Useful Language and Advice for FCE Essays

Introduction
Start
It is often said that . . . .
Nowadays, more and more people are . . .
All over the world, there is growing concern about . . .
In the past . . . . . . . . . However, nowadays . . . . . .

Ending
This raises the question of what can be done about this.
However, to what extent. (is this true?)
Despite this, . . . . (does it have a negative impact on society?)
This raises the issue of whether . (more could be done to protect the environment)

Main Body
Introducing ideas
Firstly / The first aspect to consider is . . .
Secondly / The second aspect to consider is / In addition,
We should also consider the fact that . . .

Presenting two opposing views:

On the one hand, (__________) . .. On the other hand, (___________)

Presenting two advantages or disadvantages together:

(Recycling) is not only (easy), but also (essential).
Not only (is recycling easy), it is also (essential). (word order in first clause = verb + subject!)

Expressing contrast:
(Mobiles are undeniably useful). Nevertheless, /However,/ Even so, (they also have their drawbacks.)

In spite of / Despite + (knowing it is unhealthy),

Even though / Though we continue to eat fast food.
(we know it is unhealthy),
Although / Despite the fact

Expressing purpose:
to
(We must work together) in order to (ensure the protection of the environment)
so as to

Expressing reason Adding information / ideas

due to (the fact that) In addition,
owing to (the fact that) Besides,
Furthermore,
Expressing consequences Moreover,
therefore
as a result
Giving examples:
for this reason,
such as . . . .
consequently
for example . . .
for instance . ..
One such example would be
Another such example would be . .
 Useful Language and Advice for FCE Essays
Expressing the opinion of someone else:
It is often said (the computer is essential to modern life)
(The computer) is often said to be (essential to modern life)
According to . .. .
Those in favour of ______ would say, however . . .
Those against ______ would say., however . . .

Conclusion
Starting your conclusion
In conclusion, ...........
All things considered, .............
On balance, I tend to believe that ............

Comment on the importance of the issue

The world would surely be a better place to live in if (solution)
If people stopped ....(gerund), we could all look forward to a brighter future.
The prospects for the future look bleak /grim unless (solution)

ADVICE FOR WRITING A GOOD ESSAY

1) Use a range of grammar and structures, e.g.

Passives
So / such Paragraph Plan
Causative have 1) Introduction
Conditionals 2) Main idea + supporting ideas and examples
2) Use any vocabulary specific to the topic 3) Main idea + supporting ideas and examples
3) Give reasons to support your arguments 4) Conclusion
4) Give examples where possible
5) Use formal language (You could write an extra paragraph with another
6) Don't use contractions (we're, I've etc.) main idea)

Mark Criteria
The examiner uses this to give you a mark, so make sure that . . .

All content points included with appropriate expansion.

Wide range of structure and vocabulary within the task set.
Minimal errors, perhaps due to ambition; well-developed control of language.
Ideas effectively organised, with a variety of linking devices.
Register and format consistently appropriate to purpose and audience.
Fully achieves the desired effect on the target reader.