ECCE A few tips on ESSAYS and LETTERS

Letters or Essays for the ECCE exam may be written in order to 1) make
suggestions, offer advice or solve a problem, 2) present the advantages
and the disadvantages of the topic, 3) express opinion and 4) describe
people, events or a situation.
Depending on WHO you address the letter to or who is going to read your
essay, (this information is always provided and must be noted) you have
to decide whether the register is FORMAL or INFORMAL.
Remember that:

We begin with the 1st Paragraph: Introduction

In this paragraph, you state the problem clearly in your own words
(essay) or the reason for writing (letter) and you state your opinion.

Main Body-2nd and 3rd Paragraphs

Each paragraph must begin with a topic sentence that states the main
idea of the paragraph. Then, you explain this idea, providing details and
finally, you give examples, to make your idea more solid and real, or you
might present the possible results of the course of action you propose.

Conclusion: 4th Paragraph

In the final paragraph, you must summarize your suggestions and
restate the positive effects of your opinion or piece of advice.

Take a look at the model letters and essays that follow:

A. Making suggestions/solving problems

Topic: Better Habits for Better Health! According to experts, today’s

youth lead very unhealthy lifestyles. They eat too much processed food
and sugar and generally do not get much exercise. This means that
young people end up facing serious problems concerning their health
and fitness. “Feeling Fine” magazine wants to know what readers think
that can be done about this situation. Write a letter to the editor of the
magazine offering help to its young readers.

Dear Editor,
I read the article about habits and health in last month’s issue and I am
writing to make some suggestions about how we can improve our health
and fitness. I believe that combining a balanced diet with regular exercise
in the key to improve our lifestyle.
To begin with, it’s a good idea to think more about what we eat every day.
In other words, we should try to adopt a healthier diet, including plenty
of fresh fruit, salads and vegetables. We should also cut down on the
junk food we eat. For example, we should have a glass of milk or fruit
juice instead of sodas, and home-cooked meals instead of burgers. As a
result, we will certainly feel more energetic soon.
In addition, exercise plays a vital role in keeping fit and healthy. It is
undeniable that if we want to feel and look good, we should work out
regularly. Why not go jogging with our friends or join a gym? There are
plenty of options for us to choose from. Whatever we do, we will be
delighted with the results, since we will find ourselves in top form in no
time.
If we all follow these advice tips, and take these small steps, we will not
only feel healthier and happier, but we will also look better too! So, don’t
give up trying!
Yours sincerely,
Simon Taylor
B. Presenting advantages and disadvantages

Topic: Research has shown that the number of cars in cities has risen
dramatically and this has led to traffic problems and noise pollution.
Measures to improve the situation are being considered by the
government.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of using cars as a means of
transportation? Can people abandon their cars when going out? Is public
transportation effective? Give examples to support your views.

It is true that driving a car is considered one of the privileges most people
enjoy. As a result, there is an ever-increasing number of cars in the
streets. Yet, although cars have, definitely, made our lives easier, their
negative aspects cannot be ignored.
On the one hand, getting around by car is really convenient. Car owners
can drive wherever they want, anytime they wish. Moreover, cars are
much more comfortable than crowded buses. By that I mean that while
travelling, passengers can enjoy the luxury of their favorite music or the
air-conditioning. To top it all, cars are faster than other means of
transportation, so drivers can reach their destination without any delay.
On the other hand, owing a car costs a lot. The price of gas is high and
maintenance is an extra expense. Furthermore, the increasing number of
cars causes traffic congestion and, in the end, driving or finding a
parking place are becoming frustrating experiences. Last but not least,
cars emit fumes, which have a detrimental effect on both the atmosphere
and our health.
In conclusion, cars may have a lot to offer, but their disadvantages
should be taken into account if we want to make living conditions in the
city more tolerable. In my opinion, we should think twice before taking
our car next time we go out.
C. Expressing opinion

Topic: A group of Environmentalists are protesting against the use of an

ecological park as a tourist attraction. They claim it is interfering with
the nature and wildlife there. Park officials, on the other hand, say that
plants and animals are well cared for and that visitors have the chance
to learn more about the environment and so, respect it.
Write a letter to the Mayor of the town and explain your views about the
issue. Give specific reasons and examples.

Dear Mayor,
I am a resident of this town and I am writing to express my views on the
controversial issue of using nature reserves as tourist attractions. In my
opinion, it is beneficial to both the environment and the public.
Firstly, it is evident that nature reserves offer a unique experience.
Visitors are able to view animals in their natural habitat as well as a
variety of plants. They can also learn a lot about the wildlife from the
information that is provided.
Another argument in favor of ecological parks is that people appreciate
the quiet and peaceful surroundings there, away from the hustle and
bustle of the city. In other words, visitors are able to escape the stress of
the city life and enjoy the beauty of nature.
However, I understand that some people are worried that visitors will
disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem. Yet, I would argue that
most people are respectful and that park officials work hard to protect it.
All in all, I believe that the benefits of using a nature reserve as a tourist
attraction outweigh the drawbacks because they protect the wildlife and
educate the public.
Thank you for taking my views into account.
Sincerely,
Simon Taylor
D. Describing
Topic: Do you believe that studying abroad can make you more
understanding of how people from different cultural backgrounds think
and behave? Discuss your opinion, giving examples.

It is apparent that studying abroad is a very popular way for young

people to explore a different place and learn about themselves and
others. In my view, spending some time in a foreign country can help
students understand and appreciate the country’s culture and people.
To begin with, studying abroad can help cross-cultural understanding,
especially when students live with host families. Young people are
accepted and treated as part of the family. This way, students are more
likely to get to know the host family’s cultural beliefs and practices and
learn to appreciate them.
Secondly, students will be able to learn the history and civilization of the
country, in which they are living. It is obvious that exploring a country’s
history and traditions helps young people value and understand how this
country developed over the years.
All things considered, studying abroad is a valuable social and cultural
experience, which can make young people gain maturity as well as
become tolerant and understanding of the world around them.