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 sample letter has been written so that exam candidates for a
B2 level English examination (FCE now called First for Schools, ECCE,
IELTS - 5.5 / 6.0, MSU-CELC, ESB, LRN) can get some ideas about how to
organize and argue their writing.
First take a look at how to use the sample essays and letters that appear on this blog by reading the following post:
This particular question has been taken from an ECCE textbook which means that the rubric contains an introductory situation and then the question itself. The length of the sample letter that follows is approximately what examiners would expect to be completed in half an hour's time.
Note: When you write a letter or essay, you don't have to agree entirely with the arguments you put forward. Write what is easier to defend with explanations or examples.
Here's the rubric:
Sample Letter
First take a look at how to use the sample essays and letters that appear on this blog by reading the following post:
What do I do with the sample writing found on this blog?
Remember: such topics can also be used to start class discussions, so teachers might also want to read on to get ideas about a class activity they could set up to improve students' oral skills.
This particular question has been taken from an ECCE textbook which means that the rubric contains an introductory situation and then the question itself. The length of the sample letter that follows is approximately what examiners would expect to be completed in half an hour's time.
Note: When you write a letter or essay, you don't have to agree entirely with the arguments you put forward. Write what is easier to defend with explanations or examples.
Here's the rubric:
Ms. Grebe, the council
leader of Hanford Hill, has decided to utilize the town’s open space by
building a shopping mall rather than a sports complex as originally decided. She
said, “Building a shopping mall will benefit the town and its residents to a
greater degree – especially economically.” Ms. Grebe is, however, giving
residents a chance to either support or appeal the decision in writing before
having the building plans drawn up next month.
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Write a letter to the town
council leader stating your opinion on the decision to build a shopping mall
instead of a sports complex. Give reasons to support your opinion. Start your
letter, “Dear Ms. Grebe.”
Sample Letter
Dear Ms Grebe,
I
am writing to express my support for the town council’s opinion to build a
shopping mall rather than a sports complex in Hanford Hill. It is my firm
belief that our town will benefit more from the former.
To
begin with, the arguments in favor of a shopping mall are evident. Constructing
an aesthetically suitable mall will attract shoppers from nearby towns and will
boost the town’s economy. Local residents will also help retailers through
purchases, while through taxes on items sold, the country will benefit as a
whole. Furthermore, a mall is a place for young and old alike to spend time
relaxing, meeting friends, strolling leisurely or having a bite to eat at the
food court.
Although
a sports complex would draw many athletes and motivate citizens to exercise
more, I find that there are enough gyms, parks or other open areas where people
can train and stay fit. Besides, a mall would appeal to more people than a
sports complex would, seeing as everyone is a consumer but not everyone is an
avid sports fan.
In
sum, the mall would affect a greater number of individuals than a sports
complex and the financial benefits outweigh by far health issues in my view. I
therefore support the town council’s idea to build a shopping mall.
Yours Sincerely,