THE ESSAY & LINKING WORDS

In the first part of the FCE Writing paper, you have to write an essay where you state your opinion on a given topic.  Remember to:

* Answer the question
* Plan your essay
* Stay on topic
* Have an introduction
* Develop your argument in the middle paragraphs
* Give reasons to support your argument
* Use a variety of words and phrases
* Give examples where possible
* Don't use contractions
* Sum up your argument in the final paragraph, your opinion expressed clearly

Below are some phrases and expressions that are useful when writing your essay:

To express an opinion: In my opinion.  In my view.  I strongly believe.  It seems to me.
To list points: First of all.  To start with.  Firstly.  To begin with.
To add more points: What is more.  Another major reason.  Furthermore.  Moreover.  Not to mention the fact that.
To contrast: However.  Whereas.  Opponents of this say.  Contrary to what most people.
To introduce examples: For example.  For instance.  Such as.  In particular.  Especially.
To conclude: To sum up.  All in all.  All things considered.

Linking words are an excellent way to help you connect your ideas and sentences so that people can follow what you are writing.

Here are a couple of links to linking word exercises for you to do...you know, when you have the time.  Each exercise takes about 5-10 minutes, which is much less time than what you probably spend on Facebook every day :)

Linking Words - Exercise 1

Linking Words - Exercise 2