ESSAY Third paragraph (1)à Give your opinion of the ideas of both texts.

In this paragraph we
only focus on giving our opinion of the points outlined in the second paragraph,
Both texts promote the virtues of train travel (1) over other mean of transport. The first considers the comparing the ideas and making clear what we think of them.
benefits it has for regular commuters, whereas the second (2) focuses on the advantaged of train travel
Third paragraph (2)à Summary of the second text, using our own words. In this
for longer journeys.
paragraph we need to summarize the ideas of the second text and include our opinion
The first passage (3) lists some of the reasons why taking the train is often the best choice for those taking of them.
a daily trip to and from work. These include the fact that it is less tiring, that you circumvent the annoyance Fourth paragraphà short conclusion (3-4 lines) in which we slightly summarize the
of being stuck in traffic jams and it offers commuters the chance to work while travelling or to unwind in main ideas of both texts mixed with our opinions in order to end the paragraph saying
comfort (4) on the journey home. In contrast, the second text (5) compares trains, planes and cars when
what or which we do think it’s best.
travelling over longer distances and asserts that train travel in such cases is both less damaging to the
environment than air travel and cheaper than driving due to the high costs of fuel.
Linking devices:
It is undeniable that the first text offers strong arguments in favour of travelling by train. Having said that - Both texts illustrate similar views / different aspects with regards to…
(6), there are certain aspects of rail travel that it ignores (7). No matter what rail companies say, there is - While the first text suggests that…, the second text advocates…
no denying that trains are often delayed and overcrowded, which in turn means commuters are - While it is true that
unpunctual. Additionally, the continual rise rail fares makes the daily commute prohibitively expensive, - Not only do… but they also…
meaning that travellers pay high prices to stand rather than sit in comfort. Similarly, the second passage’s - That may be so, but surely,…
argument has limitations, too (7). No mention is that when travelling by train, travellers are restricted to - In fact,…
timetables and specific destinations. Moreover, several people can travel by car for the same price as one,
which can’t be said for rail travel. Text A / Text B:
- Supports the idea of
In conclusion, travelling by train offers plenty of advantages over other modes of transport. Nevertheless, - Outlines the importance of
it would be unrealistic to ignore the limitations and realities train travel entails were we to ignore (8) the - Makes particular mention of
counterarguments against it. - The main concern of the first extract is
- It is often claimed that
1. Clear reference to both texts and the main theme - Many people contend that
2. Signals the contrastive nature of the texts - We often hear that
3. Focuses attention to the summary of ideas in the 1st text
4. Avoid “lifting” from task material by using your own words Evaluating:
5. Clearly mark the transition from the 1st to 2nd text - Weighing up the points made in the two texts, it is clear that text A presents a
6. Good use of a participle clause to contrast with the previous sentence more balanced view of the subject. When it comes to the first excerpt, it places
7. Clear indications of counterargument to points made in the texts emphasis on the value of… but ignores the fact that…
8. Good use of inversion which suits a more formal style - Another point worth considering is the fact that
- Admittedly,…, but nevertheless…
- While I agree with this point to a certain extent, there are other factors to
Structure:
consider
**Use relatively formal register and objective tone**Maintain balanced a view**
First paragraphà short introduction (3-4 lines) in which we convey the subjacent Opinion:
common idea of both texts and from which point of view is this idea taken in each one - Undoubtedly, - I can honestly say that
of them. - I’m fairly certain that - In my view,
Second paragraph (1)à Summary of the ideas of both texts using our own words. Go - It’s doubtful that - As I see it
- It’s highly unlikely that
into detail of the ideas of the texts and explain them but without giving your opinion.
- Certainly
Second paragraph (2)à Summary of the first text, using our own words. In this
paragraph we need to summarize the ideas of the first text and include our opinion, in Text:
a more or less subtle way along the paragraph. - Paragraph - Piece - Extract
- Passage - Excerpt - Author
Say: REPORT
- Point out - The main concern
- Suggest - Make a point Introduction
- Highlight - Evaluate This report outlines some of the effects of mobile use in public areas. It will take into account how its
- Draw our attention to - Acknowledge usage affects the way people relax, interact with friends and how mobiles effect people in close proximity.
The information is based on interviews with a selection of students. It will also put forward
- Discuss - Compare recommendations on how to address negative aspects.
- Describe - Advocate
- Emphasise - Demand Social benefits of mobile use
- Expound - Put forward Generally speaking, those who were interviewed observed that mobile phones bring huge social benefits
- Underline - Claim to the user. Feedback indicates that greater connectivity means that people take a more relaxed approach
to socialising. Not only is it easier to contact friends and arrange meetings at short notice, but cordial
- Outline= summarize - Argue relationships are maintained as smartphones enable people to let friends know if they are running late.
- Decry - State Additionally, there was great appreciation for apps which help find locations or even suggest places of
- Mention interest for socialising. Comments were also made about how using a phone can reduce the
embarrassment of waiting alone bars or cafes for a friend to arrive.
Expressing similar ideas:
Negative effects on socialising
- Furthermore, - Likewise, On the other hand, complaints were made that it is difficult to have some people’s full attention as they
- In addition, - Similarly, regularly check their phone for new messages and notifications from social media. Many concerns were
- Moreover, also raised about the increased noise factor from ringing phones, people talking or playing music loudly
and the number of accidents caused by people texting as they walk. Several interviewers mentioned the
Expressing opposing ideas: awkwardness of striking up conversations with strangers in social situations if they are preoccupied with
their phones.
- However, - Nevertheless,
- Be that as it may, - Nonetheless, Recommendations
- On the other hand, In view of what the findings reveal, the following measures could encourage people to be more socially
responsible with their mobiles. The first would be to introduce “no phone” zones in public areas to
Expressing results: facilitate social interaction. Another suggestion would be that people either put their phones on silent or
preferably turn them off once they are in company of friends. The final measure would be to recommend
- Accordingly - Thus people refrain from using their mobiles when walking as it can be a hazard. These suggestions would
- As a consequence - For these reasons certainly benefit our college if implemented.
- Hence - Consequently

Contrasting two statements: Structure: **it must always have sub-headings**Use formal-impersonal style**
- Instead, First paragraphà In the first paragraph we always need to clearly say the purpose of
- On the contrary, the report and briefly introduce if there has been some sort of interviews or similar
- Rather (than) done.
Second paragraphàWe will usually talk about the positive aspects of what we are
Restating or explaining: talking of, or the problems that has brought us this situation.
- In other words Third paragraphàWe will usually talk about the negative aspects of what we are talking
- In particular of, or possible solutions to the problems or facts explained in the previous paragraph.
- That is (to say) Fourth paragraphàWe can use bullet points to summarize the main points explained.
- Specifically Include our opinion in a rather neutral and formal style.

Concluding: Stating the purpose:

- All in all, - The principal aim/objective/purpose of this report is to provide a description
- In brief, of/present results of/assess the importance of…
- In conclusion, - In this report I will provide a description of/ present results of/ assess the
- To summarize, importance of
- On balance, - This report sets out to…
- Taking everything into consideration, there are many good arguments for… - The report will comment on…
 - Below is an explanation of… - As mentioned previously,
- The focus of this report is… - As stated earlier,
- It examines the impact of… - See above for
- Finally, it makes three recommendations to improve the situation… - As has already been discussed,
- Further ideas will be elaborated in the next two sections… - With reference to

Describing how the information was obtained:

- The report is based on a survey conducted among…
- I conducted interviews with/a survey of
- Responded to an online questionnaire LETTER
- I visited three of the most popular restaurants
- High Street shoppers were invited to attend a focus group Dear Mr Collins, // To whom it may concern,

Linking devices I am writing this letter in response to your recent request for a letter of recommendation for David
- Generally speaking, … Williams for the position of Project Manager. I have worked with David for the past seven years at Mitek
- This report makes three recommendations… firstly… secondly… finally… Systens Inc. in San diego, and I have always been impressed with his ability to handle new and challenging
- There are several ways in which… might be … projects as well as to work well with his colleagues.

I have been David’s manager for three years, before he got promoted. While being in my team of customer
Opinion:
support, he always greeted customers with a smile, and his expertise was such that he was always able to
- In the light of the previously mentioned points,
answer their questions without any hesitation. After three years working with me side by side as a
- In view of what the findings reveal, the following measures could encourage
colleague and a friend, I promoted him to Sales Manager for the areas of South America and Asia. He had
people to…
the opportunity, then, to create a new team of 10 people from different cities of around these two areas
- This could result in… that he would manage in order to increase the sales percentage in these areas. Within 2 years he achieved
- Another problem is that… a sales increase of 10% in South America, and 7% in Asia. Percentages that where even increased with
- It cannot be denied that… another 11% and 9% during the last two years due to his social skills which make him an outstanding
- Alongside this decision leader, able to tell someone when they have done something wrong or have to improve something
- The previous statement confirms that without making it sound hard. Despite he sometimes is a little disorganized, it is something that makes
- It’s a foregone conclusion him success if may seem impossible to.
- There’s every likelihood that
- I would therefore recommend Apart from the professional side, I have known David for almost 15 years, and he is one of the most
- Taking all the factors mentioned into account/consideration... puntual, reliable and self-motivated friends I have. He is always willing to help and he worries more about
- In the light of the results of the survey/questionnaire… would appear to be the the others than about himself, something that makes him really appreciated by everyone.
most viable solution/option/approach
- Those who were interviewed Considering his work experince, his successes while working in Mitek Systems and his personality, they
- There was great appreciation for make him an asset to your organization. Therefore, I have no reservations in recommending his profile to
- Comments were also made this Project Manager position he applied to.
- Complaints were made
- Many concerns were also raised about the Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
- Several interviewees mentioned the awkwardness of striking up
- Interviews with (students) have revealed that Yours sincerely, // Yours faithfully,
Roger Civit
- Judging by the comments made by

People: Structure:
- Surveyed - Maintain a formal style.
- Reviewed - Neutral vocabulary, and in case it’s a recommendation letter, give our opinion
maintaining the formality.
Referring back:
Beginning the letter: GENERAL
- If we know the person’s title and name
o Dear Dr Smallwood, INVERSIONS
o Dear Professor Carmichael, • Should you require any further information do not hesitate to contact us/ you
o Dear Ms Wilkinson, (if we know is a woman) could find more information attached in the following website… -letter
• Were I to choose…, I would definitely go along with… - conclusion essay
o Dear Mr Johnson, (if we know is a man)
• Had it not been for…, we would not be able to…
• Be that as it may,
- If we’re writing to a specific person but we don’t know the person’s name, title or • True though this may be,
gender • Under no circumstances will I… do sth
o Dear Sir or Madam, • On no account/ At no time will I…
- If we don’t know who’ll read the letter
o To whom it may concern, COLLOCATIONS
• Singularly successful
Opening phrases: • Doubly / Bitterly disappointed
• Distinctly remember
- I am writing with regard/reference to
• Virtually impossible
- I am writing in reply to/response to
• Exceptionally enjoyable (experience)
- I have been asked to write to you concerning • Strongly worded (de forma contundent)
- In response to your letter of 15 January, I am writing to • Widely believe
- I am writing to express my (concern, opinion…) at/about • Staggeringly expensive
• Carefully chosen
Ending the letter: • Incredibly strong
- I very much hope you will consider • Fully aware
- I am sure you will see • Deeply committed / concerned
• Desperately worried / disappointed
- I look forward to receiving your response to
• Highly talented
- I look forward to hearing your views on
• Totally unexpected
- Yours sincerely (when we have begun the letter with the person’s title or name)
• Wholly unexpected
- Yours faithfully (when we have begun with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ and ‘To whom it • Misleading impression
may concern’) • Face a challenge
- I would therefore be grateful fi you could • Exceptionally gifted / talented

Expressing personal opinion: WORDLIST

- I would definitely agree that o Encounter/ against/ tackle/ rise aboveà A PROBLEM
o Minor- potential- serious- unexpectedà PROBLEM
- It would appear to me that
o Face- take upàA CHALLENGE
- Having said that, o A daunting- a formidableàchallenge
- As far as… is concerned… o Improve- increase- strengthenà MOTIVATION
- I would (however) take issue with o It was an overnight success
o Outstanding- remarkableà ACHIEVEMENT
o A burning- lifelongà AMBITION
o Changeà drastically / significantly / substantially
INFORMATION COLLOCATIONS: … CRITICISM
o Inaccurate o Up to date o Overcome
o Unambiguous o Compile o Arouse
o Unbiased o Provide o Widespread
o Unclear o Access o Constructive
o Misleading o Obtain o Mounting (creciente)
o Comprehensive o Broadcast o Severe
o Unreliable
… VIEW
TIME COLLOCATIONS: o Breath-taking
o Run out of o Put aside time o Spectacular
o Manage time o In the time allocated/ available
o Allocate (donar temps) o Take time off work … ARGUMENT
o Furious
FAILURE COLLOCATIONS: o Pointless
o Complete o Admit o Heated
o Dismal o End in
o Inevitable o Result in

AMBITION COLLOCATIONS: VOCABULARY UOE:

o Achieve o Pursue - Incomprehension - Handful
o Fulfil o Burning - Disorientation - Sensitivity-> emotions
- Unpredictable - Sensibility-> senses
SUCCESS COLLOCATIONS: - Incomparable - Discouraging
o Meet with o A resounding success - Unattainable - Quickening
o Guarantee o Overnight success - Decidedly - Rehabilitation
o Achieve - Disclose - Untouched
- Inroad - Disbelief
COMPARISONS: - Dissatisfaction - Illiterate
o Remarkable similarity - Misconception - Irrational
o There are striking similarities between - Backstage - Non-verbal
o There is a world of difference between - Chilly - Unstable
- Playwright - Insecure
Have a/ an…. EFFECT on - Belie - Disrespect
o Adverse o Significant - Unprecedented - Incomprehensible
o Far reaching o Lasting - Unparalleled - Disapproval
o Long- short term effect o Catastrophic - Tuition - Inconclusive
- Breakthrough - Non-confrontational
Do a/an... PLAN - Inexhaustible - Illogical
o Controversial o Feasible - Harnessing - Interpersonal
o Brilliant o Devious (retorcido) - Distressing - Disrepair
o Intricate o Cunning (astutO) - Unfounded - Quieten- calm
- Unwillingness - Disquiet- worry
… A PLAN
o Put forward o Unveil OTHER USEFUL VOCABULARY AND EXPRESSIONS:
o Carry out o Jettison (tirar por la borda) - Out of the blue
o Reject - On and off
- Jump at the chance of visiting whatever - Further ideas will be analysed/evaluated in the following sections
- Come up against - To be a bit of contradiction
- Point out - The priority to
- Carry out - Put sth on hold temporarily
- Widespread (believe/use) - Allocate (minmal) resources to
- Flawless (performance/technique/look/finish/skin) - Freeze the development
- Time and again - Sanction major investment in
- Shoestring budget - Take the initiative in
- By far and away (amb diferència) - Place less emphasis on
- Be out of place - Were it to allocate more resources…
- To have money to burn (a lot of money to spend) - Disruptive
- Not only is this point relevant but also, I’ll add that… - This does not necessarily mean…
- A turn-up for the book (unexpected event) - The previous statement confirms…
- Set the world on fire (extraordinary / remarkable) - Alongside this decision…
- Pull your socks up (work harder) - All things considered…
- To have a lot on your plate (great or serious problems you need to face) - Raise awareness among
- Sweeten the pill (suavitzar algo dolent) - The aspects covered earlier suggest…
- Take sth with a pinch of salt - Encounter/tackle a/an potential/unexpected problem
- Bring up (mention) - Take up/ cope with a daunting/formidable challenge
- Find out (discover) - Outstanding achievement
- Shell out (despilfarrar) - Drastically/substantially change sth
- To be in tune with (agree) - Compile/provide misleading/(un-)biased/(in)accurate/(un)reliable/up to date
- To strike the right chord (tocar la fibra) information
- This… caught my eye - Time allocated
- Singularly successful - Remarkable/striking similarities
- Deeply committed/concerned - There is a world of difference between
- Bitterly disappointed - Have a far reaching/long (short) term/adverse/(in)significant/lasting effect
- Totally/Wholly unexpected - Carry out/put forward a controversial/intricate/brilliant/feasible plan
- Carefully chosen - Overcome widespread/mounting criticism
- Fully aware - Guarantee/achieve resounding success
- Widely believed - End in/result in inevitable/dismal failure
- Highly suspicious - Fulfil/pursue ambition
- Widespread belief - Eventually misleading [eventually misleading failure]
- Misleading impression
- Remarkably accurate
- Flawless integration/performance/execution (impecable)
- Acknowledge
- Claim
- Expound
- Make a point
- Evaluate
- Draw our attention to
- Weighting up the points
- When it comes to
- As far as… is concerned
- Makes particular mention
- Outlines the importance