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!).

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.

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.

Check carefully for a few minutes when you have finished your essay.

Always answer the question! Dont forget what youre writing about.

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.

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!

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

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. Whilemale 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.

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.