Writing reference

Part 2 – An article
CITY BREAKS
Sample task
What’s your favourite city and why
?
You have seen this advertisement on an international travel website. Write us an article:
Write your article in 120–180 words and in an appropriate style.

Model answer We will publish the most interest

ing
articles online next month.
get readers’ attention right from the start!
Marrakech: the best city in the world!
My absolute favourite city in the world has to be Marrakech, in Target Writing Part 2:
Morocco. It has beautiful architecture, great shops and restaurants, article checklist
and lots to do and see. What’s not to like? Make sure you:
ask questions to engage your readers ✓ include an interesting,
▢
The old town (Medina) is full of picturesque historic buildings and catchy title.
mysterious passageways, while the town square is packed day and
night with colourful stalls and lively performance acts. And as if this
✓ a lively, chatty, semi-
▢ use
formal style.
wasn’t enough, the Atlas Mountains are less than an hour away, ✓
▢ speak directly to your
offering spectacular views that will take your breath away. readers – don’t sound
too formal!
I grew up just outside Marrakech and I quickly fell in love with it.
For me, the city has a blend of traditional charm and modern ✓ give your own opinion.
▢
excitement that is completely unique. It seems that many other ✓ include descriptions,
▢
examples and stories to
people feel the same way – Marrakech is now a major tourist
support your ideas.
destination!
✓ use colourful language,
▢
Marrakech may not be as big and loud as New York, or as chic as such as phrasal verbs,
Milan, but to its many fans it’s twice as fascinating, and always full of collocations and idioms.
surprises! If you haven’t seen it, you must come soon. You’ll never ✓ make sure that you answer
▢
forget it! a few idiomatic expressions all the points in the question.
end with an interesting can make your article ✓ use the correct number of
▢
be personal! last sentence sound more interesting words.
✓ check your work for accuracy.
▢
Useful language
Addressing the reader Giving a strong opinion Giving examples
Have you ever ...? It’s absolutely + stunning / ..., such as ...
You absolutely must ... terrible (strong adjective). ..., particularly ...
Can you imagine ... It took my breath away. ..., like ...
I’m sure you’ll agree ... I will never forget it.
I must tell you about ... There’s nothing in the world like it.
You wouldn’t believe ...
Adding and developing ideas
Giving a personal response For a start ...
For me, ... / To me, .... Secondly, / Thirdly, / Finally, ...
Personally, I think / find / believe ... And then there’s the fact that ...
It seems to me ... On top of that, ...
In my view, ... Apart from that, ...
One thing I love / remember ... I must also mention ...
I’ll never forget ... As if this wasn’t enough, ...

448 Writing reference

Part 2 – A story
Sample task

You have decided to enter a short story competition in an international magazine.

The story must begin with the following words:
When Ella checked the alarm clock, she saw that it was midnight.
Write your story in 120-180 words and in an appropriate style.

Model answer
Target Writing Part 2:
When Ella checked the alarm clock, she saw that it story checklist
was midnight. Her parents were spending the night
use past Make sure you:
continuous for away and wouldn’t be due back until the morning.
So what on earth was making that dreadful noise in
✓ begin or end your story with
▢
background the sentence you are given.
information the kitchen? ✓ give your story a clear
▢
Ella suddenly felt wide awake as she imagined all beginning and end.
use a range
of descriptive
the worst possible explanations. What if somebody ✓ describe the atmosphere and
▢
had broken in? What if she was in danger? Well, feelings, not just events.
language
there was nothing else for it. She would have to go ✓ create interest by using
▢
and investigate. adjectives and adverbs.
Shivering with cold and fright, Ella crept downstairs. ✓ use a range of narrative
▢
tenses, not just the past
The noise seemed to get louder and louder, and Ella
simple.
thought she’d never been so scared before in her
life. Eventually, she reached the kitchen. Hardly
✓ use time expressions and
▢
use a range of sequencing words to organise
daring to look, she bravely pushed open the door your story.
expressions to
show when – and saw her cat, Charlie, trying to get some food ✓ use the correct number of
▢
things happened scraps out of the bin! words.
Ella immediately felt relieved, embarrassed and cross ✓ check your work for accuracy.
▢
with Charlie all at the same time. After she’d cleaned
up the mess Charlie had made, she went back to
bed. She decided not to tell her parents what had have a clear ending – don’t just
happened. She knew they would only laugh! stop writing!
use the past perfect for events which happened before
the main events in the story Describing reasons and
results
because ... / as ... / since ...
Useful language Time and sequencing so that ... / (in order) to ...
expressions Because of ... / As a result of ...
Narrative tenses At first ... / In the beginning, ...
• past continuous for setting Firstly, / Next, / Then, ... Describing feelings and
the scene Soon / Shortly after ... responses
The sun was shining ... As / While / When ... ... was so + adjective that ...
• past simple for main events Meanwhile, / While that was ... was such a + adjective + noun that ...
happening, ... ...had never felt / been so + adjective
We set off early. Gradually, / Slowly, ... + before in all my life.
• past perfect for events that Suddenly, / Just then, ... I couldn’t believe my eyes / ears when ...
happened before the main action Immediately, / Straight away, ... It was a terrible shock / wonderful
After he’d left, I felt ... Afterwards, / After that, ... surprise.
Eventually, / In the end, / Finally, ...
Writing reference 449
 Part 2 – An essay
Sample task

You have had a class discussion on computers. Your teacher has now asked you to write
an essay, giving your opinion on the following statement.
Young people spend too much time using computers.
Write your essay in 120–180 words and in an appropriate style.

Model answer

use formal Target Writing Part 2:

expressions Nowadays, computer technology is an important part
essay checklist
of everyday life for many people, especially teenagers.
Make sure you:
use longer However, some experts are concerned that spending
sentences and too much time using computers might be dangerous. ✓ stay on topic – do not include
▢
connect ideas irrelevant information.
with linkers On the one hand, a few young people seem to become
✓ use a new paragraph for each
▢
main issue.
addicted to computers. They would rather play games
put arguments or chat online than do anything else, which can affect
✓ begin with an introduction to
▢
for and against the topic.
their studies and social skills. Understandably, these ✓ end with a conclusion
▢
a statement
in separate cases are treated with great concern by teachers and summarising your views.
paragraphs parents. ✓ use formal language.
▢
✓ add ideas with linkers of
▢
On the other hand, the number of users who become addition (e.g. furthermore).
addicted in this way is very small. Many young people ✓ contrast ideas with linkers of
▢
enjoy using computers alongside other hobbies, such as contrast (e.g. despite).
sport or socialising. What is more, studies have shown ✓ use the correct number of
▢
that regular computer use actually has many benefits. words.
use examples For example, it can help to develop problem-solving ✓ check your work for accuracy.
▢
to support your abilities as well as technical expertise.
ideas
On balance, I believe that the majority of teenagers Although ...
do not forget to use computers responsibly. Moreover, as computers are In spite of / Despite + noun / gerund
sum up your now essential equipment in many homes, schools, and In spite of / Despite the fact that +
own opinion at workplaces, I feel it is important that young people are clause
the end! encouraged to understand and enjoy this technology.
Linkers of addition
In addition, ...
Moreover, ...
Useful language Furthermore, ...
Giving other people’s Expressing your opinion What is more, ...
opinions In my opinion, ... Giving examples
Studies have shown that ... I firmly / strongly believe that ...
For example, / instance, ...
It has been suggested / claimed / It seems clear to me that ...
..., such as ...
argued that ... While I agree that ... , I disagree that
Some people are of the opinion that ... Reaching a conclusion
...
Linkers of contrast Overall, / On balance, ...
According to ...
On the whole, ...
It is generally agreed that ... On the one hand, ... On the other
To sum up, / conclude, ...
hand, ...
In conclusion, ...
However, ...

450 Writing reference

 Part 2 – A report
Sample task

A group of students from the USA are going to visit your town or city next month as part of an exchange visit. Their
teacher has asked you to write a report about shopping in your town / city, including the following information:
• local specialities which the students could buy as souvenirs • the best places for teenagers to go shopping
• cheap cafés or restaurants where the students could eat.
Write your report in 120–180 words and in an appropriate style.

Model answer

simple headings can help you to organise your ideas Target Writing Part 2:
Shopping in Kraków report checklist
Introduction we often use passive structures in formal writing Make sure you:
This report considers shopping in Kraków. The local specialities are described, and ▢✓ think about who your reader is
suggestions are given on the best places for teenagers to go shopping and buy food. and what they want to know.
Local specialities
▢✓ begin with an introduction
explaining the purpose of the
Kraków is especially famous for amber jewellery, as well as many traditional crafts. report.
The local gingerbread biscuits would also make an inexpensive as well as attractive ▢✓ address all of the points in the
gift. do not use a lot of descriptive language; instructions.
Places for teenagers to shop be clear and factual ▢✓ organise your ideas clearly,
with headings if appropriate.
There is a very wide choice of shopping in Kraków. However, teenagers might ▢✓ include a personal
particularly enjoy the following: recommendation if you are
● Galeria Krakowska, which is an upmarket shopping mall in the city centre asked for one.
● Hala Targowa, which is a big outdoor market where many unusual gifts are sold.
▢✓ use a variety of formal
expressions and structures.
Affordable cafés and restaurants ▢✓ use the correct number of
If students want to eat in a cheap, good-quality café or restaurant, I would strongly words.
recommend that they avoid the main tourist centre and visit the suburbs. Alternatively, ▢✓ check your work for accuracy.
they can buy cheap snacks from many market stalls.
Conclusion
you can use numbers or bullets to
In my opinion, Kraków is a superb shopping destination. If students follow my highlight key points
recommendations they will enjoy an excellent trip without too much expense.
you can summarise any
recommendations in a conclusion
Useful language
1 ... • ...
Introducing your report 2 ... OR • ... Making
This report is intended to show / 3 ... • ... recommendations
discuss / outline ... I would strongly / highly recommend
The aim / purpose of this report is to ... Suggesting additional ...
In this report I will ... ideas My first / second recommendation
Another option would be to ... would be to ...
Listing ideas I would also suggest ... It would be (highly) advisable to ...
I would suggest the following: Another point to consider is that ... If my recommendations are
... might like to consider the following: Alternatively, ... followed, then ...
The following are highly Moreover, / Furthermore, ... The best solution / ideas would
recommended: Apart from this / In addition to this, seem to be ...
...
Writing refence 451
 Part 2 – A review
Sample task
An international arts website is looking for reviews of novels for a new section called ‘A Reader
Writes’. You have decided to write a review of a novel you’ve recently read for this section. Describe
the novel and say what do you think about it. Would you recommend this novel to other people?
Write your review in 120-180 words in an appropriate style.

Model answer
Target Writing Part 2:
make your I really enjoyed the film version of The Bourne
review more review checklist
Identity starring Matt Damon, but I thought the
interesting original novel by Robert Ludlum was even better. Make sure you:
with personal This book is so well-written, I didn’t want to finish it! ▢✓ choose a book, film, restaurant,
comments etc. that you know well!
The plot is gripping right from the start. When
we first meet the lead character, Jason Bourne,
▢✓ give basic details in the first
paragraph.
highlight key he is being rescued from the sea. His identity is a
features - don’t mystery to everyone, including himself! Over the
▢✓ use different paragraphs for
each main idea.
give too much course of the novel we gradually find out who
detail ▢✓ finish with a positive or
Bourne is, and follow him through a series of negative recommendation.
exciting adventures. ▢✓ give your opinions and
As well as a highly original plot line, the novel reasons for them.
use adverbs includes a number of fascinating characters, ▢✓ use a lively, catchy style that
and extreme especially the villains! I only have one negative will interest the reader.
adjectives for comment: in my view, the novel is strong on action ▢✓ use a range of adjectives and
emphasis adverbs.
but weaker on description. However, this is a small
criticism of an otherwise excellent book.
▢✓ use the correct number of
you can add words.
negative I would highly recommend The Bourne Identity ▢✓ check your work for accuracy.
comments too! to anyone who enjoys action or crime stories.
However, if you prefer more descriptive or
romantic novels, then you should give it a miss. explain your recommendation
Personally, I can’t wait to start reading the sequel!

Useful language Giving an opinion

The only criticism I would make is that ...
Comparing and contrasting What I really loved about ... is ...
... is even better than ... To me, ... seemed ...
... is (not) nearly as good as ... ... was ... from start to finish.
... is twice as good as ...
... is the best I have ever seen / read / been to. + exceptional / good value / gripping / lively / memorable / perfect
/ realistic / stunning / superb / well-written / -acted / -cooked etc.
In comparison with ...
One of the strongest / weakest things about ... — disappointing / dreadful / dull / inadequate / poor / predictable /
sub-standard / unconvincing / unimaginative / uninteresting
In contrast, ... / On the other hand, ...

Describing a book / film / Making a recommendation

TV programme I would highly / strongly recommend ...
I certainly wouldn’t recommend ...
... is set in ...
I strongly advise you (not) to ...
The main character is ...
Everyone should see / do / read this ... immediately!
It tells the story of ...
... is not to be missed!
The plot / dialogue / acting / characterisation is ...
You should give ... a miss!
Don’t bother reading / seeing / going ...
452 Writing reference
 EXPLORERS WANTED!
Part 2 – A formal letter
We are looking for people from diffe
Sample task us on a two-week walking expeditio
rent countries to join
n in the rainforest in
Africa. We will be raising money for
You have seen this advertisement in an English a wildlife charity.
● Are you interested in animals and
language magazine. nature?
● Are you fit and happy to walk for long
Write your letter of application in 120–180 words. distances?
● Do you have a good level of English?
Do not write any postal addresses.
Please apply to our expedition leader,
Mr Cabila, saying why
you think you should be selected to join
Model answer the expedition.

always include a name if you are

Dear Mr Cabila,
given one Target Writing Part 2:
formal letter checklist
use I am writing in response to your advertisement for
paragraphs to people to participate in a walking expedition. Make sure you:
organise your I would be very interested in joining this expedition as ✓ use suitable opening and
▢
letter I have always been passionate about wildlife. I am
closing expressions.
currently studying environmental science at university ✓ begin by saying why you are
▢
writing.
and I hope to have a career in conservation after I graduate.
use a range ✓ address all of the points in the
▢
of tenses and In my free time, I enjoy going for long walks in the instructions.
structures – not countryside, and I also do cross-country running with ✓ use short paragraphs for each
▢
just the present a university sports club. I would describe my level of new topic.
simple fitness as excellent, and I would relish the challenge of ✓ use formal structures,
▢
trekking through jungle conditions. expressions and linkers.
In addition to these skills, I have been studying English ✓ end by saying what you would
▢
for many years and I hope to take my First Certificate like to happen next (e.g. I look
exam in June. forward to hearing from you).

I enjoy working with other people, and I would

✓ use the correct number of
▢
words.
if you are describe myself as outgoing and sociable. For
these reasons, I think I would make an excellent
✓ check your work for accuracy.
▢
applying for
a job, say member of your team.
why you If you require any further information, please do
should be not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to hearing
considered from you.
Yours sincerely, indirect structures can
Tomo Micor sound more polite

Useful language
Opening and closing Applying for a job Requesting infor mation
expressions I have always been interested in ... I would be very grateful if you could ...
Dear Mr / Mrs / Miss + Name, ... I have a lot of experience in / of ... Would it be possible for you to ...?
... Yours sincerely, I consider myself to be / would Please could you tell me more about /
Dear Sir / Madam / Sir or Madam, ... describe myself as ... send me further information about ...
... Yours faithfully, I would like the opportunity to ...
Ending your letter
Giving a reason for writing Complaining I look forward to hearing from you.
I am writing in response to your I am not satisfied with ... Thank you in advance for your help.
advertisement ... ... was (highly) unsatisfactory. Thank you for considering my
I am writing to apply for / complain I am unhappy with the service I application.
about / enquire about ... received. 453
Writing reference
I would like to request a refund.