C1 Advanced: Writing
Strategies for Success in the Writing Section
- Understand the Task:
- Read the question carefully and make sure you understand what is required.
- Identify the type of writing (essay, article, letter, report, review) and its purpose.
- Plan Your Answer:
- Spend a few minutes planning your answer before you start writing.
- Outline the structure (introduction, main points, conclusion) and the key ideas you want to include.
- Stay On Topic:
- Ensure that every part of your answer is relevant to the task.
- Avoid including irrelevant information that does not support your main points.
- Use Paragraphs Effectively:
- Use clear paragraphs to organize your writing.
- Each paragraph should contain one main idea and be linked logically to the next.
- Use a Range of Vocabulary and Grammar:
- Demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
- Use appropriate language for the task (formal/informal as required).
- Support Your Ideas:
- Provide specific examples and reasons to support your points.
- Use evidence from your own knowledge or experience where appropriate.
- Proofread Your Work:
- Leave time at the end to check your work for errors.
- Look for mistakes in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and word choice.
- Follow the Word Count:
- Ensure your answer is within the required word count (220-260 words).
- Too short or too long answers may be penalized.
- Practice Regularly:
- Practice writing regularly to improve your skills and build confidence.
- Use past papers and sample questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
- Read Widely:
- Read a variety of texts (articles, essays, reports, reviews) to understand different writing styles and structures.
- This will help you develop a more flexible writing approach and expand your vocabulary.
Part 1: Sample Writing Task
Instructions: Write an essay (220-260 words) in response to the following statement.
Task: You have attended a seminar on the impact of technology on society. You have made the notes below:
- Communication
- Employment
- Privacy
Some opinions expressed during the seminar:
“Technology has revolutionized the way we communicate, making it faster and easier.”
“Many jobs have been lost due to automation and artificial intelligence.”
“Privacy is a major concern in the digital age.”
Write an essay discussing two of the points mentioned above. Explain the reasons for your choice and provide specific examples to support your opinion.
You should include:
- An introduction
- Discussion of the first point
- Discussion of the second point
- Conclusion
Writing Section – Part 2
Instructions: Write an answer to one of the questions (220-260 words) in this part. Write the letter (A, B, C, or D) of the question you choose in the box at the top of the page.
Task A: Article
Question: A travel magazine has asked you to write an article on the following topic:
“The Most Interesting Place I Have Visited”
Write an article for the magazine describing the place, explaining why it was interesting, and giving tips for future visitors.
Task B: Letter
Question: You recently attended a concert and were dissatisfied with the experience. Write a letter to the concert organizers explaining what you were unhappy about, how it affected your enjoyment, and suggesting improvements for future events.
Task C: Report
Question: Your local council is planning to improve public transport in your area. You have been asked to write a report for the council outlining the current issues with public transport, suggesting possible improvements, and explaining how these changes would benefit the community.
Task D: Review
Question: You have recently seen a film that left a strong impression on you. Write a review of the film for a student magazine, describing the plot, discussing the elements that stood out, and explaining why you would or would not recommend it to others.