Promoting Health and Fitness Among Youth

COMPILED BY TAMARA BEROZUB
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Writing an Opinion Essay

Part 1 question will be an essay on a given topic. A set of notes on the topic will be provided, and will
include three bullet points. Candidates will be asked to select two of the bullet points and to base their
essay on those two points. They should not attempt to discuss more than two of the points, as this will
lead to the essay being less developed than required. Candidates will also be asked to explain which of
the two points is more important in a given respect, and to give reasons for their opinion.
Candidates will be given three short opinions related to the bullet points. They may, if they wish, use these
to help develop their essay, but they should do so in their own words, as far as possible.
AN ESSAY is usually written for an academic tutor and may be a follow-up to an activity, such as attending
a panel discussion or watching a documentary. It should be well organised, with an introduction, clear
development, and an appropriate conclusion. The main purpose of an essay in the Cambridge English:
Advanced (CAE) Writing paper is to underline relevant salient issues on a topic, and to support an
argument with subsidiary points and reasons.
Hints
[PLANNING]
- Use the task input to help you plan but try to avoid copying phrases from the input in Part 1. Use your
own words.
[INTRODUCTION and CONCLUSION]
- Effective introductory and concluding paragraphs. In the introduction, state the topic clearly, give a brief
outline of the issue, saying why it is important or why people have different opinions about it.
- DO NOT express your opinion at the beginning of your essay (develop your essay in such a way that it
guides the reader to the conclusion you draw).
- DO give your opinion in the final paragraph.
[SECOND and THIRD PARAGRAPHS]
- Structure your argument. Each new paragraph has one main idea, stated in a topic sentence.
- Include relevant details to support the main idea: these might include examples, rhetorical questions (do
no overdo it), controversial or surprising statements... If you include a drawback, give a possible solution,
too.
[GENERAL]
- DO use a relatively formal register and an objective tone. Do not be too emotional.
- Remember to use linking adverbials to organise your ideas and to make it easy for the reader to follow
your argument.
- In the exam, allow yourself time to check your grammar, spelling and punctuation thoroughly.
Essay 1 - Model question

Your class has attended a panel discussion on what methods governments should use to discourage th e
use of private cars in the centre of the city. You have made the notes below.
Methods governments could use to discourage the use of private cars in the city centre
• investment
• education ✔
• taxes ✔
Some opinions expressed in the discussion

'Make businesses pay parking levies for their employees and they'll move out of the city centre.'
'Improve the public transport system, then people won't need their cars.'
'If people understood how much better pedestrianised city centres are, they wouldn't want to bring their
cars in.'
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Write an essay for your tutor, discussing two of the methods in your notes. You should explain which
method you think is more important for governments to consider, giving reasons to support your opinion.
You may, if you wish, make use of the opinions expressed in the discussion but you should use your own
words as far as possible. Write your essay in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.
Essay 1 - Model answer

Too much traffic is a major headache for everyone in the city due to the noise, pollution and, of
course, terrible delays during the rush hour. How can the government reduce traffic and dissuade people
from driving their cars into the centre every day? In this essay, two possible approaches to this pressing
yet complex issue will be discussed.
The first option to consider is an education campaign which could comprise of visual and radio
advertising, presentations to businesses and special designated days such as 'Wall to Work day'.
Compared to the high cost of significantly upgrading our public transport system, advertising is relatively
low-cost and straightforward to implement. On the other hand, it is difficult to gauge the effectiveness of
such campaign in advance because it relies on individuals changing their ingrained habits.
A second alternative would be to levy a tax on parking in the city. This could be applied both to
businesses and directly to consumers. While it is true that this would have immediate gains in revenue
and change behaviour, taxes are unpopular and could also place unfair pressure on small businesses and
individuals who do not have other transport options for work.
In my view, a multi-faceted education campaign would be the most effective starting point. In the
future, a tax could be a possible option but it would be tolerated better once citizens are educated about
the benefits of fewer cars and a more pedestrianised centre. Only by joining our efforts will we be able to
change this situation.
[+/- 250 words]
Your class has attended a panel discussion on the action governments can take to promote health and
fitness among young people. You have made the notes below.
Action to promote health and fitness among young people

• improve teaching in schools.
• improves attitudes to competitiveness.
• improve the image of sports.
Some opinions expressed during the discussion

'There need to be specialist sports teachers for children and students of all ages.'
'Some young people are put off by the pressure to compete.'
'A lot of young people don't think it's cool to take part in sports.'
Write an essay for your tutor, discussing two of the actions in your notes. You should explain which action
you think is more important, giving reasons to support your opinion.
You may, if you wish, make use of the opinions expressed during the discussion but you should use your
own words as far as possible. Write your essay in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Without doubt, people often hear about the many benefits of health and fitness. However, less
often do we hear concrete suggestions for how to improve participation rates, particularly among young
people. Fortunately, there are possible actions that governments could focus on in order to promote
health and fitness to youth today.
The first possible action is to improve physical education teaching in schools. Local students have
at times complained that the curriculum is rigid and emphasises repetitive activities instead of team sports
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and enjoyment. Better role models and more adventurous options could lead to improved attitude and
participation. Naturally, employing specialist sports teachers would incur considerable cost.
A second option would be to attempt to change the overly competitive attitudes that seem
ingrained in many of the sports competitions for youngsters. When adults such as parents and teachers
focus on winning above having a good time, it puts undue pressure on the participants. They may feel a
sense of failure if they lose and also be less inclined to try a new sport.
Taking all the above into account, either approach would be a step in the right direction. In my
view, it would be wise to prioritise dealing with reducing competitiveness first because I believe it would
help young people feel better about the sports they already do. They could then, in turn, influence their
friends to join in.
[+/- 230 words]
Your class has attended a lecture on the action governments can take to make sure cultural heritage is
preserved for future generations. You have made the notes below.
Priorities for governments aiming to preserve cultural heritage

• increase funding for museums.
• protect old buildings.
• teach the importance of cultural heritage in schools.
Some opinions expressed in the discussion

'Cultural heritage isn't just about buildings - it's about a way of life.'
'It's the responsibility of the older generation to pass on a cultural heritage to the next generation.'
'Museums are the best places to keep shared memories of a community.'
Write an essay for your tutor, discussing two of the priorities in your notes. You should explain which
priority you think is more important, giving reasons to support your opinion.
You may, if you wish, make use of the opinions expressed in the discussion but you should use your own
words as far as possible. Write your essay in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Cultural heritage is an invaluable asset for all generations to enjoy. It is about knowing where we
have come from and having pride in the place we live. Two priorities for the government's support of the
cultural heritage in our community will be presented in this essay.
The first idea is to increase funding to museums. People say that museums are the heart of cultural
heritage preservation. Not only do they display objects, but they also teach and provide information about
them. Increased funding could attract better care of objects, more specialised staff and more fun displays,
in turn attracting more people to visit and learn. On the other hand, I would argue that it's unreasonable
to expect governments to give more money to museums when they have got more important things to
spend people's taxes on.
The second idea is to protect old buildings. It has become clear in recent years that governments
can no longer afford to provide generous grants to help people maintain their historically significant
houses. I am sure there are many voluntary organisations which would be prepared to work on
conservation projects. Nevertheless, the government could provide protection to ensure that old
buildings are not demolished or transformed out of character.
In my view, the most pressing priority is to provide protective legislation for old homes and
buildings. I'm not alone in my concern about the loss of historical features which take such pride of place
in and give character to our communities.
[+/- 250 words]

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Your class has been involved in a discussion on whether a dress code should be introduced at the college
where you are studying. You have made the notes below.
Advantages of proposed dress code

• image of college.
• health and safety.
• discipline.
Some opinions expressed in the discussion:

'Wearing more formal clothes will prepare students for the workplace.'
'College isn't work or school, so students should be free to wear what they want.'
'Students are turning up to college in inappropriate clothes more frequently, so it's time for a dress code.'
Write an essay for your tutor, discussing two of the advantages in your notes. You should explain which
of the advantages you think would be most important for the college to consider in deciding whether to
introduce a dress code, giving reasons to support your opinion.
You may, if you wish, make use of the opinions expressed during the discussion but you should use your
own words as far as possible. Write your essay in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Introducing a dress code
It cannot be argued that we often hear that it is important for young people to be able to express
themselves by what they wear. At our college, our lack of clothing guidelines has led some students to
dress in a way that compromises both safety and our reputation in the community. Items of concer n
include ripped clothing, hoods that obscure the face, offensive T-shirts and very high platform heels. In
this essay, I will discuss two advantages of introducing a dress code at our college.
The image that we present to the community is important for a number of reasons, but primarily
because overly casual dress makes it more difficult to place students in homestays and on work
experience. Recently, this problem seems to have escalated as we have received some phone complaints
about students' scruffy appearance. Additionally, it has come to my attention that a few students have
worn T-shirts with slogans that could be considered xenophobic. It seems obvious that implementing a
dress code will improve the college's image.
With regard to health and safety, three students have fallen down the stairs during the last month.
One of them, who had been wearing a pair of stiletto heels at the time, unfortunately broke her leg. I have
grave concerns that without a dress code outlining suitable footwear choices, furt her accidents may be
inevitable.
In my view, keeping people safe at our school is our responsibility. Consequently, this is the most
pressing reason why it is time to introduce a dress code, even if it is initially unpopular with the student
body.
[+/- 260 words]
USEFUL PHRASES
Introducing the phenomenon to be discussed
More and more families are choosing to have only one child.
The trend nowadays is towards having smaller families.
Over the past ten years or so the media have frequently carried reports of ...............
Recent research indicates that the number of teenagers who smoke is increasing.
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Hardly a week goes by without another report of ................. appearing in the media.
This raises the issue of whether .................
Although most people would generally agree that ............... few would deny that ................
Hardly ever do people think about the importance of …
Seldom do children know about …
Stating your opinion

As I see it,
It seems to me that ............ I would also say that ....
I am convinced that ...............
I am inclined to believe that ..................
There is no doubt in my mind that ..................
One of the drawbacks of ....... is ..........
However, one of the benefits is that ............
Changing topic
As regards the causes for this, ..............
Concerning the causes for this, .........
As for the causes, ...........
Presenting arguments
One justification often given for ........... is that.................
Advocates/Proponents would claim that ..................
Those who object to ................. often argue that ...................
Another objection is that ......
However, it should not be forgotten that ..............
........... are opposed to ................ on the grounds that .................
From the point of view of .................
According to ....................
Describing causes
One factor which has led to ............ is ..............
One of the factors which has brought this about is .........
The problem often stems from ....................
The situation has been exacerbated by ................
.............. has only made the situation worse.
One consequence of ................ is ................
Proposing steps and measures

As regards the most appropriate response to this situation, one suggestion would be to .........
The first step to be taken would be to ........
To alleviate the situation people should ...........
In addition, they ought to ...............
To begin to tackle this situation society/individuals/the government need/s to ..........
.............. would certainly ameliorate the situation.
This can only be dealt with if ............
To overcome this problem, ..............
Were the government to ..............., the situation would doubtless improve.
Individuals can do a great deal to ............
The burden of responsibility lies in the hands of ........
It is vitally important that .........
Legislation should be introduced to control .................
It would be a grave error if we .................
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Concluding
All in all, it seems to me that ...........
The obvious conclusion to be drawn is that .......................
All things considered, .............
On balance, I tend to believe that ............
The world would surely be a better place to live in if ..............
If people stopped ....ing, we would have/ we could look forward to a ...............
The prospects for the future will be bleak/grim unless ...................
Taking all the above into consideration, it could be concluded that …
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Writing an Informal Letter or Email

A LETTER/AN EMAIL (formal or informal) is written in response to the situation outlined in the task.
Letters/emails in the Cambridge English: Advanced Writing paper will require a response which
is consistently appropriate for the specified target reader.
When a response is framed as an email, letter-writing conventions such as an opening salutation, clear
paragraphing and closing phrasing are always important.
Hints
 DO begin by giving a reason to write. You would normally start with a greeting,
then acknowledge the letter or some key information given in the letter to which you are
replying.
 Use paragraphs in which you cover each of the points mentioned in the task input.
 As well as the points mentioned in the task input, think of some of your own ideas.
 Identify the function(s) you should use (e.g. advising, reminding, requesting, suggesting...).
 Make sure the points covered follow a logical right order so that the whole letter/email
is coherent.
 Finish the letter/email in a natural way, by arranging to see or contact the person you are
writing to again soon.
 Remember to use an informal tone.
Model questions and answers

Informal letter/Email - Model question
TASK
Read part of an email from a friend who is planning to come and live in your country.
Of course, I'd really need to learn the language. I know you've been learning English for years, so you've
had loads of experience. Are there any tricks of the trade that might help me pick up your language a bit
more quickly?
Reply to the email message offering your friend some advice. Write your email in 220-260 words in an
appropriate style.
Informal letter/Email - Model answer

Dear Emma,
Thanks so much for your email. It was so good to hear from you. I'm really sorry not to have been
in touch earlier but I've been up to my eyes preparing for my exams. I’m exhausted!
What great news that you're finally coming to France - I can't wait to catch up in person! And
you're going to learn French too , that’s great, don’t you think?
I've been learning English since I was a kid as you know, and by far the most useful experience
was going to that language school in Brighton for three months last summer. If I were you, I'd definitely
enrol in a course like that to keep you focused. I'd also suggest reading as widely as possible, online
newspapers, blogs, books, the back of a cereal packet - anything, really! Don't be tempted to buy one of
those 'Learn French in a weekend' courses though - a waste of time if you ask me. Learning a language
takes time and effort.
What seems to work for a lot of people is learning songs. My brother reckons that he has learnt
more English from the Top 40 than he has at school. And you know my friend Lucie? She raved about
her fortnight with a host family, so that's worth a try too. Of course, you could also get a French
boyfriend or girlfriend to speed up your progress!
Anyway, I hope that's helped give you a few ideas. Do write back as soon as you can - I'd love to
hear all the details of your plans.
Lots of love,
Sandrine
[+/- 270 words]
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Writing a Formal Letter

You may be asked to write a letter asking for information, giving information, expressing your opinion,
giving an apology, complaining about a product or applying for a job.
Read the task carefully. You need to underline all the content points and consider the following:
 Why are you writing the letter/email? To correct information, to apply for a job, to complain
about something....
 Who is the target reader? You may have to write to the editor of a publication, to a potential
employer, to a university administrator...
 Which language/register would be appropriate to reach my goal? Is there enough SPECIFIC
detail in my letter/email to convince the target reader?
Open and finish your letter/email using opening and closing formulae appropriately. Some examples:
 "Dear Editor" → "Best regards" (and your own name and surname)
 "Dear Sir/Madam" → "Yours faithfully" (and your own name and surname)
 "Dear Mrs Jones" → "Yours sincerely" (and your own name and surname)
As a general rule, your first paragraph could be used as an introduction. Add as many paragraphs as
content points you have to deal with. In the final paragraph, you should express what you expect to be
done as a result of your letter.

Your company would like to offer work-experience placements to students in an international college.
Write a letter for publication in the student newspaper at the college.
Your letter should explain what your company does, what kind of work-experience placements are
available, and how students would benefit from the experience. Write your letter in 220-260 words in
an appropriate style.
Formal letter/Email - Model answer
Dear Students,
Are you looking for a work placement that will give you plenty of valuable experience and
will look good on your CV? If so, then our company may have something to offer you.
We are an international educational exchange organisation which organises links between
schools all over the world. We currently have three work-experience placements available for students
from your college. The work would involve a range of office tasks, including dealing with correspondence,
arranging meetings and keeping our database up-to-date. We are particularly insterested in offering these
placements to students with some knowledge of two or more languages.
The placements would be of great benefit to the students who are given this opportunity.
It would provide experience of working in a small and dedicated team, which would give you the chance
to develop a wider range of office skills than would normally be the case in larger organisations. Our
international network means that you would also gain some contacts all over the world, which might be
of particular value to any of you considering a career in some aspect of education.
You will find further information about our organisation and the placements we offer on
our website and we look forward to hearing from any of you who think that the work might be right for
you - and that you might be the right person for one of these placements.
Best wishes to you all,
Paula Fisher
[+/- 240 words]
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Writing a Proposal
PROPOSALS and reports have a similar layout. Reports are based on current circumstances or situations
whereas proposals are action plans for the future. You give more space to the current situation in a
report and more space to recommendations for future actions in a proposal.
Hints
First things first...
1. Begin by brainstorming ideas, in any order, and don't worry about language at this stage.
2. Group your ideas under headings for each section of your proposal.
3. Write a first draft, paying attention to the level of formality of the language.
Don't forget!
 Begin by stating the purpose of your proposal.
 Use an impersonal, semi-formal style.
 Use clear layout with headings.
 Express opinions and make recommendations in the last section of your proposal.
 Include a final sentence summarising your opinion.
 Use bullet points but not too many.
Useful language for a proposal

Stating the purpose of the proposal
 The principal aims/objectives of this proposal are to...
 This proposal is intended to...
 In this proposal the facilities at …. are described/evaluated/presented/assessed...
Background information
 Comments made at the end of the questionnaires suggest...
 Following a survey among families of young children...
 Concerned members of the local community were invited to attend...
 A number of concerns with regard to the most recent street party were expressed by locals...
Making recommendations and suggestions

 A working group should be set up by...
 There should be an enquiry into...
 It is recommended that a larger survey should be conducted before a final decision is reached...
Final recommendations
 The results of the survey/questionnaire suggest that the introduction of heavier fines would seem
to be the best option/choice/solution.
 If these recommendations are implemented, the situation is bound to improve.
 Unless these suggestions are implemented, it is unlikely that there will be any improvement in
the short term.
 Were these points taken into consideration, the results would …
Proposal- Model question 1

Your college currently doesn't provide enough support for students planning to spend time studying in
another country. You see this notice in the library.
The college is planning to introduce a special course for students planning to spend time studying in
another country. The college principal invites students to send a proposal outlining any problems students
may face whe studying abroad and suggesting ways in which the course could address these problems. A
decision can then be made about what to include on the course.
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Write your proposal in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.
Proposal- Model answer 1
Introduction
This proposal is intended to outline common issues students have when studying abroad, and suggest
ways that a course could help them to deal with these. Recommendations about what should be included
in the course curriculum are included in the last section.
Problems when studying abroad

Interviews were conducted with 20 students who have recently completed a student exchange
programme. The majority of students expressed the opinion that overcoming the language barrier in their
new country was the biggest challenge and nearly half also said that they experienced culture shock. Other
problems cited included unrealistic expectations, loneliness and packing the wrong things - particularly
being unprepared for a different climate.
Ways a course could address these

A course could prepare students for culture shock by raising awareness of the phenomenon and
describing cultural differences that students may encounter in their host country. To aid participants with
language, a course could include not only some useful phrases for the first days after arrival, but also some
resources for language learning. The course could also include a discussion about combating isolation and
adjusting expectations.
Recommendations
I would like to present the following recommendations:
 Invite students who have previously studied abroad to share aspects of the culture they found
surprising and give advice on what to take.
 Provide a list of useful phrases, together with suggestions of useful resources for language learning
such as websites, blogs or e-books.
 Facilitate a discussion about engaging with people to avoid loneliness and isolation.
If these recommendations are implemented, young people are bound to feel more prepared for their
experience.
[+/- 270 words]
Proposal- Model question 2

Students at your college have to give a spoken presentation as part of their final assessment and need
some help. The school director has invited you to send a proposal outlining any problems students have
with presentations and suggesting how these problems could be overcome.
Write your proposal in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.
Proposal- Model answer 2

Helping with students presentations: a proposal
Introduction
This proposal is intended to present some of the difficulties students at this school have with preparing
their final presentations, present the key needs to be addressed and conclude by making a series of
recommendations on how teachers at the school could assist students with overcoming the obstacles to
giving a successful presentation confidently.
Current situation
Following discussion among the students, it has become clear that many of them are feeling very nervous
about the upcoming presentations. A number of students are struggling to select an appropriate
structure. Comments made suggest that students lack previous experience in public speaking and would
like opportunities to practise before the final assessment.
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Key needs to be addressed

Students require additional help with topic selection and presentation structure, and opportunities need
to be provided for students to gain experience in front of others.
Recommendations
The following actions are suggested to the teachers at our school:
 Provide students with a list of possible presentation topics.
 There should be a lesson or workshop on structuring a presentation for those who are interested.
 Students should be given time during class to practise their presentations in small groups.
 Additional upfront speaking opportunities should be incorporated into classes including plays and
games.
If these suggestions are implemented, it will lead to increased student confidence and performance for
the final presentations.
[+/- 250 words]
The purpose of this

report is to present
an alternative to
stone writing.
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Example
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Writing a Report
A REPORT may be written for a superior (e.g. a boss or college principal) or a peer group (e.g. club
members or colleagues). The content of a report is to some extent factual and draws on the prompt
material, but there will be scope for candidates to make use of their own ideas and experience.
Candidates will be asked to do more than describe a situation; they may be asked to evaluate to what
extent a particular aim has been achieved, or to suggest an alternative course of action.
Hints
 Begin by stating the purpose of your report.
 You may use invented statistics to provide a succinct summary of your results.
 Use a clear layout with:
 Headings. They will make it clear that your report is not an essay or review.
 Lists of numbered points or bullets where appropriate. (DON'T overdo it, though. If you
use them in more than one section, you won't be able to show the full range of structures
and vocabulary you know.)
 Divide your report into sections according to the input.
 Develop the ideas in the task input.
 Include a sentence summarising your opinion at the beginning of the final section of your report.
 Use an impersonal, formal style.
Useful language for a report

Stating the purpose of the report
 The principal aim/objective/purpose of this report is to provide a description of... / to present
results of /to assess the importance of ...
 In this report a description of ... will be provided/ results of ... will be presented/ the importance
of... will be assessed…
 This report describes/provides an assessment of... / describes/provides/presents results of...
Describing how you got the information

 A survey of…. was conducted / Interviews with local council officers were conducted
 ... responded to an online questionnaire.
 Three of the most popular ... were visited …
 ... were invited to attend a focus group...
Reporting your results

 Most of those responding to the survey stated that/expressed the opinion that ...
 According to ...
 A large/considerable/significant/ proportion of respondents/informants/those surveyed said that
...
 Nearly three quarters of the ...
Presenting a list
 The arguments against ... are the following:
1. ...
2. ...
 The following were the main reasons given for supporting ...: firstly, ..., secondly, ...
 Points our informants mentioned in favour of/against ... were:
1. ...
2. ...
 There are several ways in which ... might be ... :
1. ...
2. ...
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Making recommendations
 Taking all the factors mentioned into account/In the light of the results of the
survery/questionnaire, ... would appear to be the most viable solution/option/approach.
 I would therefore recommend ....
 Clearly, more could be done to .... I would make the following recommendations:
 ...
 ...
 ...

Report - Model question 1
An international development agency has been looking into attitudes to aging around the world. The
research director has asked you to conduct a survey and write a report. Your report should discuss how
young people where you live feel about older people in the community and the prospect of growing older
themselves. You have also been asked to make recommendations about how attitudes could be changed.
Write your report in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.
Report - Model answer 1
Introduction
The main objectives of this report are to describe how young people in Gava feel about elderly people in
their area and aging themselves. The results of a survey conducted with a random selection of 200 young
people at a local high school will be presented and the final section will include recommendations as to
how attitudes could be improved.
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Attitudes to older people
According to the survey, a significant proportion of young people never or hardly never spend time with
someone aged 65. Reasons that respondents gave for this included: they have nothing in common, the
elderly don't like teenagers and lack of time. More promisingly, nearly three quarters of those surveyed
(74 percent) agreed that they could probably 'learn something' from older people.
Attitudes to aging
Those responding to the survey were almost equally split between preferring to think about it as little as
possible and those who never thought about it. For those who did think about it, the prime concerns were
loneliness, poor health and boredom.
Recommendations
Clearly more could be done to bridge the gap between young and old in our community. I would make
the following recommendations:
 Volunteer tutoring opportunities for elderly citizens could be set up to help younger people at the
high school with academic work or practical skills.
 Young people could be invited to tutor old people in technology use, e.g. how to text/send emails
in return for a donation to be used for social events.
Hopefully, increased contact between the groups will lead to greater understanding and more positive
attitudes.
[+/- 260 words]

An international market research company has asked you to write a report on advertising in your country.
The company that has commisioned this report wants to know about the most common approaches used
and how consumers respond to them. You are also asked to suggest changes to current approaches or
alternative approaches which you believe would be more effective.
Introduction
In this report, a description of common types of advertising in Australia will be provided and results of
consumer responses to these will be described. The final section makes recommendations for possible
changes to increase the effectiveness of campaigns.
Common approaches
Television and radio continue to play an important part in advertising campaigns and celebrity
endorsements often feature prominently. Print media, including billboards, posters and flyers, are also
ubiquitous, especially in large cities. Some companies target consumers by giving away samples in public
places and supermarkets, aggressive telemarketing or door-to-door sales. Many companies use social
media strategies such as online competitions or special offers for 'likers'.
Consumer responses
An online survey with 200 Australian contacts was conducted. An overwhelming majority cited that they
found telemarketing and door-to-door sales people intrusive, annoying and rude. Nevertheless, over half
admitted to buying something from someone through one of these channels. People generally said that
they liked advertising when it was suited to their interests or us ed humour. A number of respondents
mentioned that they 'loved free stuff' and would tell others about something they had been given.
Recommendations
In light of the results above, the following is reccommended:
 Make sure telemarketers and door-to-door salespeople have adequate customer service training.
24
 Target young people such as university students for giveaways as this will likely result in positive
word-of-mouth advertising and online reviews.
[+/- 230 words]

Your local council is conducting an enquiry into the volume of visitors to the centre of your town or city
with a view to encouraging more people to make greater use of shops, restaurants, cafés and
entertainment facilities there. You agree to write a report describing the existing situation, including
factors which discourage people from coming to the city centre and recommending ways of attracting
more visitors.
Introduction
The principal aims of this report are to provide an overview of the volume of visitors using services in our
city centre and to identify factors which deter people from using them. The final section makes
recommendations as to how the situation could be improved.
Current situation
Interviews were conducted with a random selection of shoppers and customers in local restaurants and
cafés. Fewer than half regularly visited the city centre. Among those who did make frequent use of what
is on offer, most cited the pedestrianised Mitchell Mall as their favority area. Smaller numbers enjoyed
shopping or dining around Holmes Square, though several people said they found the traffic noise
disagreeable.
Factors preventing greater use of city centre services

There was a clear division between those who regularly visited the city centre and those who so
infrequently. The latter cited traffic congestion and pollution along with inflated prices for goods as factors
that acted as a deterrent. For those who frequently came into town, on the other hand, the pedestrianised
area and the outdoor café were a major attraction.
Recommendations
Clearly more could be done to attract people to our city centre. I would make the following
recommendations:
 The pedestrianised area could be extended to include the streets surrounding Holmes Square so
as to capitalise on what is already an attractive area.
 Shops, cafés and restaurants should be encouraged to offer discounts to regular customers.
 Access to the pedestrianised areas could be maintained for cyclists.
This final recommendation will encourage those who currently cyle into town to continue to do so, while
reducing noise and pollution from motor traffic.
[+/- 270 words]
25
Writing a Review
A REVIEW may be about a book, magazine, film, play or concert; it may also be about a product or a
service. A review in the Cambridge English: Advanced Writing paper does not merely ask for a general
description of the thing reviewed, but requires an evaluation of its suitability for a particular purpose or
audience. The target reader is specified in the task, and candidates should be encouraged to use this
information when choosing appropriate ideas and language to include in their response.
Hints
 A title is advisable.
 Think what your are trying to achieve and, in the introduction, DO give your reader an indication
of the structure of your review. You should also raise a question in your reader's mind.
 Start a new paragraph for every item/aspect you are addressing in your review.
 Try to make it interesting by using a wide range of vocabulary: colourful, lively language;
comparisons to describe something; specialised topic vocabulary.
 DO give your assessment of what you are reviewing and DO NOT forget to cover all the
points mentioned in the task input.
 DO include a final recommendation or evaluation in the final paragraph.
Don't forget!
 The target reader is specified in the question, so the candidate knows not only what register is
appropriate, but also has an idea about the kind of information to include.
 Language of opinion (positive, negative), recommendation, description is necessary.

Review - Model question 1
You see this announcement in an international magazine called Cinefilia.
The most UPLIFTING and the biggest DOWNER.

It's sometimes hard to choose a film that fits your mood purely on the basis of the poster or the description
on the cover of the DVD. That's why we want to publish reviews of the most uplifting and the most
depressing films our readers have seen, so that others know what to watch and what to avoid.
Send in a review which describes the most uplifting film you've ever seen and the one you found the biggest
downer. Make sure you give reasons for your choices.
Write your review in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.
Review - Model answer 1

In this review, two contrasting tales about overcoming adversity will be compared. Whereas The
Blind Side (2009) left me with a huge grin on my face, sadly, Doctor Zhivago (1965) left me feeling the
weight of the world on my shoulders.
Doctor Zhivago, directed by five-time Oscar winner David Lean, is set in the Bolshevik revolution
and follows the title character, who must adapt to the new order while pining for Lara, the beautiful wife
of a political campaigner. The director succeeded in creating a film that is thoroughly engaging but full of
gritty realism, cruelty and tragic irony. Take the tissues!
The Blind Side, which is based on a true story, is also a bit of a tearjerker, in a completely different
way. Starring Sandra Bullock, who won an Academy Award for her portrayal of a rich white mother in
Tennessee who takes a homeless black teenager under her roof. Understandably, the gentle giant thinks
he isn't good at anything but his new mother sees his potential to become a football star and part of the
family. The plot is based on a true story, making it all the more touching.
26
I would strongly recommend The Blind Side. It will appeal to a range of people and is a great choice
for a movie night. Although Doctor Zhivago is a classic, I think it has more of a niche audience and is best
saved for when you want a dose of gloom!
[+/- 245 words]
Review - Model question 2
You see the following advertisement in a music magazine.

Ever fancied yourself as a music journalist? Now's your chance.
We're looking for enthusiastic music lovers to write a review of their favourite album of all time. We want
to know why you love it and why you think everyone should listen to it. It doesn't matter who the artist is
or how old or new the music is.
Send in a review of your favourite album of all time giving reasons for your choice.
Write your review in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.
Review - Model answer 2

A thrilling album
I'm certainly not alone in my choice of favourite album. In fact, Michael Jackson's "Thriller" has
sold over 50 million copies worldwide since being released in 1982, and still currently holds the much
coveted title of "best-selling album of all time". A toe-tapping blend of pop, funk and R&B, it's sure to get
everyone grooving at a party, yet also contains unexpected emotional power in the lyrics.
Jam-packed full of catchy melodies such as the opening "Wanna be startin' something" and the
famous "Beat it", almost every song makes you want to hum along. It's like a feast for the ears, with a
range of styles from the soft duet ballad with Paul McCartney "The Girl is Mine" to the rock/pop of the
title track. The album will leave you with no doubt of the unique and extraordinary talent of the King of
Pop. What disco would be complete without a few of his renowned numbers?
Unlike much of today's mordern pop, this album actually deals with a huge number of deep themes
such as jelousy, loneliness and obsession. The song "Billie Jean", for example, chronicles a story of a crazed
fan who insists that she has his baby. Not hard to imagine that the artist was channelling some real
experiences in his writing.
It doesn't surprise me at all that this remains the best-selling album of all time and I challenge
evern the most cynical listener to play "Thriller" without tapping along.
[+/- 245 words]
Example
27
28

Promoting Health and Fitness Among Youth

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Writing an Opinion Essay

Essay 1 - Model question

Some opinions expressed in the discussion

Essay 1 - Model answer

Essay 2 - Model question

Action to promote health and fitness among young people

Some opinions expressed during the discussion

Essay 2 - Model answer

Essay 3 - Model question

Priorities for governments aiming to preserve cultural heritage

Some opinions expressed in the discussion

Essay 3 - Model answer

[+/- 250 words]

Essay 4 - Model question

Advantages of proposed dress code

Some opinions expressed in the discussion:

Essay 4 - Model answer

Stating your opinion

Proposing steps and measures

Writing an Informal Letter or Email

Model questions and answers

Informal letter/Email - Model answer

Writing a Formal Letter

Model questions and answers

Formal letter/Email - Model answer

Useful language for a proposal

Making recommendations and suggestions

Proposal- Model question 1

Problems when studying abroad

Ways a course could address these

Proposal- Model question 2

Proposal- Model answer 2

Key needs to be addressed

The purpose of this

Useful language for a report

Describing how you got the information

Reporting your results

Model questions and answers

Report - Model answer 1

Report - Model question 2

Report - Model answer 2

Report - Model question 3

Report - Model answer 3

Factors preventing greater use of city centre services

Model questions and answers

You see this announcement in an international magazine called Cinefilia.

The most UPLIFTING and the biggest DOWNER.

Write your review in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Review - Model answer 1

Review - Model question 2

You see the following advertisement in a music magazine.

Review - Model answer 2

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