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 topic of this essay is to discuss whether wealthier nations should share their wealth with poorer nations or if each nation should fend for itself. If you are not taking an exam but need to discuss this topic, then read on and note down what you deem useful. If you intend to use this essay as part of an assignment, remember to paraphrase so as not to plagiarize.
The topic is similar to what candidates expect in any other C2-level examination in that examiners want to see a well-organized, coherent and cohesive discussion of the issue with arguments and examples written in approximately half an hour. Whether or not you agree with the viewpoint expressed, remember that what yields a higher score is the way a subject is argued, so if you see that you come up with more ideas for the side of the argument you disagree with during the brainstorming phase, it doesn't matter -- simply go ahead and plead that side of the argument.
For those who'd like to read more sample essays and useful essay-writing posts, click on the image below.
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?
The gap between rich and poor countries, preferably
called developed and developing countries, has been the source of global
concern. Many are those in favor of sending aid to such Third World countries by way of nourishment
and educational training and supplies. However, others claim that the leaders
of these nations are responsible for the welfare of their citizens.
This latter statement is true in part. Each country must be held
responsible for itself and cannot expect other nations to rush to its aid
whenever coping with financial problems that country faces becomes impossible. The
citizens of these countries are also responsible for the choice of leaders they
make. If a corrupt president establishes a regime that bleeds his country, then
his citizens must find a way to depose him and see that a new one sets the nation back on the path of financial growth.
Yet, the situation in these countries, in other words
the poverty and corruption that reign, are largely the result of either Imperialism, strenuous
sanctions, or trade policies that are favorable only to wealthy nations, more
specifically the G7. In this case, the problems created which have left these
countries destitute, striving for their daily sustenance, are almost entirely the
result of greedy richer nations and their implementation of cut-throat policies. As a result, there is a moral obligation on the part of wealthier nations to come to the rescue by providing developing countries with the technology and scientific know-how that would build stronger infrastructural, educational and economic foundations.
It is therefore my view that aid should be sent
in terms of food and education yet should not be limited to these. Rich countries should see that democratic processes be safeguarded through global organizations such as the United Nations and that sound planning and fair commercial terms be
established so that ailing countries can stand on their own two feet again. Unfortunately,
this optimistic plea is near impossible to realize in the cruel global economic
framework we live in today and amid geopolitical machinations of corrupt political leaders the world over.
Looking for useful vocabulary for the Speaking and Writing sections of ESL exams? Click on the image below.
Don't know where to start with essays? Read the first post in my essay-writing series by following the link (click on the image below).
