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 volunteering at an animal shelter. 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 158 of the Hellenic American Union's ECCE Practice Examinations book (Book 1).
The rubric presents an announcement found in The City Times newspaper entitled "Volunteer Your Time, Save a Life". According to it, the town's local animal shelter is asking for volunteers to feed, take care of and help with fund-raising events such as bazaars for strays and mistreated animals. The shelter will visit schools to inform students about the benefits of volunteering and invites readers of The City Times to send letters regarding this.
Candidates are asked to write a letter to the newspaper outlining the advantages and disadvantages of volunteering with such organizations.
The letter should begin with "Dear Editor".
If you haven't already done so, read this post B2 Writing: The Basics.
Dear Editor,
Having
read an article in The City Times, as a 15-year-old student I would like
to point out the benefits and drawbacks of volunteering at animal shelters.
On
the one hand, giving your time and energy for a good cause has its advantages.
For one thing, you feel a sense of satisfaction that few things in life can
make you feel. Helping care for stray animals makes you feel useful and needed.
The affection such animals show in return for your dedication is simply
overwhelming. Their loyalty and love are rewards in themselves, so giving to
them teaches you and those around you that selflessness is what will make this
world a better place.
On
the other hand, there are disadvantages to this sort of volunteer work. First
of all, not all individuals have enough time to spare from their work or
studies, so if they do decide to volunteer, they might have to sacrifice
leisure time or be prepared to accept that their grades or work may suffer as a
result of spending time at a shelter. In addition to this, it is not exciting
work to have to deal with injured or sick animals and some risks are involved,
such as being bitten or catching a disease yourself.
All
in all, despite the negative aspects of volunteering at an animal shelter, the
advantages by far outweigh the drawbacks. Volunteering has always been and will
continue to play an important role in people’s lives because it is an
experience of a lifetime, as many volunteers will tell you.
Yours
faithfully,
Jill Jones
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