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OnScr B2plus INT REV Writing Bk_OnScr B2plus INT REV Writing Bk 07/08/2014 7:59 ΜΜ Page 3

Contents
Essay Writing ............................................................. p. 4
Opinion essays ............................................................. p. 7
For-and-against essays ................................................. p. 10
Essays providing solutions to a problem ..................... p. 13
Revision ........................................................................ p. 16

Stories ......................................................................... p. 18
Descriptions in stories
Describing people ........................................................ p. 22
Describing places ......................................................... p. 24
Describing events ......................................................... p. 24
Describing objects ........................................................ p. 26

Letters/Emails ............................................................ p. 28
Informal Letters/Emails
Giving news ................................................................. p. 31
Giving advice ................................................................ p. 32
Making/Accepting/Refusing invitations ...................... p. 33
Thanking – Congratulating – Apologising –
Expressing sympathy/regret ........................................ p. 34
Asking for/Giving information .................................... p. 36
Descriptions in informal letters/emails
Describing people ........................................................ p. 37
Describing places ......................................................... p. 38
Describing events ......................................................... p. 39
Narratives in letters/emails .......................................... p. 40
Semi-formal Letters/Emails
Thanking ...................................................................... p. 42
Formal Letters/Emails
Applying for a course ................................................... p. 44
Applying for a job ........................................................ p. 45
Complaining ................................................................. p. 46
Apologising .................................................................. p. 47
Recommending ............................................................ p. 49
Asking for/Giving information .................................... p. 50
Making/Accepting/Refusing invitations ...................... p. 51
Letters to the editor .................................................... p. 52

Articles ........................................................................ p. 55

Reviews ....................................................................... p. 58

Reports ........................................................................ p. 61

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Writing Essay Writing

Techniques for introductions & conclusions

To get the reader’s attention and make them want to To finish an essay and leave the reader with something
continue reading, the introduction should use one of to consider, the conclusion should use one of the
the following techniques: following techniques:

Introductions Conclusions
• Address the reader directly. e.g. Have you ever • Give the reader something to think about. e.g.
imagined what life would be like without electricity? In future years, we might all become vegetarian.
• Start with an objective statement. e.g. A recent • Summarise the points made. e.g. To conclude, it
study has shown a link between stress and heart appears that the best way to tackle this problem
disease. …
• Start with a quotation. e.g. Mother Teresa said “If • End with a quotation. e.g. To sum up, I tend to
you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” agree with George Bernard Shaw who said
• Start with a rhetorical question (i.e. a question “Animals are my friends and I don’t eat my
that does not require an answer). friends.”
e.g. Are dogs really a man’s best friend? • End with a rhetorical question. e.g. In any case,
• Start with a problem that needs a solution. e.g. wouldn’t doing nothing only makes this problem
In recent years, there has been a rise in violent worse?
crime. • End with an objective statement. e.g. Indeed,
• Make reference to a strange scene or situation. numerous experts believe that in the future the
e.g. Most people would feel disgusted if you asked Internet will become an even bigger part of our
them to eat half a cup of sugar, but that’s the lives.
average amount that a person eats each day.

1 Match the introductions to the conclusions. Which techniques are used in each?

Introductions Conclusions
1 The heavy traffic in our city is a problem that a To conclude, by encouraging people to use
needs to be urgently addressed, as it is causing public transport and reducing the number of cars
considerable air pollution as well as a great that enter the city centre, traffic jams in
deal of stress for drivers. Fleetwood could soon be a thing of the past.
2 It is now considered highly likely that our fossil b In conclusion, I think that Jaime Lerner put it best
fuel resources will run out in the next 100 years. when she said, “We can't have landfills forever, and
This means that countries will soon have to we can’t ask others to accept our trash”. The
develop other sources of power. problem of waste needs to be tackled at its root,
and that means producing less waste in our homes.
3 Today, a huge percentage of young people are
c All things considered, it is clear that some people
overweight, and this is mainly due to them not
have a psychological problem that causes them to
getting enough exercise. What can be done to
spend their money uncontrollably. But by following
encourage young people to be more active?
the suggestions listed above, these people can
4 Have you ever thought about where your household have better control over their finances.
waste ends up? These days, rubbish tips d All in all, something must be done to encourage
throughout the country are overflowing as more and young people to get fit and take care of their bodies.
more household waste is being produced. After all, how would the country cope if today’s
5 As Erma Bombeck said “The odds of going to young develop serious health problems later in life?
the store for a loaf of bread and coming out with e On the whole, the future of mankind depends on
only a loaf of bread are three billion to one”. For us reducing our energy needs or finding a safe
some people, compulsive shopping is a serious renewable source of power. It remains to be
problem, but there are ways to control it. seen if we can manage to do either.
6 Walking to your workspace in pyjamas might f Taking everything into consideration, I feel that the
seem like strange behaviour, but that’s exactly pros of working at home outweigh the cons. After
what some people do every morning. all, how else would you be able to take a short nap
at your desk in the middle of your working day?

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Essay Writing
Writing
Style

Informal style is characterised by: Formal style is characterised by:

• simple sentence structure (e.g. These days, both • complex sentence structure (e.g. Nowadays, due to the
rich and poor people are going on holidays abroad availability of low-cost airline tickets, an increasing
because airline tickets are so cheap.) number of people, regardless of their social class, are
travelling abroad for their holidays.)
• simple vocabulary (e.g. We need to look after poor • advanced vocabulary (e.g. Society’s underprivileged
people.) members should be protected.)
• colloquial phrasal verbs (e.g. We’ve got to come • advanced phrasal verbs (e.g. Local authorities need
up with a way to stop this.) to seek out ways to deal with this.)
• contracted verb forms (e.g. It’s a decision that’s • full verb forms (e.g. This decision is going to have
going to change a lot of things.) severe consequences.)
• informal linking words/phrases (e.g. Also, nurses • formal linking words/phrases (e.g. What is more,
and doctors take care of old people in retirement elderly people are cared for by nurses and doctors in
homes.) retirement homes.)
• friendly personal tone (e.g. I’m sure that • impersonal tone (e.g. It is widely maintained that this
everything will turn out fine.) issue will be resolved.)
• colloquial idioms (e.g. Getting through university • formal idioms (e.g. It is often necessary to pay a
can cost an arm and a leg.) pretty penny for a university education.)
• use of active forms (e.g. People are producing • frequent use of passive forms (e.g. Household waste is
a lot of household waste.) being produced at an uncontrollable rate.)
• colloquial expressions (e.g. It’s about time the • formal expressions (e.g. The government needs to
government took care of these people.) take action to protect these people.

1 Study the elements of formal style in the 2 Use the words in brackets to rewrite the
extracts below. informal sentences into formal ones.

1 Bad weather can make a boat journey really

formal awful. (travelling by boat/be unpleasant/
Although growing up in a big family can be idiom
when/weather/be/bad)
challenging, it may be a blessing in Travelling by boat can be unpleasant when
disguise. In the first place, children in a the weather is bad.
large family are always surrounded by a lot passive 2 Some people say going on a diet isn’t worth
of people. For instance, children in large form it. (it be/often believed/dieting/cause more
families are never short of people to harm than good)
formal socialise with. Therefore, they tend to 3 One really bad thing is you can’t go very far
linking develop better social skills than those in
word on a bicycle. (major disadvantage/cyclists/
small families. advanced vocabulary be/they can only/travel/limited distance)
impersonal tone
4 You need to know some maths to find a job.
On the other hand, some argue that being in (it be/essential/have/basic maths skills/
a large family has its negatives. For one, in order/find employment)
children in large families do not get as much full
5 Things would be better if we didn’t allow cars
attention from their parents as children in verb
form in the city centre. (situation/could/be
complex small families. For instance, their parents, improved/if/we ban/cars/city centre)
sentences having to spend equal time with all their 6 We need to do something about global
children, may not get the opportunity to warming. (steps/be taken/solve/problem/
discuss each child’s problem in detail. As a global warming)
result, children may go through periods of
feeling neglected.

formal expression
advanced phrasal verb

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Writing Essay Writing

• be banned from • lead to health problems

3 Rewrite the sentences using the passive
• therefore • studies have shown
and the word in brackets.

1 This situation calls for immediate action. One reason why smoking should 1) not be
C
(required) allowed in public buildings is because of the
Immediate action is required for this situation. dangers of passive smoking. 2) There’s proof
2 They set up the charity organisation in the that breathing second-hand smoke can also
late 90s. (establish) 3) make you ill. 4) So, the rights of non-
3 They shouldn’t ignore the importance of this smokers are being violated when they are
issue. (overlook) forced to breathe second-hand smoke in public
4 People blame the government for creating buildings. Instead, outdoor areas should be
this problem. (accuse) provided for smokers so they don’t harm other
5 The local council will look into the case. people’s health.
(investigate)
6 The council did away with that tax last year.
• very beneficial • opportunity to socialise
(abolish)
• in isolated areas • to begin with
7 We may come up against serious problems
• keep active • it is my opinion
in the future. (encounter)
8 They need to go over the report in more D
detail. (examine) 1) I suppose that sending children to summ
er
camps can be 2) a great idea. 3) The first
thing is that summer camps give children the
4) chance to hang out with people of their
4 Replace the word/phrases in bold with
own age and do fun things together. Children
more formal ones from the list.
who live 5) in the middle of nowhere,
for
• for example • better prepared • success example, who might feel bored during their
• participating in • as a result summer holidays, could 6) find things to
do
and make new friends.

In the first place, 1) doing competitive sports

A • tends to deteriorate • furthermore
teaches children the importance of teamwork.
2) What I mean is, children who play sports • conventionally • this means that
such as football or hockey realise that • on the other hand
3) getting a good result depends on each E
member of the team. 4) Because of this, 1) But one disadvantage of following a diet
children are 5) more ready to work as part of a that consists of organic food is the cost. For
team in their education and later when they example, organic fruits and vegetable can
be
have jobs. double the price of products produced 2) in the
normal way. 3) And since it doesn’t have
chemical preservatives, organic food 4)
is
more likely to go off more quickly than other
• solve • by following these measures
foods. 5) So, you risk buying foods that you
• firmly believe • all things considered might never eat.
• introducing

B 1) When you think about everything, the best 5 Rewrite the paragraph in an appropriate
ways to 2) sort out the problem of littering formal style.
is
by putting more bins in the streets and
3) bringing in fines for those that are caug If you ask me, taking a year off before you go to
ht
throwing rubbish on the ground. 4) If we did university is a brilliant idea. For one thing people who
this, I 5) really think that there would be less go on gap years get the chance to have a good rest
litter on our streets and the town would become after all the stress of the exams they’ve just sat. Another
a nicer place to live in. thing is that gap years can give you work experience.
That’ll really help when you apply for jobs later on.

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Opinion Essays
Writing

■ An opinion essay is a formal piece of writing in which we present our opinion on a particular topic. In
the introduction, we should state our opinion clearly. ■ We should always start main body paragraphs
with a topic sentence that summarises what the paragraph is about. ■ The points we make in the main
body should be supported by justifications. ■ The opposing viewpoint should also be presented in a
separate paragraph. ■ Opinion essays are normally written in formal style. Therefore, we need to avoid
colloquial expressions, short verb forms, the omission of words, and imperatives. We should write longer
sentences using formal linkers and advanced vocabulary. We can use the passive voice.

Outline for opinion essays

Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4 Paragraph 5
introduce topic, first viewpoint second viewpoint opposing viewpoint summarise
state your with reasons/ with reasons/ with reasons/ viewpoints, restate
opinion clearly examples/results examples/results examples/results your opinion

b) Replace the underlined words/phrases in

1 a) Read the rubric and the model essay. List the
the essay with words/phrases from the
writer’s viewpoints. What reasons/examples/
results does he use to support them? How Useful Language box.
many paragraphs support the writer’s opinion?
c) Underline elements of formal style in the
In your English class you have been talking about essay.
technology. Now, your teacher has asked you to
write an essay for homework. Write your essay
(140-190 words) using all the notes and giving Useful Language
reasons for your point of view.

Modern technology has changed so many aspects of Giving opinion

our daily lives, but has it really made our lives easier? • I believe/think/feel (that) ...
• I strongly believe/feel (that) ...
Notes • In my opinion/view,
Write about: • It seems/appears to me (that) ...
1 communication • To my mind,
2 access to information • My opinion is that ...
3 ........................ (your own idea) • I (do not) agree that/with ...
• As far as I am concerned,
• I (completely) agree (that/with) ...
One hundred years ago, no one could imagine how
• I (strongly) disagree (that/with) ...
important technology would be to humans in the 21st
• I am totally against ...
century. Today, technology is all around us and, 1) in my
• I could not agree/disagree more (that/with) ...
opinion, it makes our lives much easier.
Listing viewpoints
2) To begin with, technology makes it easier to communicate. • Firstly, • Moreover, • To begin with,
3) For example, mobile phones and the Internet make it • In addition, • Furthermore, • Also,
possible for us to send messages to each other quickly and Introducing opposing viewpoints
easily. 4) As a result, we can be constantly connected with • However, • On the other hand,
our friends, family members or business partners. Introducing reasons/examples
5) Secondly, technology allows us to access huge amounts • For example, • For instance, • such as ...
of information. Through the Internet, 6) in particular, we can • because/as/since ... • In particular,
find out about almost any topic immediately. 7) Consequently, • especially/particularly
we can become better informed about the world. Introducing results
8) However, some people claim that modern technology • As a result, • Consequently, • Therefore,
has made us less active. 9) For instance, today we can • In this way,
shop and socialise online without the need to leave our Concluding
homes. 10) Therefore, we are less likely to get the exercise • All in all, • All things considered,
we need to stay healthy. • To conclude, • In conclusion,
11) In conclusion, 12) I strongly believe that despite making
us less active technology helps us communicate and get
informed very quickly. As Steve Ballmer said, “it empowers
people to do what they want to do”.
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Writing Opinion Essays

b) Which paragraphs contain the writer’s

2 Read the excerpt from a newspaper article
opinion? Rewrite the sentences using
and the task. Look at the underlined words,
then answer the questions. phrases from the Useful Language box.

1 What are you going to write?

c) What techniques has the writer used to
2 What style should you write in?
3 How many paragraphs should you write? start/end his essay? Rewrite the paragraphs
using other techniques.
Kindergarten introduces foreign language lessons
Cool Kids Kindergarten in Chester has caused controversy 4 a) Look at the underlined key words in the
by introducing foreign language classes for its students – rubric. Answer the questions.
some as young as two years old. Many parents are
supportive of the new scheme, claiming that it gives their
In your English class you have been talking about
children a head start when they will learn foreign
ebooks. Now, your teacher has asked you to write
languages later in life. Others, though, say that these
an essay for homework. Write your essay (140-190
classes will simply confuse the students and delay the
words) using all the notes and giving reasons for
development of their language skills in their mother tongue.
your points of view.
Should kindergarten students be taught foreign
languages? Can it be helpful for children to learn a Nowadays, it is possible to read books on electronic
second language at such a young age or is it a case devices called ebook readers. Are ebook readers
of too much, too soon? Write an essay explaining the best way to read books or should people
your view. Give specific reasons and examples. continue to read books in their paper form?

Notes
3 a) Read the model essay and see if any of Write about:
1 portable
your ideas in Ex. 2 are mentioned. Then,
underline the topic sentences and replace 2 easy to read
3 ........................ (your own idea)
them with other appropriate ones.

1 What are you going to write?

As Roger Bacon said, “Knowledge of languages is the doorway 2 Who is going to read it?
to wisdom”. In my opinion, the best time to introduce children to 3 What style should you write in?
foreign languages is when they are in kindergarten. 4 How many paragraphs should you write?
In the first place, teaching foreign languages to kindergarten
students means that they are better prepared to learn b) Use the completed table to write your
languages in later life. For instance, even learning the essay.
alphabet of a foreign language can be useful. In this way,
students would find it easier to learn languages in more Reasons/Examples/
First viewpoint
detail when they get older. Results
Secondly, giving kindergarten students foreign language easy to carry; can have
portable
lessons teaches them about diversity. For example, they learn multiple books on device
that people in foreign countries speak other languages and
have different cultures. As a result, students learn to respect Reasons/Examples/
Second viewpoint Results
other cultures at a young age.
On the other hand, teaching foreign languages to young zoom functions;
easy to read
children can delay progress in their mother tongue. For letter resizing
instance, when children are still building their basic vocabulary
in their own language, learning foreign words might disrupt Reasons/Examples/
Opposing viewpoint
this. Consequently, students could fall behind in their language Results
development. depend on other no Internet link or power
All in all, it is my firm belief that teaching foreign languages to equipment supply; ebook useless
kindergarten students prepares them for future language
learning and familiarises them with various cultures despite
the fact it can delay progress in their mother tongue. Young
children have an amazing ability to learn foreign languages, so
why not exploiting this as early as possible?

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Opinion Essays
Writing

5 Read the excerpt from a 7 Read the rubric, then the first draft of an essay. Check it
newspaper article and the against the Checklist and rewrite it to be an appropriate
task. Underline the key words. essay.
Answer the questions.
In your English class you had a discussion about holidays throughout
Less students choosing to study the school year. Now your teacher has asked you to write an essay or
science homework.
The Department of Education is worried
Should students have several short holidays throughout the school
about the decreasing number of students
year?
who are choosing to study science in
secondary schools. One politician has Notes
even proposed a plan to make science a Write about:
compulsory subject for all secondary 1 parents’ work schedules
school students. The department is 2 weather conditions
concerned that in the future there will not
3 ........................ (your own idea)
be enough people qualified to work in
science careers. Others, though, claim Write your essay (140-190 words) using all the notes and giving
that studying the subject is of no practical reasons for your point of view.
use to students who don’t plan on
entering a career in a field of science. Some people think that having a number of short holidays throughout the
Should science be made compulsory year would make the education system better.
for all secondary school students? To begin with, the holidays are out of balance. For example, students only
Write an essay explaining your view. get two weeks’ in the winter and then have six weeks in the summer.
Give specific reasons and examples. Also, parents would be able to fit shorter holidays into their work
schedules better! Few parents can take six weeks in the summer, but
1 What are you going to write?
employers wouldn’t mind more spread-out holidays. So, parents and
2 What style should you write in? children would get more time together.
3 How many paragraphs should
But schools close when they do for a reason. For example, in the summer
you write to express your
it is often hot. Therefore, it’s sometimes impossible for students to do
viewpoints? the opposing
lessons.
viewpoint?
In conclusion, I strongly believe that shorter holidays spread out over the
6 a) Match the viewpoints to year would be a good idea for students. A balanced school year would be
the reasons/examples/results. less tiring for students and parents alike. Don’t you agree?!

Checklist
Viewpoints

1 helps students learn

important life lessons
When you finish writing your essay check for the following:
2 more science equipment
• word length
would be needed in schools
• inclusion of all main points
3 ensures there will be enough
people to fill scientific jobs • appropriate style
• correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
Reasons/Examples/Results • use of full verb forms
a students qualified to work in
• use of linkers to join ideas
scientific research; country
won’t be lacking in a • well structured paragraphs (make sure main body paragraphs
knowledgeable workforce start with appropriate topic sentences which are supported by
b lab equipment is very justifications, examples and results)
expensive; money could be • two paragraphs supporting your viewpoints with examples/
better spent elsewhere
reasons/results and another paragraph with the opposing
c emphasises the importance of
using evidence; better able to viewpoint supported by justifications/examples/results
make decisions • introduction that clearly states the topic & your opinion
• conclusion that clearly summarises all the points and restates
b) Write your essay. Follow your opinion
the plan. • variety of techniques to start/end the essay
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Writing For-and-against essays

■ A for-and-against essay is a formal essay in which we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a topic.
■ Arguments on both sides of the topic are presented accordingly in equal detail in separate paragraphs. Our
opinion is stated in the conclusion. ■ Each main body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that
summarises the content of the paragraph. The topic sentence is followed by supporting sentences that further
explain the idea in the topic sentence. We always give reasons or justifications/results for our arguments. ■ We
don’t use contracted verb forms, everyday phrases, imperatives. We do not omit words, either. We normally
write complex sentences using a variety of linkers, formal vocabulary, full verb forms and passive forms.

A Outline for for-and-against essays (balanced essays)

Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4
present the topic arguments for with arguments against summarise all the
reasons/ with reasons/ arguments; state
justifications/results justifications/results your opinion

In one-sided argumentative essays we are either for or against a topic. Note that there should be more
arguments to support our opinion than giving the opposing viewpoint.

B Outline for for-and-against essays (one-sided essays)

Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4
present the series of arguments supporting opposing argument summarise all the
topic & your your point of view with with reasons/ arguments & restate
opinion reasons/justifications/results justifications/results your opinion

1 a) Underline the key words in

These days, many classrooms have computers and interactive
the rubric, then read the whiteboards (IWBs). How useful is technology in schools?
model essay. Replace the 1) There are a number of benefits to using technology in
linking words/phrases in bold classrooms. 2) Firstly, technology can bring a subject to life
with words/phrases from the through visualisation. 3) For example, IWBs allow students to see
Useful Language box. a video on the topic they are discussing. 4) Consequently,
lessons would become more enjoyable and interesting.
5) Furthermore, by using technology students can explore
In your English class you have been subjects on their own and at their own pace. For instance, by using
talking about technology in schools. the Internet on computers, they could research and write projects.
Now, your English teacher has asked 6) As a result, they would become more engaged with the subject
you to write an essay for homework. that they are learning.
Write your essay using all the notes 7) On the other hand, there are some downsides to using
and justifying your points. technology in the classroom. 8) To begin with, there are a limited
number of tasks that can be done using technology. 9) For
Nowadays, many schools have instance, many IWB programmes only offer matching or multiple
computers and interactive choice type exercises. As a result, lessons could become repetitive
whiteboards. What are the pros and and boring. 10) Secondly, using technology in schools can be
cons of using technology in the expensive. IWBs and computers for example, can cost thousands
classroom? of pounds, and technical support staff would need to be hired to
install and maintain them. 11) Therefore, schools would have less
Notes
money to spend on other things.
Write about:
12) All things considered, even though electronic learning
1 makes subjects more interesting
materials only offer limited types of exercise and can cost a lot of
2 students learn on own
money, using technology in the classroom can make learning more
3 ........................ (your own idea)
interesting and allow students to learn on their own. In my opinion,
the best option is to use both printed and electronic materials in the
classroom. As John Medina said, “Every student’s brain is wired
differently”, so we should offer students a range of learning
materials in their education.

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For-and-against essays
Writing

Useful Language 4 Read the rubric. Look at the underlined

words and answer the questions.
Topic sentences to introduce advantages
Employer refuses to recognise online degree
• There are a number of benefits to/arguments in
favour of … • One/A major argument/benefit A 28-year-old Londoner has been told that she doesn’t
(of) … meet the requirements to become an accountant in a
Listing points publishing company because she studied for her degree
• In the first place, • Firstly, • To begin/start online. Rachael Peters was initially offered the job in
with, • Secondly, • Furthermore, • In addition, Lakeside Publishing, but when the head of the company
• What is more, • On the other hand, ... found out her degree was from an online institution, she
Introducing examples/justifications was told she would not be given the position. Peters is
• For example/instance, • This is because of/due due to fight the decision in court.
to … • This is due to the fact that ... Nowadays, it is possible to get certificates,
Introducing results diplomas and even degrees from courses that you
• Consequently, • As a result, • Therefore, can take online. Write an essay discussing the pros
• This way, • This may lead to … and cons of studying online.
Topic sentences to introduce disadvantages
• On the other hand, there are some downsides/a
1 What are you going to write? What style
number of disadvantages/arguments against …
should you write in?
Showing contrast
2 How many paragraphs will you write?
• However, • Although, • On the other hand,
3 In which paragraph will you state your
• ... though
opinion on the topic?
Concluding
• All in all, • To sum up, • In conclusion, 4 What are the advantages and
• All things considered, disadvantages of studying online?
Expressing an opinion
• I think ... • I (strongly) believe ... • In my 5 Read the model. Is it a one-sided or a balanced
opinion, • As far as I am concerned, argument? Replace the topic sentences in the
essay with other appropriate ones.

b) Is the essay in Ex. 1a balanced, or a one- Imagine studying for a degree but never actually going to a
sided argument? Give reasons. lecture hall. That’s exactly what people who study online do.
In my opinion, studying online is not a good option for a
variety of reasons.
2 Which two of the following sentences can
To begin with, online courses are sometimes not valued
replace the topic sentences in the model very highly. For example, some employers may not consider
essay in Ex. 1? them equal to qualifications earned from third-level
institutions. This means that you may be at a disadvantage
1 There is a lot to be said for using when applying for jobs. Secondly, people who study online
technology in schools. must be self-motivated. For instance, if you study at home,
2 Technological devices in classrooms make you don’t get support and encouragement from lecturers or
teaching a much easier job. classmates. Therefore, you may find it difficult to motivate
3 The use of technology in classrooms is yourself to study. In addition, there are technical
definitely here to stay. requirements that come with studying online. For example,
4 However, using technology as part of you always have to have a working computer and Internet
classroom learning is not without its connection. As a result, if your computer breaks down or
you lose Internet access, you will be unable to study.
drawbacks.
On the other hand, there are positives to studying online.
For one, online courses give you greater flexibility. For
3 a) What techniques has the writer used to
instance, you can study at your own pace and whenever
start/end the essay in Ex. 1? Rewrite these suits you. This way, people who work or have children can
paragraphs using other techniques. find the time to further their education.
To sum up, since online courses are sometimes not valued,
b) Underline elements of formal language require self-motivation and a working computer, they are
in the essay. not a smart choice, despite them being useful for people
with busy lifestyles. After all, learning is not just about
studying a subject but discussing it with people around you,
and that can only happen on campus.

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Writing For-and-against essays

6 a) Underline the key words in the rubric. School Bans Tests

Answer the questions.
The headmaster of Pemberton High, a private secondary
school in Kent, has recently told its teachers to no longer
In your English class you have been talking about
arrange formal tests for students. Headmaster Peter Care
part-time jobs for secondary school students. Now,
believes that students were getting too stressed because
your English teacher has asked you to write an essay
of tests and, instead of motivating them to study, was
for homework. Write your essay (140-190 words)
causing them to dislike schoolwork. Instead, students at
using all the notes and giving reasons to justify your
Pemberton High will be evaluated according to the quality
points.
of their homework over the course of the whole year.
Nowadays, it is popular for secondary school students Most schools choose to assess the performance of
to work in part-time jobs throughout the school year. their students by having them sit tests, often at the
What, in your opinion, are the main advantages and end of each term. Write an essay discussing the pros
disadvantages of students working part-time? and cons of students sitting tests.
Notes
b) Mark the arguments for or against, then
Write about:
1 gaining work experience match them to their justifications/results.
2 learning value of money
Arguments
3 ........................ (your own idea)
1 doesn’t convey overall performance
1 What are you going to write? Who for? 2 motivates students to study
2 What style should you write in? 3 students feel high levels of anxiety
3 How many words should you use?
4 gives students/teacher idea of student’s
performance
b) Match the arguments to the
Justifications/Results
justifications/results. Are you going to
a can see which subjects need more
write a balanced or a one-sided essay?
attention; can improve
b homework/classroom performance not taken
Arguments into account; students only concentrate on
exams
1 academic performance can suffer c gives students goal to work towards; sense
2 learn value of money of achievement
d worry about getting good marks; can cause
3 gain work experience
stress-related illness
Justifications/Results
c) Write your essay. Use ideas from Ex. 8b.
a more likely to spend cash wisely; learn life Follow plan A on p. 10.
skills

Checklist
b have better career prospects; impress
future employers
c work can make them feel tired; lower
marks due to lack of study time When you finish your essay check it for:
• spelling/grammar mistakes; punctuation
c) Write your essay. Use ideas from Ex. 6b.
• correct word order
Follow plan B on p. 10. • appropriate formal style and use of formal linkers
• arguments for/against in separate paragraphs
7 a) Underline the key words in the rubric. supported by reasons/justifications/results
Answer the questions. • topic sentences to introduce each main body paragraph
• introduction which presents the topic
1 What are you going to write? Who for?
2 Which points should you include?
• conclusion which summarises all the points &
3 What style should you write in? (re)states your opinion
4 How many words should you use? • variety of techniques to start/end the essay
• inclusion of all points in the rubric

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Essays providing solutions to a problem

Writing

■ An essay providing solutions to a problem is a formal piece of writing in which we state a problem and make
suggestions on how to deal with it. ■ Each suggestion should be presented together with its possible results in
separate paragraphs. ■ Each main body paragraph should start with a topic sentence which summarises the idea
of the paragraph. The topic sentence is followed by supporting sentences that further explain the topic
sentence. ■ Our opinion should be stated at the conclusion. ■ We should write complex sentences using formal
linkers, and advanced vocabulary. We should also use formal vocabulary and passive forms.
Outline for essays providing solutions to a problem
Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4 Paragraph 5
state the first solution with second solution third solution summarise all the
problem examples/expected with examples/ with examples/ solutions & state
results expected results expected results your opinion

b) Replace the underlined words/phrases

1 a) Underline the key words in the rubric,
with words/phrases from the Useful
then read the model essay.
Language box.
In your English class you have been talking about
the problem of crime in big cities. Now, your teacher
has asked you to write an essay for homework. Useful Language
Write your essay (140-190 words) using all the
notes and justifying your points. Listing points
In big cities around the country crime rates are • In the first place, • To start with,
increasing, with many people no longer feeling safe • Secondly, • Finally, • Lastly, • Last of all,
in the streets. How can this problem be solved? Introducing suggestions/solutions
• One/Another way of solving the problem would
Notes be to … • One/Another helpful
Write about: suggestion/solutions would be to …
1 greater police presence • It would (also) be a good idea to …
2 tougher sentences for those who commit crimes Giving examples
3 ........................ (your own idea) • For example, • For instance, • In particular,
• Particularly/Especially • like/such as
These days, many citizens of big cities are living in constant Presenting results
fear of being the victims of crime. What can we do to solve • As a result, • Consequently, • By doing this,
this serious problem? • In this way, • Therefore, • Then,
1) To start with, 2) it would be a good idea to have a greater • If (people) ..., the (situation) will/would ...
police presence in cities. 3) For example, the authorities Concluding
could employ more police so that they could patrol more • To conclude, • To sum up, • In conclusion
areas of the city and for longer periods. 4) Consequently, • All points considered,
when criminals spot police officers in the streets, they would • On balance, I would say (that) ...
be less likely to commit crimes. Expressing an opinion
5) Another helpful suggestion would be to introduce tougher • In my opinion/view, ...
sentences for those who commit crimes. People who • I believe/think/feel (that) ...
commit violent crimes, 6) in particular, should face very • It seems to me/It is obvious (that) ...
long prison sentences. 7) In this way, criminals would think
more about the consequences of their actions and would
hopefully decide not to break the law.
8) Last, 9) It would also be a good idea to set up community
2 a) Find and replace the topic sentences in
the model essay in Ex. 1a with other
projects in cities. For example, the authorities could appropriate ones.
establish community centres, especially for teenagers.
10) By doing this, there would be a better community spirit
in cities, and young people would be more likely to stay off b) What techniques has the writer used to
the street and not get involved in crime. start/end his essay? Rewrite the paragraphs
11) To conclude, 12) I believe that having a greater police using other techniques.
presence and introducing tougher sentences for criminals
and setting up community projects would greatly reduce the
c) Find examples of formal style in the
crime rates in big cities. If this were to happen, people
would be able to go about their daily lives with less fear. essay.

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Writing Essays providing solutions to a problem

3 Read the excerpt from a newspaper article 4 Complete the table by listing the solutions
and the task. Underline the key words. and examples from the model essay in Ex. 3.
Then read the model essay and choose the
correct formal phrases. Expected
Solutions Examples
Results
population more
Population of Trenton increasing at dangerous rate
evenly spread out
Recent figures show that the population of Trenton has
increased by 200% in the last five years. This has caused population levels
transport problems in the city, plus schools and hospitals controlled or
are struggling to deal with increased demand. Mayor reduced
Tony Hill has proposed expanding the city’s boundaries
while others believe that discouraging immigrants from civil servants
moving to the city would better solve the problem. leave big cities

The populations of many cities around the world are

increasing at an alarming rate, causing a lot of 5 a) Find and replace the topic sentences in
problems for citizens and local institutions. Write an the model essay in Ex. 3 with other
essay on how governments or local authorities can appropriate ones.
deal with the problem of overpopulation in big cities.
b) What techniques has the writer used to
start/end the essay in Ex. 3? Rewrite the
A recent UN report has shown that the world’s paragraphs using other techniques.
population is rapidly increasing. This is especially the
case in big cities, where overpopulation causes 1) a c) Underline the linkers the writer used in
range of problems/lots of trouble from traffic
the essay in Ex. 3. Replace them with
congestion to crowded public facilities. 2) What can be
done/How are we going to tackle this problem? alternatives.
In the first place, one way to 3) sort this out/solve this
problem could be to expand the borders of a city. For 6 Underline the key words in the rubric, then
example, housing estates and public facilities could be answer the questions.
built in the suburbs of a city. This would encourage
people to move out of the city centre. As a result, the
population of a city would be more 4) evenly spread In your English class you have been talking about
out/all over the place. cruelty to pets. Now, your teacher has asked you to
write an essay for homework. Write your essay
Another 5) nice idea/helpful suggestion would be to (140-190 words) using all the notes and justifying
discourage outsiders from moving to the city. For your points.
instance, the 6) people in charge/authorities could
encourage employers to hire locals rather than Unfortunately some people do not look after their
outsiders, while the police could introduce stricter pets properly. In some cases, this amounts to animal
immigration controls. 7) By doing this/So, the cruelty. What can we do about this problem?
population of a city could be kept at a controllable level
or even reduced. Notes
It would also be a good idea for governments to move Write about:
civil servant jobs outside big cities. 8) For instance/Just 1 background checks for owners
an example, government departments or state-run 2 advice on animal care
facilities could be relocated to smaller cities or towns. 3 ........................ (your own idea)
Consequently, thousands of civil servants and their
families would 9) have/be forced to move out of big 1 What are you going to write? Who for?
cities to continue their jobs. 2 What style should you use?
All points considered, by expanding the borders of a city, 3 What should you include in your piece of
discouraging outsiders from moving there, and writing?
relocating civil servants, population levels could be
controlled. This way, the citizens of a city could have a
10) higher standard of living/better life.

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Essays providing solutions to a problem

Writing
Expected
7 Use the ideas in the table to write your
Suggestions Examples
Results
essay. Follow the plan on p. 13. Check your
essay against the Checklist on p. 15. set up
community
Expected
Solutions Examples centres
Results
do background make sure pets end up in
checks on people are good homes
people who want responsible give financial
to keep a pet support
provide advice send pet owners get informed
and guidance on leaflets about about proper pet
encourage
animal care pet health care
public to care
have stricter give long prison treat animals for elderly
laws against sentences with respect
animal abuse
b) Think of appropriate topic sentences for
each main body paragraph.
8 Read the excerpt from a newspaper article
and the task. Underline the key words in
the rubric and answer the questions.
10 Use your answers in Ex. 9 to write your essay.
Follow the plan on p. 13. Use appropriate
techniques to start/end your essay.
The forgotten generation

Checklist
Local politician Tracy Hayes has expressed concern
that many elderly people in Luton are not receiving the
care they require. Hayes notes that local charities for
the elderly are struggling to raise the money needed When you finish your essay check it for the
to help the elderly, with many going hungry and some following:
not having left their homes in months. She believes
that the City Council needs to do more to help elderly • Have you stated the problem in the
people in the city. introduction?
• Have you summarised all your suggestions
These days, for a variety of reasons, the elderly in
many big cities do not have a good standard of and stated your opinion in the conclusion?
living, with many struggling to take care of • Have you used formal style?
themselves without any help. Write an essay on • Do the main body paragraphs start with an
how governments or local authorities can improve
appropriate topic sentence?
conditions for the elderly in big cities.
• Do the supporting sentences further explain
1 What are you going to write? the main idea of the topic sentence?
2 What style should you use? • Have you presented each suggestion together
3 How many solutions should you provide in
with its result?
your essay?
4 Should you justify the solutions you provide? • Have you used appropriate formal linkers and
phrases from the Useful Language box on p. 13?
9 a) Use these examples and expected results • Have you used full verb forms?
to complete the table. • Is your essay within the word length?
Examples • Are there any spelling/grammar/ punctuation
• increase pensions, give food stamps mistakes?
• organise activities and excursions • Have you used appropriate techniques to
• give talks about responsibility to old people start/end your essay?
Expected Results • Have you included all the points in the rubric?
• feel less lonely, better mental health
• have more money for meals and healthcare
• people take better care of elderly 11 Check your partner’s essay for Ex. 10
relatives/neighbours against the Checklist.

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Writing Essay Writing – Revision

Quotations

1 Match the quotations (1-10) to the rubrics (a-j).

1 “What consumerism really is, at its worst a Many parents are worried about the amount of violence
is getting people to buy things that don't on TV. What can be done to protect teenagers from
actually improve their lives.” (Jeff Bezos) viewing such images?
2 “Today, watching television often means b Some of the richest people in the world started out by
fighting, violence and foul language - making the decision to be their own boss. What are the
and that's just deciding who gets to hold benefits and drawbacks of being self-employed?
the remote control.” (Donna Gephart) c For many families, visiting a zoo is the perfect way to
3 “A city is a large community where spend the day. Others, though, think that all zoos should
people are lonesome together.” (Herbert be closed and their animals moved back to their natural
Prochnow) habitats. What is your opinion on the topic?
4 d Nowadays, many people are choosing to go on holidays in
“The people who get on in this world
their own countries rather than travelling abroad. What are
are the people who get up and look for
the pros and cons of holidaying in your home country?
the circumstances they want, and, if
e Surveys have shown that teenagers are spending a
they can’t find them, make them.”
huge amount of time playing video games. What can be
(George Bernard Shaw)
done to encourage teenagers to limit the amount of time
5 “The greatness of a nation and its they use their games consoles?
moral progression can be judged by f For many people, strolling around malls looking for good
the way its animals are treated.” deals is a weekly activity. Others, though, claim that it is
(Mahatma Gandhi) very unhealthy for a person to choose shopping as their
6 “Fast food is popular because it's favourite hobby. What is your opinion on consumerism?
convenient, it's cheap, and it tastes good. g In some areas, unemployment is a significant problem.
But the real cost of eating fast food never What can governments or local authorities do to solve
appears on the menu.” (Eric Schlos) this problem?
7 One’s destination is never a place, but a h Junk food is on the increase among young people. Discuss
new way of seeing things.” (Henry Miller) this problem and suggest what can be done about it.
8 “Fashion fades, only style remains the i Some people care greatly about the clothes they wear
same.” (Coco Chanel) and make sure they know the latest trends. In your
opinion, is it important to follow fashion?
9 “Video games and computers have
j These days, many people move to urban areas to look
become babysitters for kids.” (Taylor Kitsch)
for jobs, but are there positives to spending your life in
10 “The hardest work in the world is being the countryside?
out of work.” (Whitney M. Young)

Introductions/Conclusions

2 Expand the notes to write complete introductory paragraphs. Which of the rubrics (a-j) in Ex. 1
does each match? What type of essay is each introduction about?
1 Nowadays/you/can’t turn on/television/without/ 4 For/variety/reasons/some teenagers/be attracted/
see/violent images. Problem be/these junk food. Recent research/shows/number of
scenes/often appear/programmes/commonly be people/who prefer/junk food/steadily rise.
watched/teenagers. What/can/be done/protect What/can/we do/make/people/adopt/healthier
teenagers/viewing/violent images/TV? food habits?
2 Throughout/world, population of cities/increase/ 5 Many people/be obsessed with fashion/and/
as/more and more people/move from rural/ spend/huge amounts/money/make sure/
urban areas. Many do so/find employment/ but/ wardrobe/be up to date/with latest trends. In my
surely/there be/positives/spending/your adult opinion/not be worth/make/so much effort/and/
life/countryside/instead. money/could/spent/far more wisely.
3 It takes/lot of bravery/set up/own company/
but/many people/who/do so/have/great
success. However/disadvantages/being self-
employed/ outweigh/advantages?
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Essay Writing – Revision

Writing

3 Expand the notes to write complete Topic – Supporting sentences

conclusions. Which introduction from Ex. 2
does each match? 5 Read the supporting sentences. Write
appropriate topic sentences.
A Taking everything into account/despite/stress/
1 ....... For instance, homeowners could install
and/risk of failure/being self-employed/mean/
a burglar alarm. By doing this, burglars
gain most/and/not have/pressure/having to
would be more likely to be caught in the act,
work/someone else. For/reasons/I believe/it/
or might be discouraged from attempting a
be/very good/career choice.
burglary in the first place.
B In conclusion/it/be/my belief/following fashion 2 ........ For example, most cars need to be
trends/ be/complete waste of time/and money. maintained and many of their parts need to
Instead/we/should wear/clothes/make us happy be repaired on a regular basis. This means
and comfortable. that the expense of owning a car increases
C In conclusion/by informing/people/health even further.
effects/junk food/and persuade/them/start/ cook
I firmly believe/problem can/be solved.
All in all,/it be/clear/parents/must take
6 Read the topic sentences. Write appropriate
D supporting sentences.
responsibility/when it come/protecting/children/
viewing violence/TV. By/choose programmes/ 1 On the other hand, owning a credit card is
suitable/children/and/remove/TV sets/children’s not without its disadvantages.
bedrooms/amount/violence/they watch/TV/ 2 One solution could be to build community
could/greatly be reduced. centres for elderly people.
E All things considered/countryside/offer/relaxed
way of life/and/sense of community/than urban Identifying the type of essay
areas. In my opinion/this/make/countryside/far
better place/live. 7 Read the rubrics. What type of essay is each
asking for?

1 A recent study has shown that more and

4 Which of the following extracts (1 or 2) is an
more parents are choosing to send their
introductory paragraph/conclusion? Write
children to private schools. What is your
the matching conclusion or introduction. view on this practice? Explain your point of
Use techniques mentioned on p. 4. view giving reasons and examples.
2 These days, it is not uncommon for children
1 as young as five years old to receive a tablet
Many people turn to their friends for advice about computer of their own from their parents.
personal problems instead of discussing the What are the pros and cons of young
issue with family members. In my opinion, your children owning their own tablet computer?
parents and siblings are better suited to help you 3 Homelessness is a growing problem in many
deal with your difficulties. countries around the world. How can we
help homeless people in our community?

2 Brainstorming & Organising ideas

All things considered, by getting enough sleep
and making a study plan exam stress can be 8 Brainstorm for ideas for each rubric in Ex. 7.
reduced considerably. I believe that students Use your ideas to make diagrams. List your
should treat exams with a serious attitude, but points and the supporting details (reasons,
they should also be aware that doing badly in examples, justifications, results).
an exam is not the end of the world.

Developing the writing task

9 Use your notes in Ex. 8 to write your essays.

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Writing Stories

■ Stories can be written in either the first-person or the third-person and present a series of events, either
real or imaginary. ■ The events in the story should be written in the order in which they happened. ■ We
use appropriate time words to help the reader follow the events.

Outline for stories:

Paragraph 1 Paragraphs 2-3 Paragraph 4

set the scene (imagine you can see a events leading up to the climax what happened in the
picture: describe the time, place, people, event (the most important end, people’s reactions/
clothes, activities, weather, etc). event in the story) feelings, etc

Stories are characterised by:

• the use of past tenses e.g. It was blowing heavily. James put in my coat, got his umbrella opened the door and
locked the door behind him. When he reached the car, he realised that he had left his bag at home.
• linking words/phrases that show time and sequence of events e.g. first/at first, then/next, after, before that,
during, while, meanwhile, as soon as, at that moment, by the time, in the end/finally
• a variety of descriptive adjectives/adverbs to make the story more interesting e.g. elegant, pleasant,
breathtaking, fast
• direct speech to make the story more dramatic e.g. “Don’t do that again.” he said.

1 Who are the main characters?

Setting the scene 2 Where were they?
3 When did the story happen?
We start a story by setting the scene. To do this,
4 What was the weather like?
imagine that you are looking at a picture and try
5 What were they wearing?
to describe the place (where), the time (when),
the weather, the people involved (who); their
6 How were they feeling?
clothes and their feelings.
It was a hot summer morning. Anna was 2 a) Look at the photograph. Use the prompts
walking her dog along the empty beach. She was to write sentences setting the scene.
wearing a light summer dress and holding her
sandals in her hands. She felt happy and relaxed.

1 Look at the photo and read the text.

Answer the questions.

• Trevor • park • yesterday afternoon • cold

• suit • work on laptop • bit worried

b) The sentences below start a story.

Complete the paragraphs setting the scene.
Ben and Kate were walking back home that Monday.
It was a rainy winter afternoon but they felt warm in 1 Andy looked down at the river then he
stepped onto the rope bridge.
their coats. They were holding their umbrellas and
2 Ann was waiting for the bus when she heard
chatting happily as they passed over a bridge. They someone calling her name.
were both looking forward to a quiet evening. 3 Tom was driving home when it started to
snow.
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Stories
Writing

Techniques to begin/end a story

It is important to have a good beginning to your story to make the reader want to read it and find out what
happens. It is also important to have a good ending to your story so that the reader feels satisfied.
Beginning Ending
creating mystery or e.g. Tina had a strange feeling that e.g. He would never know for sure what
suspense something unusual was about to happen. exactly happened.
addressing the reader e.g. I am sure you have all been to a e.g. Wouldn’t you have done the same if
directly wedding before. you were in his shoes.
asking a rhetorical e.g. Have you ever had one of those days e.g. Life is full of surprises, isn’t it?
question when nothing goes right?
referring to e.g. Colin felt rather nervous as he got ready e.g. I was so relieved that everyone was
feelings/moods for his first day at work. safe.
using direct speech e.g. “Without you, I wouldn’t be alive,” he e.g. “This is going to be the best hike
cried. ever”. Laura said.
describing people’s e.g. Paul started laughing when he heard e.g. We all decided never to go back into
reactions Ann’s excuse. the woods at night.

3 Match the beginnings to the endings.

Feelings
Which writing techniques have been used?
Rewrite the beginnings/endings using In the concluding paragraph we should include
another technique. information about how the characters feel
(delighted, annoyed, thankful, relieved, etc).
Beginnings Describing a character’s feelings makes the story
1 Why is it that something good always happens more interesting for the reader.
when things seems to be at their worst? I was
at a low point in my life with no job, no money
and few friends when, suddenly, everything
changed.
4 Complete the following endings with
adjectives from the list: relieved, embarrassed,
2 It was very late at night. Kevin couldn’t
see because it was completely dark. disappointed, uneasy, grateful, terrified, guilty,
He was extremely scared and his heart lonely.
was beating fast.
1 Laura felt extremely ................................ to
the rescue workers who had saved her.
3 When Tom woke up, the pavements were
shining with the fresh rain and the smell of 2 Tracy felt ........................... to have survived
freshly cut grass hung in the air. He was in such a terrible accident.
a good mood, but he had no idea that this 3 Despite her surviving, Peter still feels
would be the best day of his life. .................................. for not doing more to
help his friend.
Endings 4 Ken couldn’t help feeling a little ..................
that he didn’t finish the race.
A Looking back, I feel lucky to have been in the right
5 To this day, James still gets ........................
place at the right time. Who could have known
any time he passes the haunted house.
something so small could have such a big effect?
6 Rachael was very ............................. by the
B Tom felt happy. “Thank you all so much,” he silly mistake she had made.
said and realised that he would remember 7 Now the house was empty and silent. Sue
this day for the rest of his life. felt .............................. .
8 Seeing the full moon out over the sea made
C Kevin ran outside as fast as he could. He was Liam feel a bit .............................. .
incredibly relieved to see there was a police
officer there. Finally, he felt safe.
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Writing Stories

Writing techniques 7 Join the sentences using present or past

participles.
To make your story more interesting to the reader
1 She ran out of the room. She was frightened.
you should use:
2 He opened the door. He heard a voice.
• a variety of adjectives and adverbs, such as
3 They walked through the park. They chatted
fantastic, gracefully, rapid, etc instead of simple
about the news.
ones such as nice, good, well, etc.
• a variety of verbs such as described, whispered, 4 She was shocked. She held her hand in
yelled, etc to avoid using ‘said’ all the time. front of her mouth.
• present or past participles to join two similar 5 He was boarding the plane. He wondered
sentences into one longer sentence. (She sat whether he would ever return.
down in an armchair. She was exhausted. ➝
Exhausted, she sat down in an armchair. 8 Read the extract and underline the correct
She waved her hand and wished them a safe past tense.
journey. ➝ Waving her hand, she wished them a
safe journey.) Sarah 1) had looked/looked forward to relaxing in front
of the TV when she got home, but as soon as she
2) opened/was opening the door to her flat, her dog
5 Complete the table with the adjectives and Ned 3) jumped/had jumped up to greet her. It was clear
adverbs in the list: horrible, awful, pleasant, that he 4) wanted/was wanting to go for a walk since he
wide, especially, incredibly, exceedingly, terrible, 5) had been/was being inside all day. Eventually, Sarah
massive, dreadful, minute, large, happily, lovely, 6) decided/was deciding to take him to the park. The
tiny, huge, diminutive, extremely, splendidly, grass was wet as it 7) had rained/was raining earlier
successfully, brilliant, fabulous, little, superbly. that morning, but that 8) didn’t stop/hadn’t stopped
BIG Ned from happily running around. Sarah sat down on
a bench and 9) was reading/read her text messages
SMALL
when suddenly she 10) heard/was hearing Ned
BAD barking. He was standing over a man who 11) was
GOOD/NICE lying/had lied on the ground. “I 12) pulled/had
pulled a muscle while I 13) did/was doing some
VERY
exercises,” the man explained. Sarah 14) was
WELL helping/helped him to stand up and walked him to
his car. The man 15) was thanking/thanked them
both and patted Ned on his head.
6 Replace the adjectives/adverbs in bold with
ones from the box in Ex. 5.

A As Paul approached the 1) small cottage he had rented

for his holiday, he wondered whether he had made a(n)
2) bad mistake. The area seemed 3) very quiet and
there was supposed to be 4) bad weather for the rest of
the week. In fact, 5) big clouds were already appearing
over his head as he got out of his car. “At least the locals
are 6) nice,” he thought, as he turned a 7) big 9 Use these verbs to complete the gaps:
key and entered the cottage. wondered, asked, promised, begged, exclaimed.
1 “Where’s the justice in this world?” Peter
B Despite feeling 1) very tired, Fiona decided to ...................... .
meet her friend, Kate, at a 2) small café in the city 2 “I’ll never go out there on my own again,”
Sam ...................... .
centre. Having 3) well found a parking space, a(n)
4) nice breeze blew through her hair as she 3 “Have you ever heard of such a ridiculous
excuse?” Mark ...................... us.
walked down a(n) 5) big street to the café . When
she entered, she smelled the 6) good coffee for 4 “Today is the day!” Peter ...................... .
which the café was so well known. 5 “Please, don’t tell anybody,” he ...................
us.
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Stories
Writing
b) Put the events in the order they happened.
10 Join the sentences using the linking words/
phrases in brackets.
A A stranger joined Jane at her table.
1 Bill was getting dressed. The phone started
B The stranger’s dog started drinking Jane’s
ringing. (while)
coffee.
..................................................................
C Jane realised who the stranger was.
2 Ann met her friend at the bus station. They
D Jane chose a table to sit at in the café.
went clothes shopping together. (after that)
E 1 Jane finished her workday and left the office.
..................................................................
F Jane felt happy to see an old classmate.
3 Ted had just booked the flights. His friend
called him to cancel the holiday. (when) G Jane became angry with the stranger.
..................................................................
H Laura started laughing at Jane’s behaviour.
4 There were dark clouds in the sky. They
decided not to have a picnic in the park. (so) c) What is the climax event? How did Jane
.................................................................. feel in the end?

d) Which adjectives has the writer used to

11 a) Read the rubric, then put the verbs in describe the following nouns: day, friend,
brackets into the correct tenses. woman, table, door?

You have seen this announcement in a new English- e) Which adverbs has the writer used to
language magazine for young people. describe these verbs: walked, said, giggling?
We are looking for stories for our new English-
language magazine for young people. Your story Expanding sentences
must begin with this sentence:
Jane sat down at a table in the café, relieved that a • Try to expand the sentences of your story by
long day at work had finally come to an end. adding descriptive and/or specific details.
Your story must include: • an animal • an argument Think of who, what, where, when, how, why.
Expanding sentences gives your reader more
Write your story (140-190 words).
information and makes the story more
enjoyable to read.
e.g. She left the office.
Jane sat down at a table in the café , relieved that a long WHO: Lisa
day at work had finally come to an end. She felt exhausted, WHERE: city centre
and was looking forward to having a coffee with Laura, an WHEN: yesterday morning
old college friend she 1) ..................................... (arrange) HOW: by train
to meet there. WHY: meet her sister, Ann
Yesterday morning, Lisa left her office in the
A few minutes later, a tall thin woman with sunglasses and
city centre by train to meet her sister Ann.
a hat walked towards Jane’s table. “Excuse me, but I
• It is also a good idea to avoid too many short
2) ................................. (wait) for a friend,” Jane said,
or disconnected sentences in your story.
wondering why the woman 3) .............................. (not/sit)
Instead, use conjunctions (and, but, although,
at an empty table instead. Then, suddenly, the woman
because) and time words (when, after that,
opened a bag and 4) ................................... (lift) a small
while) to make your writing flow. This will
Chihuahua onto the table. Then, to her horror, the dog
make your story easier to read.
started drinking some of Jane’s coffee!
“That’s enough”, Jane said loudly. “I’d like you to leave my
table now!” But as Jane 5) ............................... (shout) at
f) Expand the sentences using two to three
the woman, the wooden door of the café opened and
Laura entered. She was giggling uncontrollably. “So, I see of the points in the theory box above.
you’ve met our old friend,” Laura said. 1 She stayed at a campsite.
It was only then that Jane 6) ............................ (recognise) 2 They visited a museum.
Helen, a friend from college who 7) .................................... 3 They were in a park.
(live) abroad for the past ten years. Jane was delighted to 4 He called a travel agency.
meet her old friend again. 5 He went to the mall.
6 She opened the door.

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Writing Stories

Describing people in stories

■ Stories may contain descriptions of people. ■ When we describe physical appearance, we normally
include details of: height, build, age, facial features, hair and clothes, moving from general
adjectives to more specific ones. e.g. Mary was a tall, thin woman. She had a round face with bright blue
eyes and a small nose. Her short fair hair made her look sophisticated. She was always smartly dressed.
■ When we describe a person’s character, we should always justify the qualities we mention. e.g. She
was so honest; she would never lie to you. ■ Negative qualities should be written using mild language
e.g. Instead of saying: He was rude we can say: He had/showed/displayed a tendency to be rude. or He
could be rude at times.

12 a) The following adjectives 13 Fill in: unstable, stubborn, optimistic, lazy, reliable, patient,
describe people’s physical intelligent, generous, sensitive, lively.
characteristics. List them in the
1 Tina was a(n) ........................ child; she was always full of
table, as in the examples. energy.
• slanting • tall • blond(e) 2 Bill could often be ............................... . His moods would
• oval • muscular • upturned change without warning.
• casual • of medium height 3 Jennifer was the most .............................. girl in the class
• fair • slim • freckled • green and always got good grades.
• curly • straight • wavy • tiny 4 Sally was very ........................ and could get upset easily.
• overweight • dark • plump
5 He was a very ............................. man who always stayed
• elegant • short • crooked
calm and didn’t get easily annoyed.
• pretty • fashionable • ugly
6 Mr Blake was very ............................ and always donated
• attractive • wrinkled
money to charity.
• handsome • shabby
• almond-shaped • long 7 Bill was very ........................... . You could always depend
• well-built • round on him.
8 Her uncle was ............................. and rarely changed his
tall, ...................................... mind.
Height 9 Gina was very ........................ and always expected good
............................................
things to happen.
muscular, .............................
Build 10 Robert was very ............................ and never helped with
............................................
the housework.
oval, ....................................
Face
............................................
blue, ....................................
14 a) Fill in: dull, serious, unpredictable, dishonest, witty,
Eyes dedicated, decisive, optimist.
............................................
upturned, .............................
1 My English teacher was very ...........................................;
Nose I could listen to her funny stories for hours.
............................................
2 Kim was a(n) ............................... student who made sure
blond(e), ............................. to do her homework before she went out with her friends.
Hair
............................................ 3 Stephanie was quite .......................; she didn’t talk about
casual, ................................ interesting topics and wasn’t a lot of fun to be around.
Clothes 4 John was quite a(n) .................................. man; you never
............................................
really knew what he was thinking or planning to do next.
5 Paul was a ................................. person; he always made
b) Find pictures of people from choices quickly and confidently.
6 The word I’d use to describe Tim is ..................................;
magazines. Describe them to
he always looked on the bright side of things.
your partner.
7 Sarah was a little ...................................... at times, so we
didn’t always believe what she told us.
8 Although he was an interesting person, Ken could be a bit
too .........................................; he rarely laughed and only
talked about politics.
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Stories
Writing
b) Use 1 Which paragraph(s) contain(s)
appropriate the description of a person?
adjectives to 2 What does the person look like?
describe two 3 What character adjectives
people you has the author used?
met while on 4 Which verbs does the author
holiday last use instead of ‘say’ in the last
year. paragraph?

John was in b) Put the events in the order

his early 20s. they happened. Use them to
He was tall and retell the story.
well-built with
short straight A She picked up the book.
black hair and B They had a long conversation.
brown eyes. He
C She tried to find the man.
was a lively person who was always full of energy.
D 1 She got on the train.
E She rushed to her interview.
F The interviewer was the man
15 a) Read the rubric, then the story and answer the questions.
she had met on the train.
G She sat next to a man.
You see this announcement in an English-language magazine for
young people. H The man left his book on the
Stories wanted train.
We are looking for stories for our new English-language magazine
for young people. Your story must begin with this sentence: 16 a) Find the adjectives the
The day of my interview couldn’t have started any worse. writer uses to describe the
Your story must include: following:
• a train journey • a friendly stranger
• traffic • carriage • man • hair
Write your story (140-190 words). • eyes • station • voice

b) What verbs has the writer

The day of my interview couldn’t have started any worse. First, my used instead of “said”?
alarm didn’t go off, so I woke up late, and then I heard on the radio
about heavy traffic in the city. So, I left my car at home and decided to
take the train, something I never normally do. 17 a) What techniques has the
writer used to begin/end his
I took a seat in the cool, air-conditioned carriage beside a handsome story? Suggest a different way
middle-aged man with curly brown hair. His pale blue eyes were
to begin/end the story.
engaged in a book. When I looked at its cover, I noticed that it was
actually my favourite novel.
b) Find examples of direct and
“I love that book,” I said, pointing towards it. The man smiled and
reported speech in the story.
exclaimed that he did too. In fact, he had read it twice before! He
turned out to be really friendly and funny. He had a great sense of
humour. We spent the rest of the journey laughing and chatting 18 How would the story change if
together. When the time came for us to get off the train, I realised he the main character had met a
had left his book on the seat! different person? Rewrite
I grabbed the book and ran after him. After searching for him in the paragraphs 2, 3 and 4. Think
crowded station for some time, I finally gave up and hurried off to my about:
interview. As I entered the office, I heard a familiar voice. “Fancy seeing you
• who the person can be (e.g. a
here!” cried the interviewer. It was the man from the train! “What a
lawyer, a relative, a friend).
coincidence!” I replied happily, “You were just the person I was looking for!”
• what he/she looks like.
• what he/she is like.
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Writing Stories

b) Find the adjectives in the text the writer

Describing places in stories uses to describe the: scent of the ocean,
• When we describe particular details of a shore, deckchairs, music, fish, seafood,
place, we can use our senses (sight, sound, greenery, temple. Replace them with other
smell, taste, touch). e.g. He lived in a house appropriate adjectives.
surrounded by fragrant pine trees that you
could smell as you approached the driveway.
c) Underline all the phrases that relate to the
• We can describe a place using static and
use of the senses (smell, sight, sound, taste).
moving features. e.g. Static features: on top
of, behind the building, beyond the city, here
and there, from the port, near the river, in
the background there was, at the foot of the
20 Read the extract below. Highlight the static
features and circle the moving features.
hill , in the distance, from the top,etc
Which adjectives has the writer used to
Moving features: a river flew down the
describe: the village, the sea, the beach, the
mountain, the fields stretched, the hill rose
up from, road crossed the valley,a path forest, the clouds?
curved around the mountain, the road
wound through the forest, an alley led to etc Standing at the top of the mountain,Peter looked
• We can also use a variety of adjectives to down on the quiet village. The rows of houses
describe the place. stretched away to the horizon. To his left, he could
city: active, busy, crowded, noisy, clean,
see the blue sea. The sandy beach curved along
cosmopolitan, industrial, lively, polluted,
dirty, windy, bustling, historic the coast for miles. To his right, he could see the
buildings: tall, old, modern, beautiful, thick forest. Above him, thin clouds filled the sky.
brick/stone/marble/glass/steel
traffic: congested, heavy
people: friendly, smiling, hurried
streets: busy, crowded, quiet, winding,
21 Look at the picture. Imagine you are writing
a story set in this place. Use static/moving
cobbled, narrow
phrases and adjectives from the table to
village: quiet, peaceful, unspoilt, picturesque
write a paragraph like the one in Ex. 20.

19 a) Fill in: along, from, by, distance, top, down,

beyond, covered.

As soon as I arrived at the

beach, I felt completely
relaxed. I inhaled deeply,
enjoying the salty scent of the
ocean as the waves crashed
1) ............................... upon the
sandy shore. All 2) .....................
the waterfront, people were
lounging in multicoloured deckchairs while lively music Describing events in stories
drifted 3) ............................... a nearby restaurant. I caught Stories can contain descriptions of events
the aroma of grilled fish as a waiter passed 4) ...................... e.g. a wedding day, a festival, a concert. We
carrying a platter of delicious-looking seafood. In the describe the event in as much detail as
5) ........................., the mountainside was 6) ............................ possible to give the reader a vivid image of
with tropical greenery which stretched far 7) ....................... what it was like. We can also use a variety
of adjectives and adverbs to make our
my vision. And on 8) ............................ of the highest peak,
description more interesting.
there stood a magnificent temple that glistened in the
sun.

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Stories
Writing

22 a) Fill in the gaps in the extracts with words

As soon as I left the hotel, I realised
from the list.
how important this day is to the locals.
• chatting • felt • blew • gathered • expecting It was the last day of my holiday in
Cebu in the Philippines and the locals
A As James carefully 1) .................... out the 1) ................................... (celebrate)
candles on his huge birthday cake, I couldn’t the Sinulog Festival. Everywhere I
believe that he was turning 10 years old. It turned I 2) ......................... (see)
2) .................... like only yesterday when Tim, people excitedly lining up against
James’s father and my best friend, excitedly told barriers on the street to watch the festival’s parade.
me that he and his wife were 3) .................... their Then, suddenly, a tall man with a long moustache led me
first child. All around the large rectangular table down a busy side street. I 3) ......................... (think) he
James’s school friends were 4) ...................., wanted to show me a tourist attraction, so I followed him
impatiently waiting to get a piece of the cake. Their obediently until we reached an area where a group of
parents, meanwhile, were happily 5) .................... dancers 4) ......................... (practise) their steps. Then, I
with each other. That gave me the chance to realised the man’s mistake; I 5) ......................... (wear)
sneak away to get James’s present from my car. similar colourful clothes to the dancers! But before I could
explain, the parade 6) ......................... (start) and I was in
the middle of a group of skilled Philippine dancers!
• take • selling • walked • realised • felt At first, I 7) ......................... (try) to dance along, and
was really enjoying the rhythmic traditional music that
B Linda parked her car and 1) .............. towards the accompanied us. Then, one of the dancers
gigantic football stadium where the concert 8) ......................... (tap) me on the shoulder and said, “You
would 2) .............. place. All around her were don’t belong here, do you?” I quickly apologised and joined
other fans of Coldplay, many of them loudly the rest of the spectators.
singing the band’s most famous songs. There In the end, I 9) ......................... (feel) relieved but also a
were also dozens of stallholders 3) ................... little disappointed to leave the parade. It was a wonderful
colourful T-shirts and scarves. She bought one experience being part of the Sinulog Festival – both as a
and headed towards the gates. As she dancer and a spectator!
4) .................... inside her deep trouser pocket
for her ticket, she 5) .............. that she had lost it! b) List the events in the order they
happened. Which is the climax event?
b) Underline all the adjectives and circle the
c) How did the writer feel in the end?
adverbs the writer uses.
25 a) Read the story again and answer the
23 Think of an event you attended. Write a questions.
short paragraph about it as if it was part of
1 Has the story been written in the first or
a story. third person?
2 How has the writer set the scene?
24 a) Underline the key words in the rubric, 3 Which adjectives and adverbs has the
then read the model and put the verbs in writer used?
the correct tense. 4 What time words has the writer used?
5 Has the writer used direct speech?
Underline it.
You have seen this announcement in a new English- 6 What techniques has the writer used to
language magazine for young people. begin/end the story? Write another beginning/
Stories wanted ending using a different technique.
We are looking for stories for our new English-
language magazine for young people. Your story b) Give the story another ending.
must begin with this sentence:
As soon as I left the hotel, I realised how important c) Rewrite the story as a third-person
this day is to the locals. narrative.
Your story must include:
• a parade • a misunderstanding d) Imagine you are one of the Philippine
dancers in the parade. Write the story from
Write your story (140-190 words).
her point of view.
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Writing Stories

Describing Objects
Describing objects in stories
When you describe objects you can use a variety of adjectives.
When
You we describe
should bear in objects
mind thewefollowing
can use aorder.
variety of adjectives in the following order:
Opinion, Size/Weight,
Opinion, Size/Weight,Age,
Age,Shape,
Shape,Colour,
Colour, Country
Country of of Origin,
Origin, Material
Material – noun
NOUN
Instead of saying ‘He
“He was
washolding
holdingaabriefcase’
briefcase”we
wecan say‘He
cansay “Hewas holding
was an an
holding expensive,
expensiveItalian,
Italian leather
leather
briefcase.’ We do not normally use more than three adjectives to describe a noun.
briefcase”. We do not normally use more than three adjectives to describe a noun.
We cancan add
addmore
moreinformation
informationinin a prepositional
a prepositional phrase
phrase after
after the the noun.
noun. e.g.was
e.g. He He holding
was holding an expensive,
an expensive Italian
Italian, leather briefcase with a brown handle.

26 a) The following adjectives describe objects. Use them to complete the table.

• purple • light • Italian • ancient • rubber • flat • heavy • red • new • black • metal • Chinese
• enormous • modern • steel • disgusting • little • British • square • attractive • Egyptian

Opinion Size/Weight Age Shape Colour Origin Material Noun

beautiful, small, old, round, grey, Indian, woollen (carpet)
.................. ...................... .................. .................. .................. .................. ..................
.................. ...................... .................. .................. .................. .................. ..................
.................. ...................... .................. .................. .................. .................. ..................

b) Find pictures of various objects. Write sentences describing them. Use up to three adjectives.

27 Read the following extract from a story and

28 Expand the prompts into full sentences. Put
put the adjectives into the correct order. the adjectives in the correct order.

Entering /room I /see old woman/ sit/a(n) (old/

rocking/wooden) chair by/fireplace. She/wear/ a
(woolen/long/brown) shawl around her shoulders
and/read/book. I/sit/in a(n) (old-fashioned/leather/
black) armchair and look/around. There be/
(beautiful/Italian/oil) paintings on the walls and a
(Chinese/velvet/red) carpet /on/floor. The old
woman/stop/read/and/look/me.

29 a) Read the rubrics and underline the key

Kate was the first to arrive at the housewarming words. Which rubric asks for a description
party, so she walked up to the house and lifted of a(n): place; object; event; person? Answer
the 1) (brass, heavy, shiny) knocker and tapped the questions.
lightly the door. Mrs Jones answered and led Kate A You have seen this announcement in a new
into the living room. She offered her a seat on English-language magazine for young people.
a(n) 2) (elegant, French, 17th century) chair
Stories wanted
that was near a(n) 3) (white, marble, old) We are looking for stories. The story must begin
fireplace. Kate gasped when she noticed the with this sentence: It was a celebration to
4) (Oriental, rectangular, colourful) carpet on remember.
the floor and the 5) (antique, glass, beautiful) Your story must include: • a journey
• a restaurant
chandelier hanging from the ceiling. “This place
is great!” she exclaimed. Write your story (140-190 words).

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Stories
Writing
B You have seen this notice in an English-language Useful Language
magazine for teens.
Stories wanted Starting a story/Setting the scene
Send us your stories. The story must begin • He felt (tired) as he had been (working in the
with this sentence: Alan had just finished his garden all morning).
last year at primary school. • It was (raining heavily) when I (woke up that day).
Your story must include: • a football game Leading up to the main event
• a gift • At first, we didn’t notice …
Write your story (140-190 words). • The (party) had only just started when …
• The next thing she knew, she was …
The main event/climax of the story
C You have seen this announcement in an English- • They started (shouting desperately).
language magazine. • I felt sure (the car) was going to (crash).
Stories wanted Describing people/places/feelings
We want your stories! Your story must begin • The young man near the door …
with this sentence: As I entered the room, I • We walked (down the street) trying to …
noticed a young man sitting on the sofa. • To their (surprise/disgust/horror, etc) …
Your story must include: • a relative • Imagine our (disappointment) when …
• a surprise Ending a story
• I’ve never felt so (relieved/scared/embarrassed, etc)
Write your story (140-190 words). in my whole life.
• We knew we would never … again.
D You have seen this notice in an English-language • It was the most (embarrassing/exciting/amazing,
magazine for young people. etc) moment I’ve ever experienced.
Stories wanted
We are searching for stories for our new
magazine. Your story must begin with this
sentence: As soon as we found a place to park
the car, we made our way to the street market.
Checklist
Your story must include: • a shopping list
• a puppy When you finish your story check it for the
Write your story (140-190 words).
following:
Story organisation
1 What are you going to write? • Has your story got an introduction, main body
2 Which rubric asks for a first-person/third- and conclusion?
person narrative? • Are the paragraphs clearly laid out?
3 Who is going to read your story? • Is the sequence of events clear to the reader?
4 What should your story include?
Do the events lead to the climax event?
5 How will you start your story?
Structure details
b) Make notes for each story under the • What tenses have you used?
headings: • characters • time • place • Have you used appropriate linking words?
• activities • weather • events in the order • Have you used a variety of adjectives and
they happened • climax event adverbs?
• what happened in the end • character’s • Have you used direct speech and a variety of
reactions/feelings verbs?
• Are there any spelling or grammar mistakes?
c) Use your notes to write your stories. • Have you punctuated your story properly?
Follow the plan on p. 18. You can use • Have you set the scene as described on p. 18?
phrases from the Useful Language box.
• Have you used any of the techniques on p. 19 to
start/end your story?
• Have you described the characters’ feelings in
the conclusion?
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Writing Letters/Emails

General Introduction
Letters/Emails can be formal, semi-formal or informal depending on who we are writing to. Reasons for
writing them include: giving news, giving invitations, accepting or refusing invitations, complaining,
asking for/giving information, applying for a post/course, expressing apology, asking for/giving
advice, explaining, thanking, giving news, suggesting, expressing preference etc.

General outline for letters/emails

greeting Paragraph 1 Paragraphs 2,3 Paragraph 4 sign off
opening remarks, development of closing remarks
reason(s) for writing the topic

Informal Style Semi-Formal Style Formal Style

Greeting: Dear Tim/Aunt Lisa/Dad, etc Greeting: Dear Mrs Philips, Greeting: Dear Sir/Madam, –
• friendly, relaxed, personal style • polite respectful tone (e.g. I Dear Mr Jones,
(e.g. I’ve been meaning to write to would like to thank you for • serious, impersonal style (e.g. It is
you for ages.) the kindness you showed me with great regret that I must decline
• frequent use of colloquial during my stay.) your kind invitation.)
expressions, idioms, phrasal verbs, • use of less colloquial language • complex sentence structure –
short verb forms (e.g. The exam I (e.g. I hope to see you at some frequent use of passive voice –
had last week was a piece of cake.) point in the future. instead of formal linking words – no
• pronouns are often omitted Hope to see you around.) colloquial language – advanced
(e.g. Look forward to seeing you • less frequent use of short vocabulary – no short verb forms
next week.) verb forms, linking words, (e.g. The waiter in question, a young,
• chatty language (e.g. Hope all is phrasal verbs (e.g. Also, since I tall, fair-haired gentlemen, then
well with you.) will be arriving in the middle of claimed that I would be required to
• simple linking words (e.g. and, the night, I will need someone pay for the tablecloth that I had spilt
but, so) to collect me from the airport.) the gravy on.)
Sign off: Best wishes,/Yours,/Regards, Sign off: Regards/Kind regards, Sign off: Yours faithfully,/Yours sincerely,
(our first name) (our full name) (our full name)

1 Match the beginnings to the endings. Which are: formal? informal? Give reasons.

Beginnings Endings
1 Hi Brian! I thought I’d drop you a line to let you know A I sincerely hope that this matter will receive
what I’ve been up to. your immediate attention. I demand a
written apology.
2 I am writing to apply for the post of salesperson as
advertised in the Logan Times. Due to my work B I look forward to learning more
experience, qualifications and qualities, I believe about the offer and would be
that I would be an ideal candidate for the position. grateful of a prompt reply.

3 Thanks a lot for the invitation to your party. I’d love C Once again, I really regret that I couldn’t
to come! make it. I’ll make it up to you soon.

4 My reason for writing is to draw your attention to

D If you follow my advice, I’m sure you’ll
the terrible treatment I received from a member of
manage to get through this. Write and
your staff last Wednesday afternoon.
let me know what happens.
5 I am writing to request further information
regarding the advertisement you placed in E I enclose my CV and would be glad to
the Evening Herald. attend an interview at your convenience.

6 I can’t tell you how sorry I am that I missed F Let me know if I can do anything to help with
your party. I really feel terrible about it. the preparations. See you on the big day!

7 I’ve just read the email you sent me. I’m sorry to G Well, that’s all for now. Write back soon
hear you’re having problems but I think I can help. and tell me about your news.
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Letters/Emails – Style
Writing

1 Match the informal phrases (1-10) to their formal equivalents (a-j).

1 The staff were really awful.

a I would like to express my sincere apologies.
2 Thanks for everything. b Any advice you could give me would be
3 Can’t wait to hear your news. appreciated.
c I regret to inform you I cannot attend the event.
4 I’m afraid I can’t comes. d I would like to request further information.
5 Sorry - I feel awful about what happened. e I was thoroughly dissatisfied with the service.
6 You’d better sort this out. f Your help is greatly appreciated.
g Is there a possibility that you could attend?
7 I want to ask some questions. h Do not hesitate to contact me at your
8 Tell me what to do. convenience.
9 Can you make it?
i I look forward to your reply.
j I sincerely hope that you deal with this matter.
10 Call me any time.

2 Complete the sentences by choosing the 3 Rewrite the sentences in a formal style
appropriate phrases. using the words in brackets in their correct
form. Add any other words if necessary.
1 give my regards/say hello
a) Make sure to ....................................... 1 Email me any time.
............ to your mum and dad from me. I may be contacted by email at your
b) Please ................................................ convenience (may/contact/email/
................................... to your parents. convenience).
2 I am writing to enquire / Let me know 2 If you don’t give me a refund, I’ll have to
a) ............................................................ take further action.
...................... if there is a job opening. I must insist on a refund, or else I ..............
b) ............................................................ ................................................................
about vacancies in your company. ............................ (force/further action).
3 look forward / can’t wait 3 I’m very angry with your staff.
a) ............................................... for your I would like ................................................
next email. ...................................................................
b) I .............................................. to your (express/strong dissatisfaction) with your
prompt reply. staff.
4 apologise / say sorry 4 Can’t wait to see you face to face.
a) I thought I should ................................ I ..............................................................
........................ about what happened. .................. (look forward/meet/person).
b) I feel obliged to ................................... 5 I will always remember our time together
................................ for my behaviour. I ................................................................
5 all your help / your kind assistance (always/fond/memory) of our time together.
a) I am writing to thank you for ................... 6 Please say you’ll forgive me.
....................... in organising the event. Please .....................................................
b) I wanted to say a big thanks for ........... .......................... (accept/deep/apology).
...................................... last weekend. 7 I’ve worked in retail for ages.
6 Can you make it to / Would it be possible for I ..............................................................
you to attend ........................................ (considerable/
a) ................................................. a little experience/ retail/industry).
get-together we’re having at my place? 8 I’m writing about your ad in the newspaper.
b) .............................................. a dinner I am writing ..............................................
party I’ve organised at my residence? ................................................................
(regard/advertisement) in the Kent Times.

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Writing Letters/Emails – Rubric analysis

B
You have received a letter from your English
Rubric Analysis pen-friend.
Always think about the situation in the rubric.
I hope you enjoy your time at the adventure
This will help you plan your writing. Read the
camp. Where did you find out about it? For
rubric carefully and underline the key words.
how long will you go there? What activities
These indicate:
will you do?
• the imaginary situation you will write
Write soon,
about, who you are, and the reason you are
Jack
writing.
• the imaginary reader who is going to read Write your letter (140-190 words).
your piece of writing.
This will help you decide on
• the writing style you should use; formal,
C You have received an email from your English
semi-formal or informal
• the type of writing task
friend, Jane.
• the specific topics you should include in
your piece of writing. Hello! Hope you’re having a good summer.
Study the example below. I’m mailing to ask for some advice. I’m
planning to join the school hockey team this
1) Thisis part of an email you received from year, but I’m quite out of shape and a little
your 3) English-speaking friend. overweight. What should I do over the next
few weeks to get ready for next season?
Thanks a lot,
My school is organising a three-day trip Jane
to your city. 5) Can you tell me about
some places we could visit? Where’s Write your email (140-190 words).
the best place to stay?
Thanks,
4) Terry D You were invited to your English pen-friend’s
Write your 2) email. brother’s wedding but you can’t go. Send your
pen-friend Tony an email (140-190 words)
1) imaginary situation, 2) type of writing task, apologising and explaining why you can’t attend.
3) writing style, 4) imaginary reader, 5) specific
topics
E You are studying in England. You and your
friends have recently had a meal in an
expensive restaurant. The service was very slow
and the food was badly cooked. Write a letter
(140-190 words) to the manager of the
1 Read the rubrics below. Underline the key restaurant complaining about your visit there
words. Find the imaginary situation, the and saying what action you expect to be taken.
imaginary reader, the style, the type of
writing task and the specific topic(s).
F You have read an advertisement asking for
A people to apply to be volunteers in a wildlife
You see this advertisement in The Daily Mail
park in Australia. You are thinking about
newspaper.
applying but want to know more information.
Want to be a tour guide? Write an email (140-190 words) to the
Do you like working with large groups of people? co-ordinator of the park’s volunteer
We are looking for friendly and energetic programme asking about volunteers’ duties,
people to work as tour guides in August. accommodation, and what weather conditions
to expect.
Contact Andy Trevor at [email protected]
to apply.

Write your email (140-190 words).

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Informal Letters/Emails – Giving News

Writing

1 a) Underline the key words in the rubric

Useful Language
and answer the questions.
Opening remarks
You have received an email from your English- • Hope you’re OK./How are you doing?/How’s
speaking pen-friend. everything going?/Hi! How are you? • Thanks (so
much) for your email/letter. • Sorry I didn’t write
Did you find out if you won a prize in the earlier, but …/So sorry for not getting back to
photography competition? What was your photo you sooner. • It was great to hear from you./It
of by the way? Will the winner’s photo be was fantastic to hear that …
displayed in a gallery? Reason for writing
Look forward to your reply, • You’ll never guess what! I … • I just wanted to
Stuart drop you a line to tell you/let you know …
• Just a quick email/letter to tell you …
Write your email (140-190 words). • I thought you’d like to know …
Giving news
1 What are you going to write? • I’m going on holiday … • I passed my exams ...
2 Who is going to read it? • We moved to a bigger house last week, etc.
3 What should you write about? Closing remarks
4 What style should you write in? • Well, I’d better get going./I must go now because
5 How many words should you use? …. • Bye for now. • Take care and (I) hope to hear
from/see you soon. • Please write soon and tell me
b) Read the model and choose the correct all your news. • Drop me a line sometime.
tenses. • Can’t wait to see you. • Say hello/hi to … for me.
• Email me soon./Write soon.

From: John 3 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.

To: Stuart Answer the questions.
Subject: Great news!
You have received a letter from your English-speaking
Hi Stuart, pen-friend.
How’s it going? Just a quick email to tell you all about You mentioned that your friends had a surprise
the photography competition I 1) entered/have entered party for you. Where did you celebrate your
in the wildlife magazine last May. You aren’t going to birthday? What was the party like? How did
you feel? I can’t wait to hear all about it.
believe this – I 2) had won/won first prize!
Write soon, Paul
I’m so thrilled about it! My photo was of a fox that often
3) comes/will come into our garden. I 4) lay/have Write your letter (140-190 words).
been laying silently on the ground for ages trying to get
1 What are you going to write?
the best shot. I was freezing cold, but it 5) was/had
2 Who is it for?
been all worth it! My photo 6) will appear/has
3 What style should you use?
appeared in next month’s magazine and it will be put on 4 What should you write about?
display at a special exhibition at an art gallery in town.
I’ll even get £200 prize money! b) Make notes under the headings: PLACE –
I’m so excited about this! I still can’t believe it. They PEOPLE – ACTIVITIES – FEELINGS
7) are going to present/present me with the prize at c) Use your notes to write your letter.
the opening of the exhibition on 16th August at 7 pm. I Follow the plan.
8) ’ve invited/had invited my family and my best friend
from school to attend.
Well, I’d better go now. Write soon with your news.
Best wishes, Dear Paul,
John (Para 1) opening remarks, reason for writing
(Para 2) place; people; activities
(Para 3) your feelings
(Para 4) closing remarks
2 Replace the opening and closing remarks in
Yours,
the email with phrases from the Useful
(your first name)
Language box.
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Writing Informal Letters/Emails – Giving advice

1 Underline the key words in the rubric. Read the model. 3 a) Read the rubric and
Replace the phrases in bold with other phrases from the underline the key words. What
Useful Language box. are you going to write? Who
for? What are you going to
You have received an email from your English-speaking pen-friend. write about?

You have received a letter from your

I’m so lonely at my new school. I don’t have any friends. What English-speaking pen-friend.
can I do?
Yours, I’m really busy! I have a lot of
Julie homework, am in two sports teams,
and have a lot of chores at home.
Write your email (140-190 words).
It’s exhausting! What can I do?
Regards,
David
Dear Julie,
Write your letter (140-190 words).
I just received your email and decided to write
back straight away. I know exactly how you feel.
b) Match the suggestions to
When I moved to London last year, I felt very
the expected results.
lonely. Don’t worry, though; there are a few
things you can do. Suggestions
1) In my opinion, the best thing to do is to 1 eat healthily and get
join a sports team at school. I know how much enough sleep
you loved netball at your old school, so maybe 2 drop out of one of the
you could look into joining the netball team at your new one? sports teams
2) This would be a great way to get to know students that you 3 take some time off at
have something in common with. weekends to have fun
Also, 3) why don’t you invite some of your classmates over for a
Expected Results
DVD or pizza night? 4) That way you’ll have fun, relax and you’ll
a help you relax and do
make new friends in no time. I tried this and it worked for me.
something different
I really hope my advice helps. Write soon and let me know how b not feel tired
things are going. c have more time to do your
Take care, schoolwork
Diana
4 Write your letter. Use your
ideas in Ex. 3b and phrases
2 Use phrases from the Useful Language box to rewrite the
from the Useful Language box.
opening and closing remarks in Diana’s email.
Follow the plan.
Useful Language
Opening remarks
Dear David,
• Thank you for your email/letter. Of course I’d be happy to help.
• I’m sorry to hear about ... but I think I can help you. (Para 1) opening remarks,
Giving advice expression of sympathy
• If I were you/in your position, I’d/I would(n’t) ... (Para 2) 1st suggestion with
• You should/shouldn’t ... • It would(n’t)/might be a good idea expected results
(for you) to ... • (I think) the best thing would be (for you) to ... (Para 3) 2nd suggestion with
• Why don’t you ...? • Have you thought of/about ...? expected results
Expected result
(Para 4) expression of hope things
• This will/would mean that ... • Then, • That way … • If you
will improve, closing
do this, you will ...
Closing remarks remarks
• I hope that this/my advice helps. • I/Let’s hope that things get Yours,
better/that everything turns out all right. • Let me know what (your first name)
happens.
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Informal Letters/Emails –
Making/Accepting/Refusing invitations Writing

1 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.

Useful Language
Read the model and match the paragraphs
to the headings. Making invitations
Opening remarks
You are organising a weekend of fun activities with a
• How are you? • Thanks for your email. • How’s
group of friends to celebrate the end of term. Write
it going?
an email (140-190 words) to your English pen-friend
Making invitations
Paul describing the weekend and inviting him to come
• I’m writing to invite you to ... • I’d love (it) if you
and stay with you and join in.
could come. • It would be great if you could come
with me/us, etc. • Why don’t you join us ...?
Closing remarks
Hi Paul, • I hope you’ll be able to make it. • I hope you
1 Thanks for your email. I’m really busy studying for can come. • Can’t wait to see you. • Please let
exams right now, but in a month I’ll be finished! Actually, my me know as soon as possible. • Reply when you
friends and I have been planning a fun weekend in early July get the chance.
to celebrate the end of term. It would be great if you could Accepting invitations
come and stay with me and join in. What do you think? Opening remarks/Accepting
2 We are thinking of going to my friend Nick’s parents’ • Thanks (so much) for the invitation (to ...).
summer house. It is right by the sea, and we can hire • Thank you for inviting me (to ...). • ... sounds
canoes, paddle boats and windsurfing equipment! In the lovely/amazing.
house, they have a DVD player and widescreen TV, so we • ... seems like it’s going to be a lot of fun.
• I’d love to come. • It would be (really) great to
can relax and watch films in the evening.
come with you.
3 You said you might visit me this summer and I think this • It’s (really/so) kind of you to invite me.
would be the perfect time! Don’t forget to bring your favourite Closing remarks
DVDs with you! We can spend the rest of our holiday at my • See you then. • I can’t wait. • I’m (really)
place. There’ll be lots to see and do here. looking forward to it. • Thanks again for inviting
4 I hope you can come. Let me know so we can me. • Thank you once again for the invitation.
make all the arrangements! Refusing invitations
Best Opening remarks/Refusing
A closing remarks
wishes, • Thanks (so much) for the invitation but ... • Thanks
B things to bring for inviting me to ... but I’m afraid I can’t come.
Juan
C destination and activities • I’m sorry but I won’t be able to make it.
D opening remarks; reason for writing • Unfortunately, it won’t be possible for me to come.
Closing remarks
• I hope we can get together soon. • Again, I’m
b) Replace the underlined phrases with
really sorry I can’t make it. • I’m sorry I’ll have
phrases from the Useful Language box. to miss this.

2 Complete Paul’s reply to Juan’s email

accepting the invitation.
3 Rewrite the email to Juan refusing the
invitation and giving reasons (140-180
Hi Juan, words). Use phrases from the Useful
1 Thanks so much for the invitation. That sounds brilliant Language box. Follow the plan.
and I’d love to come! You’re right; it’s the perfect time to visit
you, especially as my exams finish in the last week of June.
2 It will be so much fun to go to the summer house with
you and your friends. ........................................................ Dear Juan,
.......................................................................................... (Para 1) opening remarks, reason for writing
3 I have a huge collection of DVDs, so I can bring (Para 2) refuse invitation giving reason
some with me. .................................................................. (Para 3) express disappointment & wish them a
4 Well, I’d better go now............................................... great time
.......................................................................................... (Para 4) thank for invitation, closing remarks
Yours,
See you soon,
(your first name)
Paul
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Writing Informal Letters/Emails – Thanking – Congratulating –

Apologising – Expressing sympathy/regret

1 Read the extracts 1-4. Which are: beginnings? Dear Lisa,

endings? Which: expresses thanks? 1 Hope you’re doing well. 1) ..............................
congratulates? apologises for something? .......................................... for the wonderful birthday
expresses sympathy/regret? Underline the picnic last Saturday. It was such a great idea and
words which helped you decide. 2) ............................................. the amazing time I had!
2 You put so much hard work into making my day
so special! The food was delicious, especially those
1 Hi Mark, chocolate cupcakes which were the best I’ve ever
Thanks for your letter. I’m so sorry to hear about tasted! The games you thought up were fun, too.
your broken leg! You must be so disappointed Everyone 3) ............................................ . 4) .................
about missing the football final. I know how ............................... on such a beautiful spring day!
much you wanted to play. 3 5) ........................................... the money you
organised everyone to give me as a gift. I’m so happy
you remembered that I’ve been saving up for a new
laptop and 6) .................................... everyone
2 Sorry again! I really didn’t mean to make you
contributed a bit of money to help me buy it.
wait on your own for so long. To make it up
7) .......................................... I’ve got enough money to
to you why don’t we go for a pizza over the
buy the laptop now!
weekend? I will pay for everything, of course.
4 8) ............................................. for making my
Best wishes,
Sophie birthday the best one ever! You’re a great friend!
Love,
Alison
3 Dear Eric,
I’m writing to say I saw the article in the local
paper about your artwork! You did so well to 3 Match the headings (A-D) to the paragraphs
win first place in the contest between all the (1-4).
schools! Well done - you must feel really proud!
A thanking again, closing comments
B thanking for the day; activities you did
Anyway, I’d better go now but, once again – thank C opening remarks, reason for writing
4
D thanking for the gift
you! No one has ever done that for me before! See
you soon.
Yours, 4 Suggest opening and closing remarks for the
Maria letters below, as in the example. Use phrases
from the Useful Language box on p. 35.
1 Congratulate your English cousin Sam on
2 Read the rubric, then complete the letter
passing his driving test.
using the phrases below. Hi Sam!
It was great to hear from you.
Your English friend Lisa organised a picnic for Congratulations on passing your driving test!
your birthday last weekend. Write a letter …
(140-190 words) thanking her for planning the
Well, I’d better go now but, once again –
picnic and also for the gift she gave you.
congratulations! I hope to see you driving
• It was the perfect thing to do your new car soon.
• I also have to thank you for Best wishes,
• I’ll never forget • I’m so touched that Harry
• Thank you so much 2 Apologise to your English friend Paul for
• really enjoyed themselves forgetting his birthday.
• Thanks again • Thanks to you 3 Express your sympathy to your English
friend Steve as his dog has just passed
away.
4 Thank your English pen-friend Jane for a
gift she sent you.

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Informal Letters/Emails – Thanking – Congratulating –

Apologising – Expressing sympathy/regret
Writing
A Your English friend Peter’s band has just won first prize in a
Useful Language talent show. Write an email (140-190 words) congratulating
b) Use language from the Peter and asking when you can see the band perform.
ThankingUseful Language box to write
Opening remarks B You have received an email from your English-speaking friend.
• I’m writing to say thanks for …
• I just wanted to drop you a line to
thank you for … I didn’t do very well in my exams. I don’t know what I
• Thanks so much for … did wrong. How can I do better next year?
• It was so kind/good of you to … Yours, Laura
Closing remarks Write your email (140-190 words).
• Thanks once again!
• It meant a lot to me. C You borrowed a raincoat from your English friend Matt but you
Apologising ripped it. Write an email (140-190 words) to your friend explaining
Opening remarks what happened, apologising and offering to replace the coat.
• I’m writing to say sorry for ...
• I’m so sorry about/for … D You have received a letter from your English pen-friend.
• I just wanted to say sorry for/
apologise for … We really enjoyed having you stay with us at our
• I’m afraid I … . I’m so sorry! holiday home. Did you have a good journey back?
Closing remarks What excursion did you enjoy most?
• Please forgive me. Write back,
• I really feel terrible/awful about it. Helen
• I (really) didn’t mean to do that/upset
you, etc. Write your letter (140-190 words).
• I hope you aren’t too upset with me.
b) Read the answer to rubric C. Rewrite the underlined
Expressing sympathy/regret
sentences in the correct style using phrases from the
Opening remarks
• I’m (so) sorry to hear about/that … Useful Language box and your own ideas.
• It’s too bad that …
• You must be so disappointed about …
• You must be feeling (really) fed up/ Dear Matt,
upset, etc … 1) I’m writing to offer you my sincerest apologies for damaging the
• Try not to worry/feel bad, etc. raincoat you lent me. Unfortunately, I had a little accident with it during
Closing remarks my hiking trip. 2) I sincerely apologise – I know you really liked that coat.
• If I can do anything (to help), please
I was hiking in the woods with my group when the coat got caught on a
let me know.
• Once again, I’m really sorry. branch. I was getting left behind so I pulled hard on the coat to try to
release it but the sleeve ripped from the top to the bottom.
Congratulating 3) I deeply regret what has happened. I don’t think the coat can be
Opening remarks repaired, so please let me replace it. 4) I would be grateful if we
• I’ve just heard that (you passed your could go shopping one Saturday soon and choose one together.
exam etc) … and I wanted to
congratulate you. Again, I’m really sorry. 5) I truly hope that we can put the matter
• I was so happy to hear that … behind us.
• Congratulations on … (+ -ing form) Yours,
• Well done for ... (+ -ing form) Lee
• You must feel really proud/thrilled/
excited etc.
• You should be proud of yourself! 6 Write your answers for rubrics A, B & D in Ex. 5a. Use
Closing remarks phrases from the Useful Language box. Follow the plan.
• Once again congratulations.
• I’m really proud of you.
Dear (your friend’s first name),
5 a) Read the rubrics A-D and (Para 1) opening remarks, reasons for writing
underline the key words. What (Paras 2-3) develop your topics
type of email/letter does each ask (Para 4) closing remarks
for? What could each be about? Yours,
Decide in pairs. (your first name)
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Writing Informal Letters/Emails –

Asking for/Giving information

1 Read the rubric and the model. Replace the 2 Read Jamie’s reply and fill in: I’ve helped you,
phrases in bold with alternatives from the If I were you, you’ll have a great time, I
Useful Language box. wouldn’t bother, As for, You asked, To answer
your question.
You’re arranging a trip with some friends to the
Glastonbury Festival in England this summer. You know
your English pen-friend Jamie has been there before. Dear Mario,
Write him an email (140-190 words) asking about It was great to hear from you. I loved Glastonbury
camping facilities, food and what things they can do last year so I’m sure 1) .................................!
there. 2) ....................................... about camping. Well,
the facilities are very basic, but it was great fun! The
ground is usually muddy, though, so don’t forget to
take some waterproof boots.
Hi Jamie,
3) ............................. food, 4) .................................
How’s everything going? I’m so taking a camping stove. There’s a wide variety of
relieved I’ve finished my exams! cheap food stalls selling tasty dishes from all over
To celebrate, I’m planning to go the world.
to the Glastonbury Festival with 5) ........................................ about what else goes
some of my friends this summer. on at the festival, well, there are dance areas, circus
I know you went last year so 1) I shows, comedy acts and much, much more.
hope you don’t mind if I ask 6) ................................., I’d just wander around.
you a few questions. I hope 7) .......................................... . I’ve already
First of all, I know that you camped when you went to the bought my tickets, so let’s arrange to meet up there!
festival. 2) How did you find it? 3) What did you think Best wishes,
of the facilities?
Jamie
Also, 4) I was wondering if there are any good quality
food stalls at the festival. 5) Do you think it’ll be a
good idea to take a camping stove with us to prepare 3 Underline the key words in the rubric.
our own food? Answer the questions. Write your email.
Follow the plan.
I looked online and some of my favourite bands are
playing this year! 6) I want to find out what else there is
You have received an email from your English-
to do at the festival, though. What did you enjoy the most?
speaking pen-friend.
Well, I think that’s all I want to know for now. If you’re
going again this year, maybe I’ll see you there! Thanks
so much for your help and hope to see you soon. My family would like to go on a two-week tour of your
country. Can you give me some information about
Best wishes,
what places you would recommend and why? What is
Mario the best way to travel around? Also, what’s a typical
dish that we must try?
Write back,
Useful Language Mark

Asking for information Write your email (140-190 words).

• Would it be OK to ask you a few questions
(about) …? • Do you know (if) …? • I also need 1 What are you going to write? Who for?
to know … • What did you think of …? • What 2 What information should you include?
about ...? 3 What style should you write in?
• I heard that … . Is that true/correct? • Can you
tell me/let me know …? • What’s/Where’s, etc
the best …? • I was wondering (what/where …).
• Shall we/I …/Is it a good idea to …? Dear (your friend’s first name),
Giving information (Para 1) opening remarks, reason for writing
• I’ve sent you … which will help you … (Para 2) description of place and reason
• To answer your question about … • You asked (Para 3) suggest best way to travel around
about/So you want to know about … • This is (Para 4) suggest typical dish and explain why
what I found out (about) … • Here are a few
(Para 5) closing remarks
tips for … • As far as … is concerned, • As for
..., the best thing to do is …/you should …/if I Yours,
were you, I’d …/why don’t you …? (your first name)

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Informal Letters/Emails –
Describing people
Writing

1 Read the rubric and the email. 2 Complete the table with words from the email in Ex. 1.
Match the paragraphs to the
topics. Age: middle-aged, elderly, ..........................................................
Height: short, .............................................................................
You have received an email from your
English-speaking pen-friend. Weight: overweight, slim, ............................................................

In your last email you said you Face: long, oval, square, .............................................................
were going to the cinema with Hair: bald, curly, .........................................................................
your best friend. What does he/she
look like? What is he/she like? Eyes: green, brown, .....................................................................
Also, what makes he/she special? Nose: big, button, hooked, ..........................................................
Write soon,
Fiona Lips: thin, ...................................................................................

Write your email (140-190 words). Special features: wrinkles, glasses, ...........................................
CHARACTER: energetic, sociable, ...............................................
NOTE: When we describe negative character qualities we use mild language.
Hi Fiona, Instead of saying: He’s disorganised. we can say: He’s a bit disorganised.
1 Thanks for your email. My best friend
is Debby and she’s in her late teens like 3 Complete the sentences. Use: aggressive, dishonest, mean,
me. We’ve been friends ever since our selfish, decisive, considerate, inventive, self-confident.
very first day at primary school!
2 1 Petra can be ..................... at times; she can behave in a
People often comment about how
violent way when she gets angry.
different Debby and I look. While I’m of
2 Mark is a(n) ............... person; he is very helpful to others.
medium height and a little plump, Debby
3 Helen is .................................; she is sure of her abilities.
is tall and quite skinny. She likes wearing
4 Tony is .....................; he is only interested in himself.
T-shirts and jeans. Debbie’s got
5 Mr Green is a ............................ person; he is unkind and
shoulder-length, straight, fair hair, full
cruel to people.
lips and has some freckles above her
6 Bob is a rather ..................... person; he tends to tell lies.
cheeks. Her most impressive feature,
7 Paul is .............................; he’s got a lot of original ideas.
though, is her eyes which are blue. 8 Steve is quite ..........................; he’s able to make up his
3 Debby’s very motivated. She sets mind quickly.
goals and always works hard to achieve
them. Also, she’s a very open-minded 4 a) Underline the key words in the rubric. What are you
person. She’s always willing to accept going to write? Who for? What about?
new ideas. Sometimes, she can be a bit
impatient, but I’ve got used to that over You have received a letter from your English-speaking pen-friend.
the years! I’d like to know more about your family. Which member of your family are
4 All in all, Debbie is very special to you closest to? What’s his/her appearance like? What is he/she like?
me. We’re very close and hopefully we’ll Write back soon, Teddy
remain so for many years to come.
Write your letter (140-190 words).
Actually, we plan to apply to the same
university when we finish school! What b) Make notes under the headings. Appearance – Character.
about you? Tell me about your best Use the notes to write your letter. Follow the plan.
friend in your next email.
All the best,
Laura
Dear Teddy,
(Para 1) opening remarks, who the person is
A the person’s appearance
(Para 2) person’s appearance
B the person’s character (Para 3) person’s character
C who the person is (Para 4) your feelings towards the person, closing remarks
D how you feel about the Best wishes,
person/closing remarks (your first name)
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Writing Informal Letters/Emails –

Describing places

c) Replace the adjectives in bold with:

1 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.
scenic, memorable, expensive, hot, little, wide,
Answer the questions.
bustling, cheap, amazing, secluded, delicious.
You have received a letter from your English-
speaking pen-friend.
2 Think of appropriate adjectives to replace the
ones in bold. You can use a thesaurus.
You must be back from your holiday in Malaysia
by now. What was the resort you stayed in like?
What activities did you do there? Did you get to It was the 1) nicest holiday I’ve ever had. There
explore other areas, too? were 2) nice sights to see and we enjoyed some of
Write soon, the 3) nicest scenery in the world. The choice of
Pauline
activities was 4) big, too. We spent our afternoons
Write your email (140-190 words). walking through the 5) nice parks and sampled
6) good French cuisine in the evenings. It’s a pity
1 What are you going to write? Who for?
you weren’t there. It’s a truly 7) nice city with
2 What should you write about?
3 What style should you write in? 8) good people.
4 How many words should you write?

b) Match the paragraphs to the headings. 3 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.
What tenses has Rachel used? Why? Answer the questions.

You have received a letter from your English-

Dear Pauline, speaking pen-friend.
1 Sorry it’s taken so long for me to write back,
Did you have a good time on your school trip?
but I’ve been on holiday for the past two weeks. What was the place like where you visited? What
Anyway, I thought I’d drop you a line to tell you did you enjoy most?
about the 1) nice time I had in Malaysia. It was such Write back,
a(n) 2) nice country, I’m sure you’d have loved it. Frank
2 Although the resort we stayed in was 3) not
good, it was well worth the money. It was situated Write your letter (140-190 words).
right next to the sea with its own 4) nice beach. We
spent most of our morning sunbathing there, 1 What are you going to write?
enjoying the 5) nice weather while sipping ice-cold 2 Who is going to read it?
drinks from the resort café. 3 What should you write about?
4 What style should you write in?
3 In the evenings, we went out to explore the
5 How many words should you use?
area. There were many 6) small food stalls nearby
where I sampled a(n) 7) good variety of 8) nice
b) Write your letter. Follow the plan.
local dishes. We also went shopping at the 9) nice
night bazaar. The prices were so 10) good that I
ended up buying a whole new wardrobe!
4 All in all, Malaysia is a 11) nice place. I’ll send
you some pictures as soon as I get them developed. Dear Frank,
You should visit it one day. Write back soon and fill (Para 1) opening remarks, reason for writing
me in on what you’ve been up to this summer. (Para 2) description of the place
(Para 3) what you enjoyed most
Yours,
(Para 4) feelings; recommendation; closing
Rachel remarks
Yours,
A how you feel about the place and (your first name)
recommendation
B name, location of place
C description of resort and morning activities
D evening activities
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Informal Letters/Emails –
Describing Events
Writing
Note: An event can be a festival, a sports event, a 3 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.
celebration, an exhibition, a lecture, a ceremony, etc. What are you going to write? Who for?
What tenses should you mainly use? Why?
1 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.
You have received an email from your English friend.
Answer the questions.
Did you have a good time at the sports event?
You have received a letter from your English- What was it like? What did you see?
speaking pen-friend. Let me know,
What’s your favourite annual event in your country? John
What do people do? What’s special about it?
Write your email (140 -190 words).
Yours,
Harry b) Read the email and put the verbs in
Write your letter (140 -190 words). brackets into the correct tense.

1 What are you going to write? Who for?

2 What should you write about? Dear John,
3 What style should you write in? It was great to hear from you! I 1) ....................................
4 What tenses should you mainly use? Why? (have) a great time at the Wimbledon Championships
last week. It 2) .................................... (take) place every
b) Read the model. Replace the opening and year over two weeks in June in London, but I only
3) ................................ (go) for one day.
closing remarks with other appropriate ones.
From what I heard, the organisation of this year’s
championships took months. The groundsmen
Dear Harry, 4) ...................... (start) preparing the courts two months
before the event, while the staff 5) ...................................
Thanks for your letter. There are lots of events all over (begin) selling tickets six months ago! Also, the athletes
Scotland, but my favourite is the Braemar Highland 6) ........................... (train) for a long time beforehand!
Games, held on the first Saturday of September. It has I was so glad to be there even for one day. The event is
sports, dancing and traditional music. very famous and people from all over the world had
The festival is run by a charity who spend months come to see it. The tennis 7) ................................. (start)
organising the attractions and events. Athletes spend all at 11 o’clock. During the breaks, people 8) ......................
year training to win special events like ‘tossing the caber’, (chat) happily while they 9) ..................................... (eat)
throwing big bits of wood and ‘putting the stone’, the traditional British dessert, strawberries and cream.
throwing large rocks. All in all, my visit to Wimbledon 10) ..................................
During the games there are a lot of things to do. People (be) amazing. The tennis was so exciting and I
watch the sporting events and shop at stalls selling local 11) .............................. (get) to meet my favourite player,
crafts and food such as ‘stovies’, a potato and meat stew. Roger Federer! Why don’t you get a ticket for next year?
There are also highland dancing and bagpipe playing Love,
competitions for visitors to enjoy. Penny
Overall, going to the Highland Games is a fun experience
and an exciting showcase of local culture! If you ever
come to Scotland, make sure you don’t miss it! 4 Think of a festival in your country. Make notes
Best wishes, under the headings in the plan. Use the notes
to write your letter for the rubric in Ex. 1.
Lavender

Dear Harry,
2 Fill in: experience, a must, memorable.
(Para 1) opening remarks, the name of the festival
1 It was such a .......................... day, I’ll and where/when it takes place
never forget it! (Para 2) preparations for the festival
2 I really recommend the festival, it’s (Para 3) what happens during the festival
.......................... . (Para 4) feelings/recommendation, closing remarks
3 It’s a fantastic way to .......................... the Best wishes,
local culture. (your first name)
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Writing Informal Letters/Emails –

Narratives in letters/emails

1 Read the rubric and the model. Put the verbs 4 a) Underline the key words in the rubric
in the correct tense. and answer the questions.

You have received a letter from your English- You have received a letter from your English-
speaking pen-friend. speaking pen-friend.

How did your first day at your new school go? How was your trip last week? Did anything
What happened? Tell me all about it. exciting happen? Let me know!
Laura Ben

Write your letter (140-190 words). Write your letter (140-190 words).

1 What are you going to write? Who for?

2 What should you write about?
Dear Laura, 3 What style should you write in?
4 How many words should you use?
Thanks for your letter! You won’t believe what
1) ....................................... (happen) on my first day
b) Make notes under the headings.
at school.
When I 2) ................................... (arrive), I was really
nervous. I 3) .................................. (walk) around the
Who:
school for fifteen minutes before I found the right
classroom. When I finally got there, I was late and When:
everyone 4) ........................................... (already/sit)
down. They stared at me as I opened the door. Our Where:
teacher welcomed me and showed me to my desk. Events in chronological order before the climax
event:
As I 5) ................................ (walk) to my seat, I could
hear people whispering and talking. I was nearly there
when I suddenly 6) .................................... (trip) over
Climax event:
and fell to the floor. My books 7) ..........................
..................... (fly) everywhere and the whole class End of story/Feelings:
8) .................................. (start) laughing at me. I was
so embarrassed!
Luckily the girl next to me, Diana, 9) ..........................
(help) me collect my books. At lunchtime, she
10) ................................. (show) me around and now
we’re good friends. Well, I’d better go now or I’ll be
5 Use your notes to write your letter. Follow
the plan.
late for football practice. Write back and tell me what
11) .................................... (happen) in York!
Yours,
Emma Dear (your friend’s first name),
(Para 1) opening remarks, reasons for writing
(Para 2) events leading up to climax event
(Para 3) the climax event
2 List the events in the order they happened.
(Para 4) what happened in the end, feelings &
closing remarks
3 Add a surprising element to the event in Yours,
the story and suggest a different ending. (your first name)

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Semi-formal Letters/Emails – Thanking

Writing

1 Match the sentences. Which ones: thank? ask for/offer 3 Replace the phrases in bold
advice? refuse an invitation? apologise? give/ask for with phrases in the list.
information? A • Thank you very much
Informal Semi-formal • be of assistance • I am writing
1 Thanks a lot for inviting A I would be grateful if you Dear Mrs Rogers,
me. could offer me some advice.
1) Thanks a million for inviting me to your
2 Why don’t you do a B I hope you will accept my school’s fundraiser. 2) I thought I would
summer course? apologies. drop you a line to see if I could 3) lend
3 What a shame I can’t C I hope I’ve been of some you a hand with the preparations.
make it! assistance.
B • please do not hesitate to contact
4 What do you think I D I would like to thank you for
should do? your kind invitation. me • look forward to seeing
• I hope that this is everything that
5 I can’t tell you how sorry E Could you tell me the best
you needed to know
I am. way to reach your house?
6 Hope I’ve helped you. F I am sorry that I will be 1) Well, I think that’s everything! If you
7 What’s the best way to unable to attend. think of anything else, 2) just give me a
get to your house? G It would be a good idea if call. I 3) can’t wait to see you at the party!
you did a summer course.
4 a) Underline the key words in
2 Read the rubric and the model. Replace the underlined the rubric. What are you going
phrases with more polite ones from the list. to write? Who for?
• look forward to hearing from you • In addition • all your
You have just spent a week at your
efforts • I am writing to thank you • Kind regards • Please English friend’s cottage. Write a letter
contact me • Thank you once again • Despite being a little (140-190 words) to your friend’s
frightened • send their regards • such a pleasant one parents, Mr & Mrs Stephens, to thank
• greatly enjoyed the experience • Dear • would be delighted to them for their hospitality and explain
return • I shall never forget • What I most enjoyed how much you enjoyed your stay.

You have received an email from the organiser of a summer camp b) Write your letter. Follow the
you recently attended. plan.
I hope you enjoyed your time at the summer camp. What activity
did you like best? Say hello to your parents. It was nice to meet Useful Language
them. I’ll let you know if we organise the camp next year. Opening remarks
All the best, • Thank you so/very much for ...
Teddy Sawyer • I am writing to thank you ...
• I just wanted to tell you how much I
Write an email (140-190 words) responding to Mr Sawyer and
enjoyed/appreciated, etc ...
thanking him for organising the camp. Closing remarks
• Thank you once again (for) ...
• It was really kind of you to ...
1) Hi Mr Sawyer! • I shall never forget ...
2) Thanks a lot for making my stay at summer camp 3) so much fun. I
4) had a brilliant time.
I really appreciate 5) all you did to ensure we had a really lovely time.
Dear Mr & Mrs Stephens,
6) The best thing was going kayaking. 7) Even though I was scared to
death, I am glad I took part. It is a day that 8) will always stick in my mind. (Para 1) opening remarks, reason for
writing
9) On top of all this, it was really kind of you to give me a lift back to my
house. My parents 10) say hi and have invited you to dinner next (Para 2) thank for hospitality; comment
Saturday evening. 11) Let me know if you can make it. on the experience
12) As I said before, thanks a lot for organising the trip. If you are running it (Para 3) explain how much you
again next year, I 13) ’d love to go again. I 14) can’t wait to hear from you! enjoyed your stay
15) Yours, (Para 4) restate thanks, closing remarks
Stephen Faulkner Regards, (your full name)
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Writing Formal Letters/Emails – Applying for a course

Applying for a course

greeting Paragraph 1 Paragraphs 2,3 Paragraph 4 sign off

Dear Mr Smith, reason(s) for • age/qualifications/studies closing remarks Yours sincerely,
Dear Sir/ writing • reason for choosing the Yours faithfully,
Madam, course (your full name)

1 Read the rubric then the letter. Replace the

Useful Language
informal phrases in bold in the letter with
phrases in the list. Opening b)remarks
Use language from the Useful
• I am writing to apply for a place on ...
• I have enclosed • I am keen to further improve Language box to for
• I am interested in applying write your
a place on email.
...
• I am writing to apply for a place Qualifications
• would be of great benefit to me • I have completed my (third year of secondary
• I currently attend • I achieved school, language exams, first aid training, etc).
• I look forward to hearing from you soon. • My qualifications include … • I have experience
• I would be most grateful if you would consider (of) …
my application. Reasons
• … would be a wonderful opportunity for me.
You see this advert in your local newspaper: • I would benefit greatly from …
Closing remarks
Student Exchange Programme • I would be grateful if you would consider my
Local students (14-18) are invited to apply for a application. • I would like to be considered for the
position in our student exchange programme. course • Find enclosed (my CV and contact
Students will spend two weeks in March in an details/a letter of reference from ...) • I look
English-speaking country to improve their forward to hearing from you. • Do not hesitate
language skills. Apply in writing stating your to contact me if you require further information.
qualifications and your reason for wanting to be • I would appreciate a reply at your earliest
part of the programme. convenience.

Write your letter (140-190 words).

2 Underline the key words in the rubric, then

answer the questions.
Dear Sir/Madam,
1 1) I really want to take part in the students’
You see this advert in your local newspaper:
exchange programme you run in March. I feel I am
an ideal candidate with much to gain from this Brunel University – Summer Course
opportunity. in English Literature
Students aged 16-18 are invited to apply for a
2 I am 16 years old and 2) I’m a student at
place in our English Literature course in August. In
Lakeside Secondary School. In my end-of-term your application please state your qualifications and
exams, 3) I got A grades in most of my subjects, your reasons for wanting to be part of the course.
including English. I also take part in the drama club,
Write your letter (140-190 words).
where I have recently been cast for the lead role in
an English play.
1 What are you going to write?
3 4) I want to get even better at my English in 2 Who is going to read it?
order to apply for university overseas. I believe the 3 What should you write about?
opportunity to spend time with native speakers 5) can 4 How many words should you write?
help me a lot. Therefore, 6) please think of me. 5 What style should you write in?
4 7) I’m posting further details of my education
and qualifications to date. 8) I can’t wait to hear 3 Write your letter. Use phrase form the Useful
from you. Language box. Follow the plan above.
Yours faithfully,
Francesca Andretti
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Formal Letters/Emails – Applying for a job

Writing

greeting Paragraph 1 Paragraphs 2,3 Paragraph 4 sign off

Dear Mr Smith, reason(s) for • age/qualifications/studies closing remarks Yours sincerely,
Dear Sir/ writing • personal qualities/ Yours faithfully,
Madam, previous experience (your full name)

1 Read the rubric, then the letter. The letter Useful Language
has been written in the wrong style. Replace
the phrases in bold with phrases from the Opening remarks
Useful Language box. • I am writing
b) Use tolanguage
apply/I am interested
from theinUseful
applying for
the position of ... advertised in (yesterday’s) ...
Language box to write your email.
• I am writing with regards to your advertisement
You have seen this advert in the Oxford Eagle which I read in ...
newspaper: • With reference to your advertisement in ...
• I would be very interested in applying for ...
STAFF WANTED Work experience
• I have ... years’ experience of working (as) ...
Are you a bookworm? • I have been working as a ... for the last ... years.
Can you speak • ... years ago I worked (as)/I was employed (as) ...
English well? • I am highly proficient with ...
Wise Owl Books is looking for a part-time shop Personal qualities
assistant 11 am - 5 pm, weekends only. The ideal • (Despite my lack of ... experience,) I feel that I would
candidate must be well-organised, polite and be an ideal candidate ... • I am considered to be a
reliable. (hardworking and ...) person who is also (reliable, ...).
• I consider myself to be (punctual, ...).
Apply to: Miss Angela Carter at Wise Owl Closing remarks
Books, 5 Harrow Way, Oxford. • I enclose my CV and a reference (from my previous
employer). • I would be grateful if you would
consider my application. • I will be available for
Write your letter (140-190 words). interview ... • Please contact me on ... regarding
any queries you may have. • I am available for an
interview any weekday morning. • I would be glad
to attend an interview at any time. • I would
appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience.
Dear Miss Carter, • I look forward to hearing from you.
1) I thought I’d write to you about the ad in the Oxford
Eagle on 7th May for a part-time shop assistant. 2) I really
want to go for this job.
2 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.
What are you going to write? Who to?
I am 17 years old and am currently completing my A Levels in What style should you write in?
English, History and French. I will be starting university in
September and have been accepted for a course in English You see this advert in the Croydon Post newspaper:
Literature at Oxford Brookes University. Moreover, 3) I am Small computer shop seeks reliable and
really good with computers, having achieved an A grade personable assistant to work throughout July/
for GCSE level computing. August. No sales experience necessary, but
knowledge of computers essential. Apply by
In addition to this, 4) I’ve worked as a volunteer in the
email to Steven Allen at [email protected].
school library. My duties include organising the catalogue,
dealing with enquiries and answering the telephone. As a Write your email (140-190 words).
native English speaker with excellent communication skills,
5) I think I’m appropriate for the post. b) Which of the following (A-B) would you
6) I’ve sent you my CV and reference letter from the school use to start/end your email?
librarian. 7) Call me on 12456789 if you need to ask me A Dear Steven, B Dear Sir,
anything. 8) I can come for an interview any time. Yours truly, Yours faithfully,
9) Can’t wait to hear from you. Mary Smith Mary Smith
Yours sincerely,
Donna Shelley c) Write your email. Use phrases from the
Useful Language box. Follow the plan above.
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Writing Formal Letters/Emails – Complaining

■ Letters/Emails of complaint are written when we want to express our dissatisfaction regarding a specific
service or product. ■ They are normally written in formal language with an impersonal tone. However, we
should never be rude or insulting. ■ The language used depends on whether we want to complain in a mild
or strong way. ■ In a formal letter/email making a complaint you may use a mild tone for complaints about
minor problems, or a strong tone for complaints about more serious matters.

Outline for letters/emails of complaint

greeting Paragraph 1 Paragraphs 2,3 Paragraph 4 sign off

Dear Mr Jones, reason(s) for complaint(s) with action to be taken, Yours sincerely,
Dear Sir/ writing justification(s)/example(s) closing remarks Yours faithfully,
Madam, (your full name)

1 Underline the key words in the rubric. Then read the email 2 a) Read the Useful Language
and fill in the gaps with phrases. box. What tone is the email in
Ex. 1 written in?
• to my great dismay • demand a full refund
• express my strong dissatisfaction with
• refused to offer me a replacement b) Rewrite the first and the
• to take further action • make matters worse last paragraphs of the email in
• treated with great disrespect a mild tone using appropriate
• offended by this accusation phrases from the Useful
Language box.
You recently bought a digital camera from a shop, but when you got
home you discovered that the camera was faulty. When you took it Useful Language
back, the salesman was rude to you. Write an email (140-190
words) to the head office of the company complaining about the Opening remarks
poor service you received. Mild
• I am writing in connection with/on the
subject of ...
• I wish to draw/bring to your attention
Dear Sir/Madam, to a problem which arose due to ...
1 I am writing to 1) ............................ the service that I received Strong
• I am writing to express my strong
in your shop. I was sold a faulty digital camera and I was
dissatisfaction with the disgraceful
2) ............................... . treatment I received/the attitude of
2 Last Saturday morning, after a great deal of thought and your staff.
research, I bought a ZX650 digital camera from your shop. • I am writing to complain about the
appalling behaviour of .../the shocking
Unfortunately, 3) ................................. , when I got home I found that
quality of ...
the automatic lens cover would not open when I switched the camera Closing remarks
on. The camera was clearly faulty. Mild
3 To 4) .........................., the way the salesman treated me when • I feel that I am entitled to a refund/
I attempted to return the camera was disgraceful. He first accused replacement/compensation in the
form of (vouchers).
me of dropping and breaking it. When I told him this was not the
• I hope/would appreciate it if this
case, he actually implied that I was lying and 5) ............................... matter could be dealt with promptly.
or refund. I was deeply 6) ..................................... . Strong
4 Needless to say, I was extremely annoyed by this incident. I • I insist on/demand a full refund/an
immediate replacement.
7) ................................ and a written apology or else I will be forced
• If the matter is not dealt with
8) .......................... . promptly, I shall be forced to take
Yours faithfully, legal action/take the matter further.
Tom Martin

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Formal Letters/Emails – Complaining

Writing

3 Read the extract. What tone 6 Read the rubric, then the letter. Replace the informal
has the writer used? Rewrite phrases in bold with more polite ones in the list.
the extract using a mild tone. • quite frankly • I do not consider to be • express my
disappointment following • I look forward to your prompt reply
• in addition • Firstly • I am writing to you
I feel I must protest about my • I would appreciate a • As you can imagine
recent stay in your hotel. The
quality of the service was You recently went to a business meeting in another town. You
booked a hotel, but the standard was very poor. Write a letter of
shocking: the staff were extremely
complaint to the hotel explaining the problem and what action you
unhelpful and I was appalled by can expect to be taken (140-190 words).
the accommodation ...
… I will never stay at your hotel
again. I demand an apology and Dear Sir,
insist that you provide me with a 1 1) I thought I’d drop you a line to tell you 2) how angry
full refund.
I was after the two nights I spent at the Excelsior Hotel.
2 3) Now, the website claims that the hotel is ‘within walking
distance’ of the town centre. In fact, it is five kilometers away, which
4) I don’t think is ‘walking distance’! 5) Another thing is that the
map on the website is wrong.
4 Match the problems to the
situations. 3 In addition, my room was not very clean so I asked to move,
• TV • coffee table but the second room was just as bad. The staff were not particularly
• running shoes • coat helpful, either. 6) If I’m being honest with you, the only reason I
• glass • handbag did not go to another hotel was because I had so much work.
1 The stitching on the strap 4 7) You can probably guess that I was not sorry to leave. I
was broken. am not asking for a refund, but 8) I want to get a written apology or
2 They were the wrong size explanation. Furthermore, I would like to see your website changed
and the laces were ripped. to more accurately reflect the hotel’s details. I am sending a copy
3 There were scratches on the
of this letter to the mayor, and 9) it would be good if you could
screen.
write back to me soon.
4 The rim was chipped.
5 There were scratches on the Yours faithfully,
wood. Henry Dupont
6 The lining down the left hand
side has split.

7 a) Underline the key words in the rubric. Answer the

questions.
5 Rewrite the sentences using a
strong/mild tone accordingly.
You recently bought a tennis racquet online but you received the
1 I was utterly disgusted when wrong racquet by mistake. You asked for a replacement and were
I learnt there were no more told it would arrive in one week, but there has been a long delay
window seats. with the delivery. Write an email (140-190 words) to the company
2 My wife was less than explaining the problem and what action you expect to be taken.
pleased to hear that her
luggage was in Helsinki. 1 What are you going to write?
3 I feel that I am entitled to a 2 Who is going to read it?
refund. 3 What should you write about?
4 I am writing to complain 4 What style should you write in?
about the coat I recently 5 How many words should you write?
ordered from your website.

b) Write your email of complaint. Use phrases from the

Useful Language box and the outline on p. 44.

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Writing Formal Letters/Emails – Apologising

1 Read the rubric, then the letter. Underline the correct

Useful Language
phrases (1-9).
Opening remarks
You recently did some voluntary work at a local sports centre, • I’m writing to offer my sincerest
teaching young children how to play cricket. The owner of the apologies for ...
sports centre, Mr Granger, wants to present you with an award for • Please accept my deepest apologies
your good work and has invited you to a ceremony. Unfortunately, (for ...).
you can’t go because you’re busy and you have to refuse the • I’m writing to say how (very) sorry I am
invitation. Write a letter of apology (140 -190 words). for ...
• I would like to express my regret for ...
• I sincerely regret (+ing form) ...
Explaining
• It was not my intention (to/for that to
Dear Mr Granger,
happen) ... • I believe the situation
I’m writing to 1) thank you/say cheers for your invitation to the resulted from ...
awards ceremony. I am 2) really excited/extremely proud that you Apologising
believe my work to be worth an award. However, 3) I am very sorry • I’m (extremely) ashamed of (my
to say that/it’s a shame, but I won’t be able to attend. behaviour)/(truly) sorry for not ...
• I understand how inconvenient/
Unfortunately, I am 4) in the middle of/currently taking my exams annoying it/this must be/have been
at school, and I do not have any free time. 5) That night, I am for you.
planning to be/On the night of the ceremony, I will be at a Closing remarks
revision group run by the school, which I have agreed to lead. • Once again, please accept my sincerest
apologies.
6) People want me/It is very important for me to attend .
• I am really sorry for the inconvenience
7) I am extremely honoured/I feel happy that you would like to caused.
give me an award, and I am 8) sad/very sorry that I will not be
there to receive it in person. 9) Please accept my sincerest
apologies for any inconvenience/I’m really sorry for any 3 a) Underline the key words in
the rubric. What are you going
problems that this may cause.
to write? Who for? What
Yours sincerely, about?
Ethan Mills
You had a birthday party and you were
playing loud music. Your neighbour
complained. Write a letter of apology
2 Read the following letter of apology. Rewrite it in formal
(140 - 190 words) explaining that it
style. Use phrases from the Useful Language box.
was a special occasion and that it
won’t happen again.
Hi Mr Jenkins,
I wanted to write and say sorry for scratching your car with my b) Write your letter of
bicycle. I’m really sorry for the damage. apology. Follow the plan.
This is what happened. I was riding my bike to school very fast and
turned into the parking lot. I didn’t see your car in time and scraped
the handlebars along it, causing a big scratch in the paint. I feel
really bad. I wanted to apologise to your face, but you were in Dear Sir/Madam,
meetings all day. I thought I’d write to you instead to say sorry.
(Para 1) opening remarks & reason
To make up for it, I can stay after class and help to clean the for writing
classrooms. I don’t mind helping to tutor the younger students in my (Para 2) further details/explanation
free time. Also, my parents said that they will pay for the damage. I
for the apology
hope that’s OK. Anyway, like I said, I’m really sorry about this. I hope
(Para 3) repetition of apology &
you can forgive me.
closing remarks
Yours sincerely,
Yours faithfully,
Alice Channing (your full name)

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Formal Letters/Emails – Describing objects

Writing

■ A letter/email can ask for descriptive techniques. For example, we may need to write to a hotel manager
asking them to check if a piece of luggage which was left at the hotel has been found.
■ This means that we have to write in a formal style and provide a detailed description of the item we are
looking for, applying descriptive techniques.

General outline for formal letters/emails including description of objects

greeting Paragraph 1 Paragraphs 2,3 Paragraph 4 sign off

reason for writing, description of contact details;
opening remarks the object closing remarks

Objects 2 You recently stayed at a hotel and you left your bag behind.
Look at the pictures and the prompts, then complete the
To describe objects you should use letter to the hotel. Make sure that the adjectives you use
a variety of adjectives. Always list are in the correct order. What type of letter is it?
opinion adjectives (e.g. pretty,
cheap, strange) first, followed by
fact adjectives. They are normally
listed in the following order:
size/weight, age, shape, pattern,
colour, origin or material (e.g. a
small, round, silver frame). Any
special features are added (Italian/small/plastic/green/ (red/woollen/old) pair of gloves
afterwards (e.g. … with a photo cosmetic bag
inside).

1 Fill in the table below with

words from the list.

• Middle Eastern • green (orange/leather/small) (pink/elegant/leather) wallet

• round • striped • light • nylon diary with a snap fastener
• modern • square • Japanese
• checked • stylish • heavy
• wonderful • blue • ancient Dear Sir/Madam,
• wooden I am writing to inquire about 1) .................................... which I left
in a room at your hotel on 2) .................................... .
Opinion It was 3) .................................... with 4) .................................... .
Size/ Inside the bag there was 5) .................................... .
Weight In the event of the bag being found, I can be contacted on 2220222
during evening hours.
Age
Yours faithfully,
Shape
Tanya Martins
Pattern
Colour 3 Underline the key words in the rubric, then write your
email. Follow the outline above.
Origin
Material You spent a weekend at a hostel. When you returned home, you
realised you had left a small backpack there. Write the manager
an email (140-190 words) explaining the problem and describing
your backpack and the items inside.
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Writing Formal Letters/Emails –

Recommending/Making suggestions

■ Letters/Emails of recommendation are formal letters/emails we send to a person in authority (e.g. a museum
curator, a teacher, etc) to recommend a person for a post, a place for an event to be held, a person to be
nominated for sth, etc or when we recommend improvements to a service/facility. ■ When we recommend a
person, we need to make reference to qualities related to the person and give examples/justifications. ■ When
we recommend a place, we need to describe the facilities/service/décor/prices, etc. ■ When we make
suggestions for improvements to a service/facility, we should express our opinion on the matter and provide
suggestions/recommendations supported by expected results.

General outline for letters/emails of recommendation

greeting Paragraph 1 Paragraphs 2,3 Paragraph 4 sign off

Dear Mr Smith, reason(s) for describe facilities/character summary of Yours sincerely,
Dear Sir/Madam, writing qualities/features/make points, closing Yours faithfully,
suggestions with examples/ remarks + (your full name)
justifications & recommendation

1 Read the rubric and the model. Underline the correct 2 Fill in the gaps in the extracts
phrases. What is each paragraph about? (A-C) with the phrases in the list.
A • would make him the ideal
The students’ committee at your school is looking for
• on account of his
recommendations for a place to hold the upcoming end-of-term
party for final year students. Write a letter (140-190 words) to the • leads me to believe that
headteacher, Mr Shaw, recommending a place, explaining why it • deserves to be considered
would be a suitable venue for the party.

s
Justin has many personal qualitie
..................
Dear Mr Shaw, that 1) ..............................
he is
1 As you 1) already know/are aware, the final year students class representative. First of all,
es abo ut
2) are currently planning/want to have an end-of-term party for popular and genuinely car
the second week in July. 3) The students’ committee told me to others, which
..
write to you/I am writing on behalf of the students’ committee 2) .............................................
to 4) recommend the Norwood Hotel as a possible venue/see if students would feel comfortable
.
we could have the party at the Norwood Hotel. sharing their concerns with him
...
2 The size of the venue is 5) the most important thing/our first 3) .............................................
skil ls, I firmly
consideration. The Norwood Hotel’s function room can excellent communication
6) comfortably accommodate 250 people/fit 250 in it, so 7) it the
believe that he would represent
would therefore be a good option/it’s a good choice. 8) Also, it’s .......... .........
class well and 4) ...............
got a big dance floor with enough space/Moreover, it contains a
sizeable dance floor with adequate space for a live band. for this role.
3 As well as being spacious, 9) the food at the hotel is
good/the hotel offers excellent catering services. They are able
to provide a buffet with 10) different kinds/a variety of hot and
cold food, which would be 11) cheaper/more cost-effective than
having a sit-down meal. In addition, soft drinks are included 12) at
no extra cost/for free, which 13) would definitely be
appreciated by the students/the students would love.
4 To summarise, I believe that the Norwood Hotel would be
14) a perfect place/an ideal venue for our end-of-term party. 15) I
would be grateful if you could inform us of your opinion
on/Please tell us what you think about this matter 16) as
quickly as you can/at your earliest convenience.
17) Best wishes,/Yours sincerely,
Megan Turner

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Formal Letters/Emails –
Recommending/Making suggestions
Writing
B • would be an ideal choice
• will take my comments into consideration Useful Language
• I am convinced that
Recommending a person
• I would highly recommend
• I am writing (on behalf of …) to nominate/put
All in all, 1) .................................................. Westford forward … for …
• … is an ideal candidate/choice for …
Historical Museum 2) ..................................................
• … makes him/her/the perfect choice (for …).
for our school’s yearly educational outing. • On account of his/her/the ....
3) .......................................................... it. I hope that • I firmly believe he/she deserves ...
you 4) ....................................................................... . • I would (highly) recommend … for the …
• I hope you will take my/our nomination into
consideration.
C • would find it fascinating Recommending a place
• have no doubt • I am writing (on behalf of …) to recommend …
• I am writing to nominate for …
1) ................................................ Mystery Beside the • … is the ideal place for ...
• I firmly believe that ...
Thames for the English-language novel of the year. It is
• The ... is (conveniently located/reasonably
well written and suspenseful, and I 2) .......................... priced/within walking distance of ... etc.)
that your readers 3) ................................................... . • Taking everything into consideration,/In summary, ...
• I/We hope you will consider my/our recommendation.
• Please inform me/us of your decision on the
3 Use phrases from the Useful Language box
matter.
and your own ideas to rewrite the letter
below in a formal style.

You see this notice in your school newspaper: 4 a) Read the following rubrics and underline
the key words. What are you going to write?
Teacher of the Year Award Who for? What kind of recommendation
Who do you think is Trenton Secondary School’s does each rubric ask for? What style should
‘Teacher of the Year’? If you want to make a
you write in?
nomination, please write a letter to the
headteacher, Ms Newell. In your letter, mention
the teacher’s qualities and what they’ve achieved A An organisation that encourages young
for the school. people to study science gives an annual
‘Young Scientist of the Year’ scholarship to
Write your letter (140-190 words). school students who excel in the subject.
Write an email (140-190 words) to the head
of the organisation, Mr Grahams, nominating
Hi Ms Newell, a classmate of yours for the scholarship and
I am writing for class 10B to suggest Mr Timpson, our explaining how he/she would benefit from it.
history teacher, for the title of ‘Teacher of the Year’. We
believe this is an honour that we should give him.
B Your town council have asked local young
First of all, Mr Timpson’s character means he should people to nominate the ‘Top Attraction for
get the title. He always makes time to listen to what Teens’ in your area. Write a letter (140-190
pupils have to say and he never punishes us for not words) to the town council nominating the
understanding something. This does not mean, place in your area that you think is most
however, that he doesn’t want us to work hard. interesting for teens, and explaining why you
What’s more, he sorted out a serious problem for the chose it.
school. Students had nowhere to exercise indoors, so
he raised the money to have the basement converted b) Write your letter/email. Use phrases from
into an indoor gymnasium. Now students can exercise
the Useful Language box. Follow the outline
all year round, whatever the weather.
on p. 48.
Clearly, Mr Timpson is a great teacher and he should be
the Teacher of the Year. I hope you will agree with us.
Best wishes,
Dean Monkton

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Writing Formal Letters/Emails – Asking for/Giving information

1 What are you going to write?

1 Replace the informal phrases in bold with
2 Who is going to read it?
more formal ones in the list.
3 What should you write about?
• Thank you in advance for your assistance 4 What style should you write in?
• I would be grateful if you could provide me with 5 How many words should you use?
some further details • I am writing with regards to
• I am interested in applying for a place on one of
b) Write the email giving information using
your courses • I would appreciate it if you could
phrases from the Useful Language box.
attach images • it is stated in your advertisement
Follow the plan.
• I would like to know the exact dates on which
they take place
• about the teaching staff in the school
Useful Language
• I look forward to hearing from you

You have seen an advert for an English summer school Asking for information
that offers intensive courses in English. You are Opening remarks
interested in taking a course. Write an email (140-190 • I am writing to enquire about/in connection
words) to the co-ordinator of the school asking for with/with regards to ... • I would greatly
information on: when the courses are run, the teachers, appreciate it if you could provide me with some
and what accommodation is offered for foreign students. information/further details on ... • It would be
useful to have information concerning ... • Would
it be possible to let me know ...? • I’m really
Dear Sir/Madam, interested in finding out ...
• I was wondering if/whether ...
1 1) I decided to drop you a line about the
Closing remarks
advertisement you placed in the Logan Times • I look forward to hearing from you/receiving ...
concerning your summer school. 2) I’m seriously • I would appreciate a response at your earliest
thinking about going on a course, but 3) it’d be convenience. • I would be grateful if you could
good if you answer a few questions. reply as soon as possible (regarding) ...
2 Firstly, 4) your ad says that the courses are four • Thank you in advance (for your cooperation/
weeks in duration, but 5) let me know when exactly assistance/help). • Thank you for your attention
they’re on. This would be important as I have some regarding this matter.
prior commitments during summer. Giving information
3 Also, could you tell me 6) who’s going to teach Opening remarks
• I am writing in response to your email requesting
the lessons? I expect that the courses are taught by
information on ... • I am writing to inform you ...
trained professionals. Finally, could you give me some
• Regarding your request for ... • The following
details about the accommodation available to students
information may prove useful. • Please find
from abroad? 7) I’d love if you could send on some
enclosed ... • Following your recent letter/email...
pictures of the accommodation available. Closing remarks
4 8) Please get back to me ASAP. 9) Thanks a lot • I hope I have been of assistance. • Please do not
for all your help. hesitate to contact me/us if you have any further
Yours faithfully, questions. • Please inform me/us if I/we can be of
any further assistance.
Gary Lemon

2 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.

Answer the questions.
You work at a gym and have received an email from
a member of the public. Dear Mr Davies,
(Para 1) opening remarks, reason for writing
I am interested in becoming a member at the (Para 2) first question with supporting details
gym. I would like some information about the
(Para 3) other questions with supporting details
gym’s opening hours, the membership fees, and
(Para 4) closing remarks
what equipment is provided in the gym.
Kind regards, Yours sincerely,
Sam Davies (your full name)

Write a reply to Mr Davies’s email (140-190 words).

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Formal Letters/Emails –
Making/Accepting/Refusing invitations
Writing

■ Letters/Emails making/accepting/refusing invitations are formal letters written to a person in

authority (e.g. a teacher, the Mayor) relating to a formal event. ■ We need to sound polite and respectful.
■ We do not use contracted verb forms, everyday vocabulary or colloquial, everyday phrases.

Outline for formal letters/emails making/accepting/refusing invitations:

greeting Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 sign off

a formal the reason for give further details of the closing Yours sincerely,
greeting writing, mention the event/thank the person for remarks (your full
e.g. Dear event and where/ the invitation/give reason name)
Mr Smith, when it takes place/ for refusal/mention feelings
accept/refuse about attending
invitation

c) Replace the phrases in bold with other

1 a) Underline the key words in the rubrics.
ones from the Useful Language box.
What are you going to write? Who for?
What should you write about?
Useful Language
A Your teacher has asked you to write a letter of
invitation to a professional sports person to Opening remarks
present prizes at your school’s sports day on • I was delighted to receive your invitation …
21st March. Write your letter (140-190 words). • Thank you for your kind invitation to …
• I am very grateful for your invitation to …
B You have received an invitation from Mr Franks, Inviting
the manager of an animal shelter which you • I wish to invite you to attend …
volunteer for, to attend a charity event on 7th • It would bring me great pleasure if you could attend …
June which he is organising to raise funds for • It is with (great) pleasure that I invite you to
the shelter. Write an email (140-190 words) attend …
refusing the invitation giving reasons. • I would like to invite you to attend …
• It would be an honour to have you as a guest at …
C You have received an invitation from your Accepting
neighbours, Mr and Mrs Franks, to attend their • I am pleased/happy to accept your invitation to …
son’s graduation party. Write a letter (140-190 • It gives me great pleasure to accept your invitation …
words) accepting the invitation and expressing • It will be my pleasure to come to …
your feelings about the event. Refusing
• Unfortunately I will be unable to …
b) Which rubric (A-C) does the model below
• I regret to inform you that I will be unable to …
match? • I am afraid that I will be unable to …
• Please accept my apologies as I will not be able to …
Dear Mr Franks, Closing remarks
1) I was glad to receive your invitation to attend the charity • Once again, thank you for the kind invitation.
event on 7th June. I feel quite honoured to have been on the • Please let us know if you are attending the event or
invitation list. not by (date).
2) Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend the event. I have • Hoping for your presence on that day.
a prior engagement on that day. The football team in which I • Please respond promptly.
am a member has an important match on that date. The match
takes place in Manchester which means I will be unable to
return in time to attend. Otherwise, I would surely be there. I
am sure it will be a great occasion.
2 Choose one of the other rubrics and write
your letter/email. Follow the plan above.
3) Once again, thank you for the kind invitation. I hope the Use phrases from the Useful Language box.
event is successful and that a huge amount of money is
raised for the shelter. Let me know if I can be of assistance
somehow. I would like to donate £100. Kindly send me details
who to send my donation to.
Yours sincerely,
Tilda Francis
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Writing Formal Letters – Letters to the editor

Letters to the editor of a magazine or a newspaper are formal letters we send to a publication about
issues concerning the readers (usually following the publication of an article/news report on the topic). We
can express the pros and cons of a topic, give our opinion or discuss a problem and suggest solutions.

b) Replace the linkers in bold with suitable

For & Against
alternatives from the Useful Language box.
1 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.
Read the letter and replace the topic
Useful Language
sentences with other appropriate ones.
Introducing points
The Evening News • In the first place • To start/begin with • Firstly
More people choosing to live in apartments • First (of all) • For one thing
than houses Adding points
A recent report from the City Council shows that • Furthermore • In addition • Additionally
there has been a significant reduction in the number • What is more • Moreover • Second • Secondly
of houses being built in Trenton. The report suggests Introducing the opposite point of view
that this is because more and more people are • However • On the other hand • At the same time
choosing to live in blocks of flats instead. • That being said • Then again
Introducing examples
Is it better to live in a house or in a block of flats?
• For example, For instance, etc
Write a letter to the editor explaining your view. List
Introducing results
the advantages and disadvantages, giving specific
• As a result, • Consequently, • Therefore,
reasons and examples.
Expressing opinion
• In my view, • The way I see ... • I believe/feel (that) ...
Concluding
Dear Editor,
• In conclusion • In short • All in all • To sum up
I am writing regarding the article in Thursday’s edition of • To conclude • All things considered
The Evening News concerning the number of people in • Taking everything into account
Trenton who are choosing to live in apartments. There are
points to be made both for and against this choice.
Clearly, there are some advantages to living in a flat. 1) In
the first place, living in a flat is usually more secure. 2) For
2 a) Underline the key words in the rubric.
What are you going to write? What style
instance, in a block of flats there is always someone should you write in?
around, and your front door is not accessible from the
street. 3) As a result, people in flats are less likely to be
You read an article in Monday’s edition of Halsford
burgled. 4) Secondly, the maintenance costs are usually Express about the popularity of package holidays and
low in flats. For example, people in flats share the same have decided to write a letter to the editor (140-190
plumbing and electricity systems with the rest of the words) discussing the pros and cons of this issue.
building. 5) Therefore, if something goes wrong, you do
not need to pay for repairs by yourself. b) Match the pros and cons to the examples and
6) However, there are some disadvantages to consider. results. Then write your letter. Follow the plan.
7) To start with, flats may not be good environments for
children. For instance, flats do not have gardens for 1 more convenient
children to play in. 8) Consequently, children in flats are 2 does not allow flexibility
less likely to get enough exercise. 3 can know detailed information of holiday
9) Furthermore, flats can be very noisy. 10) For example, 4 usually in busy holiday resorts
you may be able to hear your neighbours easily. 11) This
means that you may have difficulty sleeping. a flights, accommodation, meals pre-booked;
12) All in all, while living in a flat is not perfect, the security less stress while on holiday
it brings and the money you save on maintenance make it b crowded places where only tourists stay;
worth the drawbacks. I believe it is an excellent choice and don’t experience true culture of place
completely understand why citizens of Trenton are c brochures with photos, etc; less chance of
choosing flats over houses. disappointment
Yours faithfully, d paid for accommodation, etc already; not
Leonard Hughes possible explore without losing money
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Letters to the editor

Writing

Useful Language
Dear Editor, Beginning
• I am writing to express/give my opinion on …
(Para 1) reason for writing, state the topic
• I am writing with regard to /in connection to ...
(Para 2) arguments for & justifications/ examples/results
Expressing opinion
(Para 3) arguments against & justifications/ • I (do not) feel/believe/think … • In my opinion, …
examples/results • I am (totally/completely) opposed to/in favour of …
(Para 4) summarise all the points, state your opinion • I (strongly) agree/disagree with …
Yours faithfully, Listing viewpoints
(your full name) • Firstly, • Moreover, • In addition, • Furthermore,
Introducing reasons/examples
• For example,/For instance, • such as
Opinion • In particular, • because/as/since • In this way,
Introducing results
3 a) Underline the key words in the rubric,
• Therefore, • As a result, • Consequently,
then read the model letter.
Concluding
This is an excerpt from an article you read in a local • To sum up, • All in all, • In conclusion,
English-language newspaper.
Yesterday afternoon, the Mayor of Brentford, 4 Read the rubric and underline the key
words. What are you going to write? Who
Adam Potts, announced plans to close the town’s
library. Potts claims that the library’s closure would to? What style should you write in?
save the town a lot of money that could be better This is an excerpt from an article you read in a local
spent elsewhere. As Potts said, “In the digital age, English-language newspaper.
fewer people are reading books in paper format, so
Due to an increase in muggings, the town council has
I don’t see the point in keeping this facility open.”
decided to install CCTV cameras at spots around the
Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper town centre. While most people welcome the decision,
giving your thoughts on the topic. some have voiced concerns about privacy issues.
Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper
(140-190 words) expressing your opinion.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing with regard to Mayor Potts’ plan to close the 5 Match the viewpoints (1-4) to the reasons
town library. 1) I strongly disagree with this proposal and (a-d) and results (i-iv). Then write your letter.
believe it will have a negative effect on the town.
2) In the first place, the closure of the library would deny 1 invades people’s privacy
people the opportunity to read a variety of books. For 2 helps identify criminals
example, many people from lower class backgrounds
3 deters people from committing crimes
simply don’t have the income to buy their own books. 3) As
a result of the library closing, they would be less likely to 4 cost of running CCTV cameras
read, and their education would suffer.
a expensive to install, need employ officers to monitor
4) Secondly, closing the library would deny students a b police view physical appearance of criminals
quiet place to study. For example, many students from c criminals see cameras throughout town
big families with busy home environments come to the
d citizens recorded without being aware
library to read in peace. If we closed the library, these
students would struggle to prepare for their exams. i money wasted, better spent on police patrols
ii less likely to risk committing crime in that area
5) To sum up, 6) I am totally opposed to Mayor Potts’
iii use as evidence against criminals in court
proposal to close the town library as I believe it will be very
iv footage of people could be used without permission
damaging to Brentford denying citizens access to a variety
of books and a quiet space to study. Consequently, I hope
that the Mayor will reconsider his plan.
Yours faithfully, Dear Editor,
Laura Rodgers (Para 1) reason for writing, state the topic & your opinion
(Para 2) first viewpoint with examples/reasons/results
b) Replace the underlined words/phrases in (Para 3) second viewpoint with examples/reasons/results
the letter with synonymous words/phrases (Para 4) summarise all the points & restate your opinion
from the Useful Language box. Yours faithfully,
(your full name)
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Writing Letters to the editor

Solutions to problems 8 Match the suggestions (1 and 2) to the

examples (a and b) and expected results
6 Underline the key words in the rubric, then
(i and ii).
read the model letter and replace the
words/phrases in bold with words/phrases
1 send leaflets about recycling to each
from the Useful Language box.
household
This is an excerpt from an article you read in a local
2 provide more recycling bins
English-language newspaper.
According to figures, the town is attracting fewer a install recycling bins in each residential street
visitors, so the council has agreed to spend £50,000 in b give information about how to recycle
order to attract more tourists. Exactly how the money
will be spent will be discussed at future meetings. i citizens put rubbish in correct bins
Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper making ii convenient for citizens to recycle
suggestions on how the money should be spent.

9 Use the ideas in Ex. 8 and words/phrases in

Dear Sir/Madam, the Useful Language box to write your
I am writing to make suggestions concerning the money letter. Follow the plan.
the town council plans to spend to attract more tourists.
Increased tourism would help the town considerably, so Useful Language
we need to spend this money wisely.
One suggestion could be to advertise the town as a Stating the problem
tourist destination. For example, the money could be spent • Evidently • Clearly • It seems that • Recently
to place advertisements in national newspapers. By doing Stating need for action
this, more people would consider our town as a destination. • It is necessary that ... • Action must be taken ...
Another suggestion would be to make Trenton a • Something must be done ...
cheap destination for holidaymakers. For instance, the • Steps/Measures should be/must be /need to be
town council could use the money to subsidise hotels taken ...
and restaurants, so that they could offer cheaper Solutions/Suggestions
services. Consequently, tourists on a tight budget • A possible solution is ...
would be more likely to visit our town. • One/Another way to solve this problem ...
In summary, I think that advertising the town and • One/Another solution would be to ...
making it a cheap holiday destination would be effective To introduce expected results/examples
ways to attract tourists to the area. I hope that the local • By doing this, ... . • This way ... • Consequently, ...
council takes these ideas into consideration. • As a result, ... • Therefore, ... • In particular
Yours faithfully, • The effect/consequence/outcome would be that ...
Terry Golding • This would mean that ... • For example/instance
Concluding
7 Read the rubric and answer the questions. • In summary, • In conclusion, • To sum up,
Expressing an opinion
This is an excerpt from an article you read in a local • In my opinion/view, • I believe/think/feel (that) ...
English-language newspaper. • It seems to me/It is obvious (that) ...
A report has shown that the citizens of Winchester
recycle less than any other town in England. Mayor
Adam North said that he would soon be introducing
a scheme that would attempt to increase recycling
in the town. Dear Editor,
(Para 1) reason for writing, state the topic & your opinion
Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper giving
(Para 2) first viewpoint with examples/reasons/results
your thoughts on how the town’s citizens could
recycle more. (Para 3) second viewpoint with examples/reasons/results
(Para 4) summarise all the points & restate your opinion
1 Who is going to read your letter? Yours faithfully,
2 What is the reason for writing the letter? (your full name)
3 What style should you use?
4 How many paragraphs should you include?
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Articles
Writing

■ Articles are pieces of writing usually published in a newspaper, magazine, leaflet or on the Internet. The
style depends on the intended reader, but articles often have a semi-formal style and a friendly or neutral
tone. ■ The main purpose of an article is usually to express an opinion or to describe a person/
place/event or experience. ■ However, it may also have an added purpose such as to provide
information, make a suggestion, give advice or recommend something. Therefore, articles require the use
of narrative, descriptive and argumentative techniques, depending on the purpose.

Outline for articles

Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4

introduce the topic develop the topic develop the topic summarise all the
points & make
final comments

Introductions & Conclusions

Opening and closing paragraphs need to use techniques that draw the reader in to read more of our article
(introduction) and leave the reader satisfied and/or leave them with something to think about (conclusion).
These techniques include:
• offering a general thought or objective statement e.g. Today, it’s the clever people behind the scenes that
make a television show successful, rather than the actors themselves.
• addressing the reader directly e.g. Can you imagine …? Have you ever …?
• using a quotation e.g. As Theodore Roosevelt said ‘“Great thoughts speak only to the thoughtful mind, but
great actions speak to all mankind.’”
• asking a rhetorical question e.g. Wouldn’t we all prefer to live in a world without pollution?

1 Look at the paragraphs A-D. Which are: introductions? conclusions? What techniques have been used
in each?

A C
Can you imagine throwing On the whole, Rome is a delightful city
a handful of powder in with a lot to offer. Whether you want
someone’s face? It may to go sightseeing, shopping or just
sound unusual, but it’s experience the exciting nightlife, Rome
what you would expect to can satisfy your interests. I recommend
encounter during Holi, the it as the perfect holiday destination to
festival of colour in India. suit all tastes and budgets.

I believe William Saroyan

D
All in all, I believe Luis Figo is described it best when he said
admirable not only for his career “No city invites the heart to
as a football star, but also for his come to life as San Francisco
charitable work for those in does”. San Francisco is
need. If only all great athletes certainly that: an exciting city
were such excellent role models! where once you have arrived,
B you never want to leave.

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Writing Articles

Model 1
2 a) Read the rubrics. Which
asks you to: explain and
Although cameras can be expensive,
suggest? describe and explain?
the pleasure of taking the perfect
photograph makes it a worthwhile
A You see this notice in an
international magazine. investment. There is nothing I enjoy
more than capturing a moment in time.
• What is your favourite
hobby? This is why photography is my favourite
• Why do you enjoy doing it? hobby.
• What advice would you give There are a number of reasons why I
to someone starting it? enjoy photography. To begin with,
We will publish the best article
photographs are like memories. They
and give the writer £200.
capture moments in my life that I can
Write your article (140-190
look back upon and smile about.
words).
Furthermore, photography helps me to
appreciate the world around me. In particular, wildlife photography has
B You see this notice in an given me a newfound fondness for nature.
international magazine. If you are interested in taking up photography, you should take into
• What is the best festival you consideration a few things. The best advice I can give you would be to
have ever been to? invest in a high quality camera. It would also be a good idea to enrol in a
• What was so special about it?
photography course. This will help you to become familiar with your
Write an article answering these
questions. The best one will camera and learn to take great photographs.
receive two tickets for the To my mind, there is no better hobby than photography. After all, as
festival of your choice. David Bailey said, “Photography is the means by which we learn to see
the ordinary.”
Write your article (140-190
words).

Model 2
b) Read the models and match
them to the rubrics. What plan What is the best festival that you have ever been to? Last year, I
does each follow? went to the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh and had the time of my
life!
3 Replace the underlined
The Fringe takes place annually in August and lasts for 25 days. It is
sentences in Model 1 with the 1) biggest arts festival in the world, attracting millions of
other appropriate ones. visitors each year. The festival is a celebration of performance art,
in particular comedy and theatre. However, there are also 2) good
4 Read the Model 2 and replace dance and music acts to entertain the 3) big crowds.
the adjectives in bold with The best thing about the Fringe was the 4) big number of things
adjectives from the list. to see. It hosted more than 2,500 performances in 275 venues
located across the city. During my time there, I watched dozens of
• numerous • entertaining
5) good shows, the best of which was ‘Jump!’ – a 6) good dance
• most popular • impressive
act inspired by martial arts. Then to top it all off, the festival ended
• bustling • amazing
with a 7) nice display of
• spectacular • incredible fireworks above the 8) nice
• unforgettable Edinburgh Castle.
All in all, the Fringe Festival
5 Which techniques have been
was a 9) nice experience that
used in the opening and
I would highly recommend to
closing paragraphs in the
anyone. With so much to see
models in Ex. 2b? Write and do, who could possibly
alternative opening/closing get bored there?
paragraphs for each model
using a different technique.
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Articles
Writing

Titles 7 a) Read the rubrics, underline the key words and answer
the questions.
An article should have a title
which summarises the main topic A You see this announcement in a sports magazine.
in an interesting way. The title
should be eye-catching because Simply the Best
its purpose is to attract the We’re looking for articles about famous athletes that have made
reader’s attention. Titles should a contribution to sport. Give reasons for why you admire them.
be short and contain key words. The writer of the best article will receive tickets for the World
Cup Final!

Write your article (140-190 words).

6 a) Read the titles. Which title
best matches each article
below? Give reasons. B You see this notice on your school noticeboard.

A Reading Trends What is your most memorable holiday?

B My Town is Perfect Explain what happened and why it was so memorable.
The best article will appear in the school magazine.
C A Great Place to Live
D Books to Read Write your article (140-190 words).
E How you Can Keep in Shape
& Get Fit You see this announcement in a film magazine.
C
F The Need to Stay Fit
Comedy, Action or Romance?
Which type of film do you prefer and why?
1 You see this announcement in an Write us an article telling us what you think.
international magazine: If you could live The best article will receive £150.
anywhere in the world, where would you
choose to live and why? The best article
will be published in next month’s issue of Write your article (140-190 words).
the magazine.
1 What type of article is each asking for? Who for?
2 What can you write about?
2 An international fitness magazine
has asked its readers for articles about
b) Now write your articles. Use any of the techniques
the importance of keeping in shape.
mentioned on p. 55 to start/end the article. Give each an
What advice would you give someone
who wanted to get fit? The best article interesting title. Follow the outline on p. 55. Use the
will win £200. following checklist to evaluate your pieces of writing.

3 Your school magazine has

Checklist
asked for articles from students on the
topic of reading. They want students to When you finish your article, check it for the following:
write about what kind of books they • Are all the points in the rubric covered?
like to read and why, and say why • Does the article have an interesting title that summarises the
reading is important to them. main topic in an interesting way?
• Is the article divided into paragraphs?
• What techniques have been used in the opening/closing
b) Suggest an appropriate paragraphs?
title for each article in Ex. 2. • Is the style appropriate?
• Has a wide range of vocabulary been used?
• Are there any grammar/structural mistakes?
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Writing Reviews

■ A review is a short description of a book, film, play, website, magazine, concert, game, TV programme,
shop etc. It is written to inform readers and to give them our opinion/recommendation. ■ Reviews can be
formal or informal, depending on the target audience and the publication. e.g. If we write for a lighthearted
magazine such as a school magazine, we use informal style. ■ They can appear as articles in
magazines/newspapers or as part of a letter/email. ■ The introduction should contain some background
information about the book, film, play, book etc (i.e the name of the author/director, type, setting, name of
main characters etc). ■ The main body normally consists of two paragraphs: one about the main points of the
plot of the film, book etc we are reviewing in chronological order; the other contains general comments on
the plot, main characters, acting, directing etc. We should never reveal the end of the story to the reader. ■
The conclusion contains our personal opinion and whether we recommend the film, book etc or not to the
readers. We should justify our opinion with reasons. ■ Present tenses are mainly used to describe the plot. ■
We can use a variety of adjectives to make our review more interesting to the reader.

Outline for reviews

Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4
ARTICLE: background main points of plot general ARTICLE:
information (book, film, play comments personal opinion with
game), regular reasons; recommendation
LETTER/EMAIL:
features (magazine),
opening remarks; LETTER/EMAIL:
tracks (album)
reason from writing; your opinion with reasons;
background recommendation; closing
information remarks

1 a) Read the rubric and

1 Empire is a British film magazine that
underline the key words. Para 1
was first published in 1989. It is the biggest
............................
selling film magazine in Britain and is also
You see this notice in the library of ............................
distributed internationally. Its current editor is
your English-language school. ............................
Mark Dinning and it is released monthly.
Reviews wanted 2 Most of the magazine consists of
reviews of the latest films as well as previews
English language magazines
of films that are coming out in the near Para 2
We would like students to send in
reviews of an English-language future. One regular feature of the magazine ............................
magazine they have read so that we is ‘Classic Scene’ in which the transcript of a ............................
can decide on the best magazines to famous film scene is printed. Empire is also ............................
buy subscriptions of for the library. famous for its ‘Pint of Milk’ feature in which
Your review should include information film stars are asked unusual questions about
about the type of magazine, what everyday life.
regular features it has and the quality 3 What I find most impressive about
of its articles and graphics. Empire is the quality of its articles. The
magazine is a joy to read, and its articles Para 3
Write your review (140-190 words). ............................
include the right mix of humour and analysis.
............................
Also, the magazine has very impressive
............................
b) Read the review. What is graphics. Superb photographs of film scenes
each paragraph about? and sets really give you an insight into the
films being reviewed.
Complete the plan.
4 All in all, I would highly recommend this Para 4
c) Which adjectives does the magazine. It’s an entertaining read that will ............................
tell you everything you need to know about ............................
writer use to describe: the film
the film industry today. ............................
magazine? editor? feature?
graphics? photographs?

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Reviews
Writing

2 Choose the correct word. 4 a) Underline the key words in the rubric,
then read the model and match the
1 The film had an impressive cast/script with
lots of recognisable names. paragraphs (1-4) to the headings.
2 The Motorcycle Diaries is a wonderful film You see this advert in an English fashion magazine.
based on/set in the life of Che Guevara. Reviews wanted
3 The album reached/became number one in
The World’s Best Clothes Shops
the UK charts.
We want to write an article about the best
4 The novel isn’t well-written, but it has an clothes shops around the globe and need your
interesting twist/script at the end. help. We are looking for reviews of clothes shop
5 I can’t wait to see Spielberg’s latest film. It’s where you live. Your review should include
sure to be a hit/flop! information about the shop’s layout, staff and
what kind of clothes it sells. The ten best reviews
6 Robert Pattinson tells the story/plays the
will receive a £100 voucher!
part of Edward Cullen in the Twilight films.
Write your review (140-190 words).
7 My favourite section/chapter of this
magazine is their reviews of latest films.
8 The story has such a dull/ tragic end that
you won’t stop crying. 1 Kendra’s Fashions is a clothes shop in Kent, England.
It is located in Henry Street, close to the city’s main square.
It was founded in 1958 by the late Kendra Oakley, and is
3 Read the model and choose the correct words.
now run by her daughter, Grace. It is one of the most
popular shopping spots in the city.
2 The shop is very spacious and has two floors. The
Dear Timmy, second floor is for men’s fashions while the ground floor is
1 Thanks for your email. You asked me about my for women’s. As its slogan ‘Something for Everyone’
favourite film. Well, without a doubt, it’s Godzilla. suggests, Kendra’s Fashions prides itself on having a wide
This American science-fiction monster film was selection of affordable clothes for both men and women of
directed by Gareth Edwards and came out in 2014. every age and taste.
2 Godzilla is 1) based/put on a film of the same 3 The shop has always been particularly popular with
name that was 2) released/published in Japan in teenagers and is famous for stocking clothes that match the
1954. This film, though, is 3) directed/set in the latest teen trends. The most impressive feature of the shop,
modern day. The 4) main/star character is Ford though, is its staff. The salespeople are always kind and helpful
Brady who is 5) played/acted by Aaron Taylor- and never make customers feel pressured to buy an item.
Johnson. The 6) plot/scene focuses on Ford’s
4 I thoroughly recommended Kendra’s Fashions to
attempt to find out how a nuclear plant was
mysteriously destroyed in Japan. He discovers a teenagers on a tight budget who want to keep up to date
terrible threat to humanity that has been hidden for with the latest fashion trends. It might not have the variety of
generations. clothes superstores, but its careful selection of clothes and
3 What I liked best about this film was its 7) helpful staff make it the prefect shopping destination.
unimaginative/ amazing special effects. The monsters
A shop description
looked remarkably 8) real/true, even though they were
created by computer graphics. Also, the cast is 9) B recommendation
excellent/dramatic, with Taylor-Johnson giving a 10) C background information on the shop
great/high performance. D general comments
4 Godzilla is a film 11) impressive/well worth
watching, especially if you’re a sci-fi 12) fan/ b) Answer the questions.
spectator. You’ll be glad to have it as part of your 1 What adjectives does the writer use to
DVD library! describe the shop’s: layout, clothes, staff?
All the best, 2 What phrase does the writer use to
Adam recommend the shop?
3 Rewrite the text to give a negative review of
the shop. What phrase could you use in the
conclusion to give a judgement about the
shop instead of a positive recommendation?
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Writing Reviews

5 Read the reviews. Which is a review of: 6 a) Read the rubrics (A and B). Underline the
a website? a video game? Write an key words. Answer the questions.
appropriate recommendation for each.
A You have received an email from your English-
1 If you’re having difficulty completing a tricky level speaking pen-friend.
of your favourite game, log on to Levelbeater and
get the assistance you need. On Levelbeater
One of my favourite hobbies is playing online
you can find links to various tips and cheats that games. I’m always looking for new ones to
will help you complete hundreds of well- known try. What’s your favourite online game? Who
games. And if you can’t find the answer to your created it and what’s the gameplay like?
question, you can leave a question on the forum. Maybe, I’d be interested in playing it, too!
Levelbeater has thousands of members from Write soon,
around the world who are continually helping Wendy
each other to become better gamers.
Write your email (140-190 words).

2 In Interscape, you take on the character Harold

Pinsley, a normal everyday accountant who B You have read this announcement in an English-
wakes up one day in a strange place with no language music magazine.
memory of his past life. You direct Harold Reviews wanted for music albums
through numerous adventures as he tries to find In next months issue we plan on creating a list
out who he is and why his life has changed so of the Top 50 music albums ever. We need your
dramatically. The gameplay is excellent with help to decide which albums are included in
many challenging puzzles to solve, and the life- the list, so send us a review of your favourite
like graphics sometimes look more like a album. Your review should include information
Hollywood animation. And best of all, Interscape about the band/musician, the type of music on
is available on all modern consoles. the album, and what you find most impressive
about it.
Write your review (140-190 words).
Useful Language
1 What type of review do you have to write?
Background
2 What do you need to include?
• It is a spy/adventure/fantasy/sci-fi etc story. • The
3 What language would you use to
film/book tells the story of ... • The film/story is
set in ... • The film is based on ... by ... • The film recommend the online game/music album?
was directed by ... b) Write your reviews. Follow the outline
General comments
on p. 58. Use phrases from the Useful
Positive
• The cast is excellent./The film has a quality cast. Language box.
• The script is exciting/fast moving/clever. • The

Checklist
plot is thrilling/gripping/interesting/has an
unexpected twist • The special effects are
(absolutely) stunning/sensational/amazing. • It is
beautifully written. • The costumes are When you have finished your review, check that
magnificent. • The characters are very convincing/ you have included:
very well developed. • It has a(n) unexpected/ • correct grammar, spelling, punctuation
shocking/predictable ending. • the correct tense(s) & style
Negative • background information in the first
• The cast is awful/unconvincing. • The script is
paragraph
dull/boring. • The plot is boring/predictable/
• the main points in the second paragraph
unimaginative. • The special effects are
unimaginative. • It is badly written. • The • general comments in the third paragraph
costumes are plain. • The characters are poorly • your opinion with reasons & your
developed/weak. • The ending is disappointing. recommendation in the conclusion
Recommendation • appropriate opening/closing remarks
• It’s well worth seeing. • It’s bound to be a box- (letter/email)
office hit. • It’s a highly entertaining read. • It’s a • a variety of adjectives
must-see. • I wouldn’t have missed it for the • all the points mentioned in the rubric
world. • I wouldn’t recommend it because ... • It • not revealing the end
is a dreadfully boring/brilliant/exciting read.
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Reports
Writing

■ Reports are formal pieces of writing we write for a person in authority (e.g. a teacher, a business manager, etc).
They normally contain a description of something (e.g. how well a business is performing) and often include our
suggestions or recommendations for future action (e.g. how sales could be improved, how to attract more visitors,
etc). ■ The information in a report is presented in separate sections under appropriate headings. ■ We normally
use present tenses when writing reports, but past tenses can be used for reports related to past events (e.g. a
report assessing an event that has already been held). ■ A report usually starts by stating who it is addressed to
and what their position is, the writer’s full name and his/her position, what it is about and the date.

Outline for reports:

Introduction Main Body Conclusion

clearly state the purpose divided into sections, each with its own sub- summarise all the points
of the report and what heading. Each main body paragraph should in the main body; make
it contains. It is entitled present a separate idea. We should use a recommendation
Purpose or Introduction. appropriate linking words/phrases to join and/or offer a personal
these ideas and make the information as opinion
clear as possible for the reader.

1 Underline the key words in the rubric. Read the report 2 Replace the words/phrases in
and write the headings (A-E) in the gaps (1-5). bold in the model report in Ex. 1
with other appropriate ones
Your work as a secretary in an English-language primary school
from the Useful Language box.
and have received an email from the headmaster.

We need to find suitable places to bring the students for field Useful Language
trips, so I want you to visit Franklin Science Museum. Write a
b) Use language from the
report about the museum including information about things to Introducing
see and do there, its facilities and how much admission costs. Useful Language box to
• The purpose of this report is to …
write your
• As requested, this email.
is my report on …
Write your report (140-190 words).
Listing points
• Firstly, • In the first place,
A Educational exhibits • To begin with, • Secondly,
To: Harry Lamont (Headmaster) B Introduction • Furthermore, • Finally, • Lastly,
From: Deirdre Purcell (Secretary) C Other features Expressing concession
Subject: Franklin Science Museum D Recommendation • Although/Though/While …
Date: 15th September 20__
E Prices & Booking • Despite the fact that … • However,
1 Adding emphasis
As requested, the purpose of this report is to describe and assess the • especially/particularly • in particular
suitability of Franklin Science Museum for educational school trips. Expressing cause/effect
2 • By doing this, we could/would …
1) Firstly, there are over 200 educational exhibits in the museum. Many • Doing this would … • In this way …
exhibits are interactive allowing students to do actual experiments under • We could … • As a result,
the supervision of trained assistants. • If we (did this),
3 Expressing opinion
2) Secondly, the museum has excellent facilities, 3) especially for • I believe/feel (that) …
young students. A science-themed play area is available for small • I am convinced/confident that …
children while there is also a large gift shop, 4) although many items Making
are rather expensive. The museum has a café which serves a variety of suggestions/recommendations
refreshments and sandwiches. • I strongly recommend …
4 • … would be a very suitable for …
5) Lastly, the entrance fee is £4.50 for adults and £3.50 per child. For large • … would suit the needs of …
groups, the museum requires two-weeks’ notice. Discounts are available Concluding
for school groups, depending on the number of students who visit. • In short, • In conclusion,
5 • On the whole, • To sum up,
6) In conclusion, Franklin Science Museum has a number of • All in all,
fascinating educational exhibits and excellent facilities. 7) I would
strongly suggest that the school organises a day trip to this museum.
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Writing Reports

3 Complete the following sentences with the 5 The paragraphs below are written in the
linkers in the list. Compare with your partner. wrong style. Replace the phrases in bold
with phrases in the list to make the
• on the whole • furthermore
• despite the fact • firstly • in particular
paragraphs more formal.

1 The hotel’s dining facilities .......................... • are quite reasonable • there is no option
......................... were very impressive. • offer such payment options • in contract to
2 ........................................ that the hotel has
A Membership fees at Pebble Gym 1) aren’t so
excellent facilities, its high room charges
bad and there are special offers for students
make it an unsuitable venue for the
and pensioners. However, 2) you aren’t
convention.
allowed to pay for membership on a monthly or
3 ........................................., the town hall is even half-yearly basis. This is 3) different from
an excellent place to host the event. numerous other gyms in the area which
4 ....................................., this candidate has 4) allow you to pay like this.
ten year’s experience working in the retail
industry. ....................................., she has
• is easily accessible • a wide selection
worked in a number of different positions.
• excellent value for money • is located
• there is a lack of options • On weekdays
4 Rewrite the following sentences using the
words in brackets to make them have a B The Kingfisher 1) can be found in the centre of
formal style. Make any other necessary the city and 2) it’s not difficult to get there by
changes to the sentences. train or bus. The restaurant has 3) lots of ethnic
Chinese dishes, although 4) there’s not much
1 Visitors should be able to book their tickets
for vegetarians. 5) During the week, there is an
online.
all-you-can eat menu, which is 6) a great deal.
Visitors should have the option to book/of
booking their tickets online (have/option).
• at present • would appeal • for this reason
2 I wrote this report to check out whether the
• consists of • furthermore • interior
Trifle is a good restaurant.
• to be improved
The purpose .............................................
...................................... (assess/quality).
C 1) Right now, the shop, which 2) has two
3 Some people call the National Gallery the floors, mainly sells academic books and adult
artistic highlight of Dublin. fiction. 3) Because of this, there are not many
The National Gallery ................................. books that 4) are interesting to children or
............................................... (describe). teenagers. 5) Another thing is the 6) inside of
4 Everything I’ve learned makes me think a the shop as well as its window display are quite
day trip to Lakeside Gardens is a good idea. unattractive. These features certainly need
7) work to bring in more customers.
Taking everything into consideration, ..........
..................................................................
................ (highly/recommended/taking).
5 The museum has got many interactive
exhibits
6 Rewrite the extracts in the correct style.
1 You can find Sunnydale Sports Centre just
The museum .............................................
outside Trenton. You need a car to get there
............................... (features/numerous).
because there aren’t any bus stops around.
6 There are very few vegetarian dishes to But there aren’t a lot of parking spaces
choose from. outside the sports centre so you might have
The choice ................................................ to park in the street.
.................................................. (limited).
2 I think that Ailwee Caves is a OK for the
school’s end-of-year trip. It’s a bit far away,
but you’ve got to say that it’s cheap, and the
kids will learn a lot from it.

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Reports
Writing

7 a) Read the rubric. Then read the comments 8 Underline the key words in the rubrics
and complete the table. (A & B) and answer the questions.

You work as a tour guide and have recently You are the head librarian in a college library. You
A
completed a summer course in a language school have received an email from the dean of the college.
in England. The owner of the tour guide company
you work for has asked you to write a report to see Since the library will soon be open on Sundays
if the school would be suitable for other employees and for extra hours during the week, we need to
to attend. Write your report (140-190 words) promote a member of staff to be in charge when
commenting on the school’s facilities, the teaching you are not in the library. Please write a report
staff and the cost. suggesting one member of the staff for this role
including information on the person’s experience,
qualifications and qualities.
Write your report (140-190 words).
es not have Some teachers are
The school do impatient with
om to
a common ro struggling students. B
You are the assistant coach for a football club in
ea t lunch.
socialise or your town. You have received an email from the
chairperson of the club.

There were The fees do not include the cost

We need to start preparing for the tournament in
interactive of accommodation and meals.
London in March. Members of the team have
whiteboards suggested that we stay in a hotel called The
in each Special deals are available Imperial during the tournament. I’d like you to visit
classroom. for groups and families. the hotel and write a report on it including
information on its price, location, and whether it
All the teachers are fully qualified with has sports facilities that we could use.
at least five year’s experience. Write your report (140-190 words).

1 Who are you and who is going to read your

Good Points Bad Points report?
2 What is the purpose of the report?
3 How many main body paragraphs will your
report have?
4 What headings can you use?
5 What style should you write in?

9 Write your reports. Follow the outline on

p. 61.

Checklist
When you finish your piece of writing check it for:
• appropriate introduction of the topic (stating purpose
and content clearly).
• use of subheadings to introduce each part of the
report.
• appropriate formal style.
b) Now write your report (140-190 words) • appropriate use of formal linkers.
using the following headings: Facilities, • spelling/grammar punctuation mistakes.
Staff, Exhibits, Purpose, Recommendation. • correct word length.
• appropriate conclusion (summarising all the points &
including your recommendation/opinion).
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ISBN 978-1-4715-2642-8