Cambridge FCE Essay Writing: Best Practice Guide
1 How to Read the Task Rubric
Always start by carefully reading the rubric. Look for:
Sample Rubric:
‘In your English class you have been talking about technology. Now your teacher has asked you to write an essay explaining whether social media has had a positive or negative effect on friendships.’
Key parts to notice:
– Topic: social media and friendships
– Task type: discussion essay
– Style needed: formal
– Purpose: explain and give opinion
Key Terms
- rubric
- the written instructions that tell you what to do in an exam task
- formal
- using proper language suitable for serious or official situations
2 Structuring Your Answer
A good FCE essay needs:
1. An introduction (one paragraph)
– Present the topic
– Give your main idea
2. Body paragraphs (usually 2-3)
– One main point per paragraph
– Support with examples
3. A conclusion (one paragraph)
– Summarize your opinion
– Final thought
Key Terms
- introduction
- the first paragraph that presents your topic and main idea
- paragraph
- a section of writing dealing with one main point
- conclusion
- the final paragraph that summarizes your main points
3 Effective Openings
Start with a clear topic sentence that introduces your subject. Try these patterns:
1. ‘There is much debate about whether…’
2. ‘Many people believe that…’
3. ‘The question of [topic] is increasingly important…’
Key Terms
- topic sentence
- the main sentence that tells readers what a paragraph is about
4 Paragraph Linking & Text Cohesion
Use linking words to connect your ideas:
– To add points: furthermore, moreover, in addition
– To contrast: however, on the other hand, although
– To give examples: for instance, such as
– To conclude: in conclusion, to sum up
Make your text coherent by:
– Using clear references
– Connecting ideas logically
– Following a clear sequence
Key Terms
- linking words
- words that connect ideas and help the text flow smoothly
- coherent
- logical and well-organized, easy to understand
5 Effective Closures
End with a strong conclusion that:
– Restates your main argument
– Gives a final thought
Useful phrases:
1. ‘Taking everything into account…’
2. ‘In light of these points…’
Key Terms
- argument
- the main point or opinion you are explaining and supporting
6 Grammar to Impress
Use these structures to improve your score:
1. Relative clauses:
‘Social media, which has become very popular, affects our daily lives.’
2. Passive voice:
‘Many friendships are maintained through online platforms.’
3. Conditionals:
‘If people used social media less, they might have more face-to-face interactions.’
Key Terms
- relative clauses
- parts of sentences that give more information about something
- passive voice
- when the focus is on what happens rather than who does it