liked most was…” / “I wouldn’t recommend this if…”

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