This is the fifth sample article candidates of the ECPE examination (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 this type of piece of writing. As stated, 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, readers are able to distinguish the author's unique "voice"). Before reading, take a look at the following post if you haven't already done so. It will help you focus on the vital aspects you need to be aware of while reading the article and what you should make sure to use when you write your own. The question appeared in Practice Tests for the ECPE Book 1 (revised 2021 version) and is accompanied by the following three writing prompts:
The
following are topics teachers and students can use to practice writing
for exams, as homework assignments, longer research projects, even as
discussion topics or debates.
This list is intended for high school or university students, but may also be used by adults who are learning English as a foreign language.
For those preparing to take an English exam (IELTS, CPE, ECPE, ESB, LRN, MSU-CELP, TOEFL, etc.), these are typical questions that may be found in C1 and C2-level assessments (advanced or proficiency level).
For more practice, find lists 1 and 2 here and here.
This list is intended for high school or university students, but may also be used by adults who are learning English as a foreign language.
For those preparing to take an English exam (IELTS, CPE, ECPE, ESB, LRN, MSU-CELP, TOEFL, etc.), these are typical questions that may be found in C1 and C2-level assessments (advanced or proficiency level).
For more practice, find lists 1 and 2 here and here.
You might also find the following post useful:
Writing Formally - Quick Checklist of Do's and Don'ts
This blog also contains many sample essays on other topics. First make sure you know how to use these essays (read What do I do with the sample writing found on this blog?) then scroll down the writing section for either advanced or upper-intermediate answers to questions, as well as writing tips.
ESSAY TOPICS 3
1) We are becoming increasingly
dependent on computers. Is this dependence a good thing or should we be more
suspicious of their benefits?
2) Private
cars are no longer the most efficient or desirable form of transport. Discuss.
3) A
conflict of values between the old and the young is inevitable. Discuss.
4) “Spare the rod and spoil the
child.” What are your views on physical punishment in the upbringing of
children?
5) Is
tourism in the world today beneficial or harmful? Discuss.
6) Money
spent on military forces would be better spent on the problems of hunger,
homelessness and disease. Discuss.
7) “Children
have never had it so good.” Discuss.
8) While
studying abroad provides an opportunity to broaden one’s experience, it also
presents the danger of negative influences from the host culture. Discuss.
9) Should wealthy nations be required
to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as food and
education? Or is it the responsibility of the governments of poorer nations to
look after their citizens themselves?
10)
News editors decide what to
broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you
think influence these decisions? Are these decisions wise ones?
11) The
idea of having a single career is becoming an old-fashioned one. The new
fashion will be to have several careers or ways of earning money and further
education will be something that continues throughout life. Discuss.
12) Everyday
life is no longer possible without computers. Discuss.