Developing the composition for the exam Some tips

Paragraph 1 Explain very briefly what the article is about. Here you must give a summary of the key points in the article. Read the article carefully. Underline key points. Summarize one or two key points from each paragraph.

Paragraph 2 Do children in your country often play computer games? Address the first question and develop an answer. Begin the paragraph “In my country” and give examples.  Are violent games popular? Include this question in the same paragraph and explain if it is so.

Paragraph 3 In your own opinion, can computer games be bad for children? Give your opinion about the question saying if you agree or disagree with the statement. Try to think of at least two or three good reasons to support your opinion.

Paragraph 4 Which other activities do you think that children should do? Which were your favourite toys and games when you were a child? Explain giving examples and reference to your personal past.

Paragraph 5 The conclusion. Sum up your opinion.

Useful language Ways of giving your opinion I think/I believe… In my opinion…  Ways of giving examples There are several things we can do, for example/for instance/ such as… Another thing…

Linking words Nowadays… Firstly… Secondly… In addition… In most cases… so.. whereas (on the contrary)

Linking expressions To list advantages/disadvantages The main advantage Another advantage  To add more points to the same argument In addition,… Furthermore,… Also,…

Linking expressions To introduce an example For instance,… For example,… Such as,…  To make contrasting points However,… In spite of (the fact that)… Although,… On the other hand,…

Linking expressions To give a reason Because… Because of (+ noun),…  To introduce the conclusion In conclusion,… To sum up,…

Remember to Organize your writing into clear and separate paragraphs with a double space in between Use a formal style (no contractions or colloquial expressions) Check for grammar, punctuation and spelling mistakes Use a variety of linking words and expressions