1
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 1
2
Read the guidelines below for writing a personal profile. Does Tom follow them? 1 Give specific information about yourself. Don’t be vague. 2 Be positive. 3 Think about who you are writing to and give them appropriate information. 4 Think about who you are writing to and use an appropriate style: formal or informal. 5 Keep your profile brief and use short rather than long sentences. 6 Structure Structure your information in clear paragraphs. paragraphs.
3
Read the stages for planning a personal profile and put them in the order that you would do them. a) Write a rough first dra. b) Write down the points you are going to talk about. c) Check your work and correct any mistakes. d) Decide in what order you are going to present the points. e) Check through your first dra. Have you included the right type of information? Is it presented in a logical order? f) Think about who you are writing to and what type of information they will be interested in. g) Make notes on each point. h) Write your final dra.
a personal profile WRITING TIP
When you write a personal profile, it’s very important to think about who you are writing to and whether you need to use formal or informal language. You also need to think about what type of information the reader will be interested in.
1 A Read the personal profile. Is it formal or informal? Hi, everyone! My name’s Tom Woodford. I’m 25, although everyone says that I look younger! I’m from a small village in north-east England, but I live in Newcastle now. I’m a qualified electrician and am currently working as part of a maintenance team in a big office. However, what I really want is to get a degree deg ree in business studies and accountancy. I think it will open up a lot of doors for me professionally. I’m married with two young kids, Ryan, who’s three, and Tessa, who’s one. My wife’s name is Gloria. In my free time I like playing basketball and riding fast motor bikes! The problem is, with a young family, a full-time job, and now this online course, I don’t think I’m going to have much time for any hobbies in the near future! I hope to get to know the rest of you a bit better as we do the online degree preparation module together. Good luck to everyone! And remember: Yes we can!
4 A Look at the expressions in the box below. What two constructions can each expression be followed by?
B Complete the table.
I like I’m keen on I’m really into I love I’m crazy about
Name Age
B Write five sentences about what you like/like doing
Where he lives now Work Ambitions
using the expressions in the box above.
5
You You are joining an internet dating site. Write your own personal profile (160–200 words).
Family Who is he writing to?
Plan your writing • Think about who you are writing to. What information will the reader be interested in? Your location? Your appearance? Your personal possessions? Your job? Your Your hobbies? Your Your academic qualifications? Decide what areas you are going to write about, and in what order. Check your writing • Is your profile brief and written with short sentences? • Is the information i nformation clearly ordered in paragraphs? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
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2
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 2
2 A Look at the linking devices in bold in the text. Which: 1 2 3 4
a discursive essay WRITING TIP
A discursive essay is an essay that explores a particular subject. A discursive essay needs to be balanced: you should present arguments on both sides in a neutral way before you express your own opinion.
1
Read the essay and say if these statements are true (T) or false (F).
B Add the linkers in the box below to the categories above.
additionally thus so furthermore for this reason in conclusion evidently on the contrary hence
3
Twenty years ago, if you went to university in the UK, all of your tuition f ees were paid f or by the government. Now, however, you have to pay f or them yourself. There is currently a lot of debate about which of these two situations is better. What is more, there are no straightf orward answers. In an ideal world, all education would be free, including tertiary education. Nevertheless, the f act of the matter is that we do not live in an ideal world and there is not an unlimited supply of money. In addition to this, the more money the government spends, the more it taxes its citizens, and the less money they have. On the other hand, it could be argued that in a modern democratic society, citizens have some basic rights. For example, many people would agree that universal free healthcare is a basic right: no one should go without medical attention because they can’t aff ord it. Likewise, a significant number of people also think university fees should be f ree of charge. Af ter all, they maintain, if healthcare is f ree, why shouldn’t university be free, too? In my own view, university tuition fees should not be totally free. If they are, many people will go to university just because they don’t know what to do after secondary school. Obviously, this is not the purpose of going to university. At the same time, fees should not be so expensive that they put off people f rom poor families from carrying on with their studies. Consequently, the best solution would be for the government to subsidise tuition f ees, but not to pay for them entirely.
Delete the incorrect alternative in each sentence. 1 He pays his own fees. For this reason / However / Consequently , he wants to complete his degree as soon as possible. 2 Jane’s family have a lot of money. However / Thus / Nevertheless, they don’t give her much. 3 Everybody failed the exam. Evidently / In addition to this / Obviously , it was too difficult. 4 Healthcare is very expensive in the United States. On the contrary / For this reason / Hence, it’s a good idea to have health insurance. 5 She lives a long way from the university. Furthermore / Consequently / What’s more, public transport in the area is very poor. 6 His sister studied Maths at university. Thus / However / In contrast, he studied French.
1 The author gives a firm opinion on the subject in the introduction. 2 The second paragraph supports the proposition in the title. 3 In the third paragraph the author says that he thinks healthcare and university should be free. 4 The author offers an extreme opinion in the final paragraph. 5 In general, the essay is balanced. 6 There are too many paragraphs in the essay for the content. Two would be enough.
S hould st ud ent s pay thei r ow n uni ver sit y t ui ti on fees?
introduce additional information? indicate a contrast with what has come before? follow a logical argument? prove your point?
4 A Read the sentences below. 1 I went to university, whereas my father didn’t. 2 Despite all my advice, they didn’t go to university. 3 She’s extremely intelligent. Having said that, she’s also very lazy. 4 Although he worked very hard, he failed all his exams. B Which of the expressions in bold …
a) connects two clauses in the same sentence? b) is followed by a noun clause? c) has a similar meaning to however ?
5
Write an essay on the subject: ‘Royal families serve no useful purpose in today’s society’ (250–300 words).
Plan your writing • Think about the content of your essay. Introduce the topic and present both sides of the argument. Summarise by giving your own view. Check your writing • Have you used a good range of linking devices? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
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3
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 3
a description of a place WRITING TIP
When you write a description of a place, you need to try to paint a picture with words so that the reader feels as if they were in that place. For this reason, it is a good idea to: • give a lot of details describing the place; • use a wide range of vocabulary, especially adjectives; • describe what you can hear, smell, touch and taste.
1 A Read the description of Amsterdam. How does the author feel about the city?
2
Completely rewrite the sentences to provide a more vivid description. You may write more than one sentence. 1 It was raining and windy. 2 The roast chicken looked good. 3 The band was very loud. 4 Her clothes were very colourful.
3
Look at this description of a journey in a horse and cart from The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and check the meaning of any words or phrases you don’t understand. What details does the author use to describe: 1 the lane? 2 the banks? 3 the general scene? 4 What is strange and memorable about the use of the adjectives dripping (moss) and fleshy (fern)?
B Read the text again and find:
1 three references to taste. 2 a reference to sound. C What adjectives does the author use to describe:
1 the bridges? 2 cafés? 3 the historic centre?
4 streets? 5 the Jordaan district? 6 architecture?
Amsterdam – my kind of town
I’ve travelled to many cities around the world, but I don’t think I’ve ever been anywhere as photogenic as Amsterdam. Waterside cafés, bright flowers in window boxes, bikes with huge wicker baskets, and illuminated bridges at dusk. It’s an artist’s dream! For me, Amsterdam ticks every box. You can wander along the tree-lined canals, watching the chugging barges as they pass. The historic centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. And if it ’s culture you crave you can visit one of its world-class art museums. When it comes to food there are tasty treats to try wherever you turn. One of my favourites, which can be found in bakeries and street markets, is Stroopwafel, two thin waffl es sandwiched together with gooey, sweet syrup. And while raw herring may not excite everyone’s taste buds, I think everyone should try it – it’s fresh, salty and delicious with pickles. And of course you can’t go to Amsterdam without sampling the tasty, tangy cheese. For an introduction to Dutch cheeses, visit the Cheese Museum, or for a more interactive experience, book yourself onto a cheese-tasting evening. One of my favourite parts of the city is the charming Jordaan district, a vibrant hotspot for students and artists. I love exploring the narrow alleys and scenic streets, admiring the historic architecture and browsing the speciality shops and chic boutiques. I can’t help but dream about living in this city – I imagine riding a bike every day through the peaceful streets, whiling away the hours in the parks and trendy cafés, gliding along the water on a colourful houseboat. If you haven’t been to Amsterdam before and get the chance then go, you won’t regret it!
We curved upward through deep lanes worn by centuries of wheels, high banks on either side, heavy with dripping moss and fleshy ferns. Bronzing bracken and mottled bramble gleamed in the light of the sinking sun.
4
Write a description of a place/town you know well (200–250 words).
Plan your writing • Think about the place you are going to and visualise it in as much detail as possible. Decide what information you are going to include in your description, and in what order. Remember to provide a conclusion outlining your own opinion of the place. Check your writing • Does your description give the reader a good idea of the place? • Have you used a wide range of vocabulary, especially adjectives? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
© Pearson Education Limited 2016
4
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 4
3 A Find one example of parallelism in the first paragraph and one in the third.
a problem-solution essay
B Choose the best option.
WRITING TIP
Parallelism helps a writer to … a) connect contrasting ideas. b) connect similar ideas. c) express a conclusion.
In a problem-solution essay, you need to state the problem, analyse the causes of the problem and suggest a solution.
1
Read the essay and match the underlined expressions to uses (1–5). 1 2 3 4 5
2
4
Describing consequences of the problem Concluding Describing causes of the problem Suggesting solutions Introducing the problem
1 His time in prison was hard, frightening and fun / depressing . 2 We need to reduce prison sentences, send fewer people to jail, and release prisoners earlier for good behaviour / have more drink-driving controls. 3 The judge looked up, asked a question, and took notes / was very tall. 4 How oen do you drive too quickly: oen, rarely or never / when you’re in a hurry ?
Match the expressions below to uses (1–5).
The purpose/aim of this essay was to … (This) illustrates one of today’s most important issues … This has led to/resulted in/brought about … In conclusion, … This is largely due to …
5
What can we do about the number of people in prison in the UK?
The number of people in the UK who are in prison represents a growing problem: the prison population has more than doubled since 1993, going from 41,600 to more than 86,000. What’s more, no country in Western Europe jails more of its people than England and Wales. The current figure is 154 people per 100,000 in prison – in Germany the figure is 96, and in Sweden it’s 75. Why have the numbers increased so much? And what can be done to reduce them? The first reaction of many people to these figures is to conclude that the prison population is rising because more crimes are being committed and so more people are going to jail. However, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, since 1995 the number of crimes being committed in the UK has steadily fallen. Evidently, there must be other factors which help to explain why the prison population has risen so alarmingly. One of the causes of the high level of the prison population is politics. When a new government is elected, one issue that always comes up is how they are going to tackle crime. The typical response is for the government to promise that they will be tough on crime, press for longer prison sentences, and urge judges to put more people behind bars. One of the consequences of this is that judges are now sending people to prison for less serious offences, when before they would have given them a suspended sentence and ordered them to do community service. Another important factor to take into account is the influence of the media. Following some high-profile cases in the early 90s, the media’s position on punishment became harsher. They started demanding longer sentences and an end to community-based measures. One should certainly not underestimate the power of the media in influencing people, and this includes even judges. To sum up, it is clear that if we want to reduce the prison population in the UK, attitudes will need to change. One possible solution to the problem would be for politicians to stop trying to win support by promising to be tough on crime. In addition, the media must stop whipping up public sentiment about this issue in a way that does not reflect the underlying reality of the situation.
Choose the correct option to maintain the parallelism.
Look at these examples. Which expressions of cause and effect are followed by a clause and which by a noun? 1 Owing to unrest in prisons, more prison guards are being employed. 2 He is a hardened criminal because he has spent many years in prison. 3 More people are now in prison because of a change in sentencing policy. 4 He was put on a witness protection programme owing to the fact that he was being threatened by the mafia. 5 Since the judge was very lenient, she wasn’t sent to prison.
6
Write a problem-solution essay on ONE of these topics (300–350 words). 1 How can we reduce the number of people out of work? 2 How can we reduce the high levels of pollution in big cities?
Plan your writing • Think about the content of your essay. Remember to state the problem and explain the causes. Give one or two possible solutions and conclude by giving your opinion. Check your writing • Have you clearly stated the problem, analysed the causes and provided a conclusion? • Have you used parallelism at least once? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
© Pearson Education Limited 2016
6
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 6
2 A Read the first paragraph of the report. What does it do?
a report
B Read the rest of the report and answer the
WRITING TIP
questions. 1 What areas do paragraphs 2 and 3 discuss? 2 Find two examples of the passive in the first paragraph. 3 In general, why is the passive oen used in reports? 4 Find two linkers of contrast.
When you write a report, clarity is essential. You should organise your report into paragraphs, and clearly explain the objective of the report at the beginning, and draw conclusions at the end. You should use a formal style and avoid contractions.
1
3
Look at the table and answer the questions. 1 2 3 4
1 Expenditure in the Middle East and North Africa plummeted / rose sharply last year. 2 Expenditure in Central and Eastern Europe is predicted to drop alarmingly / soar . 3 There was a drop / a surge in expenditure in Latin America last year. 4 The rest of the world is a market that is going to collapse / explode. 5 There is going to be a sharp / gradual increase in demand in Europe. 6 Expenditure in Latin America is going to rocket / decline.
What information does the table describe? In which area is most money spent? What are the expected big growth areas? In which area was there ‘negative growth’ in the previous year?
Global expenditure on advertising: change from the previous year and three-year forecast 2011
Growth from 2014: 2011–2014 previous year projection projected growth
165,104
2%
186,344
13%
Western Europe 108,688
2%
112,642
4%
Asia/Pacific
132,172
6%
157,155
19%
Central & Eastern Europe
26,151
7%
31,089
19%
Latin America
35,344
10%
45,600
29%
Middle East & North Africa
4,155
–15%
4,412
6%
Rest of World
11,592
6%
14,812
28%
483,206
4%
552,054
14%
North America
World
4
5
This report will examine the trends in worldwide advertising expenditure, both past and future. The table above contains information about advertising expenditure in the major areas of the globe. The figures for last year (2011) are included, together with an indication of the growth that the figures represent with respect to the previous year. In addition, a projection for the next three years (until 2014) is also shown. It is clear from the table the North America (USA and Canada) is the major market, despite sluggish growth in the previous year. Furthermore, this market is set to expand considerably in the years to come, with a 13% increase projected by the year 2014. Western Europe, however, does not present such a rosy picture. Whilst it is still a major market (third behind North America and the Asia / Pacific region), it grew by only 2% in the previous year, and has the lowest projected growth for any market over the next three years. This is partly due to the fact that it is a mature market, with an already high level of advertising. The other major factor that helps to explain the relative underperformance of this market is the continued economic weakness and political uncertainty in the area.
Use the prompts to write sentences describing social and technological trends. 1 number / people / living / the countryside / China / drop / alarmingly 2 surge / use / mobile devices / many countries 3 importance / Spanish / international language / grow / the last ten years 4 sharp increase / number / immigrants / the UK 5 number / people / access / Internet / rocket 6 use / vitamin supplements / Western Europe / rise sharply
Source: ZenithOptimedia
Trends in Global Advertising Expenditure
Choose the correct option according to the text.
Complete the report in exercise 2 (150 words).
Plan your writing • Remember to organise the information into paragraphs. Conclude by drawing all the information in the report into a short summary. Check your writing • Does your conclusion summarise the information in the report? • Have you avoided contractions and used a formal style? • Have you included some linkers? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
As far as the Asia / Pacific region is concerned, …
© Pearson Education Limited 2016
7
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 7
2
a leaflet
Read the additional information about Sycamore Fells. Think of a suitable subheading for each paragraph.
WRITING TIP
It’s always party time at Sycamore Fells! Every evening we have fabulous tribute acts playing live music from the last seven decades at the Cabaret Suite; and DJs playing the latest in pop, dance and urban music every night at Twirler’s, our on-site club. The dancing isn’t just for grown-ups either – our kids’ disco is every Wednesday and Saturday evening from 6 until 9p.m. Take advantage of our summer offer: 25% off all tickets! That’s £5 off for adults and £2.50 off for kids. The discount only lasts until the end of August, so book your tickets today!
When you write a leaflet, it must be easy for the reader to see the main points at a glance. To achieve, this you need to include: • a clear title in big letters, saying what the leaflet is about; • a slogan, summing up the message of the leaflet; • clear subheadings.
1 A Look at the leaflet quickly. Which features of a good leaflet does it include? B Read the leaflet in detail and answer the questions.
1 2 3 4
Where is Sycamore Fells? Where would you stay if you didn’t want to spend a lot of money? Is Sycamore Fells a good place to bring children? Why? Is Chinese food available?
3
Sycamore Fells Holiday Resort
Sun, sand and great food! Get away from it all! Discover the secrets of the ocean! Visit the last virgin continent! Ancient monuments and towering mountains!
Happy holiday of family fun ABOUT SYCAMORE FELLS
Sycamore Fells Holiday Resort is nestled amongst the beautiful wooded slopes of the Midlands County Forest. It is a wonderful place for adults and children alike, especially those who love nature and the great outdoors. Just because you’re close to nature, it doesn’t mean you’re far from civilization: Sycamore Fells has all the facilities of a small town, including a mini-supermarket, a post office and a cash machine, not to mention the fantastic range of cafés and restaurants. ACCOMMODATION
No matter what your budget is, Sycamore Fells has the perfect accommodation for you. For the more money-conscious, our Cosy Cabins offer all the basic amenities, including an open-plan kitchen/living space and a good-sized family bathroom. For those looking for a little more luxury, our Premier Cabins offer more space, fully equipped kitchens, en suite bathrooms and their own private hot tubs on their roof gardens! THINGS TO DO
Whether you’re a sports fanatic, a nature lover or just want to kick back, relax and unwind, Sycamore Fells offers a huge range of activities to suit families, groups, couples and individuals. Here is a small selection of what’s on offer at Sycamore Fells: Huge indoor swimming complex, including water slides, swimming lanes and a baby pool Horse riding White water rafting Tennis Cycling/mountain biking Spa Kids’ clubs Nature walks
EATING AND DRINKING
Sycamore Fells has dining options to suit every taste and budget. Stock up your kitchen from our mini-supermarket and cook for yourself; take the kids out for pizza; go for a romantic, candle-lit dinner for two; or even order Thai food to take away! At Sycamore Fells, you’ll never go hungry or be stuck for mealtime inspiration.
© Pearson Education Limited 2016
What type of holiday do you think these slogans are describing?
4
Write a promotional leaflet for a holiday destination (250 words).
Plan your writing • Think about the content of your leaflet. What does the destination have to offer? Relaxation? Adventure? Nightlife? Beautiful scenery? • Think of a title and slogan and then write four or five short paragraphs about the destination, with a subheading for each. Check your writing • Is it clear to see at a glance the main points of the leaflet? • Does it sound like an attractive destination? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
8
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 8
a personal memory WRITING TIP
When you write about a memory, you should include rich detail so that the reader feels that they are ‘in’ the story or the place with you. Use lots of description.
1
Read paragraph 1. What details does the author include to describe the cottage, walls and roof? What three types of floor are described?
2
Read paragraph 2 and answer the questions. 1 What details does the author include about: a) the wind? b) the outside world? c) the roof? 2 Find three adverbs. 3 What is onomatopoeia? Find five examples. 4 What memorable simile does the author use?
3
4
What qualities of a good description can you identify from your answers to questions 1–3?
5
Look at these verbs to describe different ways of seeing. What does each one mean? Use a dictionary if necessary. 1 2 3 4 5
Read paragraph 3. What words and phrases are used to express the following ideas? 1 2 3 4 5
to appear with sudden force very many moved slowly and silently move/travel around freely everywhere/all over
6
We lived in an old dilapidated cottage deep in the countryside. The thick walls were made of honey-coloured stone, the roof of old grey slate. Dark red tiles lay across the kitchen floor and the dining room boasted huge flagstones, solid and freezing against our tiny bare f eet. Upstairs were two crooked bedrooms with creaking wooden floors and small, dark windows. In the winter, the outside world felt dark and threatening. When it rained heavily the ancient roof leaked and we would rush from room to room with pots and pans to catch the water as it dripped and trickled from the ceiling. We would huddle around the huge sooty fireplace, listening to the pop and hiss of the fire, my brothers and sisters and I squeezed tightly together for warmth and comfort against the dark night. I can still remember the whistling of the wind through the cracked windows, the tree branches creaking, their shadows arching across the floor like long ghostly fingers. The winter was long and hard and held us in its grip for what, to our child’s minds, felt like an eternity. But finally signs of spring would appear, with bright daffodils bursting forth and carpets of bluebells lining the woods. By summer our world was transformed; red and white roses grew in abundance around the cottage and climbing vines crept up the walls. We would roam the countryside, exploring the fields, woods and stream. We found the hedgerows littered with berries, which we’d cram into our small mouths, our cheeks stained red with their dark sweet juice. Only at dusk would we reluctantly start the j ourney home, already impatient for the next day’s adventures to begin.
He peered into the mist. She glanced at the book. They stared at me. He examined the gold coins We could just make out the town in the distance
Write a description of something you can clearly remember. Try to make your description as vivid as possible. (220–250 words).
Plan your writing • Think about what you are going to describe. A person? A place? A holiday? • Write down possible adjectives you can use to describe your memory, and details that you can include to make it more vivid for the reader. • Divide your description into three or four paragraphs. Each paragraph should have a clear focus. Check your writing • In general terms, is your description vivid? • Have you included details that help the reader to ‘experience’ the memory? • Have you included ‘strong’ verbs and adjectives that describe exactly the sensation that you want to communicate? • Have you included figurative language: at least one example of onomatopoeia, simile or metaphor? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
© Pearson Education Limited 2016
9
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED UNIT 9
a review WRITING TIP
When you write a review of a book or a film, you should provide a basic description of what it is about, without describing the plot in a lot of detail. You should also say what you like and don’t like about it. Aer reading your review, the reader s hould have a good idea of whether the book or film will be of interest to them.
1 A Read the review and choose the best option. The reviewer … 1 describes the plot in detail. 2 gives a basic idea of the plot. 3 gives no indication of what the film is about. 4 ruins the film because he describes the ending. 5 really likes the film. 6 really dislikes the film. 7 thinks that the film has strong and weak points. 8 doesn’t give an opinion about the film. B Is the review helpful? Why?/Why not?
Mentir Es Vivir
2
Find the words and phrases the reviewer uses for: 1 a lot of well-known actors 2 poor, without money 3 describes/tells 4 greedy and ambitious 5 Sophia Jones acts very well 6 the quality of deMotta’s acting is vital 7 he isn’t totally terrible 8 the very good book
3
Look at the words and expressions in bold. What does each one mean? Use a dictionary if necessary. 1 The film was riveting from start to finish. 2 I’m sorry to say that I thought it was one big yawn. 3 It’s a fast-paced film and the tension never lets up. 4 The book is a real page-turner. 5 The plot has so many twists and turns that it’s extremely diffi cult to follow.
4
Write a review of a book, film or music album (200–250 words).
Film review
Mentir Es Vivir , or To Lie Is To Live in English, is a film based on
the novel by the 18th Century Spanish author, Ignacio Gonzalez Hidalgo. It has an all-star cast, headed by Ronnie deMotta, Sophia Jones and Eduardo Montoya. The story begins with the arrival in Madrid of Alejandro Velazquez, a young penniless actor who has spent the previous six years performing in street theatre in Paris. A chance meeting at a bull fight with another ex-street performer propels Velazquez into the world of politics. The film chronicles his gradual rise up the social and economic ladder thanks to his friendships with various powerful members of society, rather than his own merits as a politician. Although written well over 200 years ago, the story has a distinctly modern feel to it, as it tells a tale of corruption with characters who are driven purely by greed and ambition. The best thing about the film is without doubt its wonderful portrayal of life in Madrid at the end of the eighteenth century. Sophia Jones also puts in a great performance as Velazquez’s power-hungry wife, pushing her husband to take bigger and bigger risks to climb to the top of Spanish society. However, everything hinges on deMotta’s performance; and although he is by no means dreadful, he really does not have the on-screen charisma or depth to carry the picture. In conclusion, this is a wonderful story that has all the ingredients for making a classic film. However, the final product can only be described as disappointing, when compared to the superlative raw material on which it is based.
Plan your writing • Decide what you are going to write about. • Make notes on what the book /film/music album is about. • Makes notes on its strong and weak points, in your opinion. • Ensure the review has an introduction, a paragraph outlining the basic plot/ characteristics, your opinion and a conclusion. Check your writing • In general terms, does your review give the reader a good general idea of the film/book/ music album? • Have you used a good range of vocabulary? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
© Pearson Education Limited 2016
10
WRITING EXTRA
ADVANCED UNIT 10
B Look at the phrases in the box. Do they express
contrast (C), pros (P) or cons (CN)?
a ‘for and against’ essay
One advantage is … On the positive side, … On the other hand, … The danger is … In contrast to this … On the negative side, … What could be better than …? The arguments against …
WRITING TIP
When you write a ‘for and against’ essay, you need to describe both sides of the question in a balanced way. You should offer your own opinion at the end in the conclusion.
1
3
Read the essay and answer the questions. 1 What three arguments in favour of the Internet does the author give? 2 What two arguments against the Internet does the author give? 3 Does the author have a firm opinion, either in favour or against?
1 The arguments against using the Internet include … 2 On the negative side, becoming addicted is a real danger. 3 Those in favour of restricting the use of the Internet argue that … 4 One of the drawbacks of saving everything on your computer is that … 5 On the one hand, having a broadband connection is essential. 6 What could be better than making free phone calls?
Is the Inter net a g ood t hi ng ? No one would deny that our lives have been revolutionised by the Internet. However, have they been changed f or the better or f or the worse? This is not a black-and-white question, and there are powerf ul arguments on both sides. On the one hand, it seems obvious that the Internet has improved our quality of lif e. One of the benefits of the Internet is the unparalleled access to information that it gives us. With three clicks of a mouse, you can learn about almost any sub ject under the sun. Those in f avour of the Internet also point out that nowadays it is much easier to keep up-to-date with current aff airs thanks to the Web. For example, we can read three or four newspapers online every day, as well as a huge range of blogs. We also need to take communication into consideration. Bef ore the arrival of the Internet, making a long-distance phone call was very expensive. Now, if you use a programme like Skype, it costs you next to nothing. While the Internet has many undoubted advantages, it is also true to say that it presents serious challenges. Paradoxically, one of the drawbacks of the Internet lies in the f act that it contains so much inf ormation. This means that people can become addicted to it, and spend all day going f rom one website to another. Those against the Internet also mention the problem of reliability. There is no quality control, so literally anyone can post inf ormation about anything, even though they haven’t got a clue what they are talking about. Imagine, f or example, that a member of your f amily has a serious condition, and you go looking f or inf ormation on the Internet about alternative cures. How can you be sure that the people providing these cures have any real medical knowledge and are not just trying to earn a f ast buck at your expense? When all is said and done, the Internet is a f antastic tool. Nevertheless, like all tools, it needs to be used in the right way. Used incorrectly, it can create more problems than it solves.
Look at the sentences below. In which sentences is the gerund used because it is the subject of the sentence? And in which sentences is it used because it comes aer a preposition or a conjunction?
4
Write a ‘for and against’ essay on ONE of these statements (350–450 words). 1 It’s best not to have children until you are at least 30. 2 People should pay the cost of their medical treatment. 3 Pupils should be able to leave school when they are 14.
Plan your writing • Think about the content of your essay and make notes about the pros and cons. Decide what you personally think about the issue. • Remember to include an introduction, a few paragraphs on the pros and cons, and a conclusion outlining your own opinion. Check your writing • Is your essay balanced? • Have you avoided giving your own opinion until the conclusion? • Have you used at least three of the expressions in exercise 2? • Have you checked your grammar and spelling? • Did you find any mistakes?
2 A Look at the underlined expressions in the text. Which ones express … 1 a contrast? 2 pros? 3 cons? © Pearson Education Limited 2016
WRITING EXTRA ADVANCED ANSWER KEY
UNIT 3
it’s photogenic, an artist’s dream 1 sweet syrup; fresh, salty and delicious herring; tasty, tangy cheese 2 chugging barges
Informal
1B
1C
Name: Tom Woodford Age: 25 Where he lives now: Newcastle Work: Works as part of a maintenance team in a big offi ce Ambitions: Get a degree in business studies and accountancy Family: Wife and two young children Who is he writing to?: His classmates, other people doing an online course
1 illuminated 2 trendy 3 compact 4 scenic, peaceful 5 charming, vibrant 6 historic
1 Yes
2 Yes
3 Yes
4 Yes
5 Yes
6 Yes
3 2b
3g
4d
5a
6e
7h
8c
Suggested answers 1 The rain was beating down and gusts of wind shook the trees. 2 The roast chicken was a golden-brown colour and smelt deliciously of butter and garlic. 3 My ears were throbbing as the band belted out their pulsating songs. 4 She was wearing a green and purple dress and smooth shiny silver tights.
4 A
3
Noun or gerund
1 deep; worn by centuries of wheels 2 high; heavy with dripping moss and fleshy ferns 3 Bronzing bracken and mottled bramble gleamed in the light of the sinking sun. 4 These adjectives are not normally used to describe the words they modify in the text. This makes them more memorable.
4B Students’ own answers.
5 Students’ own composition. UNIT 2
4
1
Students’ own composition.
1 False 2 True 5 True 6 False
3 False
4 False
UNIT 4
2 A
1
1 what is more; in addition to this; likewise 2 however, nevertheless; on the other hand 3 consequently 4 obviously
1 2 3 4 5
2B
2
1 2 3 4
additionally; furthermore on the contrary thus, for this reason; hence; so in conclusion; evidently
3 1 However 2 Thus 3 In addition to this 4 On the contrary 5 Consequently 6 Thus
4B a) whereas; although c) having said that
b) despite
5 Students’ own composition.
5 1 noun 2 clause 3 noun 5 clause
4 clause
6 Students’ own composition. UNIT 5
2
2
4 1 depressing 2 release prisoners earlier for good behaviour 3 took notes 4 never
1B
1 A
1f
b)
1 A
UNIT 1
3B
1 to set the scene
2 a) bitingly cold; There was a hint of snow in the air, and the sky was so dark that it seemed to be night-time. b) standing in the playing fields, wearing our sports kit and feeling pretty miserable c) a well-built Welshman with a full head of ginger hair, who didn’t understand the meaning of the word cold d) briskly e) reluctantly
3 A b), e), f), a), c), d)
3B the previous few days, every time, suddenly, when, immediately, in the meantime, as soon as, aer a short time, at first, the moment, the next day, now, three weeks since, still
4 One of the consequences of To sum up One of the causes of One possible solution represents a growing problem
The purpose/aim of this essay was to … 2 (This) illustrates one of today’s most important issues … 5 This has led to/resulted in/brought about … 1 In conclusion, … 2 This is largely due to … 3
3 A The current figure is 154 people per 100,000 in prison – in Germany the figure is 96, and in Sweden it’s 75. The typical response is for the government to promise that they will be tough on crime, press for longer prison sentences, and urge judges to put more people behind bars. © Pearson Education Limited 2016
1 Direct speech. It gives the story more impact. 2 Past simple 3 It had been raining: past perfect continuous. A continuous event in the past before the events took place. had turned: past perfect simple. A single event in the past before the events took place. I was pushing: past continuous. Provides the context for another action that happens at the same time: when I felt something.
5 1 While 2 Before 3 subsequently 4 eventually 5 Previously
6 Students’ own composition.
WRITING EXTRA UNIT 6
UNIT 8
1
1
1 Global expenditure on advertising: change from the previous year and three-year forecast. 2 North America 3 Latin America and the rest of the world. 4 Middle East and North Africa
the cottage: dilapidated, deep in the countryside the walls: thick, made of honey-coloured stone the roof: made of old grey slate Three types of floor described: tiles (kitchen), flagstones (dining room), wooden (bedrooms)
2 A introduces the report, a summary of information from the table
2B 1 North America; Western Europe 2 are included; is shown 3 Because it is typical of a formal and impersonal style. 4 in addition; furthermore
3 1 plummeted 2 soar 3 surge 4 explode 5 gradual 6 rocket
4 1 The number of people living in the countryside in China has dropped alarmingly. 2 There has been a surge in the use of mobile devices in many countries. 3 The importance of Spanish as an international language has grown in the last ten years. 4 There has been a sharp i ncrease in the number of immigrants in the UK. 5 The number of people with access to the Internet has rocketed. 6 The use of vitamin supplements in Western Europe has risen sharply.
5 Students’ own composition. UNIT 7
1 A a clear title and slogan, clear subheadings, bullet points
1B 1 In the Midlands County Forest. 2 In a Cosy Cabin. 3 Yes, it is. There is a kid’s club, and lots of activities for kids to do. 4 No.
3
1 a) it whistled through the windows b) it felt dark and threatening c) it leaked when it rained heavily 2 heavily (paragraph 2), tightly (paragraph 2), reluctantly (paragraph 3) 3 Onomatopoeia is the use of words that sound like the thing that they are describing. Examples: whistling, creaking, squeezed, pop, hiss 4 the tree branches’ shadows arching across the floor like long ghostly fingers
Suggested answers 1 very interesting 2 very boring 3 with a plot that develops quickly 4 makes you want to read the next page/ addictive 5 complicated changes in the story
3 1 bursting forth 2 in abundance 3 crept 4 roam 5 littered
4 Possible answers Use a lot of detail, including lots of adjectives. Use onomatopoeia. Describe what things are made of. A detailed description is better than a general one. Describe what you can hear. Use ‘strong’ verbs to give a more precise and vivid description. Use memorable similes or images.
5 1 2 3 4 5
look with caution or with diffi culty look at quickly look at fixedly look at carefully manage to distinguish
6 Students’ own composition. UNIT 9
1 A 2, 7
Possible answers Nightlife; Special offer
1B
Students’ own answers.
4 Students’ own composition.
an all-star cast penniless chronicles/tells a tale driven purely by greed and ambition Sophia Jones puts in a great performance 6 everything hinges on deMotta’s performance 7 he is by no means dreadful 8 the superlative raw material 1 2 3 4 5
2
2
3
2
Possible answer Yes, it is helpful. It gives you a good general idea of what the film is about, while not describing everything that happens. In addition, the reviewer expresses his opinion in a clear and reasoned way. © Pearson Education Limited 2016
4 Students’ own composition. UNIT10
1 Possible answers 1 access to information; keeping up-to-date with current affairs; communication 2 danger of addiction; reliability 3 Not really. He/She thinks that it all depends on how we use the Internet.
2 A 1 contrast: on the other hand; while … it is also true to say that 2 pros: one of the benefits of; those in favour; we all need to take … into consideration 3 cons: one of the drawbacks of; those against
2B Contrast: In contrast to this … On the other hand, … Pros: One advantage is … On the positive side, … What could be better than …? Cons: The danger is … The arguments against … On the negative side, …
3 1 2 3 4 5 6
aer a preposition subject of the sentence aer a preposition aer a preposition subject of the sentence aer a conjunction
4 Students’ own composition.
