How Not to Write an FCE Essay: Common Mistakes to Avoid

1 Introduction

When students face the FCE writing exam without proper preparation, they often make predictable mistakes. Writing Coach Jenny will show us an example of a poorly written essay by Maria, highlighting common errors that can significantly impact your score. This example demonstrates what happens when students don’t follow the proper essay structure or maintain appropriate register.

2 Poor Writing Example

Should teenagers have mobile phones?

I think this is very important topic for discussion nowadays because lots of teenagers have phones. Its a big problem because some people think its good and others think bad.

Firstly teenagers need phones to call there parents when they are late or in trouble and stuff. Also they can use internet to do homework and chat with friends on social media which is cool. But some people say its dangerous cause they spend to much time on phones and don’t study good.

Anyway I think teenagers should definately have phones because its useful and modern and everyone has them now so why not? Its better than not having one because what if something happens and you need help?

In conclusion, phones are good for teenagers and thats what I think about this topic.

3 How Many Errors Did You Spot?

Take a moment to review Maria’s essay. Can you identify problems with punctuation, linking words, spelling, and informal language? How many basic grammar mistakes can you find? What’s missing from the essay organization?