1.

FOR AND AGAINST ESSAY

Introduction: introduce the topic by paraphrasing the task. Also, state that this phenomenon has both positive and negative aspects. Key Phrases: . It is important to note that this is not a black-and-white situation. X has both positive and negative aspects/implications.

Main Theme1:talk about the advantages (at least 2 of them). Dont forget to add examples! Key Phrases: on the one hand,, on the positive side,.

Main Theme2:talk about the disadvantages. Key Phrases: on the other hand., However,, On the negative side,., Despite the advantages, there is also a number of negative aspects, Nonetheless,.

Conclusion: end by weighing up both sides. You may express your own opinion now about what can be done to maximize the positive aspects and minimize the negative ones. Key phrases: All things considered,., Bearing in mind the above mentioned,, On the whole,., It is my firm belief that.

2.

Opinion Essay

Introduction: Introduce the subject by paraphrasing the task. Highlight that this matter is extremely ambivalent/controversial. You might end your introductory paragraph with a rhetorical question.

Main Theme 1: talk about the opinion of the others (the opinion you DONT agree with). Dont forget to use examples.

Key phrases: Some people might argue/claim/insist/state/support that.., On the one hand,.

Main Theme 2: talk about YOUR opinion. Dont forget to illustrate your opinion with various examples.

Key phrases: However, others argue/claim/insist/support/state that, On the other hand,., In my opinion,, From my viewpoint,., The way I see it,

Conclusion: summarize. You may re-state your opinion BRIEFLY. If possible, end in a thoughtprovoking way (that is, use a bold statement or a saying or a quote).

3.

Problem-Solution Essay

Introduction: introduce the topic either by paraphrasing the task or by describing the current condition.

Main Theme 1: describe the PROBLEM in detail. If you feel you are running out of ideas, heres a tip. You can also talk about the way the problem originated and its development throughout the years (e.g Industrial Revolution industry blooms countless factories, new means of transport + inadequate laws to protect the environment atmosphere pollution) . Also, if you are allowed by the task, you can also talk about the consequences of the problem on nature, humans etc. (e.g air pollution hostile environment to the flora and fauna, respiratory problems to people, birth defects etc etc)

Main Theme2: give at least 2-3 possible solutions. It always helps to think on 2 levels. The first level is the collective level (what can the community/the government/the social groups/society do about this problem?). The second level is the individual level (what can people like me do about this problem?).

 Conclusion: Sum up and express your opinion. Be sure that there is a tone of urgency in your conclusion.

Key phrases: To sum up,.., Unless measures are taken soon, this condition is bound to get worse.

NOTES ON THE ECPE ESSAYS

Always write in a formal style. No abbreviations, no short forms, no phrases that would normally be used in an oral conversation. Write in an impersonal way. Illustrate. Not using enough examples is a serious problem in an essay. Use lots of linking words and set phrases. Try to start each and every new sentence with an appropriate linking word (e.g furthermore, moreover, fortunately/unfortunately, therefore, thus, consequently, etc) Use rhetorical questions Use thought-provoking statements, quotes and sayings. Avoid bold statements regarding issues like race, gender, people with disabilities etc. Last but not least, try to stay causative. Being absolute is a serious mistake. Try using phrases like may/might, X tends to., Z is bound to happen, It is highly likely/unlikely that.