English and more

Любое эссе должно состоять из вступления [introduction], тела [a body of paragraphs] и заключения [conclusion], выделенных в абзацы. [критерии coherence, cohesion]

В любом эссе во вступлении нужно обязательно полностью перефразировать данную в задании тему и ввести свое мнение или ключевую мысль всего эссе. [ критерии task achievement, coherence, vocabulary]

Любое эссе должно быть написано без повторения слов и оборотов [допускается максимум 3 повторения, разнесенных друг от друга в разные абзацы], со сложными грамматическими конструкциями, с применением менее распространенных синонимов обычных слов более формального стиля, с правильно расставленными знаками препинания. [критерий grammar, syntax, lexical resource]. Во время тренировки удобно подбирать синонимы, используя онлайн тезаурус словаря Коллинз

Для каждой мысли [topic sentence], будь то ваше мнение или чужое, нужно давать объяснения /аргументы/ расширения [причины/последствия и т.п.] в следующих предложениях. [критерии coherence, task achievement], а затем, желательно, дать примеры из жизни / статистику. Их можно придумать. [критерий coherence, task achievement]

В любом эссе должны быть вводные фразы [для 8,5 баллов в IELTS- не менее 7], показывающие направление мысли, но не обязательно в начале каждого предложения. [критерий cohesion]. "However" лучше применять в середине предложения, а не в начале: This policy, however, does not suit everybody.

Эссе должно состоять из минимум 250 слов в IELTS [за 40 мин]; 300 слов в integrated writing [за 30 мин] и 120 слов в independent writing [за 10 мин] в TOEFL; 140-190 слов в FCE [за 40 мин], 220-260 слов в CAE [за 45 мин]. Точных требований в IELTS и TOEFL к количеству слов не предъявляется, но есть минимум. В олимпиадах обычно требуют 250 слов +- 10% С другой стороны, чем больше вы пишите, тем больше может быть ошибок. Это минус слишком больших эссе. Attention: В олимпиадах и ЕГЭ важно убраться в границы количество. Если напишите меньше слов, то получите 0 за все задание, если больше- то проверять будут только то, что убирается в регламент, и эссе будет считаться незаконченным со всеми вытекающими последствиями.

Любое эссе должно быть по теме и четко следовать ожидаемой логике, от которой зависит структура [иначе 0 баллов по критерию task achievement]. С точки зрения структуры, эссе в IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge exams и т.п. может быть разных видов. Вот наиболее распространенные:

1. Problem Solution Essays

...Problem... State some reasons for this and provide possible solutions /

What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?

Formula:

Write an introduction to the topic.
Describe 3 causes of the problem (with examples).
Propose 3 corresponding solutions.
Write a short conclusion giving your view.

Plan / Structure:

Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Cause 1 + Solution 1
Paragraph 3: Cause 2 + Solution 2
Paragraph 4: Cause 3 + Solution 3
Paragraph 5: Conclusion

Paragraph 1 — Introduction

Introductory phrases:

It is widely observed that...
In recent years, there has been growing concern about...
One of the most pressing issues today is...
This essay will examine the main causes of this problem and propose feasible solutions.

Sentence plan:

In the current global context, (general background sentence).
However, (rephrase the problem).
This essay will examine the key causes of this issue and suggest practical solutions.

Paragraph 2 — Cause 1 + Solution 1

Introductory phrases:

One of the primary causes of this problem is...
A major contributing factor is...
This issue largely stems from...
One effective way to address this problem would be...

Sentence plan:

One of the main causes of the problem is that (cause 1).
By this, I mean (explanation in 2–3 sentences).
For instance, (give a relevant example).
A possible solution is to (solution 1).

Paragraph 3 — Cause 2 + Solution 2

Introductory phrases:

Another significant cause is...
In addition, this problem is aggravated by...
A further issue lies in...
To tackle this challenge, it would be advisable to...

Sentence plan:

Another major cause is that (cause 2).
That is to say, (explain the mechanism in 2–3 sentences).
To tackle this issue, (government / institutions / individuals) could (solution 2).
This would help because (brief rationale).

Paragraph 4 — Cause 3 + Solution 3

Introductory phrases:

A third contributing factor is...
Equally important is the role of...
Moreover, this problem is linked to...
The most sustainable solution would be...

Sentence plan:

A third cause of this problem is (cause 3).
To be more precise, (explanation in 2–3 sentences).
As a result, (effect / consequence).
The most practical solution would be to (solution 3).

Paragraph 5 — Conclusion

Introductory phrases:

To sum up,...
In conclusion,...
Overall, it is clear that...
In my view, the responsibility lies primarily with...

Sentence plan:

To sum up, this problem persists due to (summarize causes 1–3).
Unless (summarize solutions 1–3), it is likely to continue.
In my view, the primary responsibility for resolving this issue lies with (responsible parties).

2. Opinion Essays

What is your view on...?

Structure:

Introduction (introduce topic + state opinion clearly)
Main Body Paragraph 1 (Reason 1)
Main Body Paragraph 2 (Reason 2)
Conclusion (reaffirm opinion)

Paragraph 1 — Introduction

Topic-introducing phrases (trend / controversy / concern / dilemma):

In contemporary society, (topic) has become an important issue.
In recent years, (topic) has attracted increasing attention.
(Topic) remains a subject of ongoing debate in modern society.
A growing concern in many countries today is (topic).
There is a noticeable trend toward (topic).
(Topic) presents a significant challenge in the modern world.
Many individuals today face a dilemma when it comes to (topic).

Opinion-introducing phrases:

In my opinion, ...
I firmly believe that ...
From my perspective, ...
It is my strong view that ...
I am convinced that ...

Phrases informing the reader that detailed explanations of the author's ideas will follow:

This essay will outline the key reasons supporting this view.
The following paragraphs will present the main arguments for this position.
This essay will examine the principal factors shaping my opinion.
The arguments below will explain why I hold this view.
This essay will set out the main justifications for my stance.

Sentence plan:

In contemporary society, (topic) has become increasingly relevant.
In my opinion, (clear personal stance).
This essay will outline the main reasons supporting this view.

Paragraph 2 — Main Body Paragraph 1 (Reason 1)

Introductory phrases:

The main reason for my opinion is that ...
One of the strongest arguments supporting my view is ...
Firstly, it is important to recognise that ...
A key factor influencing my position is ...

Example-introducing phrases:

For example, ...
For instance, ...
A clear example of this is ...
This can be illustrated by ...
To illustrate this point, ...
A real-world example of this would be ...
This is evident in cases such as ...

Sentence plan:

One of the main reasons I hold this opinion is that (Reason 1).
In other words, (explain the idea in 1–2 sentences).
For example, (give a relevant example or evidence).
This demonstrates why (link back to opinion).

Paragraph 3 — Main Body Paragraph 2 (Reason 2)

Introductory phrases:

Another important reason supporting my view is ...
In addition, it can be argued that ...
A further point in favour of this position is ...
Equally significant is the fact that ...

Example-introducing phrases:

For instance, ...
One striking example is ...
This can be seen in situations where ...
To give a concrete example, ...
A good illustration of this is ...
This is particularly evident in ...

Sentence plan:

Another compelling reason to support this opinion is (Reason 2).
This means that (explain the idea in 1–2 sentences).
A good illustration of this is (example).
As a result, (reinforce personal stance).

Paragraph 4 — Conclusion

Conclusion-introducing phrases:

To sum up, ...
In conclusion, ...
Overall, I remain convinced that ...
For these reasons, I firmly believe that ...
Taking everything into account, ...

Sentence plan:

To sum up, I firmly believe that (restate opinion).
The main reasons for this view are (briefly summarize Reason 1 and Reason 2).
Therefore, it is clear that (final reinforcing statement).

To what extent do you agree or disagree with...?

Agree or Disagree? Template[100%]

Introduction - Indicate the writer's position clearly

Body l - Agree or Disagree

Body 2 - Agree or Disagree

Body 3 - Disagree or Agree (Some other people's opinion)

Conclusion

Template “Do you Agree or Disagree?”

Although, many people believe that is beneficial for /acceptable/convincing, I hold an opposing view. // Although is widely considered __________ /widely extoled for , the idea still seems fundamentally flawed, which makes me dissent from it. // Despite a great number of skeptics / critics, I fully agree with the idea of __________/that__________

Out of all the arguments, the strongest one to prove my view is that A good
example of this is, specifically, . Besides, it is also true that . By this I mean .

The other reason to prove my point / the falsehood of the opponents’ idea /the falsity of extolling is that . In addition, the fact that is also logical/demonstrative/speaks volumes.

In conclusion, it can be said that despite , my reasons that and / as well as are logically acceptable. Therefore, I fully [dis]agree with…

To what extent do you Agree or Disagree? [80% - 20%]

Introduction - Indicate the writer's position to a large extent 80%

Body l - 80% Agree or Disagree

Body 2 - 80% Agree or Disagree

Body3 - 20% Disagree or Agree (I may not overlook the fact that......)

Conclusion

Template for "To what extent do you Agree or Disagree?"

Although, it is widely believed that , I support / disagree with this statement to a large extent. / Although is widely considered , the idea still seems fundamentally flawed. / appears to have some deficiencies, due to which it is not possible to fully support the view.

Out of all the reasons, the foremost one is . This is due to . To add to this, ___

Additionally, /Apart from …ing, . This is because . Moreover, . For instance, .

In spite of the deficiencies discussed above, I would not overlook the other/positive/negative side of . To begin with,______ ,undeniably, , which makes it / [__] still viable / feasible/ lends ______credibility under certain conditions . Also, _______________ .

To recap, it can be finally said that although/despite the fact/issue of , I am inclined [dis]agree with it and believe _____ is quite rational / cannot be viewed from one side/unilatterally/ should be viewed from a wider perspective.

3. Direct double question essay [Or direct one question essay]

Plan

1) Introduction

Paraphrase the question
Outline sentence – state your answer to both questions

Introductory phrases (paraphrasing the question):

In contemporary society, the issue of (topic) has become increasingly relevant.
In recent years, growing attention has been paid to (topic).
The question of whether (rephrase topic) has sparked considerable debate.
One of the key challenges in modern society is (topic).

Outline sentence starters (answering both questions):

In my view, the answer to both questions lies in...
This essay argues that (Answer 1) and (Answer 2).
Overall, I believe that (combined response to both questions).
The following paragraphs will address both aspects of this issue.

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Answer question 1

Topic sentence – state your answer
Explanation – develop the idea
Example – give an example

Topic sentence starters:

One convincing answer to the first question is that...
With regard to the first question, it can be argued that...
The primary response to this question is that...
In addressing the first question, it is clear that...

Explanation starters:

This means that...
In other words, ...
To put it another way, ...
This can be explained by the fact that...

Example-introducing phrases:

For example, ...
For instance, ...
A clear example of this is ...
This can be illustrated by ...
To give a concrete example, ...

3) Main body paragraph 2 – Answer question 2

Topic sentence – state your answer
Explanation – develop the idea
Example – give an example

Topic sentence starters:

Turning to the second question, it can be argued that...
Another key response is that...
As far as the second issue is concerned, ...
A further important point is that...

Explanation starters:

This can be attributed to...
The main reason for this is that...
This occurs because...
One explanation for this is that...

Example-introducing phrases:

For instance, ...
A good illustration of this is ...
This is particularly evident in cases where ...
To illustrate this point, ...

4) Conclusion — Summarise both questions and answers

Conclusion starters:

To sum up, ...
In conclusion, ...
Overall, it can be seen that ...
Taking both questions into account, ...
In light of the points discussed above, ...

If there happens to be only one question on the heading:

1) Introduction

Paraphrase the question
Outline sentence – state your answer in a general way

Introductory phrases:

The question of whether (topic) has become increasingly relevant.
There is growing interest in the issue of (topic).
One of the central concerns today is (topic).

2) Main body paragraph 1 – The first point in your answer

Topic sentence starters:

One of the main points in response to this question is that...
A key argument in favour of this view is that...
The first important factor to consider is that...

Explanation starters:

This suggests that...
This can be explained by...
In practical terms, this means that...

Example starters:

For example, ...
To illustrate this, ...
A real-world example of this is ...

3) Main body paragraph 2 – The second point in your answer

Topic sentence starters:

Another significant point is that...
A further reason is that...
The second key factor is that...

Explanation starters:

This is largely due to...
The reason for this is that...

Example starters:

For instance, ...
This can be seen in cases such as ...

3) Main body paragraph 3 – The third point in your answer

Topic sentence starters:

A final point worth considering is that...
The last major argument is that...

Explanation starters:

This highlights that...
This demonstrates that...

Example starters:

To give one final example, ...
This is evident in situations where ...

4) Conclusion — Summarise the question and points in the answer

Conclusion starters:

To sum up, ...
In conclusion, ...
Overall, it is clear that ...
Taking everything into account, ...

4. Two sides essays

Some people think.... Others think...Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Universal template (Discuss both views + give your opinion)

INTRODUCTION — paraphrase the topic + present both views + state your position

Topic-introducing phrases:

In contemporary society, the issue of (topic) has become increasingly relevant.
In recent years, growing attention has been paid to (topic).
(Topic) remains a subject of ongoing debate in many countries.
Opinions remain divided over whether (rephrase the question).

Introducing both views:

While some argue that (View A), others maintain that (View B).
There are two contrasting perspectives on this issue: (View A) versus (View B).
Supporters of opposing positions offer different interpretations of this matter.

Stating your position:

In my view, (your opinion) is more convincing.
On balance, the argument in favour of (your opinion) appears stronger.
This essay supports the view that (your opinion).

BODY PARAGRAPH 1 — discuss View A (often the opposing side)

Introducing View A:

Proponents of this view argue that...
Supporters of this position maintain that...
According to this perspective, ...

Explanation starters:

This can be explained by the fact that...
The reasoning behind this argument is that...
In essence, this position suggests that...

Example starters:

For example, ...
For instance, ...
This argument can be illustrated by ...

Refutation starters:

However, this argument fails to account for...
This view overlooks the fact that...
Although this position appears reasonable, it has notable weaknesses.

BODY PARAGRAPH 2 — discuss View B + support your position

Introducing View B:

By contrast, others argue that...
Supporters of the opposing view contend that...
From an alternative perspective, ...

Developing the argument:

One key reason supporting this view is that...
Another important consideration is that...
Moreover, ...

Example starters:

To illustrate, ...
A clear example of this is ...
This is particularly evident in cases where ...

CONCLUSION — summarise both views + reaffirm position

Conclusion starters:

In conclusion, ...
On balance, ...
Overall, although (View A), (View B) appears more persuasive.

Show/Hide example essay (sportsmen’s salaries)

Some people think that sportsmen should not be paid such high salaries as they get today. Others, however, think there is nothing wrong with that. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

INTRODUCTION

Whether sportsmen deserve their high incomes remains debatable. The issue of large financial rewards paid to professional athletes has generated heated discussion between critics and supporters of such remuneration. Despite objections, high earnings for elite athletes appear largely justified.

BODY PARAGRAPH 1 — Opposing view

Many critics argue that athletes’ salaries are excessively high. One common claim is that some sportsmen use performance-enhancing drugs, meaning their achievements may not always reflect genuine effort. Another argument suggests that professions such as scientific research contribute more directly to societal progress and therefore deserve greater financial recognition.

REFUTATION (logic gap resolved)

Although concerns about doping appear valid, this argument overlooks the existence of strict anti-doping regulations and continuous monitoring in professional sport. Modern testing systems, career-long screening, and severe penalties significantly reduce the likelihood of unfair competition. Furthermore, the dedication and physical strain endured by elite athletes remain substantial regardless of isolated violations, weakening the claim that their success is primarily artificial.

BODY PARAGRAPH 2 — Supporting view

Supporters of high salaries in sport argue that elite athletes devote their entire lives to training, often enduring physical and psychological pressure that few individuals could tolerate. Sporting excellence requires exceptional talent, discipline, and sacrifice, and outstanding performers may reasonably expect financial reward. Moreover, sporting achievements can contribute beyond entertainment, influencing technology, health sciences, and media industries.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, while critics question the legitimacy of extremely high salaries in professional sport, the argument in favour of rewarding elite athletes remains more persuasive. Their achievements, dedication, and cultural influence justify substantial financial compensation in modern society.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of ...[and give your own opinion]

Plan:

Para1: Introduction [a fully paraphrased heading]

Para2: 1 advantage with example

Para3: 2 advantage with example [optional unless required in the task]

Para4: 1 disadvantage with example

Para5: 2 disadvantage with example [optional unless required in the task]

Para6: Conclusion + your opinion [if required]

Template

INTRODUCTION

1. There is no denying the fact that the phenomenon/ technology / practice / policy / … of (summary of the question) is unprecedented/gaining wide currency. At the same time, due to .... it appears to be highly debatable and thus worth reasoned discussion. // while the custom of ... is ubiquitous across the globe, it is still highly arguable thus remaining of paramount importance/. In spite of a plethora of merits, yet, numerous demerits can be noticed, which will be elaborated in the upcoming paragraphs.

ADVANTAGES

2. Initiating with the best possible benefits, the most significant advantage is ...……. ADVANTAGE1 …....... To cite an example, …………EXAMPLE1......... As a result, ….CONSEQUENCE1 …/ which speaks of positive developments in... BENEFIT1...

3. Along with it, ….ADVANTAGE2.................Illustartive of...is …………EXAMPLE2......... Undoubtedly, this /, which eventually leads to ….CONSEQUENCE2 … / brings about...BENEFIT2

DISADVANTAGES

4. On the paradoxical side / That being the case, there are many drawbacks as well. First and foremost, ...DISADVANTAGE1... For instance, ……EXAMPLE1...... which in the long-run will ...

5. Secondly [primitive connector],/Apart from…, / Another ...is…DISADVANTAGE 2 …. , which is illustrated by / can be observed in / For example, according to,…EXAMPLE2… / For instance, ……EXAMPLE2...... Consequently,... RESULT2...

CONCLUSION

6. To conclude, without any doubt this is a mixed bag / a highly controversial issue / practice / thing / a double-edged/two-edged sword/weapon. Even though this approach/method/phenomenon/development/… has many positives, its / the negative points must not be underestimated. If I were to provide my take on …, … seems…. / …wouldn’t… / …would advocate caution / a cautious approach to the matter / would rather + Past Simple / would find it useful / extremely beneficial to…..

Do the advantages of... really outweigh the disadvantages [или наоборот]

Template1: Advantages outweigh disadvantages

Introduction [с введением своего мнения]

-It is often debated .... - Whether.... or.... has been a subject of heated debate. - This essay will analyze this issue in an effort to prove .... better than....

Advantages [идут первыми в теле эссе, потому что перевешивают]

- Firstly, [topic] has/offers several significant advantages / benefits, including... - In addition to it,/ Moreover, [another benefit](,which) further strengthens its value. - It is thus clear that /These factors make it evident that [topic] has/brings certain undeniable benefits/pluses.

Disadvantages and their weakness [идут вторыми, потому что перевешиваются]

- Despite the above advantages, there are potential drawbacks to / shortcomings of/ concerns about [topic]/certain drawbacks of [topic] cannot be ignored

- For example, [state a disadvantage], which could potentially lead to.../ If... it could ...

- However, although there is a concern that ...., it should be remembered that [rebuttal to the disadvantage].

(- In other words, this is a practice that curbs/raises the possibility of.... - Further, .... also …).

- Thus, after analysis, the disadvantages to [topic]are not quite as discouraging as they may at first seem./Therefore, while there are some concerns, they are generally not as consequential as the advantages.

Conclusion [В заключении заново формулируем свое мнение о том, что перевешивает что]

- On balance, the above discussion makes clear that, despite select disadvantages, ..../the above discussion illustrates that the benefits of [topic] outweigh its disadvantages, making it a preferable choice overall.

- Thus, it can be concluded that [restate opinion]. Ultimately, [give a new idea]

Template2: Disadvantages outweigh advantages

Introduction

- Whether [topic] has more advantages or disadvantages is often debated.

- This essay will analyze this issue to demonstrate that the disadvantages of [topic] outweigh its benefits.

Disadvantages

- Firstly, [topic] presents several significant drawbacks, such as...

- Additionally, [another disadvantage] further undermines its value.

- It is therefore evident that [topic] has undeniable limitations.

Advantages and Their Weaknesses

- Despite these disadvantages, certain aspects of [topic] may appear beneficial.

- For instance, [mention a minor advantage] might seem appealing; however, it should be remembered that [counter-argument].

- In other words, these advantages do little to offset the considerable drawbacks.

Conclusion

- In summary, despite a few potential benefits, the disadvantages of [topic] clearly outweigh them.

- Therefore, it is apparent that [restate opinion].

Problem / Cause / Solution Essays

(“State some reasons… suggest solutions”)

1. More and more people rely on private cars as their main means of transportation. What problems does this cause? What solutions can you suggest?

1. An increasing number of professionals leave poorer countries to work in developed nations. What problems does this cause? What can be done to address it?

1. The internet has transformed how information is shared but has also created new problems. What are the most serious problems, and what solutions can you suggest?

1. Despite advances in agriculture, many people still go hungry. Why does this happen? What can be done about it?

1. Many children spend too much time playing computer games. What problems does this cause? What solutions can be suggested?

1. Plastic waste is increasing worldwide. What problems does this create? How can these problems be solved?

1. Many people suffer from sleep deprivation. What problems does this cause? What can be done about it?

1. Urban overcrowding causes serious social and environmental issues. What problems does it create? What solutions should governments adopt?

1. Cybercrime is increasing. What problems does this cause, and what solutions can individuals and businesses take?

1. Young people are using drugs at younger ages. What are the causes and effects? What can society do to reduce this problem?
Opinion Essays

(“What is your view?” / “To what extent do you agree?”)

1. A growing number of young people are changing careers. What are the reasons? Do the benefits outweigh the drawbacks?
2. Education should be free and fully funded by the government. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
3. Some people believe space exploration is a waste of money. To what extent do you agree?
4. People should live in smaller towns instead of large cities. Do you agree or disagree?
5. Working from home is more beneficial than working in an office. To what extent do you agree?
6. Governments should ban dangerous sports. To what extent do you support this idea?
7. Social media does more harm than good. Do you agree or disagree?
8. Technology is reducing real human interaction. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
9. The best way to reduce crime is stricter punishment. Do you agree?
10. University education should focus more on practical skills than theory. Do you agree or disagree?

Direct Question Essays

(Single or Double Question Prompts)

1. Why do many people fail to achieve work-life balance? What can be done to solve this problem?

1. Why do young people leave school early? What measures can reduce this trend?

1. What are the causes of obesity among children? What consequences may result?

1. Why are people becoming less physically active? What can be done to change this?

1. Why are people delaying marriage and parenthood? What effects does this have on society?

1. Why are traditional medicines becoming more popular? Is this positive or negative?

1. Why are people spending more time at home? What effects does this have on society?

1. What causes loneliness among elderly people? How can this issue be addressed?

Two-Sides / Discussion Essays

(“Discuss both views…” / Advantages vs Disadvantages)

1. Some people think athletes earn too much money. Others think their salaries are justified. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

1. Some believe technology improves relationships, while others think it damages them. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

1. Some people think museums are a waste of public money. Others believe they are essential. Discuss both views.

1. Living in large cities has advantages and disadvantages. Discuss both and give your opinion.

1. Online education has more advantages than disadvantages. Do you agree?

1. Some people think children should be taught financial skills at school, while others disagree. Discuss both views.

1. Tourism brings economic benefits but also environmental damage. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

1. Some believe competition is beneficial, while others think cooperation is more important. Discuss both views.

1. Fast food has made modern life easier, but has created health problems. Discuss both sides.

✅ CAE (C1 Advanced) — Recent Essay Themes (Comparable Types)

CAE prompts aligned with IELTS-style reasoning:

Young people are losing traditional values. Discuss causes and effects.

Should governments fund cultural institutions or sports facilities? Discuss and justify.

Mass tourism damages local culture. Do the benefits outweigh the disadvantages?

Globalisation is causing cultures to become more similar. Is this a positive or negative development?

Music, fashion and film influence young people’s identity. Discuss effects.

Cities need more green public spaces. Discuss advantages.

Technology improves learning but reduces creativity. Evaluate both sides.

Public money should prioritize health over entertainment. Discuss.