This is the fourth sample article that conforms to the writing section requirements of the ECPE (Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English) of the University of Michigan. My first post to deal with articles , explains what needs to be present in the piece of writing candidates compose. Examiners are looking for articles that elaborate on ideas and have solid arguments; are well organized; make use of a wide lexical and grammatical range; have an original ring to them (in other words,
To get the most out of these sample essays and letters, please read "What do I do with the sample writing found on this blog?" before reading this blog entry.
The following letter is an example of how examination candidates could tackle the subject of banning smoking in public places. The sample has been modeled on the University of Michigan Examination for the Certificate of Competency in English (ECCE) Task 1 question of the Writing section available on page 86 of the Hellenic American Union's ECCE Practice Examinations book (Book 1).
The aim of the task is for candidates to write a letter to The City Times newspaper to express their opinion on the National Medical Association's (NMA) proposal to ban smoking in all public places. The information the rubric gives candidates is that:
- non-smokers who live with smokers face great dangers to their health (for example, serious respiratory problems)
- children whose parents smoke are at a higher risk of suffering from asthma, bronchitis and frequent colds
- the public places the NMA proposes to ban smoking in includes parks and beaches
Candidates have been instructed to begin their letter with the words "Dear Editor".
If you haven't already done so, read this post B2 Writing: The Basics
Dear Editor,
Having
read your article in The City Times, as a 15-year-old student I would
like to express my opinion on the issue of banning smoking in all public
places. It is my firm belief that passing a law such as this one would be
beneficial for all.
To
begin with, prohibiting smoking in all public places would mean that everyone’s
health would be protected. It is well known that smoking causes cancer and even
though smokers state that it is their right to do what they want to themselves,
they are being inconsiderate towards others. They must realize that through
passive smoking, everyone around them is at risk and that they are the ones who
are putting them at risk.
In
addition to this, banning smoking in all areas except private homes offers a
financial advantage. Smokers would be forced to smoke less so buying fewer
packets of cigarettes means less expenses. The government would also economize
as having fewer patients suffering from tobacco-related diseases entails fewer
hospital bills.
All
things considered, although many citizens will undoubtedly see this ban as a
threat to their rights, the government of a country needs to look after the
welfare of its citizens. Health counts above all else in life, therefore
protecting people’s health should be a priority.
Yours
faithfully,
Marie
Somerset
For more sample letters or essays, click on the image below.
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