FCE Writing Part 1 essay A

Part 1

You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate
answer sheet.
Your teacher has asked you to write your response to the following statement taken from a recent newspaper
article:
Do you agree that community service works better than fines?

Notes
Write about:
1. effort and time
2. lesson learned
3. (your own idea)

Sample essay:
Anyone who commits a crime should be prosecuted. Some people believe, myself included, that serving a
community is a more effective way to stop reoffending than financial penalty. So what are the benefits deriving
from doing community service?
First and foremost, offenders are being requested to spend their precious time on voluntary work. Paying a fine
is relatively unchallenging when compared to weeks or even months of labour a lawbreaker has to devote to
local society free of charge.
Additionally, community service is sometimes the only way to gain the knowledge about hazards arising from
felonies. For example, if a person has been caught speeding, an adequate service one should do is to become a
lollipop man at a local school crossing.
Finally, spending time and helping out a local society may positively influence wrongdoers. They begin to
contemplate on their behaviour and eventually come to conclusion that they are capable of making a positive
difference in society.
In conclusion, creative way of punishment in a form of community service is without a doubt a more efficient
way to halt reoffending. Not only the local society benefits from it but also the lawbreaker who learns the lesson

FCE Writing Part 1 essay B

Part 1
You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate
answer sheet.
Your teacher has asked you to write your response to the following statement taken from a recent newspaper
article:
Is it true that we help the environment when we plant a tree?
Notes:
Write about:
- clear the air
shade
.( your own idea)

Sample essay:
It is claimed that the ecosystem of our planet is in danger. Nevertheless, there are some who advocate, myself
included, that planting trees may bring balance to the natural world. So how does growing these plants aid the
living world?
First of all, trees improve the quality of air by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Using their leaves
and branches trees absorb negative gases and then release the oxygen back into the air to support living
creatures.
Moreover, mature trees provide shading for houses and other buildings so that the need for air conditioning is
reduced. Although for some it might seem unimportant, this simple action decreases the amount of fossil fuels
burned to produce electricity.
Last but not least, forestation creates an ecosystem which provides habitat and food for wildlife. The tree not
only serves as shelter and protection from a predator but also enables animals to collect nuts, berries or fruit.
Having presented all the points it is obvious that the environment benefits hugely from a newly planted tree. I
believe that reduction of CO2, provision of shade, shelter or food are just a few of the advantages deriving from
this simple action.

FCE Writing Part 1 Essay Answer (2015 exam)

Try writing an Essay for the Cambridge First Certificate (FCE) exam. You can send us your answer for
correction, a predicted score and tips on improving. Part 1 of the FCE exam is compulsory (you must answer it).
It requires you to write an essay giving your opinion on the essay title using the ideas given and provide an idea
of your own. The essay title is on a subject of general interest and requires no specialist knowledge.
Example question
In class you have been discussing technology. Now, your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.
Write an essay using all the notes and give reasons for your point of view.
You must write your answer in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.
Nowadays, technology is everywhere. Has technology made peoples lives better or worse?
Notes
Write about:
1. medical science
2. the internet
3. your own idea

Sample Answer
Modern technology has radically changed the way we live and even how long we live for. However, some might
argue that these changes have created new problems that we have yet to solve.
The internet, for example, has become such an integral part of peoples lives that it feels as though it has
existed forever. It is a fantastic means of communication as well as source of information and knowledge.
Likewise, mobile phones allow us to stay in touch with each other as well as access the world wide web when
were on the bus, in a bar, or even walking down a busy street. The danger is that people become addicted to
their devices. It is not uncommon nowadays to see couples sitting together staring at their phones instead of
speaking to each other.
Medical science is another area in which great advances have been made. Consequently, people are living
longer than ever. However, unless we change the age of retirement, our governments risk running out of money.
In conclusion, I am convinced technology has improved our lives but we still need to take some difficult
decisions about how to make it best work for us.

FCE Writing Part 1 Essay Answer 2 (2015 exam)

Extinct Animals

In your English class you have been talking about endangered species, animals or plants that will
likely become extinct. Your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.
Write an essay using all the notes and give reasons for your point of view.

Around the world many wildlife species are in danger of extinction. How can we protect
endangered animals?
Write about:
1. pollution
2. hunting wild animals
3. . .......(your own idea)

These days even more and more animals and plants are becoming extinct. That means they
must be protected in order to maintain the number of animals or plants, which are threatened by
extinction.
The real question is how to protect them. For example, pollution is a huge threat to every single
animal or plant. Pollution is the reason for global warming, which causes the destruction of many
animals' habitat. For example, the icy parts in the north and south are melting very slowly, which
puts penguins and polar bears in danger. In order to prevent that people shouldn't throw away
junk in the nature and should start recycling more.
Pollution is not the only reason for the extinction of animals. Unfortunately, many wild animals
are being hunted nowadays. This is mainly because of their beautiful fur, which is "perfect" for
making coats. In order to help many people have decided not to wear leather or fur at all.
Every year dozens of forests are being destroyed by people who need to open more place for
construction. If they want to save animals from extinction, they first have to reduce the
construction, which will save a lot of forests and therefore animals's habitat. (!!!)
All these problems have solutions. Animals and plants are very important for our planet and,
since we are the ones who destroy them, it is up to us to do the right thing and protect them.

Writing Part 1 Essay 1

You recently had a discussion in class about going abroad to improve your English. Your teacher has asked you to write a
composition giving your opinions on the following question.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad?
Write your composition in 140-190 words in an appropriate style on the opposite page.

Essay Sample Answer 1

My Essay Plan
Introduction: In recent years its a fashion. Is it effective?
Paragraph 1: Advantages

Au pairs with a family. Working and going to classes.

Paragraph 2: Disadvantages Drawbacks. Bad family. Native speakers. Expensive.

Conclusion: Choose the right place and family. Avoid speaking your own language.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad?

In recent years studying English in Britain or the U.S.A seems to be the latest fashion for students who hope to improve their
language skills. According to tour operators, it is the quickest and most effective way of learning. Whether this is true remains to
be seen.
Living with an English speaking family as an au pair or doing a summer job are currently the most popular choices. Older students
generally prefer to stay with a family while attending intensive English courses at a language school. In theory, this means
speaking English 24 hours a day.
It could be argued, however, that looking after children can actually be stressful and even a negative experience unless you stay with
the right family. Although going to classes will obviously improve your level, in many schools you may meet people from your own
country and end up communicating in your mother tongue.
In conclusion, therefore, it could be said that studying abroad is only a good option if you avoid mixing with people of your own
nationality. Language courses can be expensive and living with the wrong family could be a serious mistake.

NOTES

Think for a few minutes and make a simple plan. It will save time later.

You only need a couple of ideas for each argument in paragraphs 1 + 2.

Expressions I used for style are in bold print.

Note the use of passive to express opinions indirectly (scientifically!).

Writing Part 1 Essay 2

You had a discussion in class about pollution in cities.
Your teacher has asked you to write an essay giving your opinions on the following statement.
Cars should be banned from city centres.
Write your essay in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.

MY ESSAY PLAN: I made it in only 5 minutes!

INTRO: Different lifestyle in previous years
PARAGRAPH 1 AGREE WITH THE TITLE: Pedestrian areas, greater population, pollution and dangers.
PARAGRAPH 2: DISAGREE WITH THE TITLE: Exceptions: Residents, pensioners and delivery men.
CONCLUSION: Banning is inevitable because of progress.

SAMPLE ESSAY

Cars should be banned from city centres.

In recent times our lifestyle has changed dramatically in many ways. In the past people could drive freely around the
city without any problem, but nowadays traffic in city centres has become a serious headache. The authorities now feel
obliged to take urgent measures to solve this issue.
Most modern cities and large towns have turned their centre into pedestrian zones due to the increase in population and a
greater number of car users. Parking is almost impossible and space is running out, not to mention the health risk from
pollution and the question of road safety.

Although banning cars from the city centre seems to be an inevitable consequence of all this, we should not forget about
those people who must be able to access these areas without restrictions. Pensioners, disabled people and local residents
are an exceptional case, and lorry and van drivers should be allowed to deliver to shops or offices.
In conclusion, the prohibition of cars from city centres is probably the only practical solution owing to lack of space.
These measures should not, however, affect those who live or work there.

NOTES

Use introductory phrases to talk about the current situation.

Include expressions such as: due to, owing to, as a result of this.

Use modal verbs like: should, ought to or must in this type of essay.

Writing Part 1 essay 3

Your English class has had a discussion about advertising.
Your teacher has asked you to write a composition about the following statement:
Advertising plays an important role in modern life.
Write your composition in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.

MY ESSAY PLAN: It took only 5 minutes to make a simple plan

INTRO: The media, T.V. radio and films, magazines. Big audience.
PARAGRAPH 1 AGREE WITH THE TITLE: Convince people to buy with fear, humour and creating need.
PARAGRAPH 2 DISAGREE WITH THE TITLE: Competing with the neighbour. Consumerism. Out of touch if you dont buy.
CONCLUSION: People believe it. Brainwashing. Obsession with image + fashion. Has created stress and envy.

SAMPLE ESSAY

Advertising plays an important role in modern life.

In recent times, T.V. has been reaching a huge worldwide audience while advertising has become increasingly
important in our daily lives. It is also present, however, in the cinema, magazines, newspapers and Internet. It
now dominates our lives.

Although this is a great opportunity for the media to make money, it can have a negative influence on the
general public. Nowadays it seems there are no limits. Advertising campaigns sell products using fear, sex,
humour, violence and above all by creating competition between people and a need for a product.
Buying a bigger car, a T.V. or more expensive perfume than your neighbour is causing excessive consumerism.
We are victims of fashion. If you do not buy the latest smart phone or computer you are out of touch with the
modern times. A teenager wearing the wrong clothes or using an old mobile is seen as a freak.
In conclusion, there is no doubt about the importance of advertising in modern life. Nevertheless, it has
created stress and envy. Many people do not realize they are being brainwashed and spend money without
thinking.

NOTES

You only need a couple of ideas for each argument in paragraphs 1 + 2.

Try to use more descriptive adverbs and adjectives such as; huge, increasingly, the latest.

Include stylish language like: although, however, above all or nevertheless.

Prepositions followed by gerund are good style and win marks in writing exams!

Writing Part 1 Essay 4

Your teacher has asked you to write a composition about the following statement:
The roles of men and women are changing in modern society
Write your essay in 140-189 words in an appropriate style giving your opinion.

MY ESSAY PLAN: Took me 5 minutes to write

INTRO: Changes in the 60s/feminist movement
PARAGRAPH 1 AGREE WITH TITLE: Women study more/better jobs
PARAGRAPH 2 DISAGREE WITH TITLE: Earn less money/work and look after kids/domestic violence
CONCLUSION: Progress made, but still discrimination/roles must still change

SAMPLE ESSAY
The roles of men and women are changing in modern society
Since the sexual revolution in the sixties and the progress of feminist movements in recent times, the roles of
men and women in society have been constantly evolving.
Fifty years ago most women finished school early and left home to get married, become a housewife and look
after the children. Nowadays, however, a high percentage of women have university degrees and careers in a
previously male-dominated world. Presently, it is not surprising to see female Members of Parliament or
women occupying executive positions in companies.
On the other hand, despite these positive changes, many men still earn more money than women for doing the
same job. While male partners contribute more with basic tasks such as housework and caring for children,
many women have to do both! Besides this, it seems that domestic violence is increasing alarmingly, and
may be a consequence of men losing power and control.
In conclusion, it could be said that in spite of great advances in sexual equality, discrimination is still a serious
social problem and men are finding it difficult to adapt to their new role.

NOTES

Note the use of time expressions such as: in recent times, nowadays, presently,
previously.

Remember to include contrast expressions like: on the other hand.

Win marks by using: despite, while, besides, in spite of.

Make a plan and always write the maximum number of words; 180.

Writing Part 1 Essay 5

You recently had a discussion in class about how modern technology is changing peoples lives.
Your teacher has asked you to write a composition giving your opinions on the following statement.
Internet has changed our lives.
Write your composition in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.

Sample Answer

MY PLAN: Took 6 minutes to write

INTRO: 20 years ago very different-work, hobbies
PARAGRAPH 1: AGREE WITH TITLE Work, studies/friendships/relationships/ holidays/ free time
PARAGRAPH 2: DISAGREE WITH TITLE Exceptions: old people, we still meet friends + go out
CONCLUSION: In general, yes, but some things havent changed

Internet has changed our lives

Most people take internet for granted nowadays, but 20 years ago it was just beginning. We were all
expecting a revolution at work and in our everyday life, but has it really happened?
On one hand, it could be said that our working habits and study techniques have changed dramatically. Easy
access to information can save a lot of time, energy and money. Social networks such as Facebook have
changed personal relationships, while arranging holidays or buying and selling products online have become
increasingly popular and efficient.
It could, however, be argued that for old people, life has not changed so rapidly in many cases unless they
move with the times. Many people still prefer to go out and meet their friends rather than chatting online.
Personal contact is still important, especially in business, despite the rise of Internet.
In conclusion, it would be fair to say that, although Internet has inevitably changed many aspects of our
daily lives, it is not always a positive change. Some people prefer personal contact instead of more impersonal
ways of communicating.

NOTES

I used 5 minutes to plan my essay, 25 minutes to write it and 5 minutes to check for
mistakes after finishing.

Note the use of passive to express an opinion indirectly.

Rather than means the same as instead of. Avoid repetition.

Note the use of a rhetorical question in paragraph 1.

Writing Part 2 Informal email 1

You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.
Your English friend, Steve, is thinking of visiting you next month with his girlfriend. Read his email and the
notes you have made. Then, use all your notes to write a letter to Steve.
Email from: Steve
Sent:
Subject:

16th April
Visit

Ill be coming to visit you in May with Linda, my girlfriend, and its the first time Ive ever been to your town, so it would
be great if we could meet again. (brilliant!)
I was hoping you could suggest a few nice places to visit (give details) and youll be able to show us around if youve got
time.
We havent decided where to stay yet, so maybe you could find somewhere cheap, but comfortable for 2 nights. (no
problem)
One more thing. Can you tell me how to get from the railway station to your house? I havent got a GPS and we might get
lost! (will meet you there)

See you next month,

Steve

Sample Answer
Dear Steve,
Hows it going in Liverpool? Im really glad youre coming to visit me and Im looking forward to meeting
Linda.
You said you were thinking of staying for a couple of days, so Ive made a little plan of places to visit when
you get here. If youre going to stay for two nights it might be better to book a room at the youth hostel.
Do you fancy going for lunch at Marios pizzeria? The pizzas are absolutely delicious, the desserts are
brilliant and the waiters are friendly. We could spend the first morning visiting the market and maybe some
second-hand bookshops as well. There are loads in the town!

Anyway Steve, Itll be great to see you again. Im sure youll enjoy yourselves. Keep in touch and dont
worry- Ill pick you up at the station when you arrive.
See you soon,
Pete

Writing Part 2 Informal email2

You are staying in England. You receive an email from your English friend, Tony, asking how everything is going. You
wrote some notes on his email.
Use all your notes to write to your friend telling him what you have been doing recently and if you are enjoying your stay.
You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140 190 words in an appropriate style on the opposite page.

Email from: Tony

Sent:

20th September

Subject:

Hows city life?

Whats Manchester like? (Good shops) I bet the weathers not too good! (Raining a lot!)
Have you still got that part-time job in the pub? It must be a good way of speaking to new people and making friends.
What about the family youre staying with? (had a few problems) Do you go out much in the evening? I hope the English
classes are going well. (level improving)
Write your email. You must use grammatically correct sentences with accurate spelling and punctuation in a style
appropriate for the situation.

MODEL ANSWER
Hi Tony,
Manchester is a really interesting city. Its got loads of shops, the people are friendly and the night life is brilliant. Its a pity its
always raining!
As you know, Im working in an English pub. Its all right, but I have to work Saturday nights so I cant go out with my friends very
often. Anyway, Im practising my English a lot but Im not too keen on my boss.

I was living with an English family but I didnt get on very well with them, so now Im sharing a flat with some students. Its fun,
but Im not learning much English at home because some of them speak Spanish!
Good news! Im going to English classes every morning in a school next to my flat and should be ready to do the First Certificate
Exam by June.
Well, its time for work now. Ill be in touch soon.
Best wishes,
Pete

Writing Part 2 Informal email3

You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140 190 words in an appropriate style on the opposite
page.

An English friend, James, who you were travelling with on holiday, has just sent you a letter with some
photographs.
Read his letter and the notes you have made on it. Then write a letter to James using all your notes.

Email from:

James

Sent:

20th January

Subject:

Holiday photos

I hope you like the photos. (great memories! fantastic trip) Did you get home all right? (problems at airport)
Im back at work now, but its a bit difficult to start again. I wish we were still on holiday. Why dont we plan another trip
for Easter if youve got time and money? (better in July) Any suggestions where we could go? (Greek Islands?)
Write your email. You must use grammatically correct sentences with accurate spelling and punctuation in a style
appropriate for the situation.

MODEL ANSWER
Hi James,

Its great to hear from you again. I hope everything is going well in Oxford. As you probably know, I had a
bit of trouble at Frankfurt airport because of the pilots strike, but I got home in the end.
Thanks for sending me the photos. Whenever I look at them, I remember the great time we had in Berlin
with our German friends. We should try to keep in touch with them.
Im afraid I wont be able to get away at Easter as I have to do my driving test. What about a trip to the
Greek Islands in July? Im not starting my new job till August, so Ive got a whole month to travel.
Well thats all for now James. Drop me a line when you have time and let me know what you think about my
plan.
Ill speak to you soon,
Pete

Writing Part 2 Informal email4

You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140 190 words in an appropriate style on the opposite
page.
You have received the following letter from your English-speaking friend, Natalie. Look at the notes you made.

email from:

Natalie

Sent:

21st July

Subject:

Next month

Thanks for inviting me to stay with you when I visit your country next month. (no problem) Im not sure how to get to your
apartment from the airport. (easy from town centre) Could you write back giving me some simple directions? (give details) Whats
the cheapest means of transport? What will the weather be like when I get there? (quite cold and wet) Ill need to know which
clothes to pack.

Write your email. You must use grammatically correct sentences with accurate spelling and punctuation in a style appropriate for the
situation.

MODEL ANSWER
Hi Natalie,

Hows it going? I hope youre well and looking forward to your trip to England. Itll be great to see you again. Ill
be on holiday when you come, so Ive got plenty of time and well be able to visit a few places together.
The cheapest and easiest way to get to my house from the airport is on the bus. The V3 will drop you off in Milton town
centre. Ill be waiting for you at the bus stop when you get there, so you wont get lost!
Its still quite chilly here, so bring some warm clothes and maybe even a pair of gloves. It might rain as well, but can
borrow my umbrella!
Well thats all for now Natalie. When you have a moment, drop me a line and confirm your flight and arrival times. Im
sure youll have a brilliant time.
See you soon,

Pete

Writing Part 2 Informal email5

You must answer this question. Write your answer in 140 190 words in an appropriate style on the opposite
page.
You have received the following letter from your English-speaking friend, Sophie. Look at the notes you made.
email from:

Sophie

Sent:

2nd June

Subject:

School project

Were doing a project this month at school about eating habits and customs around the world. (no problem-Ill
send it today)
Could you give me a hand by telling me what people typically eat (not only fish n chips!) (it depends where
you live ) and at what time of day?
Do people eat a lot of fast food? (Not every day!) Thanks for your help.

Write your email. You must use grammatically correct sentences with accurate spelling and punctuation in a
style appropriate for the situation.

MY ANSWER
Hi Sophie,

Its great to hear from you. I hope everything is going well at school. Im really busy studying right
now, but its my day off today and Ive got plenty of free time, so here are some ideas for your project.
I know most foreigners think we eat fish and chips every day, but in general we have quite a varied diet.
Although some people eat fast food (or junk food, as my mother calls it!) once or twice a month, we eat
also fruit and vegetables according to the season.
People on the coast tend to eat more fresh fish and seafood, while in big cities there is a wide choice
of food from many different countries and cultures. In fact, there is such a variety these days, there is no
excuse to eat badly any more.
Lunch here is usually about 1 oclock and dinner at 6 oclock, followed by a visit to the pub at 8! As you
can see, people have a very early evening meal in the UK.
Well, I hope Ive helped you with your project and Ill speak to you again soon.
Bye for now,
Pete