5 (intro, point 1, point 2, your own idea and conclusion)
15
How many words should an essay be for FCE?
140-190 words
15
Which word/phrase is different?
because
since
as
according to
20
Which word or phrase is different?
Furthermore
Even so
In spite of that
Nonetheless
20
Which word or phrase is different?
Furthermore
Additionally
Also
Consequently
20
You should never start a sentence with 'and' or 'but'. What could you use instead?
'Also' (instead of 'and') or 'however' (instead of 'but').
20
Should your essay be formal or informal?
Formal
10
Which is better for an essay an why?: 'In my opinion, that is not a practical solution.' OR 'That does not seem to be a practical solution.'
The second option, because you should avoid personal pronouns (like 'I' and 'my') in your essay, and not offer your personal opinion.
20
Correct it: 'Some of the courses they could offer are cooking, first aid, survival skills...'
'Some of the courses they could offer are cooking, first aid AND/OR survival skills.' (Please never use '...' in ANY writing!)
20
Fill the gap: Travelling abroad offers many advantages, ___ it can be expensive.
despite
unless
although
however
20
Fill the gap: Many students are unable to find work, despite _____ their university degrees,
obtaining
to obtain
obtain
they obtained
25
___ teachers ___ students has much control over the syllabus, which may be a mistake.
Either / or
Neither / nor
Neither / and
Not / or
20
Which is better for an essay? Why?: 'One must not overlook the important of education.' OR 'The importance of education must not be overlooked.'
The second - both are formal, but it sounds more advanced to use the passive structure, so try to include the passive in all your essays!
20
Correct it: The impacts of that different types of technology are rarely considered.
The impacts of THOSE different types of technology are rarely considered. (be careful with THIS, THAT, THESE and THOSE. Always check your writing!)
15
Correct it: Since many governments do not actually recycle what they collect, is not as helpful as people think.
Since many governments do not actually recycle what they collect, IT is not as helpful as people think. (Check for missing subjects - especially 'IT'!)