In the minds of ESL exam candidates, e ssay writing is one of the most daunting tasks they are required to complete, regardless of the level of the exam, the administering body or the ease with which they themselves use the language. The same applies to students who are asked to write an essay by their teachers at school. In the previous sample essays posted on the blog, the main point I stress is the need to become acquainted with this form of writing (as opposed to writing a letter, review or report, for instance), to get a feel of what authorial voice is and how to organize and progressively express the arguments you wish to make in a coherent manner. Unfortunately, the best way to prepare for exam writing or learn how to write good essays for school is to read as many essays from as many sources as possible, then write as
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:
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 a B2-level textbook preparing candidates for the Writing section of an English-language exam (particularly the FCE, now known as the B2 First or B2 First for Schools). In particular, this question deals with a transactional letter asking for information meaning that specific aspects need to be addressed in your letter.
The length of the sample letter that follows (a little over 200 words) is
approximately what examiners would expect to be completed in half an
hour's time.
Here's the rubric:
Here's the sample letter. Remember to note down the different ways questions may be asked.
Dear Sir/Madam,
With reference to your advertisement which appeared in The Sun last week, I would like to request information regarding your summer courses. I teach English at a private school and would like to encourage my students to practice the language by attending your school.
I first would appreciate it if you could tell me where in Britain your language school is located. Secondly, could you please let me know whether students would board at your school or would stay with an English family? In either case, I would like some details about the facilities, as well. Regarding your classes, although you mention that they are small and taught on a daily basis, you do not say exactly how many students there are to a class or whether the course involves preparation for the FCE examination. I would appreciate details on both.
My final question concerns fees. How much would it cost per person to attend your course? Do you offer any special discounts for groups? How many students would it take to sign up at the same time in order to benefit from a price reduction?
I look forward to receiving this information as soon as possible and thank you in advance for your co-operation.
Yours faithfully,
Maria Smith
Need more help with B2 Writing Tasks? Click on the image below.
