How to write an essay for New

FCE exam
How to write the essay for the New FCE exam? Here’s a sample topic that has been divided
into paragraphs and each of the sections explained. Let us know whether you have any
questions by submitting a comment below.  
Part 1
You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate
style on the separate answer sheet.
You have recently had a class project on animal welfare and vegetarianism. Now your teacher has
asked you to write a composition, giving your opinions on the following statement:

  
Some people believe that humans should not eat meat. Do you agree?

Notes
Write about:
– meat as a main ingredient of our diet
– vegetarians
– ………………(your own idea)

Sample answer:
Most people think, myself included, that since animals eat other animals, it is
natural for humans to eat meat. However, some disagree, and a growing number
of people are choosing to become vegetarians. So what rationalism stays behind
these two beliefs.

You start with Paragraph 1- Introduction

Here you include:
 A general statement/rhetorical question (it’s already given on the topic, your task is to paraphrase
it- use different words or grammar structures). In the sample answer we’ve used ‘most’ instead of
‘some’, ‘believe’ was changed to ‘think’ etc.
Qualify the argument 
Explain further and maybe try to show several sides of the issue,  consider it from different angles,
thinking, “This part is right if… This is true, except when… This might work if… The reason this
happens is because… The underlying issues are…”

First of all I would like to say that humans have always hunted and eaten animals.
Maybe it is our natural instinct inherited by ancestors that forces us to seek this
type of food, however, it is undeniable, that meat is rich in vitamins and protein,
which help to build muscles and bones.

Paragraph 2:
Introduction = topic sentence – which states the general idea discussed in this paragraph

Advantage  1   —–  Reason Advantage 1 ——- Specific example 1

Your Advantage 1- is the point mentioned in the task. In our sample answer  includes the point about
meat being the main source of energy
Make sure you use the following phrases when writing paragraph 2:

Introducing the topic

First of all I would like to say that …
The first point I would  like to make is …
I would  like to begin by …
Many people think that …
Some people say/claim …
Why do some people believe ?
However, if that is the case, then why ?
Advantages
In the first place …
The main advantage is that you are free to …
There is no one else to …
Then there is …
What’s more …
Another advantage is that …

Another point worth mentioning is the fact it is difficult to have a balanced diet
without this crucial ingredient. In order to avoid some health problems such as
lack of energy or splitting nails we should make lean meat a part of our meal.

Paragraph 3:
Introduction = topic sentence – which states the general idea discussed in this paragraph

Advantage  2   —–  Reason Advantage 2 ——- Specific example 2

Your Advantage 2- is actually the point that hasn’t been given in the task. However, it’s the last
point- your own idea. and because I believe that meat is good for you, I included this point just after
the 2nd paragraph- which is also in favour of eating meat.

Make sure you use the following phrases when writing paragraph 3:

Introducing the topic

Second of all I would like to say that …
The next point I would  like to make is …
I would  like to add  …
Many people think that …
Some people say/claim …
Why do some people believe ?
However, if that is the case, then why ?
Advantages
In the second  place …
The other advantage is that you are free to …
There is no one else to …
Then there is …
What’s more …
Another advantage is that …

On the other hand, many vegetarians believe that eating meat is not only
unnecessary but also unhealthy. We can easily grow plants that give us all we need
in our diet, moreover there are numerous shops which provide supplements that
substitute meat.

Paragraph 4:
Introduction -use topic sentence

Disadvantage  1   —–  Reason Disadvantage  1 ——- Specific example 1

Make sure you include the other point mentioned in the topic and add your own idea + the following
phrases when writing paragraph 3:

Disadvantages
On the other hand  …
Secondly,  …
Another disadvantage is …
Last but not least, . .

In my view, there are strong health reasons for not eating meat. However, if we
become vegetarians for moral reasons, I think we should also not wear fur or
leather.

Paragraph 5- Conclusion
 Summarise your view using different words from the introduction. You might want to add some
further comment.

Summarising phrases you have to use: 

In conclusion (I believe that)…
To sum up, there are arguments …

However, in my view … .

Now, it’s your turn. Here’s the topic:

You recently had a class discussion about television. Now your teacher has asked you to
write a composition.

Young children watch too much television. Do you agree?

You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the
separate answer sheet.

 
Notes
Write about:
– busy parents
– sports
– ………………(your own idea)

Once you have written the essay… do check if you have the following:
1.  I have answered the question.

2. The sentences and organisation are clear and logical.

3.  Arguments are followed by reasons and examples.

4. Both sides of the argument are given equal treatment.

5.  It is clear what I think by the end.

6.  The style is consistent and neutral.

7.  I have checked: length, grammar, spelling, punctuation and linking expressions.

Now, it’s your turn. Here’s another topic:

You recently had a class discussion about women rights . Now your teacher has asked you
to write a composition.
Most high level jobs are done by men. Should the government
encourage a certain percentage of these jobs to be reserved for
women?
You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the
separate answer sheet.
 
Notes
Write about:
– education
– equal rights
– ………………(your own idea)

 6 points to remember when writing a great essay:

In your introduction…
1. Start with a general statement.

2. Introduce the topic in the first paragraph, giving the ‘whole picture’ and an introduction to
both sides of the argument.

In your 2nd , 3rd   and 4th paragraph….

3. Explain the topic, giving specific examples.

4.Have a separate paragraph for the other side of the argument.

5.Use linking words to show the sequence of your ideas and when you are making an extra
point.

In your conclusion….
6. Summarise your view using different words from the introduction. You might want to add
some further comment.

Here’s a bit of practice before your initial writing:

Mark the correct phrase in each pair.

1 Flatmates often don’t get on very well at first. In addition /  In fact, they can have a lot of
arguments.

2 Flats in my city are very expensive for one person. In addition / In other words, I like sharing.

3 Most people share household tasks. For instance / That is to say, they take it in turns to wash up.

4 I haven’t got room for a flatmate. Moreover / For example, I like living on my own.

5 I think that house would be too expensive. Similarly / Besides, it’s a long way from the centre.

6 He’s a nice guy to live with. Nevertheless / What’s more, he needs to help out more.

7 The flat’s on the fifth floor, and there’s no lift. Because of this / Even so, we decided to rent it.

8 It’s not very big. Even so / On the other hand, it’s right in the centre.