Writing Part 1
Practice Essay 1
B2 First Exam
Essay
Here's an example of an essay that you might find on the B2 First Exam.
Try answering the question first, and then check out my answer. I've left my planning and notes for you as well.
The question:
In your English class you have been talking about the environment. Now your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.
Write your essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.
Every country in the world has problems with pollution and damage to the environment. Do you think these problems can be solved?
Notes
Write about:
transport
rivers and seas
......... (your own idea)
140 - 190 words
Planning
My brainstorming about how to re-write the original question:
pollution becomes to pollute // damage - is damaging to the environment // environment - the planet // problems - issues // solved - resolved
Introductory Paragraph
Paraphrase the original question
Thesis statement - say what is coming
State upfront our opinion - Yes, these problems are solvable
1 Transport
Address the topic
Solvable - Yes - We can invest in more public transit
Result - Less use of individual vehicles thus less pollution
2 Plastic (Rivers and Seas)
Address the topic
Solvable - Yes - focus on recycling so less pollution ends up in the oceans
Result - cleaner waterways
3 Fashion
Address the Topic
Solvable - Yes - Encourage people to shop second hand
Result - less clothing will end up in landfills because people are reusing products
Conclusion
A summary of what was already written
The opinion
No new information
Example Answer
One of the most recent questions plaguing modern society is how to solve the current problem with pollution. This essay will examine transportation, waterways, and the fashion industry, and the relationship these topics have on the crisis. It will also discuss ways to solve the situation.
Worldwide, transportation is a huge contributor to air pollution, as vehicles emit large quantities of CO2 into the atmosphere. However, by investing in public transportation, it is possible to significantly reduce the amount of automobiles on roadways. This would have a significant impact on reducing environmental pollution.
Another equally important area to address is the pollution that ends up in rivers and oceans, as large quantities of non-biodegradable plastics are clogging the oceans. One thing we can do to resolve this is finding more ways to recycle the plastic that’s produced. If we focus on recycling, by consequence the oceans will end up less contaminated.
Finally, another area that significantly damages the environment is the fashion industry. Large quantities of discarded garments end up in landfills, contributing massively to our waste problem. One way to resolve this would be by encouraging people to shop second hand, thus making sure clothing is re-used instead thrown away.
In conclusion, while pollution is a huge problem that humanity must resolve, by taking steps such as those mentioned above, we can reduce the amount of waste and help save the planet.