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ECPE Writing - Sample Article (Banning Cars from the City)

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,

C2 Sample Essay 31 (Traditional versus international music)

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Writing at C2 level (Proficient User) on English language examinations is the same no matter the awarding body when it comes to writing essays. If you are a candidate giving an exam in English (IELTS, CPE, ECPE, CELP, LRN, ESB, TOEFL), make sure you read my earlier post What do I do with the sample writing found on this blog? to get the most out of the sample essays provided on Argute Legacy.  

  The topic of this essay is to discuss why music is a necessary part of life and whether the traditional music of a nation is more important than the international music most often heard nowadays. 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.

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There are many different types of music in the world today. Why do we need music? Is the traditional music of a country more important than the international music that is heard everywhere nowadays?

Entertainment in our days is extremely important as a much-needed means of relaxation and change from our daily routine. In that respect, music especially is one form of entertainment which holds a prime position in the hearts of both young and old alike. The two main categories of music, traditional and international, seem to be at odds with one another lately without necessarily detracting from the importance of music on the whole.

Music in general is and will continue to be important. It is something which accompanies most people throughout the day, whether they are traveling, working or relaxing. The power it holds over individuals has remained unchanged throughout history. It soothes when it is meant to entertain, encourages when heard in battle, releases tension when danced to at clubs nowadays. Whatever the means or purpose, music is undeniably significant.

As to the question of whether traditional or international music is more important, the answer lies in the idea that all music is important. Both types of music offer positive aspects to life. Traditional music reminds one of one's roots, tells of historic events, heroic feats, or says something about the culture and traditions of a place. International music on the other hand, is heard world-wide and brings people of different cultural backgrounds together. This type of music gathers the interest of young people especially who can enjoy, discuss or dance to this music regardless of their faith, nationality or political convictions.

The question therefore is not to ponder over which type of music is better or worse. The fact that in many nations traditional music has influenced international music and vice versa, shows that much is to be gained by keeping an open mind. Indeed, music should free the mind, not bind it.




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