Write an essay in English on a topic. For and against essays, or essays “for and against”

Writing an essay in English is a standard task on the exam. It is for this work that the most points are awarded, because. The task itself is not easy. Even in their native language, not everyone will be able to competently and consistently express their thoughts on a particular topic. What can I say if you have to do it in English.

So what is an essay? An essay is a short essay, the purpose of which is to convey individual impressions and thoughts on a specific issue. It is such a creative task as writing an essay that makes it possible to characterize you as a person, to show your worldview, your knowledge, your potential.

As you already understood, to write an essay in English, you need a fairly high level of language proficiency, and since. this task can be called creative, you must learn to express your point of view and develop a given thought. This art is quite possible to master, especially if you follow the plan, which we will discuss below. I will give you a couple of very useful tips for writing an essay in English, which will help you more than once.

Essay structure

An essay in English should include three semantic parts: introduction, main part and conclusion.

Introduction

In the introduction, you should clearly identify the key topic-problem, which in fact you will discuss further. That is, to begin with, you must inform the topic of the essay by paraphrasing it using keyword synonyms. You must show that you understand and comprehend the topic.

It is also necessary to indicate that there are opposing views on this issue, and indicate exactly what position you take. In this case, it is best to use impersonal constructions to emphasize objectivity.

The introduction may contain some commentary on the topic. This could be the definition of a key concept or your explanation of how you understand the topic. You can list which aspects of the topic you will consider and why.

So, a well-written introduction should give a clear idea of \u200b\u200bwhat will be discussed in the main part. To beautifully and correctly formulate it, use the following phrases, which indicate the direction of your thoughts:

Now I would like to express my point of view on the problem of …
This essay deals with ... - This essay deals with ...
This essay will examine ... - This essay explores ...
This essay will analyze ... - This essay will analyze ...
Many people think ... but others do not agree - Many people think that ..., but others do not agree
Let us consider what the advantages and disadvantages of ... are - Consider what the advantages and disadvantages of ...
Let's consider some pros and cons of it − Let's consider some pros and cons of (this)
Let us start by considering the facts − Let's start by considering the facts
Let us start by considering pros and cons of it − Let's start by considering the pros and cons of (this)
It is generally agreed today that …

You can also use expressions that define your work plan:

The essay is divided into three main sections - The essay is divided into three main sections
The third part compares ... - The third part compares ...
Finally, some conclusions will be drawn as to ... - At the end, certain conclusions will be drawn about ...

Main part

In the main part, you should also give a few opposing opinions that differ from your personal opinion, and tell why you do not agree with them. Everything should be reasoned and supported by examples.

All information in the body should be logically divided (i.e. the text is divided into paragraphs). You must think carefully about the structure of your essay and correctly bring the main part to the conclusion.

The following phrases can be used in the main body when reflecting on a problem and arguing your point of view:

To begin with ... - Let's start with the fact that ...
You can ... - You can (You can) ...
Firstly, ... / Secondly, ... / Finally, ... - Firstly, ... / Secondly, ... / Finally, ...
The first thing that needs to be said is ... - First of all, it should be said that ...
One argument in support of ... - One of the arguments in support of ...
One should note here that ... - It should be noted here that ...
First and foremost ... - First of all ...
It is often said that ... - It is often said that ...
It is true that ... / clear that ... / noticeable that ...
The second reason for ... - The second reason ...
Another good thing about … is that … - Another positive thing about … is that …
For the great majority of people ... - For the vast majority of people ...
We live in a world in which ... - We live in a world in which ...
It is a well-known fact that ...
It is undeniable that… − It cannot be denied that…
A number of key issues arise from the statement. For instance, … - This statement raises a number of key issues. For example, …
First of all, let us try to understand ... - First of all, let's try to understand ...
One of the most striking features of this problem is … − One of the most striking features of this problem is …
What is more, … - Moreover, …
The public in general tends to believe that ... − The public in general tends to believe that ...
Besides, ... because it is ... - Besides, ... because ...
Doubtless, … - Undoubtedly, …
It is (very) clear from these observations that ... - It is (absolutely) clear from these observations that ...
One cannot deny that ... - One cannot deny that ...
Another way of looking at this question is to ... - To look at this problem from the other side, one must ...
On the other hand, we can observe that ... - On the other hand, we can observe that ...
If on the one hand it can be said that ... the same is not true for ...
The other side of the coin is, however, that ... - However, on the other hand, ...
One should, however, not forget that ... - Nevertheless, one should not forget that ...
One should, nevertheless, consider the problem from another angle
On the other hand, … − On the other hand, …
Although ... - Although ...
Besides, … - In addition, …
Moreover, … − Moreover, …
Nevertheless, one should accept that ... - Nevertheless, it should be recognized that ...
Furthermore, one should not forget that ... - In addition, one should not forget that ...
In addition to ... - In addition to ...
However, we also agree that ... - However, we also agree that ...

Phrases expressing personal opinion:

In my opinion this subject is very controversial - In my opinion, this issue is controversial
In my view … - In my opinion, …
To my mind … - In my opinion, …
To my way of thinking … - In my opinion, …
Personally I believe that ... - Personally, I believe that ...
I feel strongly that ... - I firmly believe that ...
It seems to me that ... - It seems to me that ...
As far as I am concerned ... - As for me, ...

You can support your opinion with the opinion of some experts:

Experts believe that ... - Experts believe that ...
… say that … − … say that …
... suggest that ... - ... suggest that ...
… are convinced that … − … are convinced that …
… point out that … − … note that …
... emphasize that ... − ... emphasize that ...
Perhaps we should also point out the fact that ... - Perhaps we should also point out the fact that ...
According to some experts … − According to some experts, …
One must admit that ... − It must be admitted that ...
It would be unfair not to mention that fact that ... - It would be unfair not to mention the fact that ...
Which seems to confirm the idea that ... - Which, apparently, confirms the idea (that) that ...
We cannot ignore the fact that ... - We cannot ignore the fact that ...
From these facts, one may conclude that ... - From these facts, one can conclude that ...
One cannot possibly accept the fact that ... - It is difficult to come to terms with the fact that ...
The most common argument against this is that ... - The most common argument against this is that ...
Thus, ... / Therefore, ... - Thus, ... / Therefore ...

Conclusion

The conclusion is the final part of your essay. In conclusion, you must summarize the arguments expressed, that is, draw a conclusion and confirm your point of view. Depending on the topic of the essay, it may be appropriate to give a solid or streamlined answer to the question asked by the topic. Or, you can clarify the perspectives and implications of a given problem.

In conclusion, you must express your opinion, which is supported by the arguments considered earlier. In conclusion, it is usually appropriate to list the main ideas of the essay. In this case, you need to turn to the introduction and draw parallels. But do not repeat word for word, use a different wording.

In the conclusion, there may be a question leading to further reflection, a quote, a bright spectacular image (of course, if it is appropriate). Alternatively, in conclusion, you can offer a solution to the problem under discussion, make a forecast of the results or consequences, call for action.

The conclusion is the most important part of the essay. After all, it is in the conclusion that the whole value of your work lies, where you sum up your reasoning. In it, you demonstrate how seriously you approached the consideration of a given topic and how much you are generally capable of independently reasoning and drawing conclusions.

You will be helped by special phrases that will help you consistently express your thoughts:

In conclusion ... - In conclusion ...
On the whole ... - In general ...
To conclude ... - In conclusion ...
To sum up ... - Thus ...
All in all … − In general …
All things considered ... - Considering all the circumstances ...
Finally ... - Ultimately ... (In conclusion ...)
Lastly… - In conclusion…
In conclusion, I can say that although ... - In conclusion, I can say that, although ...
Taking everything into consideration…
Taking everything into account ... - Taking everything into account ...
So it’s up to everybody to decide whether … or not −
The arguments we have presented ... suggest that ... / prove that ... / would indicate that ...
To draw the conclusion, one can say that … − Summing up, we can say that …
From these arguments one must ... / could ... / might ... conclude that ...

If you have already written the main part of the essay, then drawing up a conclusion should not be difficult. At the same time, I would like to list the most gross mistakes that simply cannot be made in the conclusion of the essay:

1. You can not put forward completely new ideas in the conclusion. It's just not logical. If they are really important, they should be included in the main body.

2. Never use an abusive tone. You must be confident in your statements. Don't use phrases like:

I may not be an expert
At least this is my opinion - At least I think so

3. Do not focus on too small and insignificant details. Your task is to summarize and draw conclusions.

4. In no case should you refute the significance of the previous arguments from the main part.

Volume of partitions

The volume of each of the sections may vary depending on the task and the topic of the essay. In any case, at least half of your essay should be the main body. The following ratio can serve as a general idea of the volume of each section:

Introduction - 10 - 25% of the total volume
The main part - 50 - 80% of the total volume
Conclusion - 10 - 25% of the total volume

Useful introductory phrases

Moreover… − Moreover…
Most of all ... - Most of all ...
It is important to note that ... − It is important to note that ...
It is important to remember that ...
An important point is that ...
At the moment, ... - At the moment, ...
In conclusion, ... - In conclusion, ...
After all, … − In the end, …
In any case, ... / Anyway, ... / Either way, ...
Actually, ... - Actually, ...
Firstly, … - Firstly, …
Instead of ... - Instead of ...
In the first place, ... - First of all, ...
From time to time, … − From time to time, …
As a result of ... - As a result ...
Indeed, … - Indeed, …
In order to ... - In order to ...
I must admit, ... - I must admit, ...
In other words, … − In other words, …
It makes sense (to) … − It makes sense …
It seems that ...
In short, ... / In a nutshell, ...
Besides, … - In addition, …
Luckily, ... / Fortunately, ... - Fortunately ...
Unfortunately, … - Unfortunately, …
In addition, … − In addition, …
By the way, ... - By the way, ... / By the way, ...
I should ... / I had better ... - I should ...
It may seem that ...
Finally, ... - Finally, ...
In fact, ... / Actually, ... - In fact, ...
As far as I know, ... - As far as I know ...
As far as I can judge, ... - As far as I can tell, ...
It doesn't matter that ...
It is not surprising that ... / It is no great surprise that ... − It is not surprising that ...
But other than that, ... - But other than that ...
However, … − However, … / Nevertheless, …
It turned out that ... - It turned out that ...
Frankly speaking, ... / To tell the truth, ... - Frankly speaking, ... / Honestly, ...
In my opinion, ... - In my opinion, ...
To tell the truth, … − In truth, …
As a matter of fact, ... - As a matter of fact, ...
First of all, ... / Above all, ... - First of all, ...
It is self-evident that ... - It goes without saying that ...
It goes without saying that… - It goes without saying that…
It should be noted that ... - It should be noted that ...
I advise you (to) ... - I advise you ...
On the one hand, …, on the other hand, … − On the one hand, …, on the other hand, …
Also, ... - Also ...
As well as ... - As well as ...
Meanwhile, ... / Meantime, ... - In the meantime, ...
It is well known that ...
As for ... / Concerning ... - As for ...
It can mean that ...
I would rather ... - I would rather ...
I would like to ...
I think, ... / I believe, ... / I guess, ... - I think ... / I believe ... / I believe ...

In order not to worry about the clarity of your essay, you must have a clear plan and a deep understanding of the material. Try to use simple phrases, without abstruse expressions. This way you can avoid a lot of mistakes in English. While not overusing complex expressions, you should also avoid abbreviations or slang.

Be aware of the difference between written and spoken language. Use as many adjectives and adverbs as possible to make your essay colorful and expressive. In general, you should state the main ideas and problems of your essay clearly and clearly so that the reader can follow the course of your thought without being distracted by unnecessary reasoning.

Ideally, you should strive for a complete absence of grammatical and spelling errors. The general structure, division into paragraphs, punctuation - everything must be done correctly to help the reader feel your reasoning. Here are some tips for writing an essay:

1. Use Academic Writing

Avoid very categorical judgments and generalizations.
If possible, avoid personal pronouns.
Prove what has been said with quotes and data, indicating the source.
Observe gender equality: when talking about an abstract person, use person instead of man. It is also better to use the pronoun they instead of he or she.
Try to use phrases that are based on a noun rather than a verb. For example, instead of "Crime was increasing rapidly and the police were becoming concerned", write "The rapid increase in crime was causing concern among the police".

2. Don't use colloquial elements

Always use the full form instead of don't, they're, it's, etc.
Eliminate slang and colloquial expressions. For example: kid, a lot of/lots of, cool.
Don't deviate from the topic.
Instead of phrasal verbs (get away with, get off, put in), use one-word synonyms.
Avoid overly general words (all, get, thing). Be precise and specific.
Do not abuse exclamation marks, parentheses, avoid direct questions.

3. Strive to give the text objectivity

The use of impersonal constructions is encouraged (It is believed that ., it can be argued that ...).
Use the passive voice if it is not necessary to indicate the performer of the action (Experiment had been conducted).
Use non-categorical verbs (suggest, claim, suppose).
To avoid personal judgments, but to show your attitude to the issue, you can use adverbs: apparently, ideally, arguably, unexpectedly, strangely.
To soften the categoricalness, use the modal verbs could, would, may, might.
To avoid generalizations, use qualifying adverbs: some, a minority of, several, many, a few.

4. Connectivity of the text

In order for your essay to be pleasant to read, in addition to the fact that the thoughts in it must be expressed sequentially, the transition from one thought to another should be smooth, one should seem to follow from the other. You must keep the text coherent and guide the reader. The introductory and connecting phrases discussed above will help you with this. they can perform various functions. For example.

according to Verbitskaya

Exercise:

Comment on the following statement:

It's reported that billions of dollars are spent on space exploration projects every year. Some people believe that this money should be used to solve problems on Earth.
What is your opinion? What problems should humanity solve first of all?

Write 200–250 words.

Show the plan and scheme of evaluation according to the criterion K1

Use the following plan:
− make an introduction (state the problem)
− express your personal opinion and give 2–3 reasons for your opinion
− express an opposing opinion and give 1–2 reasons for this opposing
opinion
− explain why you don't agree with the opposing opinion
− make a conclusion restating your position

Evaluation scheme for the criterion "Solution of a communicative task":
a) the volume of the statement corresponds to the task
b) introduction - statement of the problem;
c) the opinion of the author with 2-3 arguments;
d) opposite point of view with 1-2 arguments;
e) explanations why the author does not agree with the opposite point of view (counterarguments);
e) conclusion (conclusion).

Essay text

Our science have changed every year. Nowadays a lot of money is spent on space exploration projects. Many people think that it is not right because this money should be used to solve problems on Earth. Let's consider both views on this issue.

In my opinion, space exploration is very importand for us because we must know more about universal, planets, stars and meteorits. Scientists haven’t already know all about them and if they are dangerous for us. Secondly, when scientists studied the sun they discovered new chemestry elements for example gelius. Also when they study the sun they study how our healthe depends from it. Thirdly, we can travel on space and see Earth from space-ship.

People spend a lot of money for this traveling so they give this money for new discoveries.

On the other hand, some people who think that space exploration it is a waste of time and money because this money can help people who have very dangerous illnesses. Secondly, government can help spend this money on our education. They can buy new equipmen for school. Thirdly, this money can be used for helping poor countries and people who live in them. This money can help make their life better.

In conchesion, I would like to say that it's better to spend money on space exploration because in future people will live in space. (231 words)

Parsing and evaluation:

Criterion 1 - the solution of a communicative task.

The communicative task here is to compare the possible benefits of investing large sums of money in space research or what they will spend on solving problems on earth. It also raises the question of the relative importance of the problems that need to be addressed and how urgent their solution is. The author did not cope with this task.

1.1. Is there an introduction with a problem statement? – Yes, there is, but practically without paraphrasing. In addition, the problem is posed incorrectly: the author proposes to consider " both points of view on the problem ”, although he gives only one point of view. Thus, as a problem to consider, " issue » We are invited to the disagreement of many people with spending on space. The question of the assignment is clearly not about that.

1.2. Has the author's opinion on the problem been expressed and is it argued? - The opinion is expressed, but the argumentation is weak and chaotic. The author argues that space research is important and gives scattered facts (asteroids may be dangerous; new chemical elements were discovered during space exploration; the sun affects people's health), but does not show how these facts are related to each other and how they confirm his position. The fourth argument is not directly related to the topic of the essay: "the profits from space tourism partially cover the costs of research."

1.3. Does the essay present an opposite point of view with 1-2 arguments of its supporters? – The opposite point of view is represented by three arguments.

1.4. Is there an explanation why the author does not agree with this opposing point of view (counterarguments)? — No, the author does not explain why he does not agree with the point of view of his opponents, therefore it is impossible to evaluate his argumentation.

1.5. Is there a conclusion with a conclusion? – There is a formal conclusion, but the conclusion is not connected with the previous arguments of the author: in the paragraph 2 the author talks about the benefits of comic research for practical life on the ground , and in conclusion connects the costs of space research with the fact that in the future people will live in space .
Also, the author does not compare the benefits of space research with the benefits of investing money in solving earthly problems, that is, having partially answered the first question of the assignment (expressing one's opinion), the author completely ignores the second - a comparison of problems.

the communicative task was partially fulfilled: 1 point.

Criterion K2 - Organization of the text.

2.1. Is there a division into paragraphs and is it done correctly? - There is a division into paragraphs, but there is no part devoted to the author's counterarguments and refutation of the position of his opponents.

2.2. Is the essay logical and are the means of logical connection used correctly? - The essay is illogical. The author does not show the connection between his arguments and does not use the means of logical connection to oppose his arguments to the arguments of opponents or develop his thought.

Of the two uses "Because ” in the first one, the logical structure of the argument is violated: what the author presents as an argument “ we must know more about…"in fact, it is not an argument, but is a paraphrase of the author's position" space exploration is very importand for us". Of the other introductory words, the author uses only those that reflect the order (First, second, and so on). introductory word “in conclusion” cannot be considered an example of the use of logical connection tools, since this introduction is formal.

In general, this criterion will be given 1 point.

Criterion K3 - lexical design of speech.

3.1. Does the vocabulary correspond to the set communicative task? - In general, it corresponds.

3.2. Is the vocabulary sufficient, how diverse is it, does it correspond to a high level? - Is the vocabulary sufficient, how diverse is it, does it correspond to a high level? - The essay uses an unlimited vocabulary: of the modal verbs, only "can" is used, there is no

paraphrasing the topic in the first paragraph, and the phrase "space exploration" repeats itself throughout the text.

3.3. Does the author follow the rules of word formation and compatibility (collocations), is it correct Are words used in a specific context and do errors (if any) affect understanding of the content? – A large number of lexical errors - 6

the number of errors exceeds 4: 1 point

Criterion K4 - Grammar.

4.1. Is the choice of using grammatical means appropriate for the purpose of the utterance? – The choice of grammatical means is generally appropriate.

4.2. How diverse are the grammatical means and does their complexity correspond to a high level? - The arsenal of grammatical structures used is small, their complexity does not correspond to a high level. In almost all sentences, the basic construction "Subject + Predicate in active voice" is used. The only attempt to construct a relative

subordinate clause - unsuccessful.

4.3. How correctly and accurately are grammatical means used? - Numerous grammatical errors: “science have changed every year”, “haven't already know”, “about of them” “spend a lot of money for” “give this money for” “ome people who think that space exploration it is a waste of time and money because this money can help people who have”, “can helps spend this money” “help to make” “depends from it”, “travel on space”, “space exploration it is a waste of time", "for school.", "this money can be used for helping".

a large number of errors: 1 point.

Criterion K5 - spelling and punctuation.

Spelling errors - 6. Syntax errors - 3.

a large number of errors: 0 points.

Overall rating for this work: 4 points.

Essay text source - Methodological materials for chairmen
and members of regional subject commissions for checking the fulfillment of assignments with a detailed answer to the exam papers of the Unified State Examination (Verbitskaya, Makhmuryan)

HOW TO IMPROVE AN ESSAY ON

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Warm-up - Correct the spelling and lexical errors from this essay.

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How to build a clear argument in an essay in English

We have seen that the mark for solving a communicative task is also given by the quality of the argument (Methodological recommendations for the organizers and experts of the Unified State Examination, Verbitskaya, Makhmuryan). That is, firstly, there should be no unnecessary off-topic arguments, and secondly, they should be consistent and convincing. That is, you can completely solve the communicative task in the essay for the USE 2018 if you correctly select arguments and examples. In this article, as an example of a real essay, I will show

how to do it, but for now a little theory.

How to argue correctly?

Imagine the argument as a simple mathematical fraction. There is a numerator (top), there is a denominator (at the bottom). The argument is always based on comparing or contrasting two concepts with a "common denominator". The "common denominator" is some characteristic that will be common to all concepts, but the "numerators" will be different - this is how this characteristic is expressed.

example 1

Swimming and running are both beneficial, but swimming develops all the muscles, while running only develops the legs and ligaments ( benefit- "denominator" develops all muscles / only legs and ligaments- "numerators").
Football and tennis are both sports, but one is a team sport and the other is an individual sport.

In our text, we will compare the benefits of investing money in space research with the benefits of spending money on solving problems on earth.

The "denominator" will be such characteristics as "time", "amount" / "size", "probability", "distance".

time: now / then, now / before
amount: many / few
size, scale: man / mankind, big / small
probability: accurate / inaccurate
distance: close / far

Example 2

The results of space research will only possibly be of benefit in the future, but at the same time to all people inhabiting the Earth or those who will move to other planets.

Distance- long away
Time- after
Confidence- inaccurate (negative characteristics)
Scale- all mankind (positive characteristic)

2. To spend money on earthly needs means to help specific patients, and to do it right here and now. Or here and now to organize education in poor countries.

Time- now
Distance- here,
Confidence- exactly (positive characteristics)
Scale- a single person (negative characteristic)

These are the first thoughts that automatically come to mind. Those who “believe that money should be spent” on solving earthly problems are guided by positive characteristics “ here» « now" and " for sure«.

We can solve the communicative task of an essay in two ways: to defend space exploration or to agree with its opponents. Depending on this, we will build an argument.

Termination of research

Just agree with the arguments of their opponents and give examples of how the redirection of cash flows will make everyone happy
In the third paragraph, talk about the benefits of research in such a way that it is clear that this is not serious.

In a step-by-step guide to improving the sample essay, we will defend the research and use both methods of argumentation.

The task contrasts the distant benefits of research with close problems, that is, according to the "denominator" distance (close against long away), time (now against after) and probability (for sure against Maybe).
Let's bring space closer to us: " discoveries are already being used in medicine". Let's strengthen the connection with the person: cosmic rays + gene mutations. Let's add scale: the survival of all mankind against one patient.

Too bad it's already 230 words. That is, almost the upper limit, and we still have to write counterarguments. Oh yes, still need to paraphrase in the first paragraph. And remove the superfluous about “Our science have changed every year” - there is no question about changes and time in the task. In this phrase, the "denominator" - change, It was against became. But this is not in the question.
Along the way, we will diversify grammar and vocabulary, as well as improve the logic of the text.

VIEW RESULT

In my opinion, space exploration is extremely important for us and humanity should carry on with it. First of all, it allows us to know more about the universe, planets, cosmic rays and asteroids. Distant planets should be studied as the potential home for humanity in the future, and asteroids may be dangerous for the Earth now. followers, life of all humanity may depend on how much we know about these. What is more, while studying space objects, scientists already make discoveries which change life on Earth right now. For example, new chemical elements like helium can be found during such research. Also, information about the influence of the space and the stars on humans’ health can be obtained as a result of space studies, like the role of cosmic rays in gene mutations and the evolution itself.

On the other hand, space exploration is often claimed a waste of time and money. Those who think so believe that this money should be spent on finding a cure for dangerous deseases and saviung people on earth right now. They also encourage governments to invest more in education saying that thousands of schools, especially in poor countries, may be equipped with this money.

However, they forget that new materials and technologies obtained in space experiments are already being used in modern medicine, in particular – in artificial organs, or arms and legs. Moreover, the issue of inequality in living conditions between countries had been around long before the first man in space, so it is unreasonable to try to solve this issue at the experience of science.

All in all, I believe that current and possible benefits that space exploration can give us are so great and important that it definitely should continue.

(339 words)

Almost everything worked out, now there are five paragraphs, clear and coherent arguments, only there are almost a hundred more words. At the next stage, we will try to cope with this, and now we will analyze what we have just done:

We shorten the words in our essay.

Nowadays scientists conduct multi-billion research in space, which provokes strong opposition from those who believe that there are more immediate and more important problems on Earth which this money may help to solve. Let's consider whether or not space research should be abandoned in favor of issues on our planet. (50 words)

Nowadays scientists conduct multi-billion research in space, which some opposition claiming that there are urgent problems on Earth which require attention. Let's consider whether space research should be abandoned in favor of more apparent issues. (35 words)

In my opinion, space exploration is extremely important for us and humanity should carry on with it. First of all, it allows us to know more about the universe, planets, cosmic rays and asteroids. Distant planets should be studied as the potential home for humanity in the future, while asteroids may be dangerous for the Earth now. followers, life of all humanity may depend on how much we know about these. What is more, while studying space objects, scientists already make discoveries which change life on the Earth right now. For example, new chemical elements like helium can be found during such research. Also, information about the influence of space and the stars on humans’ health can be obtained as a result of space studies, like the role of cosmic rays in gene mutations and the evolution itself. (138 words)

Now the New Year holidays have passed and it is time for everyone who studies in grades 9 and 11 to think about the upcoming exams. It's time to start preparing for them now. The first thing to do is to repeat the studied vocabulary, that is, the topics in English.

So, the main task for the next six months is to turn the entire vocabulary that lies passively in the head from passive to active.

Passive vocabulary- words that you understand by reading texts and listening to audio recordings.
Active vocabulary- words that you know how to use in speech and writing.

Your attention is invited list of topics in english, vocabulary for which you need to activate in order to pass the exam well. Although the format of the oral exam has changed this year (see), the essence remains the same: you need to know the words and be able to speak on given topics: ask questions, describe photos, analyze, compare, find differences, argue, etc. Presentations below contain tasks for all types of speech activity and will help you prepare and successfully pass the exam in English. Here is the content of the article:

The designation in brackets (for example, a letter - 13, 18) means that the corresponding topic can be repeated by writing a letter (task No. 13, 18), which are given in the presentation "Personal Letter".

Topics in English in grade 11 when completing assignments for the oral and written parts of the Unified State Examination (based on FIPI materials)

A Daily life and everyday life, distribution of household duties in the family. (writing - 13, 18) Shopping (writing -5, speaking -3)

B Life in the city and countryside. Problems of the city and the countryside (speaking - 23)

AT Communication in the family and school (writing -11), family traditions (speaking -18), interpersonal relationships with friends and acquaintances (writing - 8.14, 16.17.20, speaking -21)

G Health and care (letter - 10, essay - 3) well-being, medical services. Healthy lifestyle (writing -7, speaking - 6, 22)

D The role of youth in modern society (essay-7), their interests and hobbies (speaking -6, 10, writing-4, 6, 12)

E Youth leisure: visiting circles, sports clubs, interest clubs (essays -15, speaking -9,). Correspondence

AND Native country (speaking -11) and countries of the language being studied. Their geographical position, climate, population, cities and villages, sights(separate article COMING SOON).

Z Traveling in your country and abroad, sightseeing (essays – 16)

And Nature and problems of ecology (essay -9)

K Cultural and historical features of their country and the countries of the language being studied(separate article COMING SOON).

L The contribution of Russia and the countries of the studied language to the development of science (essay-1) and world culture (speaking -13)

M Modern world of professions, labor market (speaking-19)

H Opportunities for continuing education in higher education (essays - 10)

O Plans for the future, the problem of choosing a profession (speaking -19, writing -19)

P The role of foreign language proficiency in the modern world (letter-9)

R School education (essay-11). Studied subjects, attitude to them. Holidays (speaking -5, 20)

FROM Scientific and technological progress, its prospects and consequences (essays -20)

T New information technologies (essays -20)

At Holidays and significant dates in various countries of the world (speaking -4, 14)

Source: Codifier of content elements and requirements for the level of training of graduates of educational organizations for the unified state exam in ENGLISH in grade 11 in 2015

Personal letter in English in the 11th grade. Topics

Below we offer 20 topics that meet the specifications from the FIPI website. Pay special attention to the highlighted topics that are included in the content of the subject speech. You can find assignments for these topics in the presentation below.

Teenage Jobs
Fashion
Hobbies. Music
Pets
Clothes
Parties
Keep fit
family relations
Learning English
Health
Teenage problems with parents
birthday party
Household Chores
Teenage problems with friends
Exams
Teenage problems with friends
Teenage problems
Household Chores
future profession
Teenage problems with parents

Personal letter in English in the 11th grade. Tasks

Essay in English in grade 11. Topics

Below we offer 20 topics that meet the specifications from the FIPI website. Pay special attention to the highlighted topics that are included in the content of the subject speech:

space exploration
Teenagers Today
Healthy and unhealthy foods
Watch TV
school trips
Stray Animals
school management
Car as a means of transport
environmental problems
Higher Education
school education
Teenage Jobs
Appearance and Fashion
Pocket Money
free time
Traveling
School Magazine
home work
Experiments on Animals
Technology and Science

Essay in English. Tasks

Below we offer 24 speaking topics, which correspond to the specification from the FIPI website. Pay special attention to the highlighted topics that are included in the content of the subject speech:

Topics in English to prepare for the exam (activation of monologue speech)

TV Programs (1.2)
Clothes & Fashion (3)
Holidays (4)
Favorite Subject (5)
Sports (6)
Favorite Film (7)
Favorite Book (8)
Free Time (9)
Hobbies (10)
The Place Where I live (11)
Weather (12)
Famous Person (13)
Public Holidays (14)
Mobile Phones (15)
My Favorite Place (16)
Pets (17)
My Family (18)
My Plans for the Future (19)
My School (20)
My Best Friend (21)
Healthy Food (22)
City Life and Country Life (23)
Mass Media (24)

You will find tasks for activating speaking skills in the presentation:

Thus, you can repeat the studied vocabulary in writing (in the form of a letter or essay) or orally (in the form of monologues) on all topics and, thus, successfully pass the exam in English. Good luck in learning English and preparing for the exam!

The ability to write an essay requires a fairly high level of knowledge of the language. And few people know this art. We will give you some very useful tips for writing an essay or essay in English, which will come in handy more than once in your life.

Training

It's difficult, but start early. The sooner you start thinking about the topic of the essay, the more time you will have to collect material. When your brain is set to think about a question, the information seems to catch your eye.

The same thing happens when you memorize a new word: it begins to seem that it occurs more often in the text. The thing is that you become more receptive to a certain type of information, paying more attention to it.

To begin with, it is best to sketch out what you know about the topic of the essay: perhaps you know even more than you thought. This will give you ideas on which direction to go next. To act purposefully, make a plan and formulate a preliminary set of questions. When you start to study the material, you will have new, more specific questions, and you will be able to look for answers already to them.

How to overcome the "fear of a blank slate"

Even the most experienced writer at the beginning of work on a new work is sometimes visited by feelings of indecision and fear. But, as they say, the main thing is not in the desire and not in the ability: just start writing. It doesn't matter where you start: the main thing is not to stop writing and for the time being do not worry about style and spelling. Make preliminary sketches of the main ideas of the story and after that proceed to the design of the structure of your future creation.

If you write on a computer, it will not be difficult for you to swap fragments of what you have written, grouping them differently. If you prefer paper and pen, leave a space of one or two lines between abstracts so that you can add something later.

You can even take scissors and cut the sheet into strips to make this process easier. Try to arrange the future essay in the order of development of the main idea. If as a result you get the “golden three”: the beginning (introduction), the middle (the main part of the essay) and the ending (conclusion), then you did everything right.

General essay structure

Introduction

The introduction should contain some commentary on the topic of the essay - perhaps definitions of key concepts or an explanation of how you understand the question. Also in this section, you need to list which aspects of the topic you will consider and why.

Remember that an essay is not a novel, so you need to choose only a few main arguments that reveal the topic. The introduction should give a clear idea of what will be discussed next, and the teacher should see that you are answering a specific set of questions.

So a good introduction should:

demonstrate your intention to answer the question;
show that you understand the topic;
outline the structure of your answer and the main aspects that you will consider (your plan);
confirm that you have done some research and cite one of your sources;
fully correspond to the topic;
be concise and occupy about 8-9% of the total text (for example, 120 words in a 1500-word essay).

Note: For those who find it easier to navigate not in the number of words, but in the number of characters, the following formula is useful: on average, one English word is taken as 6 characters (including spaces), that is, a 500-word essay contains approximately 3000 characters with spaces.

Start your essay with a key phrase that will indicate the direction of your answer. For example:

This essay deals with... ( « This essay is about... » )
This assignment will examine... ( « This work examines... » )
This report will analyze... ( « This report analyzes... » )

Use the same or similar wording as in the essay topic. If the question sounds like "Discuss recent developments in communication technology" ("Consider current developments in communication technology"), then in the introduction you can write: "This essay will consider recent developments in the field of communication technology ..." ("In this The essay will examine current developments in communication technology...”). More certainty: leave no room for the reader to doubt.

You can also use these words and expressions to highlight your work plan, for example:

The essay is divided into four sections... ("This essay consists of four parts...")
It will first consider...
It will then continue to describe...
The third part compares...
Finally, some conclusions will be drawn as to...

Main part

The main body should explain each of the arguments using examples and illustrations. Information should be clearly divided logically (for this, the text is divided into paragraphs). You need to think over the structure of the essay and make sure that the body of the essay logically leads to a conclusion.

Conclusion

The conclusion should summarize the ideas expressed. Here it is necessary to answer the question formulated in the topic of the essay. Or, depending on the topic, indicate the prospects or consequences of the problem under consideration.

Also, in this section, you can formulate related topics worthy of further reflection and express personal views - if they are supported by the arguments that you have given earlier.

A good conclusion is:

not just summarizing. The conclusion should be a thoughtful conclusion to the work, for example, applying what has been written to a real situation.
quintessence, that is, a short list of the main ideas. It is worth referring to the introduction and draw parallels using the same keywords or images, but using a different wording. Do not repeat word for word.
reinforcing the ideas of the main part of the work. Different types of essays require different conclusions. A short work does not need a detailed repetition of the main ideas, but a longer one may need it.
perhaps a suggestive question, a vivid image, a quote, if appropriate.
as an option - a forecast of results or consequences, a possible solution, a call to action.

However, there are points that should be avoided in the conclusion of the essay:

come up with completely new ideas. If they are really important, include them in the body.
use an apologetic tone. Be confident in your statements. Avoid phrases like "I may not be an expert" or "At least this is my opinion" ("I may not be an expert" or "At least I think so").
focus on too small details.
refute the validity of previous arguments.

According to many teachers, the conclusion is the most important part of the essay. In it, you demonstrate that you have a good command of the material and thoughtfully approached the consideration of the problem. Don't worry if the conclusion forces you to rewrite other parts of the text. Actually, this is a good sign!

As a general idea of the length of each section, you can use the following formula (this is a recommendation, but not a hard and fast rule):

Introduction - 7-8% of the essay volume
Conclusion - 12-15% of the essay volume

Do not overuse complex words and expressions, but avoid slang and abbreviations. In general, try to write in short, simple sentences, breaking them up with longer ones from time to time. The goal is to state the essence clearly and clearly so that the reader can easily follow the course of thought and not be distracted by extraneous reasoning (also read about styles in English).

Needless to say, there should be no grammatical and spelling errors in the essay - make every effort to do so. In addition, you need to remember that you are not writing for yourself, but for another person, so punctuation, division into sentences and paragraphs, general structure - all this should help the reader.

Avoid elements of colloquial speech:

do not use abbreviations (don "t, they're, it's), always use the full form;
do not use slang and colloquial expressions (kid, a lot of/lots of, cool);
write to the point and do not deviate from the topic;
try to avoid phrasal verbs (get off, get away with, put in - more about phrasal verbs), use one-word synonyms;
avoid too general words (all, any, every), be specific and precise;
do not abuse brackets, exclamation marks.

Stick to the academic style:

if possible, avoid first-person personal pronouns (I, my, we, our);
avoid too categorical judgments and generalizations;
support what is said with quotes and data indicating sources;
Gender equality is important in English: when talking about an abstract person, use person instead of man. Whenever possible, it is better to pluralize the subject and use the pronoun they instead of he or she;
use the active voice whenever possible, do not complicate the sentences. For example, instead of "Crime was increasing rapidly and the police were becoming concerned," write: "The rapid increase in crime was causing concern among the police." police").

Strive to give the text objectivity:

use impersonal constructions: It is believed that... (“It is believed that ...”) , It cannot be argued that ... (“Undoubtedly ...”);
use the passive voice if you do not want to indicate the performer of the action: Tests have been conducted ("Tests were conducted ...");
use non-categorical verbs, for example: suggest (offer, suggest, express an opinion), claim (assert, declare), suppose (consider, believe, assume);
to show your attitude to the issue, but to avoid personal judgments, you can use adverbs: apparently (obviously), arguably (probably), ideally (ideally), strangely (strange), unexpectedly (unexpectedly);
use modal verbs would, could, may, might to soften the categoricalness;
to avoid generalizations, use qualifying adverbs: some (some), several (several), a minority of (smaller part), a few (several), many (many).

paragraphs

Each paragraph usually touches on one aspect of the main idea. The two paragraphs may touch on different aspects, but be interrelated - for example, cause and effect, positive and negative sides, the state of affairs before or after.

Sometimes the first sentence of a paragraph is introductory, that is, explaining what will be discussed.

Connectivity

The logical transition from one paragraph to another sometimes causes serious difficulties for the author. To preserve the coherence of the text, it is necessary to guide the reader, give him signals. Introductory and linking words that perform various functions can help with this. For example:

opposition: but, however, on the other hand, yet;
example: for example, that is;
addition: similarly, moreover, furthermore, in addition;
conclusion: therefore, consequently, as a result, thus;
enum: then, after that, ultimately.

Quotes and links

When you quote a book or other written source, or convey information in your own words, you must include the author's name and publication date. You can do this in the following way:

According to Smith (1998), writing a good essay is difficult at times, but definitely not impossible. (“According to Smith (1998), writing a good essay is sometimes difficult, but certainly possible.”)

Writing a good essay is difficult at times, but definitely not impossible (Smith 1998). (“Writing a good essay is sometimes difficult, but certainly possible (Smith 1998).”)

Checking and editing

"Lifehack": You can dictate an essay on a sound recording device yourself and listen to it. Often this is how it is possible to detect inconsistencies in grammatical structures or inconsistencies in the logical course of things.

Be sure to use a spell checker in a text editor, but don't forget to proofread the text yourself. For example, Word sometimes misses rather curious errors that can greatly spoil the impression of your written work. If you're not sure about something, look it up in a dictionary.

And another useful technique: before you finish the work, set it aside for a couple of hours (even better - for a day) so that you can then return to it with a fresh look. This is another reason why you need to start writing an essay in advance, with enough time left.

Format and rules for writing an essay “expressing opinion”

The essay “expressing opinion” is written in a formal (business) style.
In this type of essay, you need to express your point of view on a given topic, as well as bring other people's points of view that are opposite to yours and explain why you do not agree with them. Your opinion should be clearly articulated and supported by examples or evidence.
Essay size 200-250 words (minimum 180 words, maximum 275)
The essay should actively use constructions like "In my opinion", "I think", "I believe"
It is necessary to use introductory words and constructions like “On the one hand, on the other hand”…, linking words (Nevertheless, Moreover, Despite…)
It is forbidden to use abbreviations, such as “I’m”, “they’re”, “don’t”, “can’t” (otherwise the score for organizing the composition will be reduced)
The “expressing opinion” essay has a strict structure, changing which when writing an essay will lead to a decrease in the score. The essay “expressing opinion” consists of 4 paragraphs:

1) Introduction(introduction)

In the introduction, it is necessary to clearly formulate the topic-problem, indicating that there are two opposite points of view on the problem (Some people claim that mobile phones are very useful devices while others argue that life could be less stressful without them.) and express your opinion without using too many personal designs
However, the first sentence should not repeat word for word the given topic of the essay. Recommended end of the first paragraph: Now I would like to express my point of view on the problem of …

2) Main body

1 paragraph. Give 2-3 arguments supporting your point of view, supporting them with examples or evidence.
In the second paragraph, you should stick to only ONE point of view, for example: Mobile phones in my opinion are very useful devices. OR I consider the mobile phone to be a harmful and useless invention.
It is necessary to give 2-3 arguments with evidence to support your own opinion

2 paragraph. Give opposing points of view (1-2), and explain why you do not agree with them. Example: However, some people think that mobile phones not only keep you in touch with your relatives and friends but also provide you with a great number of facilities. I can't agree with this statement because…
Your counterarguments to other people's opinions should not repeat the 2nd paragraph.

3) Conclusion (conclusion)

It is necessary to conclude, referring to the topic given in the 1st paragraph, that there are 2 points of view on the problem, and also to confirm your own point of view.
For example: “There are different points of view on this problem. I think that…” or “Taking everything into consideration, there are two different points of view on this problem. I believe that…

Useful vocabulary for composition"expressing opinion"

1 paragraph Introductory phrases

It is popularly believed that….
People often claim that... Some people argue that…
A lot of people think that…
It is often suggested /believed that…
Many people are in favor of the idea that... Many people are convinced that...
Some people are against…

2 paragraph. Phrases expressing your point of view:

I would like to explain my point of view on this situation.
I would like to express my opinion on this problem.

Phrases characterizing the advantages of the problem under discussion:

As already stated I’m in favor of… for a number of reasons…
There are many things to be said in favor of…
The best/thing about……. is…

Phrases listing points of view:

Firstly, /First of all….
In the first place
To start with, / To begin with,
Secondly, Thirdly, Finally,
Last but not least

Phrases that add new arguments:

Furthermore, /Moreover, /What is more,
As well as…. /In addition to this/that…
Besides, /…….also….
Not only…., but…… as well.
Apart from this/that….
not to mention the fact that

3 paragraph.

Some people understand that… however they fail to that…
they fail to consider that… they forget that…
Some people argue that…. I can't agree with it as...
I disagree with this point of view (statement, opinion) because …
It has become fashionable for some people to argue that…
Contrary to what most people believe, I think that…
As opposed to the above ideas…I believe that…

4 paragraph. Closing phrases:

in conclusion,
on the whole,
to conclude,
to sum up,
all in all,
All things considered
finally,
lastly,
taking everything into account,
Taking everything into consideration

Expression of personal opinion:

In my opinion this subject is very controversial
In my view…
To my mind…
To my way of thinking…
Personally I believe that…
I feel strongly that…
It seems to me that…
As far as I am concerned…

Criteria for assessing the performance of tasks С2

Solving a communicative problem (CONTENTS)	ORGANIZATION OF THE TEXT		Grammar	Spelling and punctuation

The task was completed in full: the content reflects all the aspects specified in the task; the stylistic design of the speech is chosen correctly, taking into account the purpose of the statement and the addressee; the norms of politeness accepted in the language are observed.	The statement is logical: the means of logical connection are chosen correctly; the text is divided into paragraphs; the format of the statement is chosen correctly	The vocabulary used is appropriate for the task at hand; there are practically no violations in the use of vocabulary. (1-2 mistakes)	Grammar structures are used in accordance with the task. Virtually no errors. (1-2 mistakes)
Assignment completed: some aspects specified in the assignment are not fully disclosed; there are separate violations of the style of speech; the norms of politeness accepted in the language are mostly observed	The statement is basically logical; there are some shortcomings in the use of logical links; there are some shortcomings in dividing the text into paragraphs; there are some violations of the format of the statement	The vocabulary used corresponds to the task, but there are some inaccuracies in the use of words or the vocabulary is limited. But the vocabulary is used correctly (3-7 mistakes)	There are a number of grammatical errors that do not make it difficult to understand the text (3-7 mistakes)	There are practically no spelling errors. The text is divided into sentences with correct punctuation (1-2 mistakes)
The task was not completed completely: the content does not reflect all the aspects indicated in the task; style violations are common; generally the norms of politeness accepted in the language are not observed	The statement is not always logical: there are shortcomings or errors in the use of logical connection means, their choice is limited; division of the text into paragraphs is illogical or absent; there are numerous errors in the format of the statement	Unnecessarily limited vocabulary used; there are often violations in the use of vocabulary, some of which may make it difficult to understand the text	Either elementary-level errors are common, or the errors are few but make the text difficult to understand. (8-12 errors)	There are a number of spelling or punctuation errors that make it difficult to understand the text (3-10 mistakes)
The task was not completed: the content does not reflect the aspects indicated in the task, or does not correspond to the required volume (200-250 words) Note: the minimum number of words is 180, the maximum is 275. If there are 179 words in the essay - “0” for the content, if there are more than 276 words, then only 250 words from the beginning are checked.	There is no logic in the construction of the statement; the format of the statement is not respected	Extremely limited vocabulary does not allow you to complete the task (cannot be set if there is no "0" for the content)	Grammar rules are not followed (more than 12 errors)	Spelling and punctuation rules are not respected Over 10 bugs

Essay Sample

many cities in Europe do everything to promote bicycles as an ecologically clean type of transportation; however the governor of St. Petersburg signed a decree according to which bicycles will not be allowed in the city centre.

Do you agree that bicycles should be banned in the center of St. Petersburg?

Write 200-250 words

Use the following plan:

1.Introduction. (state the problem)

2. Express your opinion and give reasons for it.

3. Give other people's arguments and explain why they are wrong.

4. Make a conclusion

In European cities people ride bicycles a lot because they are aware that bikes help to save fuel and reduce pollution in cities. However, the governor of Saint-Petersburg decided to ban bicycles in the city center and I fully agree with it. I would like to explain my point of view on it.

In my opinion, the governor is absolutely right. In the first place, our roads are not adapted for biking as in Europe; they are too narrow and there are no separate lanes for bicycles. Bikes do not help the traffic situation but even sometimes make it worse as bicyclists often break traffic rules and cause accidents. In addition, the weather in St. Petersburg is not good for bicycle commuting. In winter roads are covered with ice, in autumn and in spring rains are frequent and roads are wet, so it is very difficult for cyclists to move.

On the other hand, some say that bikes are undoubtedly useful for our health, I can not agree with it completely as there are a lot of road accidents where cyclists are injured. Some people may argue that bikes are ecologically clean, but you can also put special purifying facilities on cars which are faster and more comfortable as transport.

To sum up, there are different points of view on this problem. I believe that bicycles should be banned in the city center where streets are not specially created for them. As I see it, a bike is a kind of transport for short trips in the countryside.

Portal for the student. Self-training