Engleza4 PDF

Program postuniversitar de conversie profesional
pentru cadrele didactice din mediul rural

Specializarea LIMBA I LITERATURA ENGLEZ
Forma de nvmnt ID - semestrul I
ENGLISH PRACTICAL COURSE

ON WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
Diana IONI
2005
Ministerul Educaiei i Cercetrii

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural
LIMBA I LITERATURA ENGLEZ

English practical course on written
communication
Diana IONI
2005
2005
Ministerul Educaiei i Cercetrii

Nici o parte a acestei lucrri
nu poate fi reprodus fr
acordul scris al Ministerului Educaiei i Cercetrii
We want to express special thanks to DEAN HUFSTETLER,

certified teacher from California, USA.
ISBN 973-0-04116-4
Table of contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I
1.
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2.
3.
4.
5.
II
1.
2
3
4.
5
III
Introduction
Writing Guidelines
Unit Objectives
Background information
Types of compositions
The structure of a composition
Linking words and phrases
Writing tips
Language development
Send - away assignment
Answer key
Bibliography
3
3
3
5
6
7
10
12
13
14
Letter Writing I
15
Unit objectives
1.1 Types of letters
1.2 Letter structure and layout
1.3 Writing styles in letters
Answer key
Bibliography
Letter Writing II
1
2
3
4
5
IV
Unit objectives
1.2 Reported question
Types of transactional letters
Answer key
Bibliography
Letter writing III
1
2
3
4
5
Unit objectives
1.1 Structure and style
1.2 Types of business letters
Answer key
Bibliography
15
15
15
17
19
20
24
25
26
27
27
27
27
29
31
36
37
39
40
40
40
40
42
44
48
49
50
I
Table of contents
Describing Festivals, Celebrations and Ceremonies

1
2
3
4
5
Unit objectives
1.1 Structure of descriptive compositions
1.2 Useful tips
1.3 The Passive Voice
Answer key
Bibliography
VI
1
1.1
2
2.1
2.2
2.3
3
4
5
VII
1
1.1
1.2
1.3
2
2.1
2.2
2.3
3
4
5
VIII
1
2
3
4
5
II
51
51
51
51
52
52
53
58
59
60
Describing Buildings, People, Objects
61
Unit objectives
Structure of descriptive compositions
Types of descriptions
Describing places and buildings
Describing people
Describing objects
Answer key
Bibliography
61
61
61
63
63
67
70
72
72
75
Narrative Techniques
76
Unit objectives
First-person narratives
Useful tips
Background Information
Third-person narratives
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
76
76
76
77
79
82
82
82
83
86
86
88
Reviews
89
Unit objectives
1.1 Structure and writing style
1.2 Relative clauses
Answer key
Bibliography
89
89
89
90
92
98
98
100
Table of contents
IX
Reports 1 News Reports

1
2
3
4
5
Unit objectives
1.1 Structure of news reports
1.2 Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
1
1.1
1.2
2
2.1
2.2
3
4
5
6
XI
1
2
3
4
5
XII
2
3
4
5
101
101
101
102
103
109
110
111
Reports 2 Survey Reports and Assessment,

Proposal Reports
112
Unit objectives
Structure of survey reports
Useful tips
Structure of assessment, proposal reports
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
112
112
112
114
114
114
115
116
122
122
124
Essays 1 For / Against Essays
125
Unit objectives
1.1 Structure and specific phrases
1.2 Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
Essays 2 Opinion Essays
101
Unit objectives
1.2 Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
125
125
125
126
128
134
134
136
137
137
137
137
139
140
146
146
148
III
Table of contents
XIII
1
2
3
4
5
XIV
1
2
IV
149
Articles
Unit objectives
1.1 Structure of articles
1.2 Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
149
149
149
150
151
156
157
158
Summative Self-Assessment Test
159
Unit objectives
Exercises
Answer key
159
159
171
General bibliography
175
Introduction
INTRODUCTION
English Practical Course on Written Communication has
been especially designed for those users willing to communicate in
English correctly and fluently.
This course includes 14 units. Each unit has the following
structure: information background on the main writing techniques,
examples of good practice, and a wide range of practical drills.
English Practical Course on Written Communication
contains the following types of activities:
Reflection points (stop and think
) can help you focus
on your teaching and become aware of your own problems. This task
involves collecting data about your own teaching, analysing and
examining data, and using this information as a basis for making
critical judgments about your own teaching. This process requires
deliberation and self-scrutiny.
Practice activities (drills

): you will be asked to answer
questions, to rearrange jumbled paragraphs in a chronological order,
to use specific phrases, to link sentences using certain words or
phrases, to identify and correct mistakes, to choose the correct word,
to identify different writing styles, to match words or phrases in order
to make collocations, synonymous pairs, antonymic pairs, etc.
Reading practice (reading
): you will read certain texts
in order to choose the most appropriate one or to identify the main
ideas.
Writing practice (writing
): you will be asked to write
different types of letters, descriptions, reports, narrations, essays,

using a certain number of words and underlying a specific topic.
The send-away assignments (SAAs
) are based on
the material you have studied in the preceding unit. There are 13
assignments, one the end of each unit. This is the time for you to
write something practical in order to demonstrate your newly
acquired knowledge. For each SAA, the assessment criteria are
emphasized in the instructions. To do the assignment, you will have
to spend about 45 minutes, provided you have completed all the
tasks required by the unit. You can use the bibliography included in
each unit, and you can use extra material if you wish, as well. You
will find detailed instructions on how to do the tasks, and your tutor
will send feedback on all of them within two weeks after you have
posted the assignment. You must allow post time for the letter to
reach your tutor, tutor time and more post time for the feedback to
Introduction
get to you. You will not be asked to re-write the assignments if you
demonstrate you have understood the respective unit.
NB: Your tutor may prefer you to type your assignments.
Send your assignments by post to your tutor.
The Answer Key section gives solutions to all the practical
activities. In this way, you will be able to identify your mistakes and
correct them immediately.
Bibliography: at the end of this course there is a list of
textbooks which will help you to clarify certain concepts or writing
techniques. The references are subdivided into two main groups:
Basic bibliography and General bibliography. Each unit ends with
a basic bibliography underlying the specific information necessary
to solve all the tasks, including the send-away assignment.
The assessment criteria focus on the way you have
acquired specific writing skills, such as:
1. the identification and the use of the major discourse
categories (language functions, direct and indirect
discourse, different writing styles)
2. the ability of expressing personal opinions
3. the ability of expressing arguments
4. writing different types of texts (formal and informal letters,
writing narratives, writing essays, writing reports, writing
articles, writing descriptions, writing compositions, writing
reviews)
5. the ability of using these writing skills in a creative way.
The assessment process will be 75% formative (referring to the
tasks included in the first thirteen units) and 25% summative
(referring to the tasks included in the summative test XIV).
This course combines the traditional methods of language
teaching and a more recent communicative approach. The focus is
mainly on the wide range of practical activities with the view to
making you drill the main theoretical issues and creating the
appropriate framework for your original and creative outcomes.
Writing guidelines
UNIT I
WRITING GUIDELINES
Words are loaded pistols.

(J. P. Sartre, French philosopher)
Unit objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able to distinguish the
differences between writing styles formal and informal, as
well as different types of writing: compositions, letters, reports,
articles, essays, descriptions, and narratives. You will also
acquire information regarding ways of planning the layout, of
linking words and expressions, as well as useful tips for writing.
Unit Outline
1.
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2.
3.
4.
5.
1.
Objectives
Types of compositions
The structure of a composition
Writing tips
Send-away assignment
Answer key
Bibliography
3
3
3
5
6
7
10
12
13
14
1.1. Types of compositions

There are different types of writing: letters, articles, reports.
Letters are addressed to people having a certain purpose,
such as complaining, inviting, refusing invitations, giving news, giving
advice, asking for solutions, etc.
The style is either formal or informal, depending on the people
you write the letter to:
Informal letters are sent to friends, family members,
colleagues, mates, people that you know well;
Formal letters are sent to officials, senior managers,
business partners, and important people.
The informal style is a personal conversational style.
Writing guidelines
The formal style is more polite.

There is also a third category the semi-formal letters. These
letters are sent to people that you know very well such as: business
partners, academic tutors or elderly people; yet, you want to show
your respect or admiration for them by using a more polite and
respectful style.
Articles are written for newspapers and magazines. There are
different types of articles, each of them with a different writing style:
Narratives are pieces of writing about events (either real
or unreal) that happened sometime in the past. They are first-person
narratives (written in the first person when the narrator is the main
character) or third-person narratives (when the narrator is writing
about events that happened to other characters).
Descriptions are of different types: descriptions of
places, buildings, festivals, people or objects.
News Reports deal with recent facts and events. The style
is objective, unemotional and impersonal.
Essays. There are different types of essays: opinion
essays (presenting the writers own opinions on a certain matter), for
and against essays (presenting the arguments for and against a
certain matter), solution-solving essays (presenting a problem,
causes and results, suggestions). They are also called discursive
essays.
Reviews are pieces of writing presenting a film, a TV
programme, a book, a restaurant, etc
Reports. There are several types: assessment reports
(discussing the suitability of a location, project, person, etc. for a
specific event, job, etc), proposal reports (presenting suggestions
and solutions about future actions), and survey reports (presenting
facts based on research). Reports are written in a formal style and
have a specific format.
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Give answers to the following questions. Use the space below.
Possible solutions in the Answer key section.
1. What style would you use in a letter written to a School
Principal?
2. What kind of essay would you write in order to present your

opinions on endangered species?
3. What kind of composition would you write if you wanted to

discuss the suitability of a fast-food restaurant in your
neighbourhood?
Writing guidelines
Proverb
You cant judge a book by its cover.
1.2. The structure of a composition

In any type of writing you should organise your ideas into
paragraphs. Paragraphs make up the main parts of your
composition: introduction, main body, and conclusion.
Introduction. This first paragraph is generally a short one
presenting the general idea of the topic. It should include interesting
pieces of information in order to make the reader interested in the
rest of your piece of writing.
Main body. It usually consists of several paragraphs which
develop the main points related to your topic. The structure of the
main body depends on the type of composition you want to write.
A new paragraph represents the discussion of a new point.
Conclusion. The final paragraph is a short one summarising
the main points, restating your opinions, giving solutions, expressing
feelings, commenting on the issues, etc.
Stop and think

Exercise 2
Which of the following should you include in the introduction of
an assessment report about the taxi service in your town? Write your
answers in the space below. Possible solutions in the Answer key
section.
a)
number of taxis, colour and time-table
b)
final comments and recommendation
c)
what the taxi drivers obligations are and why you
consider this type of service useful to the community
Writing guidelines
1.3. Linking words and phrases

Each new paragraph should include a topic sentence and
several supporting sentences.
The topic sentence introduces, concludes or
summarises the main point of the paragraph. It also offers the reader
an image of what the rest of the paragraph will be about.
Supporting sentences follow the topic sentence and
present details, reasons, commentaries, concrete examples, etc. in
order to support the topic sentence.
Let's have fun!
Question: What do you call a bear without an
ear?
Answer: BBBBBBBBB.
Stop and think

Exercise 3
Decide which of the following sentences are topic sentences
and which are supporting sentences. Write your answers in the
space below. Possible solutions in the Answer key section.
1.
Secondly, kids can put on weight and disturb their whole
metabolism.
2.
There are a lot of reasons why fast-food is also called
junk-food.
3.
Firstly, this type of food lacks vitamins.
Between paragraphs as well as inside each paragraph the

writer should include specific linking words and phrases.
In order to join short clauses into sentences you should use:
and, but, yet, since, as, so, because, e.g.:
Fast food is bad for children. Fast food lacks vitamins.
Fast food is bad for children because it lacks vitamins.
Fast food lacks vitamins. Kids should avoid it.
Kids should avoid fast food since it lacks vitamins.
Writing guidelines
In order to link two paragraphs or main topic sentences you

should use linking phrases or words such as: moreover, furthermore,
however, in addition (to), what is more, on the one hand, on the other
hand, instead, also, etc., e.g.:
People are trying hard to save our planet. Our planet is still in
danger.
People are trying to save our planet. However, our planet is
still in danger.
In the table below you can see other types of linking words and
phrases:
Purpose
To emphasize contrasting
ideas
To outline time
Type of linking words/phrases

although, despite, in spite of, however,
on the other hand, yet;
when, whenever, as, while, as soon
as, until, till, by the time, before, after;
To show sequential events first, firstly, second, secondly, third,
thirdly, at first, to start with, then, after
that, next, at last, in the end, finally,
eventually;
To give examples
for example, such as, for instance, to
mention only;
To show cause and effect because, as, since, as a result, as a
consequence, consequently, so,
since;
To add further ideas
furthermore, moreover, in addition,
what is more, also, and;
To conclude
in conclusion, finally, eventually, in the
end, at last, to sum up, all in all.
Proverb
The pen is mightier than the sword.
1.4. Writing tips
In order to write correctly you should first of all establish

the type of writing piece you want to construct.
Then you should establish if the style is formal, informal

or semi-formal.
You should adjust the writing techniques to each type of

writing you want to write.
For example, if you want to write an article, you should
introduce an attractive headline in order to motivate the reader to
read it; you should write an alert introduction. The main body should
include short sentences, a wide range of verbs and adverbs and
come up with the proper linking words.
Writing guidelines
General writing tips for reports, essays, and articles:
Correct spelling is essential.
Proof-reading is essential too.
Avoid alliteration (the use of the same sound at the

beginning of several words that are close together: e.g. round the
rung rocks Cambridge International Dictionary of English, 1995).
Do not be redundant (unnecessary word or sentence

because it is already implied: e.g. unmarried bachelor).
Do not use commas that are not necessary.
Use the apostrophes correctly.
Exaggeration is worse than understatement.
Never use one-word sentences.
Do not use rhetorical sentences.
Avoid colloquialisms (conversational language, slang).
Do not use the double negative.
Avoid clichs (expressions that have been used so often

that their original effectiveness has been lost).
Formal style
Longer sentences and advanced vocabulary.
The purpose of this report is to assess the suitability of a

new shopping mall in our district.
Formal linking words (for instance despite not in spite of,

furthermore not also), e.g.:
Fast food is rather unhealthy. Nevertheless, it is considered
tasty by a lot of people.
Impersonal style.
Reported speech.
Objective facts not personal feelings, e.g.:
Early yesterday afternoon, a teenager was taken to hospital

after being trapped between the walls of a shabby shed.
Informal style
Short sentences, e.g.:

Id love it.
Short forms, e.g.:
I wont be a burden, will I?
Informal linking words: so, since, yet, cause, e.g.:
The used party will be outdoors, so you can take your

swimming suit.
Writing guidelines
Personal tone, e.g.:
I cant wait to tell you the great news.
Everyday English expressions: colloquialisms, idioms,

similes, etc., e.g.:
Thanks a lot.
As for the semi-formal style, you should use neither formal nor
informal techniques that is you should use a respectful tone in a
less formal style. Compare:
Formal: I would be grateful if you could send your catalogue at
your earliest convenience.
Semi-formal: I look forward to receiving your catalogue as
soon as possible.
Proverb
A word to the wise is enough.
Stop and think

Exercise 4
Look at the following sentences and decide which belong to the
formal style, which to the informal style and which to the semi-formal
style. ? Write your answers in the space below. Possible solutions in
the Answer key section.
.
1. Here I am in New York.
.
2. Finally, I have arrived in New York.
3. At last, I have arrived in New York.
Writing guidelines
2.
Drills
V
Exercise 5
Read the following extracts and decide which type of writing
they belong to: formal letters, informal letters, descriptions or
assessment reports. Write your answers in the space below. Then
see the correct solutions in the Answer key section.
1. Dear Jenny,
I am thinking of looking for a new flat. So I have started saving
some money for a rainy day.
2. My Granny is the type of lady you take to instantly: she has

a sweet smile, intelligent eyes that can see through your soul and a
kind face.
3. The new bakery provides a large range of fresh buns and

rolls, with several ingredients in order to satisfy all tastes.
4. Dear Sirs / Madams,

We thank you for your letter of 28th September.
We have nothing in stock either in nylon or in linen that is
sufficiently similar to your demands.
Proverb
Two wrongs dont make a right.
Writing
Exercise 6
Choose the correct linking word or phrase. Write your answers
in the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key
section.
1. Fast-food isnt healthy at all. Furthermore / On the other
hand it is so tasty that kids cannot resist it.
2. Villages are quiet. In contrast / Yet towns are more lively.
3. True friends are essential. Also / However, they are so rare

nowadays.
10
Writing guidelines
4. The job of a teacher is challenging. In addition/ Yet, it

involves life-long training.
5. It was cold yesterday. So / All in all, we stayed indoors.
6. Travelling can be fun. Similarly / However, going on short

trips can be enjoyable as well.
Exercise 7
Write the correct linking word / phrase in order to join the
following sentences, using: in contrast, although, similarly, in
contrast, so, not only but also, both and.
Write your answers in the space below. Then see the correct
solutions in the Answer key section.
1. Managers are busy. The employees are busy.
2. Flying a plane is dangerous. It can be so impressive.
3. Travelling by plane is safer. Travelling by train is more

dangerous.
4. People are trying to be environmentally-friendlier. There

are still many actions to be taken.
5. She is a friendly girl. She is imaginative too.
6. They are learning more. They are likely to pass the exam.
7. Pollution damages the air we breath. Pollution damages

the water we drink.
Exercise 8
Include the correct topic sentence into the paragraphs below.
The topic sentences are:
A In contrast, cities can offer several advantages.
B Parties can be fun.
C There are many reasons why I consider Patricia a real
friend.
11
Writing guidelines
Paragraph 1
She is there when you need her. She can bring up solutions
and answers to your problems. She is also a great listener, which is
a rare feature nowadays. Moreover, she is a reliable person. You can
share any troubles with her and find an answer in the end.
Paragraph 2
There, you can find the main administrative institutions. Your

child can go to better schools. You can go to hospitals, not only to
dispensaries if you need special health care. You have a wider range
of entertainment. You can go shopping in malls thus having a great
variety of goods to choose from.
Paragraph 3
They are a means of making new friends and even finding your
future partner. You can also have the opportunity to dance more,
listen to good music and talk about your favourite topics: fashion,
travelling, movies, latest books, etc.
3. SAA
You will need to spend about 45 minutes for this assignment,
provided you have completed all the tasks required by the unit. Use
the information above as well as the bibliography included in this
unit.
The assessment will focus on the correct identification of
various writing styles described in this unit (60%) and the distinction
between different writing styles (40%).
Arrange the writing tips below under the following headings:
writing techniques
for formal style
a
b
c
d
12
writing techniques
for informal style
general writing
techniques
use short sentences;

proof-reading is essential;
use reported speech only;
use formal expressions;
Writing guidelines
e
f
g
h
check the spelling;

use an impersonal tone;
use advanced vocabulary;
dont be redundant
Send your assignment by post to your tutor.
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers to exercises 1, 2, 3, and 4 not be
close to the ones suggested in this section, read again the
information provided in Unit I, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
1. formal style
2. opinion essay
3. assessment report.
Exercise 2
Answer: c.
Exercise 3
Topic sentence: There are a lot of reasons why fast-food is also
called junk-food.
Supporting sentences:
Secondly, kids can put on weight and disturb their whole
metabolism.
Firstly, this type of food lacks vitamins.
Exercise 4
1 = informal; 2 = formal; 3 = semi-formal.
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 5, 6 7, and 8 not be
close to the ones suggested in this section, read the
information provided in Unit I, subsections 1.3 and 1.4
Exercise 5
1 = informal letter; 2 = description; 3 = assessment report;
4 = formal letter.
Exercise 6
1 = nevertheless; 2 = on the other hand; 3 = in contrast;
4 = however; 5 = in addition; 6 = so; 7 = similarly.
Exercise 7
1. Both managers and employees are busy.
2. Flying a plane is dangerous. On the other hand, it can be so
impressive.
3. Travelling by plane is safer. In contrast, travelling by train is
more dangerous.
4. Although people are trying to be environmentally friendlier,
there are still many actions to be taken.
13
Writing guidelines
5. Not only is she friendly, but also imaginative.

6. They are learning more. So, they are likely to pass the
exam.
7. Pollution damages the air we breathe. Similarly, it damages
the water we drink.
Exercise 8
1 = C; 2 = A; 3 = B.
5.
Bibliography
1. Evans, V., 2000, Successful Writing- Intermediate, Express
Publishing, pp. 4 - 12
2. Evans, V., 1998, CPE Use of English, Express Publishing, p.
223
3. Mascull, B., 1996, Students Usage, Collins Cobuild, pp. 85 88.
14
Letter writing I
UNIT II
LETTER WRITING I
Unit objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able to understand the
differences between different types of letters: formal letters, informal
letters and semi-formal letters. You will also become familiar with the
specific structure and layout of letters, specific greeting and closing
phrases in order to use them in contexts of your own.
Unit Outline
1.
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.
3.
4.
5.
1.
Objectives
Types of letters
Letter structure and layout
Answer key
Bibliography
15
15
15
17
19
20
24
25
26
1.1 Types of letters

Look at the following table in order to see the differences
between types of letters in terms of purpose and format:
Type
Letters of giving or asking
for information
Letters of invitation
Letters of accepting or
refusing an invitation
Letters of application
Letters of inquiry
Letters of complaint
Letters of adjustment
Letters of apology
Purpose
To let people know details about a
specific matter.
To invite people to attend a certain
event.
To accept or refuse an invitation.
To outline your skills and expertise.
To request assistance, information
and goods.
To ask that certain matters should be
corrected.
Response to a complaint letter.
To mend a situation.
15
Letter writing I
Letters expressing
congratulations
Letters giving news
Letters of thanking,
expressing regrets, or
refusal, etc
Letters of
acknowledgement
Letters of reference
Letters of resignation
To congratulate people on special

events.
To let people know about the latest
news.
To let people know your feelings
regarding a certain situation.
To let people know that you have
received something sent to you.
To recommend someone for
employment or academic research,
studies.
To let an employer know about your
decision to leave the present position
and the reasons for doing so.
Lets have fun!

Q: Which letter is always trying to find reasons?
A: Y(why?)
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Look at the following extracts and identify the type of letter they
belong to. Write your answers in the space below. Then see the
possible solutions in the Answer key section.
1. I am afraid I cant come to your party. I have to work long
hours. Its a pity I cant make it.
2. I have met the man of my dreams and next week we are

getting married. I would be so happy if you could accept to be one of
the brides maids. I have already bought a pink dress for you. Please,
say yes.
3. I am sorry I couldnt write lately. I have been so busy

looking for a new house. Now, at last, here I am in my new flat. It is
gorgeous.
4. I wouldnt miss it for the world. Of course I will be there.

Thank you so much for the invitation. I am looking forward to seeing
you and your new girl-friend.
5. I am quite plump, and I feel miserable. I am writing to you

to ask what you think I should do about it? Its urgent!
16
Letter writing I
Lets have fun!

Question: Why shouldnt you put the letter M into the
refrigerator?
Answer: Because it turns ice into mice.

Letters generally have the following structure:
writing.
phrases.
Your address. It is included on the top right-hand corner.

The date. It is written under the address.
Greeting.
Paragraph 1: the introduction. It specifies the reason for
Paragraphs 2, 3, 4: the main body. They develop the topic.
Final paragraph: the conclusion. It includes the closing
Your name.
Study the following example:

The Intercontinental
Hotel
22, Hope St.
Frankfurt
Address
12 March, 2005
Date
Greeting
Dear Mum,
Paragraph 1
Here I am in Frankfurt. The flight was pleasant and

the weather is great. Everything seems perfect.
Paragraph 2
The hotel room is so big and the view is fantastic. I

am staying with two other colleagues of mine. We
have already visited the town and the main
museums. Prices are quite convenient.
Paragraph 3
Yesterday we went to a jazz club. It was great fun.

Tomorrow we are going to do some shopping. I
cant wait. I would like to find some handicrafts to
bring back home.
Final
paragraph
So, dont worry. Everything is under control. Take

care of yourself.
Closing
phrase
Looking forward to hearing from you,
17
Letter writing I
Stop and think

Exercise 2
Look at the following parts of a letter and arrange them
according to the above-stated example. Identify the type of letter.
1.
Yours truthfully,
2.
15 September 2004
3.
London
4.
Dear Sirs / Madams,
5.
I have worked in the sales department for three years,
and I have acquired robust expertise in this field.
6.
I would like to apply for the post of sales manager
advertised in yesterdays paper.
7.
3, Freedom Rd.
8.
I have also worked as a free-lancer in the advertising
unit of a travel agency.
9.
You can contact me at the above-mentioned address or
at the phone number: 324 55 22.
10.
I look forward to hearing from you,
11.
Robert Stevenson
LETTER:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
18
Letter writing I
1.3 Writing styles in letters

Although all three types of letters have the same format (see
subchapter 2 above), each style has its own features, as follows:
1.
Formal style
Address: besides your own address, which is placed on

top, on the right-hand corner, followed by the date, you should also
add the recipients position, name and address on the left-hand side
of the page.
Specific greeting phrases: e.g. Dear Sirs / Madams,
Dear Mr. Brown, Dear Ms Chambers, etc.
Language: formal phrases (e.g. It is also an honour to
hear from people like you), formal linking words (e.g. Nevertheless)
advanced vocabulary (e.g. the funds allocated to us), no short forms.
Specific closing phrases: Yours truthfully, Yours faithfully
(in letters beginning with Dear Sir / Madam) or Yours sincerely (in
letters beginning with Dear Ms Chambers), followed by your full
name.
2.
Informal style
Your address on the top right-hand corner of the page,

followed by the date;
Informal greeting phrases, such as: Dear Dad, Dear
Susan, My dearest ones, etc.
Informal vocabulary: e.g. Must admit, I cant wait, By the
way, Ill make it up for you, etc.
Informal ending phrases: Love, best wishes, Yours,
Take care followed by your first name.
3.
Semi-formal style
These types of letters seem similar to both informal letters and

formal letters using a combination of the two styles as follows:
Address and date follow the informal style.
Greeting phrases follow the formal style (Dear Mr.
Brown).
Semi-formal vocabulary using some formal phrases and
some informal phrases (N.B. never use colloquial phrases).
Ending phrases combining the two styles: e.g. Best
wishes, Regards, Yours sincerely followed either by your first name
or by your full name.
19
Letter writing I
Stop and think

Exercise 3
Study the following phrases and label them as formal or
informal. Tick your answers in the table below. Possible solutions in
the Answer Key section.
F
1. I look forward to meeting you.

2. Im looking forward to meeting you.
3. Thanks for sending me the postcard the other day.
4. Well, must admit its so nice of you.
5. Sorry, but I dont think Ill make it.
6. Please do not hesitate to ask for any further details
7. How come you didnt find the time to answer my
letter?
8. Many thanks for your prompt reply.
9. We wish to confirm your order No. 343 and inform
you that.
10. We note with surprise that .
11. It is always a pleasure to hear from you.
12. Ive been busy lately and thats why I couldnt write
back sooner.
Proverb
Familiarity breeds contempt.
2. Language development
Drills
V
Exercise 4
Match the following informal phrases to the purposes they are
used to express. Write your answers in the space below. Then see
the correct solutions in the Answer key section.
Phrases
1. Could you do me a favour?
2. Lets.
3. Best wishes,
4. Im so happy to hear that
5. Did you know that Peter.
6. Let me know when .
7. I wouldnt miss it for the
world!
20
Purpose
a. finishing a letter
b. making suggestions
c. giving news
d. accepting an invitation
e. asking for a favour
f. asking for a response
g. thanking the person for
writing
Letter writing I
8. Thanks for your postcard

9. Congratulations on passing
the driving test!
h. beginning a letter
i. congratulating a friend on
passing his/her driving test
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ; 5 = ; 6 =
.; 7 = ; 8 = ; 9 =
Exercise 5
Fill in the missing words in order to complete the following
formal letter. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key
section.
Dear Sirs (1 .),
After having traveled throughout Africa (2 ) business I
would like to (3 ) my opinion (4 ) the endangered
animals as (5 ) as on the environmental preservation.
Although these animals are (6 ) real danger, if action is
(7 ) soon we could still save them.
Secondly, I could see that tourists visiting this (8 ) could
help develop the country. We should persuade the hotel (9 )
pay more attention to the surrounding wildlife and thus save the
natural habitat.
All in all, we should try (10 ) change (11 ) their
mentality (12 ) their behaviour so that they have minimal
(13 ) on the natural surroundings.
I would be most (14 ) if you would reply as soon as
possible expressing your (15 ) on this matter.
Yours (16 ..),
Prof. Jeremy Stevenson
Writing
Exercise 6
Choose the most appropriate phrases in order to complete
each of the gaps with the two letters (A and B) which follow.
Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key section.
Phrases:
1.
thanks / Once again Id like to thank you
2.
your support / your kind assistance
3.
my house-warming party / social event
4.
thanks / owing to
5.
first of all / firstly
6.
ingenuous / smart
7.
I wonder if you could / tell me if you can
8.
I will raise this opportunity / That would be so good
21
Letter writing I
9.
10.
11.
Hope / I do hope
come round / pay us a visit
Yours sincerely / Yours
Letter A
Dear Sally,
(1 ) for (2 ) the other day with (3 )
(4 ) to you, it was a smashing success.
(5 ). Your (6 ) ideas helped so much. I owe you
one. Now, (7 ) come to my place next weekend and have a
game of tennis together. (8 ) (9 ) you will make it
(10 ) as soon as you get here.
(11 ),
Sam
Letter B
Dear Mr. Sullivan,
(1 ) for (2 ) with the preparations for the
(3 ) celebrating Mr. Browns retirement.
(4 ) your kind contribution the event was a real success.
(5 ) your (6 ) ideas served as a good example to follow
in the future.
(7 ) come more often in our town. (8 ) to tell you
that (9 ) you will be able to (10 ) and meet my family
too.
(11 ),
Lewis Martin
Proverb
No news is good news.
Drills
V
Exercise 7
Read the following phrases and identify the letter type and style
they are from.
a
b
22
I am writing to say how sorry I am for mixing up the dates.

I would be honoured if you could attend our wedding.
Letter writing I
c
We do hope this request will receive your immediate
attention.
d Thank you very much for your kind assistance.
e Have you heard about the latest row in our
neighbourhood?
f
I am writing to inform you about the next board meeting.
g I would be grateful if you could send me further
information.
h I am writing to apply for the post of sales manager in your
company.
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Writing
Exercise 8
Match the beginnings with the endings and identify the type of
letter each pair is from. Write your answers in the space below. Then
Beginnings
1. I am sorry to say I cant make it.
2. It would be my pleasure to give you some advice on that
matter.
3. I am writing to complain about a faulty hair-dryer that I
bought from you last week.
4. I am writing to request your advice on an urgent matter.
5. Do come round next time you are in town.
6. We regret to inform you that you have not been accepted
for the summer course.
Endings
a I am looking forward to meeting you again soon.
b Please, do not hesitate to contact us should you apply
again in the future.
c
I do hope my advice is useful.
d I hope I will find some more time in the future and it will
make up for my absence.
e I really need your competent counselling.
f
I hope you will either replace it or give me a refund.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ; 5 = ; 6 =
23
Letter writing I
Type of letter
1.
..
2.
..
3.
..
4.
..
5.
..
6.
..
3. SAA
You will have to spend about 45 minutes for this assignment,
unit.
The assessment criteria will focus on the following
requirements:
appropriate latter layout= 30%
correct usage of the prompts below= 30%
appropriate structures and phrases characteristic of the
informal style= 30%
correct usage of the limited number of words. 10%
Write an informal letter of giving news. Use the prompts below:
You are spending your holidays in the mountains.

You are staying in a chalet in the mountains.
The weather is fine. It is summer.
Give details about food, places, people, etc.
Use the following structure and layout:
Your address;
The date;
Greetings;
Paragraph 1: introduction;
Paragraphs 2, 3, 4: main body;
Final paragraph: conclusion;
Closing phrase
Name
Use 120 - 130 words.

Send the assignment by post to your tutor.
24
Letter writing I
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 1, 2, and 3 not be
information provided in Unit II, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
1.
letter of refusing an invitation
2.
letter of invitation
3.
letter of giving news
4.
letter of accepting an invitation
5.
letter asking for advice
Exercise 2
3 Freedom Rd.
London
15 September 2004
Dear Sirs / Madams,
I would like to apply for the post of sales manager advertised in
yesterdays paper.
I have worked in the sales department for three years, and I
have acquired robust expertise in this field.
I have also worked as a free-lancer in the advertising unit of a
travel agency.
You can contact me at the above-mentioned address or at the
phone number: 324 55 22.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours truthfully,
Robert Stevenson
Exercise 3
1 = formal; 2 = informal; 3 = informal; 4 = informal; 5 = informal;
6 = formal; 7 = informal; 8 = informal; 9 = formal; 10 = formal; 11 =
formal; 12 = informal.
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 not
be close to the ones suggested in this section, read the
information provided in Unit II, subsections 1.2 and 1.3.
Exercise 4
1 = e; 2 = b; 3 = a; 4 = h; 5 = c; 6 = f; 7 = d; 8 = g; 9 = i.
Exercise 5
1 = Madams; 2 = on; 3 = express / give; 4 = on; 5 = well; 6 = in;
7 = taken; 8 = area / country / region; 9 = owners; 10 = to; 11 = both;
12 = and; 13 = effect / impact; 14 = grateful; 15 = opinions / remarks;
16 = truthfully / faithfully.
25
Letter writing I
Exercise 6
Letter A:
1. thanks; 2. your support; 3. my house-warming; 4. thanks; 5.
first of all 6. smart; 7. tell me if you can; 8. That would be so good; 9.
Hope; 10. Come round; 11. Yours
Letter B
1. Once again Id like to thank you; 2. your kind assistance; 3.
Social event; 4. owing to; 5. firstly; 6. ingenuous; 7. I wonder if you
could; 8. I will raise to this opportunity; 9. I do hope; 10. pay us a
visit; 11. Yours sincerely.
Exercise 7
a = informal, letter of apology; b = formal, letter of invitation; c =
formal, letter of complaint; d = formal, letter expressing thanks; e =
informal, letter giving news; f = formal, letter of information; g =
formal, letter asking for information; h = formal, letter of application.
Exercise 8
1 = d; 2 = c; 3 = f; 4 = e; 5 = a; 6 = b.
Type of letter
1 = informal, letter of apology;
2 = formal, letter giving advice;
3 = formal, letter of complaint;
4 = formal, letter asking for advice;
5 = informal, letter of invitation;
6 = formal, letter turning down application.
5. Bibliography
Publishing, pp.20 - 26
2. Evans, V., 1998, CPE Use of English, Express Publishing, pp. 209 211
3. Mascull, B., 1996, Students Usage, Collins Cobuild, pp. 34, 56, 88
26
Letter writing II Transactional letters
UNIT III
LETTER WRITING II - TRANSACTIONAL LETTERS
Unit objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able to identify different types
of transactional letters as well as different writing styles depending
on who you are writing to. You will also be able to use the
appropriate format and vocabulary depending on the type of
transactional letter you are going to write.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Letter structure and layout
Reported question
Types of transactional letters
Answer key
Bibliography
27
27
27
29
31
36
37
39
1. Background information
The purpose of transactional letters is to respond to written
information. This information can be of different types: other letters,
advertisements, notes, invitations, drawings, maps, guidebooks, etc.
Types of transactional letters: complaint, application, asking for
or giving advice, information, invitation, etc.
The style of these types of letters can be either formal or
informal depending on who you are writing to.
Contents: transactional letters sum up the information given in
the rubric, explain the results of certain facts.
Structure: the letters include opening remarks, several
paragraphs (each paragraph introduces a new topic), closing
remarks.
Proverb
Chance favours the prepared mind.
27
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Look at the advertisement and the points under question. What
kind of letter would you write? Formal or informal? Provide reasons.
Write your answers in the space below. Then see the possible
Learning English Can be Fun

How often? What time?
Classes twice a week!
Native English speakers?
Professional teachers!
How much exactly?
Cheap teaching materials!
What kind of audio or visual aids?
Modern teaching approaches!
Come and join us!
Phone number: 009-001-34578
Reading
Exercise 2
Read the following two letters of inquiry which have been
written. After having seen the advertisement above, decide which
one is better. Provide reasons. Write your answers in the space
below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key section.
28
A
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am really curious about a few things referring to your English
course.
For instance, I am a very busy person. That is why I cannot
attend the classes any time. Could you tell me the time and the
days?
What about the teachers? Are they English speakers? I think
they should know some Romanian phrases in order to explain the
new vocabulary to beginners like me. Dont you think? I am looking
forward to hearing from you soon please.
Yours,
Maria tefnescu
B
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing to ask you a few details about your advertisement
in the April issue of The Weekend Magazine. I am interested in
taking English classes, and that is why I would be happy if you could
answer a few questions.
In the advertisement you state that classes are twice a week. I
would like to know the exact days and times in order to rearrange my
schedule accordingly.
Secondly, could you tell me a few things about the teachers?
Are they English speakers? Are they university teachers?
I also require information on the cost of the teaching materials
as well as on the type of teaching approach you use. Does it include
any audio and visual aids, for instance radio cassettes, video-player,
TV cassettes, language lab, etc?
I look forward to receiving answers to these questions. Thank
you for your help.
Yours truthfully,
Mary Richardson
.
.
.
.
Lets have fun!

Question: 'What two days of the week start with
letter T?
Answer: Tuesday and Thursday?
Question: No, today and tomorrow.
29
1.2 Reported questions

In English there are two main types of questions: Yes / No
questions and wh- questions:
yes / no questions
to be
to have got
modals
do / does / did
Wh- questions
who
what
when
where
which
whose
why
how
Examples
Are you married?
Have you got any brothers or
sisters?
Can you swim?
May I come in?
Need I go there?
Must you attend the meeting?
Do you like jazz?
Examples
Who are you?
What are you doing?
When are they leaving?
Where is she now?
Which is your favourite singer?
Whose jacket is this?
Why are you upset?
How is he?
When you report questions there are several steps to follow:

Yes/No Questions
Direct Speech
Are you tired?, he asked.
Do you like jazz?, she
wondered.
Reported Speech
He asked me whether I was
tired.
She wondered whether I liked
jazz.
The verb changes going one tense behind.

Ask / wonder + if / whether.
No inversion.
Wh-Questions
Direct Speech
Who is your boss?, he asked.
Where are they going?, she
asked.
Why is Tom crying?, she
wondered.
How will you travel there?, he
asked.
Reported Speech
He asked who my boss was.
She asked where they were
going.
She wondered why Tom was
crying.
He asked me how I would travel
there.
The verb changes, going one tense behind

Ask / wonder + wh-word.
No inversion.
30
Drills
V
Exercise 3
Rewrite the questions in Reported Speech. Write your answers
section.
1. When does the course start?, the client asked.
2. How did he pay for the delivery?, she asked me.
3. Will they replace the faulty vacuum cleaner?, Mum asked.
4. May I come for the interview?, I asked.
5. Was she checking the flight number for you?, he asked.
2. Types of transactional letters

Transactional letters asking for information
The style can be either formal or informal depending on the
person you are writing to. Example:
Opening paragraph
Formal: I am writing to inquire about , etc.
Informal: I would like you to tell me ; Can / Could you let me
know , etc.
Main Body
First paragraph
Formal: I would be grateful if you could send me / tell me; I
would appreciate some further information on , etc.
Informal: Can you tell me; I want / need to know, etc.
Second paragraph
Formal: Another matter I need information on is ; I would
also like to know about , etc.
Informal: Can you also tell me a few things on ; I also want
to know ; etc.
Closing paragraph
Formal: I look forward to receiving ; I would be grateful if you
could inform me as soon as possible ; etc.
Informal: Tell me soon ; Please, let me know ; Send
details as soon as you can , etc.
31
Writing
Exercise 4
Rewrite the letter below using the formal style. Write your
answers in the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the
Answer key section.
Dear Karen,
How are things over there? My folks are planning a visit to the
caves next summer similar to the ones you went to last June. I need
to know some things before leaving.
Since we are also travelling by coach, can you tell me how
many people went on your trip? Do you remember how much the
ticket was?
I also need to know what kind of clothes to take. Although the
trip takes place in June, inside the caves might be cooler; am I right?
You can save my life if you send me all these details. Let me
know as soon as possible, please.
Best wishes,
Doris
Opening paragraph
.
..
.....
..
..
Main body
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Closing paragraph
..
..
..
..
..
.
32
Transactional letters giving information

The style can be formal or informal depending on the person
you are writing to. Example
Opening paragraph
Formal: I am writing in reply to your letter asking information
about , etc.
Informal: This is what I have found out for you , etc.
Main Body
Formal: Regarding ; As regards ; As far as is
concerned , etc.
Informal: Remember the information you wanted on ?; Well,
; If I were you , etc.
Closing paragraph
Formal: Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require
more information about ; I do hope I have been of some assistance
to you, etc.
Informal: Hope this will do for now; Let me know if you need
any more details, etc.
Writing
Exercise 5
Rewrite the letter below using informal style. Write your
Answer key section.
Dear Mr. Clark,
I am writing in reply to your letter asking information about our
new hotel.
As far as the location is concerned, we assure you that the
panorama is absolutely marvelous. The hotel is situated on the top of
the hill and it is surrounded by deep valleys and thick forests.
The facilities are the most modern ones, and the costs are
moderate; its good value for your money. The rooms are large and
cosy. There are also a gym, a sauna, a swimming pool, a cinema, a
bar and a trendy club.
The prices are as follows: one single room is 67 euros per
night, one suite is 102 euros per night.
I hope that I have been of some assistance to you. Please, do
contact us should you need further information. We do hope you will
take this opportunity and visit our hotel.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Moore
33
Opening paragraph
..
..
..
.
Main body
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
.
Closing paragraph
..
..
..
..
.
Transactional Letter of Complaint

Most letters of complaint are written in the formal style.
Nevertheless, if you write such a letter to a friend in order to
complain about poor service, you may need an informal style.
Reading
Exercise 6
Read the letter below and identify the style and underline the
formal phrases. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key
section.
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing to express my entire dissatisfaction with your hotel
arrangements .
I regret to have to call your attention to the poor service in your
hotel: rude staff, small stuffy rooms and dirty toilets.
In addition, the meals provided by the hotel restaurant were
tasteless and lacked variety. We had the same vanilla pudding three
days in a row.
Furthermore, we could not go to the swimming pool as stated
in the advertisement something was wrong with the water pipes.
34
We feel that you should refund our money or offer at least a

30% discount on our next holiday. We look forward to receiving a
reply as soon as possible.
Yours truthfully,
Corinne Marlow
Style :
.
Writing
Exercise 7
Look at the advertisement and notes below. Write a similar
letter of complaint. Use the informal style. Write your answers in the
space below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key
section.
Fantastic Summer Camp
Come with us and you will have the summer holiday of your life!
The initial cost does not include the other activities.
Excellent prices!
Rough and uncomfortable.
Perfect camping site!
No guide, no coach, no timetables.
Exciting trips!
Inappropriate boats.
Cruise on the river!
Nothing to see, except deserted areas.
Sightseeing tours!
Tel. 021-235-07601 for information
35
Opening paragraph
..
..
.
.
Main body
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Closing paragraph
..
..
..
..
..
..
3. SAA
unit.
The assessment criteria will focus the following requirements:
Correct matching solutions = 55 %
Correct identification of letter type = 45%
Match the following beginnings with the endings. Identify the
type of letter they are taken from.
Beginnings
1. I am writing to apply for the job of secretary, advertised in
the 3rd issue of Womens Magazine.
2. I am writing to inform you about our new training course for
trade managers.
3. I am writing to inquire about your advertisement in
yesterdays local paper.
36
Endings
a I do hope that you will consider my application and contact
me soon.
b We apologise for any inconvenience caused. We do hope
that you will continue doing business with us.
c Thank you in advance for your help.
4. Answer key
information provided in Unit III, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
A letter of inquiry. The style will be formal because you do not
know the person.
Exercise 2
Model B is good because it has a formal style, each paragraph
deals with a specific piece of information. All the questions are
included.
Exercise 3
1.
The client asked when the course started.
2.
She asked me how he had paid for the delivery.
3.
Mum asked if they would replace the faulty vacuum
cleaner.
4.
I asked whether I could come for the interview.
5.
He asked me if she had been checking the flight number
for me.
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 4, 5, 6, and 7 not be
information provided in section 2 (types of transactional letters).
Exercise 4
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing to inquire about a trip to the caves organised in
June.
Could you possibly tell me about the price of the coach tickets?
Another matter I need information on is the type of equipment
and outfits we need to wear. Even if the trip takes place in June, I am
afraid it might be quite cold inside the caves.
I look forward to receiving this information as soon as possible.
Yours faithfully,
Doris Kemp
37
Exercise 5
Dear Jim,
This is what I have found for you about the new hotel in my
neighbourhood.
I must admit the location is great: you have a breathtaking view
from the hotel windows: deep valleys, thick forest. Everything is
there.
You can find everything you dream about: huge rooms, a gym,
a sauna and even a cool bar to meet me in the evenings. Id like that.
If I were you, I would spend a week there. The prices are ok: 67
euros per night. Or, if you feel like Bill Gates, take a suite only 102
euros per night.
Let me know if you need extra help.
Yours,
Bob
Exercise 6
Style: formal
Formal phrases: Dear Sir / Madam, I am writing to express my
entire dissatisfaction, I regret to have to call your attention to, In
addition, Furthermore, we feel that, we look forward to receiving a
reply, Yours truthfully + full name.
Exercise 7
(Suggested solution)
Dear Mum,
You wont believe this! I have just arrived from the summer
camp. Well, must say that it was an absolute disaster.
First of all it cost a fortune. The initial price didnt include all the
other services so, I had to pay again and again. Secondly, we
couldnt sleep properly; the camping site was rough and pebbly.
On top of that, the activities were completely disorganised: we
couldnt go on the river cruise because they hadnt boats for
everybody. When we decided to explore the neighbourhood, all we
could see was a deserted area.
To make a long story short, it was a nightmare. Its so good to
be back home again.
Love,
Susan
38
5. Bibliography
2. Evans, V., 1998, CPE Use of English, Express Publishing,
pp. 76 - 94
3. Mascull, B., 1996,Students Usage ,Collins Cobuild, pp. 60 61
39
Letter writing III
UNIT IV
LETTER WRITING III
Unit objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able to understand the
difference between different types of business letters, and to identify
the specific format and style you should use when writing these
letters. You will also be able to use the specific structure and layout
of business letters in contexts of your own.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Structure and style
Types of business letters
Answer key
Bibliography
40
40
40
42
44
48
49
50
1.1 Structure and style
Business letters should include the following structure:
Address and date
a)
your address in the top right-hand corner with the date
underneath;
b)
the recipients position, name and address of the firm /
institute / organisation / university, etc. on the left-hand side.
Appropriate greeting; e.g. Dear Sir / Madam, Dear Mr.
Stevenson, Dear Ms Winston, etc;
Introduction: it includes opening remarks and the reasons
for writing the letter;
Main body: it includes several paragraphs. Each paragraph
deals with a new subject in details;
Conclusion: it includes the closing remarks;
Appropriate ending: e.g. Yours truthfully / faithfully; Yours
sincerely + your full name.
40
Letter writing III
N.B. If you do not know the recipients name you should start
your letter with Dear Sir / Madam and end it with Yours truthfully /
Yours faithfully + your full name. If you know the recipients name,
you should start the letter with Dear Mr. / Mrs. / Miss / Ms Green, and
end it with Yours sincerely + your full name.
Business letters are written in a formal style and include the
following characteristics :
advanced academic vocabulary;
polite expressions and phrases;
long sentences;
impersonal tone;
formal linking phrases / words;
factual information;
no use of short forms;
no use of idioms;
no description of personal opinions and feelings.
Lets have fun!
Question: Whats teachers favourite
nation?
Answer: Expla-nation.
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Study the examples below and underline the correct phrases to
be used in business letters. Then see possible solutions in the
Answer Key section.
1.
I am writing to apply for the position of ;Id like to
become a secretary.
2.
Best wishes / Yours truthfully, Mary Williams;
3.
Dear Sir / Madam; Dear Susan Collins;
4.
I cant wait to hear from you / I look forward to hearing
from you;
5.
You can find the necessary references in the envelope /
I have enclosed the necessary references;
6.
I demand the money back / a full refund;
7.
I for one think that you should / I am confident that you
should.
41
Letter writing III
1.2 Types of business letters

A
Letters of application
When you apply for a job or a training course you should write
a letter of application.
Useful tips:
In the introduction you should include the position you
are applying for, where and when you saw it advertised.
In the main body you should write several separate
paragraphs including the following information:
a)
age, present job and education;
b)
qualifications;
c)
experience;
d)
skills that are relevant for the job;
e)
strengths, weaknesses.
In the final paragraph you should give details about the
references you can send, where and when you can be contacted for
the interview, etc.
N.B. Use the present tense when you describe your
personality. Use the past tense when you refer to your past studies
and experiences. Use the present perfect tense when referring to
recent studies / experiences.
B
Letters making offers
Useful tips:
Add any facts which may influence your customer;
Point out the specific attractive features of your products
(e.g. they are cheaper than any other products in this domain; they
have a special finish. We can offer promotional prices for the first
items, etc.)
Point out the novelty, the reasonable price, the
convenience and the ecological characteristics of your products /
service;
Include specific information regarding the quantity, price,
terms of delivery, terms of payment, insurance information, etc.
N.B. It would be useful if could you send your letter together
with the catalogue for that specific offer.
C
Letters making orders
Useful tips:
The first paragraph includes the reference to the offer
made by the supplier;
The main body should include the complete description
of the goods;
Pay attention to details: size, material, colour, price, etc;
42
Letter writing III
Specify the exact quantity and the exact quality of the

goods;
Send samples or drawings together with the order;
State the time of delivery;
The final paragraph should include your hope that the
high quality of the goods / service will lead to further mutual deals.
D
Letters making complaints
Useful tips:
The first paragraph refers to your complaint and gives
details of the incident (time, place);
The main body describes the specific points of your
complaint. Each paragraph deals with one specific reason. Be
specific about the loss or the inconvenience you have suffered and
the adjustment to be made;
The final paragraph should explain what your
expectations are (apology / full refund / replacement, etc). Be
reasonable in your demands.
N.B.:
If you complain about minor matters you can use a mild
tone: e.g. I am writing to draw your attention on; I do hope you will
solve that matter promptly.
If you complain about serious matters, you can use a
strong tone: e.g. I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction with
your service ; I demand a full refund or I shall be forced to take
further action.
Regardless of the tone you may choose, make your
requests firmly;
Use a clear and concise style.
E
Adjustment letters
Adjustment letters are in reply to complaints.

Useful tips:
The first paragraph should include an apology or an
expression of regret for the inconvenience;
The main body explains the circumstances have which
caused the trouble. A new paragraph should include your
suggestions of the adjustment you propose (e.g. offer a discount,
refund, replacement, etc).
The final paragraph should express your hope that in
spite of the inconvenience, your customer will continue doing
business with your company.
N.B.
Do not insist too much on the justification part. Let the
injured party decide whether the inconvenience is just a human error.
Do not take complaints as criticism;
43
Letter writing III
Do not be too apologetic; dont be too arrogant;

In the closing remark, try to regain the customers
goodwill.
Stop and think

Exercise 2
Study the following extracts and identify the type of letters they
are taken from. Write your answers in the space below. Then see the
correct solutions in the Answer key section.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Although the contract stipulated 20,000 kg fresh

bananas, we found that the goods were below the
standard quality. Consequently, we cannot accept the
shipment.
We have enclosed a catalogue with different samples as
well as the price for smaller and larger quantities.
I have helped my grandparents pick fruit in their orchard
every summer holiday. For the past three years I have
been a tourist guide for the tourists visiting my town
(Saturdays).
It is possible that the mistake occurred because of our
sales clerks negligence. Compensation will be
immediately made.
1 =
2 =
3 =
4 =
Drills
V
Exercise 3
Read the advertisement and answer the questions below. Write
your answers in the space below. Then see the correct solutions in
We are looking for a young, resourceful university student to
join our summer camp. Must be a good organiser, a sociable person,
patient with 13 / 15 year-old kids and good at doing sports.
Experience is not required.
1.
2.
44
What style would you use: formal or informal?

What is the reason for writing this letter?
Letter writing III
3.
4.
a
b
c
d
e
f
3.
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
4.
What are the greeting and closing phrases that you

should use?
Which of the following points should be included in the
letter?
your skills;
your age;
your physical appearance;
your past experience;
the sports that you practise;
your personality;
Which qualities will be in your favour?
easy-going;
funny;
reserved;
fair;
a good leader;
athletic;
out-going.
What type of letter should you write?
1 = ..
2 = ..
3 = ..
4 = ..
5 = ..
6 = .
Writing
Exercise 4
Write the following letter of complaint in full, filling each gap
with words from the list: forced, writing, in addition, inconvenience,
firstly, complain, afford, below, behaviour, appalled.
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am (1 ) to (2 ) about the faulty deliveries of the
wrong goods.
(3 ), against out order marked no. 36 / January 12, we
received only 3 tones of corn instead of 7 tones.
(4 ), the quality of the corn was much (5 ) the
standard.
To make matters worse, I am (6 ) by your personal
assistants (7 ) who simply refused to contact you in order to
solve this (8 ).
This is the fifth mishandled order, and we cannot (9 )
any more inconveniences of this kind. I demand immediate action,
otherwise we will be (10 ) to do business elsewhere.
45
Letter writing III
Drills
V
Exercise 5
Match the opening remarks with the closing remarks and
identify the type of letters they are taken from. Write your answers in
the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key
section.
Opening remarks
1. I am writing to complain about the hair-dryer I purchased
from your company.
2. I am interested in applying for the position of tourist guide.
3. We thank you for the letter of June 22, about the good and
bad points you observed in your first hours of testing our new
motorcycles.
4. We would like to order two styles of sports shoes having
the following characteristics: .
Closing remarks
A We do hope that this adjustment will prove to be valuable
to you.
B We would like to have the goods delivered on May 9.
C I demand an immediate replacement or full refund.
D I am available for an interview any Friday and Saturday
(mornings) and you can contact me on 2356781 after 5 p.m. every
day.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = .
Types of letters
1 =
2 =
3 =
4 =
Drills
V
Exercise 6
In English you can use the prefixes (il-, im-, in-, un-, dis-, ir-)
in order to give the antonym of certain adjectives. Provide antonyms
to the following adjectives using the above-mentioned prefixes. Write
your answers in the space below. Then see the correct solutions in
e.g. moral immoral
46
Letter writing III
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Drills
patient
legal
comfortable
friendly
responsible
modest
relevant
loyal
satisfied
happy
acceptable
available
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
V
Exercise 7
Use the correct preposition in order to fill in the gaps below.
Identify the type of letter the fragment is taken from. Then see the
correct solutions in the Answer Key section.
I wish to express my dissatisfaction (1 ) the service I
received last weekend when I stayed in your hotel.
To start with, despite the fact that I had booked a double room,
I was given a single room. Such a thing is appalling (2 ) me.
Secondly, the bathroom was dirty and the room service was
slow.
In addition, the receptionist had a completely inappropriate
attitude (3 ) my remarks.
I will not be staying (4 .) your hotel in the future and I will
tell all my friends to do the same.
Type of letter: ..
Writing
Exercise 8
Write a letter of application using the prompts below.
shop assistant, Daily News, weekly magazine
17 years old, ambitious, sales domain,

opportunity
no experience, hard-working, sociable, new

people
afternoons, weekends available
345217891
Carole MacArthur
47
Letter writing III
..........................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
...........................
.
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct layout = 30%
Appropriate style = 30%
Coherence = 30%
Correct usage of the limited number of words: = 10%
Read the advertisement below and write a letter of application
for the position of a nurse. Use the following paragraph structure:
Appropriate greeting;
Paragraph 1: reason for writing;
Paragraphs 2, 3, 4: qualifications / experience / training / skills /
interests;
Final paragraph: additional information, references, etc;
Appropriate closing remarks;
Full name.
We are looking for a young person for this spring holiday. If you
are fit, like driving, playing sports, climbing mountains, cycling but,
above all, taking care of two lovely boys, 4 and 6 years old write to
us!
48
Letter writing III
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers in exercises1 and 2 not be close
to the ones suggested in this section, read the information
provided in Unit IV, subsection 1.1.
Exercise 1
1 = I am writing to apply for the position of
2 = Yours truthfully,
3 = Dear Sir / Madam,
4 = I look forward to hearing from you
5 = I enclose the necessary references
6 = a full refund
7 = I am confident that you should
Exercise 2
1 = letter of making complaints;
2 = letter making offers;
3 = letter of application;
4 = adjustment letter.
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 3, 4, 5, 6 7, and 8
not be close to the ones suggested in this section, read the
information provided in Unit IV, subsection 1.2.
Exercise 3
1 = formal style;
2 = to apply for a summer job;
3 = Dear Sir / Madam; Yours truthfully + full name;
4 = a, b, e, f;
5 = b, d, e, f, g;
6 = letter of application.
Exercise 4
1 = writing; 2 = complain; 3 = firstly; 4 = in addition; 5 = below;
6 = appalled; 7 = behaviour; 8 = inconvenience; 9 = afford; 10 =
forced.
Exercise 5
1 = C; 2 = D; 3 = A; 4 = B.
1 = letter of complaint; 2 = letter of application; 3 = adjustment
letter; 4 = letter making an order.
Exercise 6
1.
patient impatient;
2.
legal illegal;
3.
comfortable uncomfortable;
4.
friendly unfriendly;
5.
responsible irresponsible;
6.
modest immodest;
7.
relevant irrelevant;
8.
loyal disloyal;
49
Letter writing III
9.
10.
11.
12.
satisfied dissatisfied;
happy unhappy;
acceptable unacceptable;
available unavailable.
Exercise 7
1 = with; 2 = to; 3 = towards; 4 = in.
Type of letter: letter of complaint
Exercise 8
Suggested solution
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing for the position of shop-assistant advertised in the
weeks issue of the Daily News.
I am 17 years old, and my ambition is to work in the sales
domain after graduation. I consider this a great opportunity for me
and for my future career.
Although I lack any experience in the domain, I am a hardworking person who likes meeting new people, so I think that these
two characteristics would be well-suited for the position.
I will be available to work every afternoon and at weekends.
The rest of the week I am at school.
I look forward to receiving a reply from you either at the abovestated address or by telephone on 34217891.
Yours truthfully,
Carole MacArthur
5. Bibliography
2. Evans, V., 2000, Successful Writing-Upper Intermediate,
Express Publishing, pp. 40 - 54
3. Mascull, B., 1996, Students Usage ,Collins Cobuild, p. 123
50
Describing festivals / celebrations / ceremonies
UNIT V
DESCRIBING FESTIVALS, CELEBRATIONS, CEREMONIES
Proverb
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Unit objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able to write your own
compositions describing different festivities, festivals, and
ceremonies using rich vocabulary in order to grasp peoples feelings,
comments, and the whole atmosphere.
You will also be able to recognise and use the specific structure
of a descriptive composition in contexts of your own.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Useful tips
The Passive Voice
Answer key
Bibliography
51
51
51
52
52
53
58
59
60
Any descriptive composition has the following structure: an
introduction, the main body and a conclusion.
The introduction includes the name of the event, the time, and
the location as well as the purpose of the specific celebration.
The main body consists of several paragraphs. Each
paragraph deals with several issues: the preparations for that event
and the actual event (main activities, costumes, music, etc).
The conclusion includes peoples opinions, feelings, and
remarks etc on that event.
51
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Where do you expect to find such types of descriptions (of
ceremonies, festivals, special events or parties)?
Write your answers in the space below. See the possible
1.2 Useful tips

When you describe annual events you should use the
present tense.
When you describe a particular event that you attended
you should use the past tense.
In order to render the atmosphere and the peoples
excitement, you can use a large number of adjectives and adverbs.
You can use a large number of verbs in order to make your
description more alert and gripping.
You should use the Passive Voice especially to describe
the preparations for those events.
1.3 The Passive Voice

We use the Passive Voice when we are more interested in the
action itself rather than in the agent(s) who perform it.
The passive form consists of the verb to be which is put into the
same tense as the verb in the active form + the past participle of the
active verb.
The subject of the active verb becomes the agent of the
passive verb and it is preceded by by.
NOTA BENE:
You can use the passive forms only for transitive verbs.
The agent is not mentioned when it is easily understood or
when it is irrelevant.
e.g.
52
Children are given homework (by the teachers).

My block of flats was built in 1978 (by them).
Drills
V
Exercise 2
Match the events described below with the types of events.
events
A I couldnt recognise her in that gorgeous white dress. Her
eyes were filled with tears of joy, and we could feel love in the air
especially when they looked at each other. Everybody was touched
by the service and in the end we all threw rice and grains in order to
bring them prosperity and good luck.
B Last year I travelled in the country to visit my
grandparents. One Sunday I attended a fair organised by the local
people. We had such a good time watching them dancing, wearing
colourful costumes and tasting delicious home-made wines.
C The people were waving flags while the soldiers were
marching past. One could feel again the joy our grandparents felt at
the end of the war.
types of events
1.
the national day =
2.
a fair =
3.
a wedding = ...
Proverb
A change is as good as a rest.
Reading
Exercise 3
Read the following description and then answer the following
questions. Write your answers in the space below. Then see the
a)
b)
c)
What event is being described?

What tense is used and why?
What are the peoples feelings?
53
Carnival is the main event in Rio. It is held in mid-summer and

the event attracts lots of people from all over the world. It is a 4-day
festivity starting on Saturday until Mardi-Gras.
It starts with the Samba Parade which is believed to be the
most magnificent show in the world. Lots of people participate in the
event, and the atmosphere is breathtaking: colourful costumes,
decorated mobile floats, streamers and confetti cover the streets.
Also there are people dancing to deafening music.
You can see the peoples delight and excitement which lasts till
the early hours in the morning.
a)
b)
c)
Drills
V
Exercise 4
Read the following text and fill in the gaps with one word. Then
see the correct solutions in the Answer Key section.
Christmas may owe its (1 ) in medieval (2 ) to
liturgical dramas and mysteries presented in the (3 .).
The most (4 ) subject was the Holy Family, (5 )
the Nativity.
In the Middle (6 ), the Church would decorate trees with
apples on Christmas (7 ).The trees remained outdoors. In the
16th century, it was the custom to decorate a fir-tree. Celebration
included dancing around the tree. Carol (8 ) would go from
house to house wishing people a happy new year.
54
Writing
Exercise 5
Write the text in full, filling in the gaps with words from the list
below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key section.
to start, Annual, headed to, carnival, military, main, lot, playing,
crowded, performers, popular, tickets, sense, happened, impressive
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo
We left early in the morning and we (1 ) Edinburgh
(2 ) train. We arrived in Edinburgh at about 8.45 since the
parade was (3 ) at 9 a.m. The (4 ) Tattoo is part of the
(5 ) Edinburgh festival. We could feel sort of a (6 )
atmosphere in the whole city, with street (7 .) exhibits, such as
(8 ) the statue. They were great!
The Edinburgh Festival is extremely (9 ) so the streets
were (10 ). The tattoo took place in the Edinburgh Castles
parking (11 ) that is in front of the (12 ) gate.
Since I had bought the (13 ) in advance, our seats were
in perfect position to see everything that (14 ). We could get
the (15 ) of the movement as the parade got more and more
(16 ).
Reading
Exercise 6
Read the three descriptions below and identify the type of
parties they are taken from. Write your answers in the space below.
1.
The magician entered, and little Toms face lit up in
surprise. The room was full of balloons and colourful streamers. A
huge cake was waiting for Tom to blow out the candles. Everybody
had a great time singing songs, playing games and telling jokes.
2.
Brian wanted just to get home. It had been a long and
stressful day at work. He entered the front room. It was dark. He
didnt bother turning on the light. He sat on the sofa and started
taking off his shoes when, suddenly, the door flung open. The lights
were on and all his closest friends entered shouting: Surprise! He
had completely forgotten it was his birthday.
3.
As soon as we had finished painting all the rooms we
invited all our friends to see our new home. Although we did not have
enough furniture or glasses we managed to enjoy ourselves listening
55
to good music, drinking a lot of champagne and talking about our

favourite topics. After they left, I felt so happy! It felt like home, finally.
1.
2.
3.
Drills
V
Exercise 7
Match beginnings with endings and identify the type of
description. Write your answers in the space below. Then see the
beginnings
1.
Hogmanay is a Scottish celebration. It takes place on
st
the 31 December and this is an opportunity for people to dress
smartly and welcome the new year to come.
2.
The band appeared. The lead singer started singing my
favourite songs. Everybody was cheering, clapping and screaming. It
was fantastic to see everybody so excited waiting for the band to
sing their favourite hits.
3.
It was great fun. All my friends arrived on time, and I
received so many presents: a red scarf, a nice pair of leather gloves,
a knitted cardigan and lots of books and sweets.
endings
a
At the end, I was tired but so happy that my Mum had
organised such a great party for me.
b
It is the best time for everybody to start making
resolutions and try to become a better person.
c
It was a night to remember: to be so close to my
favourite band and to listen to all their hits live.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 =
56
Stop and think

Exercise 8
Look at the following adjectives. Which ones would you use in
order to express your feelings about: 1. a military parade; 2. a
wedding; 3. a surprise party. Write your answers in the space below.
fabulous, funny, interesting, disorganized, dull, boring, exciting
Model:
I found the festival interesting. Yet, my husband found it quite
boring.
The wedding seemed rather disorganized. However, the
bridesmaids were funny.
1.
military parade
2.
wedding
3.
surprise party
Drills
V
Exercise 9
Match the following descriptions with the headlines below.
events
1.
It is a holiday honouring lovers and love. Shop windows
are decorated with red streamers. Inside you can buy from red paper
hearts and balloons to heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and
thousands of love cards suitable for a variety of situations.
2.
It is the time for springtime festivals, a time to welcome
back the spring flowers, a time to celebrate the resurrection of Christ
and a time of chocolate bunnies and coloured eggs.
3.
It is the celebration of the Man and the Holiday. It is a
time for the nation to remember the injustices Dr. King fought as well
as the time to remember his struggle for the freedom and the equality
of all races and peoples.
57
headlines
a
b
c
Valentines Day
Martin Luther King Day
Easter
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 =
Proverb
See new places, meet new faces.
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct answers to the questions below: = 45 %
Appropriate layout: = 35%
Correct usage of the space below: = 20%
Appropriate style and coherence: = 10%
You are asked to write a description of the Christmas
celebration in your country. Answer the questions below. Then write
the composition using the following structure:
Introduction 1 paragraph
Main body 2 paragraphs
Conclusion 1 paragraph
1.
Which of the following should you write about?
a
a particular event in the past
b
Christmas celebrations in the Balkans
c
the ceremony that takes place in your country every
Christmas
2.
a
b
c
58
Which of the following should you not write about?

important historical sites in your country
superstitions in your country
description of the annual event
3.
In the concluding paragraph what should you write
about?
a
b
c
your personal feelings

everybodys feelings
preparations for the event
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 =
Proverb
Other times, other manners.
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,
and 9 not be close to the ones suggested in this section, read
the information provided in Unit V, subsections 1.2 and 1.3.
Exercise 1
Suggested solutions:
Such descriptions can be found in magazines, travel brochures,
parts of letters, newspapers, and stories.
N.B. Should your answers not be close to the ones
suggested in this section, read the information provided in
subsection 1.1.
Exercise 2
A = 3; B = 2; C = 1.
Exercise 3
a)
The Rio Carnival
b)
The present tense because it is an annual event
c)
People are delighted and excited
Exercise 4
1 = popularity
2 = times
3 = church
4 = popular
5 = especially / particularly
6 = Ages
7 = Eve
8 = singers
59
Exercise 5
1 = headed to
2 = by
3 = to start
4 = Military
5 = Annual
6 = carnival
7 = performers
8 = playing
9 = popular
10 = crowded
11 = lot
12 = main
13 = happened
14 = sense
15 = impressive
Exercise 6
1 = birthday party; 2 = surprise party; 3 = home-warming party.
Exercise 7
1 = b; 2 = c; 4 = a.
Exercise 8
1 = military parade: I found the military parade fabulous.
2 = wedding: The wedding was exciting, but my husband found
it quite boring.
3 = surprise party: The surprise party was dull. Yet, when
Steven realised the whole thing he looked so funny.
Exercise 9
1 = a; 2 = c; 3 = b.
5. Bibliography
2. Evans, V., 2000, Successful Writing- Upper Intermediate,
3. Evans, V., 2000, CPE Use of English, Express Publishing,
pp. 59 - 73
60
Describing buildings, people, objects
UNIT VI
DESCRIBING BUILDINGS, PEOPLE, OBJECTS
Unit objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able to identify the structure
of a descriptive composition, to use the correct structure and
vocabulary, the correct tenses according to the type of description
you are writing, and to write your own descriptions in a creative way.
This assessment test will help you identify your strong and
weak points, and to practise the information presented in this unit.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
2
2.1
2.2
2.3
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Describing buildings
Describing people
Describing objects
Answer key
Bibliography
61
61
61
63
63
67
70
72
72
75
Descriptive compositions have the following structure:
Introduction it gives some general information and
details about the building, object or person you are describing. The
introduction usually consists of one paragraph.
Main body it consists of several paragraphs. Each
paragraph starts with a topic sentence introducing a new idea.
Linking words are used in order to connect ideas:
a
b
c
d
firstly, secondly, thirdly

on the one hand, on the other hand;
in addition, furthermore, moreover, above all
however, yet, on the contrary, nevertheless
61
Conclusion it consists of one paragraph and includes

the authors comments, remarks and feelings toward the described
building, person or object.
Useful tips
Use a large variety of adjectives and adverbs in order to
make the descriptions more convincing and interesting;
Use the Present Tense if the description is connected to
the present; use the Past tense if you refer to a particular object,
place or person you met, lived in or visited in the past;
You can use the conditional clauses (first or second) in
order to describe an ideal person, place, or object.
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Look at the following jumbled paragraphs and rewrite them
according to the above-stated structure of descriptive compositions.
A
In conclusion, I must admit I would like to be like my
aunt when I grow old. Her serene attitude towards lifes hardships as
well as her contagious optimism has made her a model for all of us.
B
She liked knitting and doing gardening; she enjoyed
making cakes. Whenever I went to her place she had something
delicious to give me: pancakes, apple pie with custard or dumplings.
She was a great story-teller, and I can still remember her tender
voice telling me about the most extraordinary adventures.
C
When I think back to my childhood, there is one person
that comes to my mind at once: Aunt Sylvia. I used to spend my
summer holidays at her cottage. My sweetest memories are
connected with those moments I used to spend with her.
D
She was a pretty woman, with delicate features; a small
nose, a heart-shaped mouth, long fair hair and large eyes. She
preferred wearing long skirts and colourful cardigans.
1.
..
..
..
2.
3.
62
4.
.
..
Proverb
There are no dull subjects; there are
only dull writers.
2.
2.1 Describing places and buildings

The structure of descriptive compositions about places /
buildings includes the following data:
Introduction: usually one paragraph introducing the
location and the reason for choosing that particular place or building;
Main Body: consisting of two or three paragraphs
describing the main features in detail;
Conclusion: a final paragraph describing your feelings,
thoughts, dreams, wishes etc., about that place together with your
recommendation.
Useful tips
make your description more convincing by using a large
variety of adjectives and adverbs;
in order to grasp the atmosphere of a certain place use
the senses in your description: e.g. You could feel the smell of
freshly baked bread and of the delicious herbal tea she had prepared
for her grandsons.
use different narrative techniques: rhetorical questions
(e.g. What else could one dream of?), quotations (e.g. The world
began without man, and it will complete itself without him Claude
Levi-Strauss), dramatic language in order to create a mysterious
atmosphere (e.g. The castle was so spooky and surrounded by such
black clouds that it was spine-chilling), reference to your own or other
peoples feelings (e.g. I felt so sad and lonely when she decided to
leave and move to another town).
63
Drills
V
Exercise 2
Fill in the missing prepositions. Then see the correct solutions
in the Answer Key section.
The Intercontinental Hotel in Budapest is one of the most
luxurious hotels (1 ) Europe. It lies right in the centre of the
town, (2 ) the Danube banks with a breathtaking view of the
hilly area and of the mediaeval castle.
The first thing you notice is the hand made furniture in the
lobby, the crystal chandeliers, the marble pillars, as well as the
impressive mirrors (3 ) the walls.
The hotel offers a large range of facilities, such as: a sauna and
a swimming pool which are (4 ) the top floor, a bar, a
restaurant, conference halls, reception halls.
The rooms are huge, with marble bathrooms and comfortable
beds. A delicious breakfast is cooked everyday to match all tastes:
European, British, American and Asian, while several cooks are
waiting (5 ) you to order special omelettes (6 ) seafood,
cheese, mushrooms or vegetables.
(7 ) my opinion, the Intercontinental Hotel is the ideal
place (8...) anybody who visits Budapest. I will never forget its
helpful staff, cosy atmosphere, not to mention the splendid view of
the Danube (9...) night.
Drills
V
Exercise 3
Give the synonyms to the following adjectives. Write your
Answer key section.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
64
wide = ..
wonderful = .
unique =
cosy =
new =
memorable = ..
delightful = .
delicious =.
popular = ..
Drills
V
Exercise 4
Give the antonyms of the following adjectives. Write your
Answer key section.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
large = ..
wonderful =
comfortable = ..
huge =
extraordinary =
relaxing = ..
expensive =
clean = .
funny = ..
interesting = ..
Exercise 5
Fill in the gaps below using the following words. Then see the
love, twice, fragrance, never, above, matchless, room, pans, in,
freshly, back, shining, ever, facing
A
There are things in life one (1 ) forgets. I, for one,
will never forget my grandparents cottage (2 ) the
countryside. I used to visit them (3 ) a year . What impressed
me most was my grandmas kitchen.
B
It was not a large (4 ). Yet, the way it was
decorated will stay with me for (5 ) the pink curtains and pink
cushions on the small couch in the corner, the large pot of flowers on
the table and the (6 ) stove. And (7 ) all, my grandma
who used to preside over a great number of pots and (8 ),
singing while making the most delicious dishes I have ever tasted.
C
I will never forget the smell of (9 ) baked bread
and pies, the smell of ginger and that of different herbs which filled
the kitchen. If you opened the little window (10 ) the garden,
all these different flavours combined with the sweet (11 ) of
her roses and daffodils conferred a (12 ) atmosphere to her
little kingdom.
D
I wish I could turn the clock (13 ) and find her in
her little kitchen, surrounded by her (14 ) and generosity.
65
Writing
Exercise 6
Write the description of a traditional house in the country using
the prompts and the dotted lines below. Then see the correct
Paragraph 1
grandparents / past/ cottage / country side / hilly region / deep
valleys / breathtaking scenery
Paragraph 2
old / nice / large rooms / big kitchen / small windows / nicely
decorated / cosy / bright
Paragraph 3
front and back gardens / orchard / scent / flowers / fresh air
Paragraph 4
unforgettable / childhood / visit again
66
2.2 Describing people

The structure of descriptions of people is as follows:
Introduction it consists of one paragraph setting the
scene: name, time or place when you meet the person, etc;
Main body it consists of several paragraphs which
describe: physical appearance; likes and dislikes; personality, etc.
Conclusion the final paragraph summarises the
authors feelings and remarks about that person.
Useful tips
1. When describing the persons physical appearance you
should give the necessary details about that persons age, build,
facial features, hair, clothes, etc.
2. When describing the persons personality, you should use
the appropriate adjectives: e.g. She is optimistic and self-confident;
she is sometimes shy but she can overcome this weakness as soon
as she knows the person better;
3. When you describe the persons likes and dislikes you can
use different structures: e.g. She likes doing exercise but she dislikes
doing the housework; she enjoys dancing; she is keen on organising
social events; she neither likes nor dislikes going shopping; she
hates writing postcards; she likes travelling best.
Stop and think

Exercise 7
Look at the following adjectives and fill in the table below.
Sometimes one adjective can be used several times. Then see the
curly, brown, plump, green, beard, well-built, freckles, oval,
curved, long, fair, thick, shoulder-length, short, moustache, young,
wrinkles, upturned, middle-aged, slim, dark, wavy, crooked, straight,
full, old, thin, round, skinny, broad-shouldered, fat, bald, pale, tall
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
age
face
build
height
hair
eyes
lips
nose
special
features
67
Drills
V
Exercise 8
Fill in the gaps below using the words from the list. Then see
the correct solutions in the Answer Key section.
aura, played, to, acting, in, role, doing, personality, method,
handsome, firm, slender, humorous, graying
An Intriguing Actor
Richard Gere is a very popular actor. He has (1 ) in a lot
of successful films and proved his great capacity of (2 ). He
was in turn a medieval warrior, a psychologist, a ruthless lawyer, a
sarcastic businessman every (3 ) has revealed something of
his complex (4 ).
Richard Gere is also a (5 ) man. He is tall and
(6 ), he has wavy (7 ) hair, a straight nose, full lips and
(8 ) eyes.
What impresses one most is his personality: on the one hand
he is (9 ), dedicated to his career, a (10 ) actor; on the
other hand, he likes meeting new people, telling jokes and
(11 ) sports.
At present, Richard is interested (12 ) Buddhism: he
likes reading and learning more about Buddhism. He is trying to
understand and adjust (13 ) this new type of religion to cut it
short, his whole personality is being changed. People can tell this
from his recent movies.
One thing is for sure: in spite of his mysterious (14 ),
Richard Geres popularity has increased and society is confident that
he is here to stay.
Reading
Exercise 9
Read the following descriptive models. One model is purely
descriptive. Another model includes narrative techniques. Decide
which is descriptive and which involves narrative techniques. Identify
five narrative techniques. Write your answer using the space below.
Then see the correct solutions in the Answer Key section.
68
A
I will always remember the first time I met my uncle. He lived
on an island in the Mediterranean Sea. One summer, my parents
took me to spend my holidays there.
The moment I saw him I felt that he was a special person: he
had a huge red moustache, his eyes were shining, and he started
laughing, seeing me so shy and scared. I couldnt help bursting into
laughter as well. It was a day to remember.
Shortly afterwards, I realised that he was a kind man, caring
and understanding. He loved kids, flowers and freedom. He taught
me how to enjoy every moment in the middle of wild nature. He
changed me into a daring and resourceful boy.
I started visiting him every summer, and our relationship grew
closer and closer every year. He was the most extraordinary person I
had ever met. I felt lucky to have an uncle like this: tough and gentle
at the same time.
B
I have great memories of the time I spent with my uncle.
He used to live on an island, and I spent several summer
holidays with him. He had a red moustache, shining eyes and he
liked laughing and enjoying life.
My uncle was a kind man, caring and understanding. He loved
both the kids, the flowers and freedom. I learnt a lot from him and he
succeeded in changing my personality.
He was a special person and I will always remember him.
Model A: .
Model B: .
Narrative techniques:
.
.
69
2.3 Describing objects

Descriptions of objects are found in leaflets, catalogues, parts
of letters, stories, advertisements, articles or reports.
Useful tips
Be accurate when you describe an object.
Give a clear picture of the object. Include all the
necessary data, such as size, origin, material, weight, shape, colour,
pattern, as well as information regarding use, value and special
characteristics.
N.B. When you give a lot of details (adjectives), you should list
them in a certain order:
opinion size / weight age shape colour pattern
origin material + noun + special characteristics
e.g. superb large modern round electric blue checked Greek
leather handbag with silver buckles
Do not use too many details one after another.
Stop and think

Exercise 10
Look at the following adjectives and list them corresponding to
the correct heading. Write your answer using the space below. Then
nylon, short, trendy, red, Italian, rectangular, striped, old, round,
long, fabulous, glass, heavy, large, medium, leather, canvas, with a
long strap, carved, yellowish, paper, Asian, with a gold buckle
opinion = .
size / weight = .
age = .
shape = ..
pattern =
70
colour = ..
origin =
material = ..
special features = .
Drills
V
Exercise 11
Read the following description and rearrange the adjectives in
the correct order. Identify the topic of each paragraph. Write your
answer using the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the
Answer Key section.
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing to inquire about my briefcase which I left at the
Grand Station, last Tuesday at about 2.30 p.m.
It was a (1) black / leather / elegant briefcase with metal
buckles. Inside there were several notebooks, a (2) golden /
expensive pen, an (3) Italian / trendy muffler, and a (4) new /
fabulous / gold ring for my fiance.
In case you find it, please contact me on 07832451 every
afternoon.
Yours sincerely,
Mathew Simpson
1
2
3 ..
4 .
Paragraph Topic
.
.
.
71
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Appropriate layout = 30%
Correct usage of the specific phrases = 40%
Correct usage of the limited number or words: = 10%
Write a letter describing the suitcase you left on the train from
Bucharest to London. Use the correct paragraph structure and
appropriate style (140 - 190 words).
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answer not be close to the ones
suggested in this section, read the information provided in
Unit VI, subsections 1.1.
Exercise 1
1 = C; 2 = D; 3 = B; 4 = A
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 not
information provided in subsection 2.1.
Exercise 2
1 = in; 2 = by; 3 = on; 4 = on; 5-for; 6 = with; 7 = in; 8 = for;
9 = at
Exercise 3
1 = spacious / big; 2 = broad; 3 = marvellous; 4 = matchless;
5 = comfortable; 6 = modern; 7 = unforgettable; 8 = pleasant;
9 = tasty; 10 = famous.
Exercise 4
1 = small / narrow; 2 = horrible; 3 = uncomfortable; 4 = tiny; 5 =
ordinary; 6 = stressful; 7 = cheap; 8 = dirty; 9 = dull; 10 = boring
Exercise 5
1 = never; 2 = in; 3 = twice; 4 = room; 5 = ever; 6 = shining; 7 =
above; 8 = pans; 9 = freshly; 10 = facing; 11 = fragrance; 12 =
matchless; 13 = back; 14 = love
72
Exercise 6
Possible solution:
When I was a child I used to visit my grandparents. They lived
in a small cottage in the country. The scenery was breathtaking: the
hilly region contrasted with the deep valleys.
The cottage was old but nice, with large rooms, a big kitchen,
small windows which were nicely decorated. The rooms were bright
and cosy.
Outside, you could admire the gardens: one small garden in
front of the cottage and a bigger one at the back of the house. I will
always remember the smell of the flowers, the fragrance of the
orchard and the fresh air.
This cottage is an unforgettable place of my childhood. I wish I
could visit it again.
close
to the ones suggested in this section, read
the
Exercise 7
1. age
young, middle-aged, old
2. face
freckles, oval, wrinkles, dark, round, pale
3. build
plump, well-built, slim, thin, skinny
4. height
short, tall
4. hair
long, fair, thick, shoulder-length, short, dark, wavy, straight, thin
5. eyes
brown, green, round
5.
lips
full, thin
6.
nose
curved, short, upturned, crooked, straight
7.
special features
beard, moustache, broad-shouldered
73
Exercise 8
1 = played; 2 = acting; 3 = role; 4 = personality; 5 = handsome;
6 = slender; 7 = graying; 8 = humorous; 9 = firm; 10 = method; 11 =
doing; 12 = in; 13 = to; 14 = aura
Exercise 9
Model A: involves narrative techniques
Model B: purely descriptive
Narrative techniques:
1.
I will always remember
2.
The moment I saw him
3.
I couldnt help
4.
It was a day to remember
5.
Shortly afterwards
6.
I started visiting him
7.
I felt lucky
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 10 and 11 not be
Exercise 10
opinion: trendy, fabulous,
size / weight: short, long, heavy, large, medium
age: old
shape: rectangular, round
pattern: striped, carved
colour: red, yellowish
origin: Italian, Asian
material: nylon, glass, leather, canvas, paper
special features: with a long strap, with a gold buckle
Exercise 11
1 = elegant black leather
2 = expensive golden
3 = trendy Italian
4 = fabulous new gold
Paragraph 1 place/time of the lost object
Paragraph 2 description of the lost items
Paragraph 3 information about the time the owner can be
contacted
74
5. Bibliography
3. Mascull, B., 1996, Students Usage ,Collins Cobuild, pp. 76,
82
75
Narrative techniques
UNIT VII
NARRATIVE TECHNIQUES
Unit objectives
By the end of this unit you will become familiar with the
structure and specific phrases used in two types of narratives: firstperson narratives and third-person narratives. You will also be able
to identify good narratives, good techniques and then use them
creatively.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.
2.1
2.2
2.3
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
First-person narratives
Useful tips
Third-person narratives
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
76
76
76
77
79
82
82
82
83
86
86
88
1.1 First-person narratives
These types of narratives are written in the first-person (I or we)
presenting a series of events which happened to us. The events can
be either real or imaginary.
Structure
Introduction you set the scene giving details about the
people involved, time and place of the events, etc.
76
Main body in two or more paragraphs you develop the

story presenting the events chronologically. Use linking words such
as: when, while, before, first, then, after that, finally, etc.
Conclusion you present the ending of the story together
with your or other peoples comments, feelings, remarks.
Such pieces of writing can be found in novels, short-stories,
articles, letters, etc.
1.2 Useful tips

Decide on the plot line before you start writing the story
Make sure you write the events in the order they occurred
Make the introduction as interesting as possible in order to
make the readers want to read the rest of your story
Make the ending as surprising as possible in order to get
the reader think about your story afterwards as well
Use a large variety of adjectives and adverbs in order to
make the narration as vivid as possible
Use strong adjectives and adverbs:
e.g. fabulous and not nice, horrible and not bad, hilarious and
not funny, etc
Use your senses in order to set the scene
Address the reader directly
Use rhetorical questions where appropriate
Describe both yourself and other characters mood and
feelings
Use the Past Tenses as follows:
a)
When describing complete actions in the past or for
sequential actions use the Past Simple, e.g.
I met him last July.
It was dark; it started raining, I felt tired, and I just
wanted to get home.
b)
When setting the scene or when describing events in
progress at a certain time in the past, use the Past Progressive, e.g.:
It was raining, and it was getting colder and colder.
We were having dinner when the postman brought the
letter.
c)
When describing actions which happened before other
past actions, use the Past Perfect, e.g.:
We wanted to tell her what had happened.
77
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Think of the weak adjectives corresponding to the strong forms
below. Write your answer using the space below. Then see the
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Drills
amazing = .
filthy = .
gorgeous (woman) =
dumbfounded =
magnificent =
disgusting (food) = ..
terrible =
enormous = .
tiny = .
nasty = ..
V
Exercise 2
Replace the words in bold with strong adjectives. Write your
answer using the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the
Answer Key section.
I couldnt eat that (1) tasteless soup. In fact the whole place
was (2) unpleasant, (3) dirty windows, (4) small beds, and
everywhere I was looking I could see (5) big frightening insects. I
was really (6) afraid and (7) surprised : how could my best friend
have done such a thing to me?!
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
78
= .
= .
= .
= .
= .
= .
= .....
1.3 Language development

Drills
V
Exercise 3
Fill in the gaps using the appropriate linking words / phrases
from the list below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer Key
section.
finally, as soon as, while, before, then, after that, in the
meantime
I had never seen such an extravagant ceremony (1 ).
(2 ) we arrived, the hostess came to welcome us; (3 ),
somebody turned off the lights, and several people appeared holding
tens of candles which made the whole room look magnificent.
(4 ), the bride and the groom started walking towards us
(5 ) the bridesmaids were throwing flower petals onto the floor.
(6 ), somebody had brought a huge wedding cake and
(7 ) we all sat down around the table surrounded by that
magic atmosphere.
Writing
Exercise 4
Choose the correct tense in the fragment below. Write your
answers using the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the
Answer key section.
It (1) was / had been dark and it (2) got / was getting darker
and darker. The wind (3) was blowing / blew and I (4) started / was
starting running home. Suddenly, I (5) could / had been able to hear
footsteps behind me. I realised that somebody (6) was following /
had followed me. I (7) was turning round / turned round and to my
surprise I (8) saw / was seeing a fat man staring at me. It (9) was /
had been then when I realised that it (10) was/ had been only my
vivid imagination. I (11) was sighing / sighed with relief and (12)
continued / had continued my way home.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
= ..
= ..
= ..
= ..
= ..
= ..
= ..
= ..
= ..
= ......
= ..
= ..
79
Exercise 5
Match the beginnings to the endings. Write your answers using
the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer key
section.
beginnings
1.
Last summer I decided to spend my summer holiday
with my grandparents, in the country. I simply wanted to have a
peaceful holiday, to read more, to go fishing and eat my Grannys
delicious pastries.
2.
It was a sunny day, and the plane was flying smoothly in
the sky. I was so excited: soon, very soon, I would enjoy the exotic
atmosphere of Hawaii.
3.
I was sitting in my room , reading a book and drinking
some hot chocolate. Everything around me was quiet and peaceful.
endings
A
When I saw my room again I felt so relieved: the
nightmare was over.
B
After having been rescued by my grandfather I realized
that I could have drowned in the deep water. I felt grateful, exhausted
and weak. Looking at my grandmothers wet eyes I whispered: I
wont get near the river again. I promise!
C
When the police found us, the hijackers had already
vanished. I was alive and safe, at last.
1.
2.
3.
= ..
= ..
= ..
Exercise 6
Write a first-narrative story using the prompts below. Then
provide an appropriate title. Use 120-190 words. Write your answers
using the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer
key section.
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
80
I was driving home.

An old man crossed the street.
He had a strange face.
He looked at me and invited me to follow him.
I entered a house.
It was similar to my grandparents home.
My grandparents were dead.
It was dark.
I heard voices.
j)
k)
l)
m)
n)
o)
p)
q)
r)
s)
Two blurred figures appeared.

I could smell my grannys chocolate cookies.
The figures got nearer.
My grandparents were looking and smiling at me.
I fainted.
Next day I was there again.
The house wasnt there,
I could see two oak-trees .
I was confused.
My grandparents had two oak-trees.
.
.
.
.
.
81
2.1 Third-person narratives
This piece of writing is written in the third person (he, she,
they); they may be real or imaginary.
Structure:
Introduction: the author sets the scene by giving
details about the people involved, the time and place of the
plot, etc.
Main body: in two or three paragraphs the narrator
develops the story and presents the events chronologically;
Conclusion: the narrator finishes the story and
describes peoples feelings, remarks, etc.
2.2 Useful tips

Write the introduction in an interesting way so that the
reader should want to continue reading it.
Use a large range of adjectives and adverbs in order to
make your story more vivid, interesting and attractive.
Use strong adjectives and adverbs.
Provide unexpected endings in order to impress the
reader.
Avoid repetition or redundant forms of words or phrases.
Use expressive comparisons.
N.B. English has a specific type of comparisons named
similes, for example:
as white as snow
as white as a sheet
as fast as thought
as sweet as honey
as drunk as a lord
as firm as a rock
as large as life
as dark as pitch
as green as grass
as light as air
as busy as a bee
to swim like a fish
to have a memory like a sieve
to shake like a leaf
to run like the wind
82
2.3 Language development

Stop and think
Exercise 7
Read the following beginnings and decide which ones are more
convincing. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
1.
There was a knock on the door . Reluctantly, she
opened it. Yes, they were there, waiting for her. She shrugged her
shoulders, sighed , and said: How did you find me? Then she
fainted.
2.
The night was still. There was nobody in the street. All
you could you see was just the endless desert. The wind was
blowing, and it was so cold. He was asking himself: What next?
3.
Help! Help!, a shrieked voice was crying out. Jim
jumped in his boots and rushed out of the door. She could recognise
his sisters voice. He was running down the street when finally he
saw her lying on the cold wet pavement. He came nearer when he
realised that the girl lying there. In the empty street, was in fact a
stranger.
4.
She woke up in a bad mood; she was going to meet her
friends and have a drink together. But they were going to talk about
Harry again. She couldnt stand people talking about her private life.
She had to find an excuse and stay at home.
Good beginnings
Reasons:
..
83
Drills
V
Exercise 8
Fill in the gaps using the appropriate similes. Then see the
1.
When seeing the corpse lying at her feet her face was
as white as a
2.
His parents were so proud: they could have never
guessed that their son was such a good swimmer. He simply
managed to swim like a
3.
Although she was trembling like a she was able
to answer his question.
4.
He could see the murderer aiming at her; then he started
running like and grabbed his arm.
5.
She couldnt see anything: it was as dark as
Reading
Exercise 9
Read the following fragment and replace the adjectives in bold
with their antonyms. Write your answers using the space below.
The room was (1) gigantic. The furniture was (2)
sophisticated, the curtains were (3) spotless, the armchairs were
(4) comfortable everything seemed (5) perfect. Suddenly, an old
man entered the room: his face was (6) anxious. He gasped with
fear and fell down. All you could hear was the (7) annoying ticking of
the clock on the wall and the (8) gentle wind blowing outside. Steven
had been the only witness of the scene: he felt (9) miserable and
(10) helpless.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
84
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Writing
Exercise 10
Use the space below to write the ending of the story with the
following beginning (one paragraph). Write your answers using the
space below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer Key
section.
beginning
Miriam and Nancy were at home sipping their hot chocolate
and watching cartoons. They were alone. Their parents had left for
work and they simply wanted to have some fun. Suddenly they heard
a strange noise coming from the front room. Terrified, they watched
the doorknob turning, and an old man entered the room. His face
was sad, and he was crying. He was coming nearer and nearer.
85
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct usage of the limited number of words = 35%
Write a first-narrative story with the following title: The
Mysterious River. Structure:
Introduction one paragraph
Main body two paragraphs
Conclusion one paragraph
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 1 and 2 not be
information provided in Unit VII, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
1.
amazing = surprising
2.
filthy = dirty
3.
gorgeous = pretty
4.
dumbfounded = surprised
5.
magnificent = nice
6.
disgusting = tasteless
7.
terrible = bad
8.
enormous = big
9.
tiny = small
10.
nasty = unpleasant
Exercise 2
1 = disgusting
2 = nasty
3 = filthy
4 = tiny
5 = enormous / gigantic
6 = scared
7 = dumbfounded / amazed / puzzled
86

information provided in Unit VII, subsection 1.3.
Exercise 3
1 = before; 2 = as soon as; 3 = after that; 4 = then; 5 = while;
6 = in the meantime; 7 = finally
Exercise 4
1 = was; 2 = was getting; 3 = was blowing; 4 = started; 5 =
could; 6 = had followed ; 7 = turned round; 8 = saw; 9 = was;
10 = had been; 11 = sighed; 12 = continued
Exercise 5
1 = B; 2 = C; 3 = A
Exercise 6
Suggested solution:
One day, while driving home, I saw an old man crossing the
street just in front of my car. He had such a strange face . Surprised,
I could see him staring at me and inviting me to follow him. Intrigued,
I stopped the car.
I entered a house. It seemed so familiar to me. Then I realised
why; it was similar to my grandparents house the same cosy living
room, the same fire-place, the same flowers that my Granny used to
have, the same lampshade and even the cat was the same. I started
trembling. That could not be true. My grandparents had died some
years before. It was getting dark. The light was dim. All of a sudden, I
heard some voices. Horrified I could see two blurred figures coming
nearer and nearer. When they got closer I realised that they were my
grandma and grandpa. I was trembling like a leaf. Then, I fainted.
When I opened my eyes, I could hear birds chirping, and I
could see the sky above me. I was lying on the grass. The house
wasnt there anymore. All I could see were the two oak-trees in my
grandparents garden. I was confused. Where was the house? Had it
been just a dream? If so, where was my car? And why was I lying
there, in my grandparents garden?
information provided in Unit VII, subsections 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3.
Exercise 7
Good beginnings: 1, 3
Reasons: unexpected events, vivid images, direct speech.
Exercise 8
1 = sheet; 2 = fish; 3 = leaf; 4 = the wind; 5 = pitch.
87
Exercise 9
1 = tiny; 2 = plain; 3 = filthy; 4 = uncomfortable; 5 = bad; 6 =
relaxed; 7 = relaxing; 8 = violent; 9 = happy; 10 = helpful.
Exercise 10
Use the prompts below: lonely neighbour, dead daughter,
companion, comfort, new beginning, relationship, to start making
friends.
5. Bibliography
1. Evans, V, 2000, Successful Writing- Intermediate, Express
2. Evans, V., 2000, Successful Writing-Upper Intermediate, Express
3. Mascull, B., 1996, Students Usage, Collins Cobuild, pp. 30, 137 138
88
Reviews
UNIT VIII
REVIEWS
Unit objectives
and specific vocabulary of a review and to use this type of
information in order to express your own opinions and write your own
reviews.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Structure and writing style
Relative Clauses
Answer key
Bibliography
89
89
89
90
92
98
98
100
1.1 Structure and writing style
Reviews are short descriptions of books, films and plays to be
found in magazines or newspapers.
Reviews are structured in paragraphs as follows:
The introductory paragraph gives the general details about
the event described, type of story, setting, main actors and main
characters.
Useful vocabulary:
The setting is ; This fascinating book ; The film tells us the
story of ; The book takes us back in time ; This play is based on
; The film is a remake of , Basically the film is about , It is a
drama with a touch of , etc.
The main body consists of two - three paragraphs. It includes
the description of the plot as well as the main comments on the script
/ acting / directing, etc.
89
Reviews
Useful vocabulary:
The plot is gripping; The plot was rather confusing; The
characters are predictable; The plot seems quite weak; The story is
both moving and entertaining; The main character is well-developed;
The plot has an unexpected ending; It is skillfully written; The cast is
great; The ending was quite ridiculous; The soundtrack is fantastic,
etc.
The concluding paragraph sums up the main features why
that book / film / play is recommended or not.
Useful vocabulary:
Its well worth going to see; I wouldnt recommend it; By all
means, dont miss it!; You should read it, etc.
N.B. The tense of the reviews is The Present Tense.
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Which of the adjectives below would you use to describe the
plot and characters? Write your answers using the space below.
exciting, confusing, realistic, predictable, gripping, dull, weak,
surprising, dramatic, boring, well-developed, involving
Characters
.
Plot
1.2 Relative clauses

In order to make the review more attractive and suggestive to
the readers use the relative clauses when referring to the characters,
the script, or the plot.
Relative pronouns are presented below:
People(subject of the verb)
Who
The man who brings letters is the postman.
90
Reviews
People (object of the verb)

Who / whom
The man who / whom you saw last night is my boss.
People ( possession)
Whose
The women whose bags are red are my aunts.
Things (subject of the verb)
Which
The tool which cuts wood is the saw.
Things (object of the verb)
Which
This is the envelope which I found in your bag.
Things (possession)
Whose
The car whose doors are open is mine.
N.B. That can replace who and which in defining relative
clauses, but never in non-defining relative clauses.
The man who / that brings letters is the postman.
The tool which / that cuts wood is the saw.
Non-defining relative clauses:
The man, who plays the violin, is my uncle.
NOT: *The man, that plays the violin, is my uncle.
Relative adverbs are presented below:
Time
When
The year when I started school was the most challenging time
of my life.
Place
Where
The place where I enjoy spending my free time is at a little
cottage by the lake.
Reason
Why
His rudeness is the reason why she left him only after one
year.
91
Reviews
Drills
V
Exercise 2
Fill in the gaps using who / which / where / whose. Then see
1.
The main character tried to catch Peter was a
dangerous convict.
2.
They reached a place seemed gloomy and
haunted.
3.
She was travelling to a village she expected to
meet her mysterious caller.
4.
Mr. Diamond is a priest secret mission is to find
the natives treasure.
5.
The director, is famous for his thrilling films, is
famous for his strictness and rigidity.
Lets have fun!
Question: Whats the definition of a pessimist?
Answer: A pessimist is a well-informed optimist.
Writing
Exercise 3
Rearrange the following paragraphs in chronological order.
Write your answers using the space below. Then see the correct
solutions in the Answer Key section.
1.
Kevin Pollack is the rich man who is taken with his two
children; another kidnapping puts double pressure on Willis.
2.
Hostage, directed by Florent Emilio Siri, is a taut hardedged film starring Bruce Willis as a police chief who takes command
when three teenagers get in with a home invasion robbery that turns
into a hostage situation.
3.
Ben Foster is brilliant in his role of the bad guy. The
whole movie is dark, each detail making the plot involving.
4.
Hostage is a memorable film, where plot, acting and
suspense make the perfect combination. For those who love
suspense, I have one recommendation: Dont miss it!
.
.
92
Reviews
Drills
V
Exercise 4
Fill in the gaps using words from the list below. Then see the
scene, rehearsal, plot, script, director, characters, cast, critics
1.
The seemed so confusing that I couldnt
understand who was the good guy and who was the bad guy.
2.
In spite of the brilliant , the acting was not
convincing at all.
3.
Everybody who attended the agreed that the
performance would be a smashing success.
4.
The final made everybody stand up and applaud.
5.
This film has created several psychological
movies, but this one seemed the most realistic one.
6.
The included famous stars such as Brad Pitt and
Anthony Hopkins.
7.
When I read the review I realised that I didnt
understand the film properly.
8.
The were so predictable that most of the people
had left before the film ended.
Writing
Exercise 5
Fill in the gaps below and answer the following questions. Then
1.
2.
3.
Who are the main characters?

Who are the actors?
What recommendations does the critic make?
Diary of a Mad Black Woman (1 ) out to be an

interesting drama starring Kimberly Elise (2 ) Helen, an 18year-old wife, brutally battered by her violent husband played (3
) Steve Harris.
Helen flees to the home of her grandmother, Madea, and from
that moment (4 ) the film falls to pieces. The contrast between
grandmother Tyler Perry and her daughter Cicely Tyson is so
grotesque (5 ) one has the feeling that the movie turned into a
horror story: weak plot, predictable (6 ) boring.
1.
2.
3.
93
Reviews
Writing
Exercise 6
Match the reviews below with the types of films they are taken
from. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
1. Cruz turns her glamorous image in a remarkable way,
playing a working-class Italian woman who falls in love with a
married physician. The beginning is brilliant as well as the dramatic
ending.
2. Newly arrived in the job of a small-town sheriff, an ex
hostage negotiator has to cope with two terrible situations
simultaneously: on the one hand he has to rescue young people held
in a fortified house, and on the other hand he has to save his own
family from kidnappers.
3. The animated adventures of a young robot with big
ambitions and an old robot who has been kicked out of his own
business is worth visiting especially for the visuals which are
spectacular.
4. We all know that Vivien Leighs life was depressing. Well,
this movie will make you cry. The soundtrack is fantastic and brings
tenderness to the whole script. It tells you a few things about Vivien,
but a lot more info about what was going on behind the scene.
Type of films:
A.
adventure
B.
cartoon
C.
romance
D.
biography
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ...
Lets have fun!

Question: Which letter is not me?
Answer: U.
94
Reviews
Reading
Exercise 7
Read the following extracts below and identify the type of
books they are taken from. Write your answers using the space
below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer Key section.
1. This book is a must-read. The author is a keen observer of
human relations and the way the modern man can adjust to the
modern age. The clash between traditions, prejudice on the one
hand, and the new wave of changes on the other, confers a keen
sense of alienation and despair.
2. The characters seek refuge in silence or digression.
Language serves to mask tensions and conflicts. The stage
directions contribute to this atmosphere of nothingness. This is the
end, comments one of the characters.
3. Metaphors are replaced by prosaic words and epithets are
replaced by short onomatopoeia. Rhythm is given by the leitmotif of
the destroyed city.
4. In only ten pages, the author manages to take us into a
world where beginnings and endings make up a blurred image. The
characters destinies interfere with each other, while the end is so
surprising that it makes the reader start rereading the entire story.
Type of books:
A.
play
B.
short-story
C.
poem
D.
novel
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ...; 4 =
95
Reviews
Writing
Exercise 8
Match the adjectives in column A to their synonyms in column B.
A
1. marvellous
2. exciting
3. gripping
4. original
5. poorlywritten
6. well-written
7. boring
8. confusing
9. realistic
10. frightening
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
involving
weak
intriguing
believable
dull
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
wonderful
scary
entertaining
thrilling
unique
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ; 5 = ;
6 = ; 7 = ; 8 = ; 9 = ; 10 =
Reading
Exercise 9
Read the following review and label the paragraphs with the
headings below. Write your answers in the space below. Then see
the correct solutions in the Answer key section.
recommendations, background information, main points of the
plot
Runaway train
Paragraph 1
Runaway Train, directed by Andrei Konchalovsky, is based on
the fascinating story of several runaways trying to find their way to
freedom.
Paragraph 2
The story is full of unexpected events, focusing on the main
hero a dangerous prisoner (bringing Jon Voight the Golden Globe
Award) who manages to run away together with Buck (Eris Roberts
was also nominated for the Oscar awards). They get on a train when
suddenly, the train driver dies of a heart attack and the whole journey
becomes a nightmarish race for survival.
96
Reviews
Paragraph 3
Runaway Train is an excellent adventure film, rich in
spectacular special effects. Dont miss it its worth seeing.
Paragraph 1 =
Paragraph 2 =
Paragraph 3 =
Writing
Exercise 10
Write a short film review. Use the following structure: introduction
(one paragraph giving the background of the story); a main body (two
paragraphs giving the main points of the plot, your comments on the
directing / script / acting); a conclusion (one paragraph summarising
the reasons why the film is recommended). Use the prompts below.
Title: American Graffiti
Paragraph 1
Title / drama / directed by / 1970s
Paragraph 2
Youngsters / have fun / night / adventures / manhood /
dramatic unexpected twist
Paragraph 3
Excellent cast / Richard Dreyfuss / Harrison Ford / convincing /
special effects
Paragraph 4
Dont miss it / must
97
Reviews
.
.
.
.
.
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct usage of the specific phrases and style = 50%
Correct usage of the limited number of words = 20%
Write a review of your favourite film or book following the
structure in exercise 10. Use 150 - 180 words.
4. Answer key
the information provided in Unit VIII, section 2.
Exercise 1
realistic, predictable, dull, weak, well-developed characters
exciting, dramatic, confusing, realistic, predictable, gripping,
weak, surprising, dramatic, boring, involving plot
Exercise 2
1 = who; 2 = which; 3 = where; 4 = whose; 5 = who
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 1 and 2 not be close to
the ones suggested in this section, read the information provided in
subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
98
Reviews
Exercise 3
Hostage, directed by Florent Emilio Siri, is a taut hard-edged
film starring Bruce Willis as a police chief who takes command when
three teenagers get in with a home invasion robbery that turns into a
hostage situation.
Kevin Pollack is the rich man who is taken with his two children;
another kidnapping puts double pressure on Willis. Ben Foster is
brilliant in his role of the bad guy. The whole movie is dark, each
detail making the plot involving.
Hostage is a memorable film, where plot, acting and suspense
make the perfect combination. For those who love suspense, I have
one recommendation: Dont miss it!
Exercise 4
1. plot; 2. script; 3. rehearsal; 4. scene; 5 director; 6. cast; 7.
critics; 8. characters.
Exercise 5
1. starts; 2. as; 3. by; 4. on; 5. that; 6. characters
1.
Helen, her husband, Madea her grandmother, and
grandmothers daughter
2.
Kimberly Elise, Steve Harris, Tyler Perry, Cicely Tyson
3.
The film is boring
Exercise 6
1 = C; 2 = A; 3 = B; 4 = D.
Exercise 7
1 = D; 2 = A; 3 = C; 4 = B
Exercise 8
1 = f; 2 = i; 3 = a; 4 = j; 5 = b; 6 = h; 7 = e; 8 = c; 9 = d; 10 = g
Exercise 9
Paragraph 1: background information
Paragraph 2: main points of the plot
Paragraph 3: recommendations
Exercise 10
Possible solution
American Graffiti is a brilliant drama of the 1970s directed by
the famous George Lucas.
This is the story of some youngsters who try to have fun and
experience several adventures during one night in their endeavour to
reach manhood. Unluckily, their experience has a dramatic
unexpected twist.
99
Reviews
The cast is excellent with Richard Dreyfuss and Harrison Ford

in the starring roles; the special effects are unique. The script is
clever, and the directing is matchless.
For those who like suspense, it is a must. Dont miss it!
5. Bibliography
Express Publishing, pp. 104 -107
3. Evans, V., 2000, CPE Use of English, Exp Publishing, pp.
155 - 166
100
Reports 1 News reports
UNIT IX
REPORTS 1 NEWS REPORTS
Unit objectives
of a news report and you will make use of useful tips which will
ensure the coherence and the credibility of such pieces of writing.
You will be also able to identify good reports, challenging headlines,
useful phrases and grammar structures used in this type of writing.
Moreover, you will be able to use your own creativity in writing news
reports of your own.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Structure of news reports
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
101
101
101
102
103
109
110
111
1.1 Structure of news reports
News reports describe current events which are of interest to
the public.
Structure
Headline
Introduction: in one paragraph the author summarises the
event and gives details about the time, place, and people involved;
Main body: in a couple of paragraphs the author describes
the events in detail;
Conclusion: the author writes about the peoples
comments on the incidents, the actions to be taken and other further
consequences;
The main body of the news reports is usually written using the
past tenses, the passive voice and the reported speech.
101
The style is informal. The events are presented objectively,

unemotionally and in an impersonal style.
Lets have fun!
Murphys Laws
Nothing is as easy as it looks.
1.2 Useful tips

Do not include your personal feelings in the news reports;
Do not use chatty colloquial language;
Make the headline as challenging as possible observing
the following suggestions:
a
make the headline short and eye-catching;
use abbreviations;
c
omit commas, full stops, pronouns, articles, auxiliary verbs
or superfluous words, e.g.:
Children safe and smiling.
d when describing a past event in the passive voice, omit the
verb to be, e.g.:
Bank robbed, robbers caught.
e
for recent events use the present tense, e.g.:
Terrorists threaten journalists.

f
for future events use to-infinitive construction:
e.g. Hostages to be released next week

g use the direct speech to quote what officials, people,
passers-by or witnesses said. You may use direct speech at the end
of the report;
102
include accurate facts;
give as many details as necessary;
use an impersonal style.
Stop and think
Exercise 1
Look at the following headlines and identify the four appropriate
ones. Provide reasons. Write your answers in the space below. Then
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
8.
CHILDREN WERE FOUND SAFE AND SOUND.

MISSING CREW RESCUED
WAR BOMBS FOUND ON ABANDONED GROUND
CHILDREN SAFE AND SOUND
FOOTBALL SUPPORTERS WERE INJURED AT THE
MATCH.
CLOTHS SHOP BURGLED
SOME WAR BOMBS WERE FOUND ON AN
ABANDONED GROUND
A CLOTHS SHOP WAS BURGLED
1.
2.
3.
4.
6.
7.
Drills
V
Exercise 2
Match the following headlines to the paragraphs. Write your
Answer key section.
Headlines
1.
2.
3.
VOLCANO DAMAGES TOWN

CITY IN DARK
EXCHANGE OFFICE ROBBED OF BILLIONS
A.
Temporary housing is being provided after hundreds of
homes were damaged by the volcano eruptions. The authorities
persuaded people to leave the town. The number of casualties is still
unknown.
B.
Last Tuesday an armed man attempted to rob an
exchange office in Marble Street. The security guard was taken
hostage. The robber asked the cashier to open the safe and give all
the money inside. Luckily, the cashier pressed the alarm button and
the robber is now behind the bars.
103
C.
Yesterday evenings blackout was caused by a faulty
usage of the control panel. The officials traced a mistake made by
one of the employees. Luckily, it lasted only seven minutes.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 =
Lets have fun!

Murphys Laws
Every solution breeds new problems.
Drills
V
Exercise 3
Match the beginnings with the endings. Then provide a headline
for each of the news reports they are taken from. Write your answers
section.
beginnings
1.
Late Tuesday evening the police arrested a man who
was selling drugs to students on the university campus.
2.
A seven-year-old kid, Steve McCoy, rescued his little
sister from certain death yesterday afternoon, when a fire broke out
in their small cottage.
3.
A tragic accident happened yesterday morning on the
motorway connecting Beaverly City and Dragon Hill. Ten cars were
involved in a major crash, resulting in the deaths of three drivers. The
other passengers are in hospital with serious injuries.
endings
A.
The police announced that the cause of the accident
was speeding on slippery roads.
B.
The drugs were worth 3 billion dollars. Now the
authorities are interrogating the man trying to find the names of the
other drug-dealers who seemed not to have left the area.
C.
The little hero said: I heard her screaming, and I thought
that she might have felt lonely. So I held her closely and went out in
the garden to play together.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 =
104
headlines
1.
2.
3.
Lets have fun!

Murphys Laws
Anything that begins well, ends badly.
Anything that begins badly, ends worse.
Exercise 4
Read the following headlines and match them to the events
below. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
Events: starvation, plane crash, volcanic eruption, earthquake,
hurricane
1.
LAVA SWALLOWS HOMES
2.
FOOD SUPPLIES NEEDED
3.
PILOTS ERROR OR TERRORIST ATTACK?
4.
STORMS DEVASTATE ISLAND
5.
PASSENGERS RECALL FLIGHT OF TERROR
6.
EARTH SHAKES TOWN
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Exercise 5
Fill in the gaps using the words from the list below. Then see
meteorologists, struck, hurricane, damage, leave, earthquake,
witness, casualties, authorities, shake.
A hurricane (1 ) a little island in the Pacific last night. No
(2 ) were reported but there was serious (3 ) to the
area. One (4 ) said that he could hear the earth (5 ) as
though an (6 ) had occurred. The (7 ) are trying to
persuade the residents to (8 ) the area in case another
(9 ) strikes the region. (10 ) are pessimistic.
105
Reading
Exercise 6
Read the following news report and provide an appropriate
headline. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
A fire destroyed a large part of a mountain resort in the north of
Switzerland.
The fire started last Saturday and quickly turned the trees into
ashes. Firemen tried to bring the fire under control. In the meantime,
the tourists in the area were asked to leave the chalets and let the
fire-fighters do their job.
Several people were injured in the fire: three firemen and two
tourists, but luckily nobody was killed. It is feared that many animals
have lost their homes or were killed in the fire. One witness said that
he had seen some deer running away.
Further actions will be taken to clear the area and start planting
trees. One resident said: I have never seen such flames before. It
will take years for the people to forget the panic and terror they
experienced.
headline:
Drills
V
Exercise 7
Rewrite the following sentences in reported speech using the
following reporting verbs. Write your answers using the space below.
admit, warned, informed, recommended, refused, promised
1. I saw two men with guns rushing out of that house, said
one of the witnesses.
2. I took the money, but I didnt want to hurt anybody, said
Colin Phillips when the police arrested him.
3. Constable Brown said: We are expecting new volcanic
eruptions during the next few days.
4. The spokesman of the Town Hall said: People should
leave the area as soon as possible.
5. I will never try to climb those rocks alone, said little Robin
shaking with fear.
6. I cannot give this type of information, said the reporter.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
106
Writing
Exercise 8
Write a news report with the following headline and structure.
Use 120 - 190 words. Write your answers using the space below.
Headline: UFO HAUNTS VILLAGERS
Structure:
First paragraph: Introduction: summary of the event
Main body:
Second paragraph: background information
Third paragraph: development
Final paragraph: Conclusion: comments, further action
107
Proverb
Open confession is good for the soul.
Writing
Exercise 9
Rewrite the sentences below replacing the colloquial words /
phrases in bold with more formal ones from the list below. Write your
Answer Key section.
admitted responsibility for the arson, refused to give, to
comment upon, to take action, praised
1.
The drug dealer said he would not give any names.
2.
The Mayor refused to say anything about the robbery.
3.
The firemen were told they were good for having saved
the two babies.
4.
The authorities promised to do something regarding the
homeless children.
5.
Both criminals said they had caused the fire.
1.
2.
108
3.
4.
5.
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct usage of the space below = 15
Write a news report with the following headline and structure.
Use 120-190 words
Headline: SAINT-BERNARD SAVES SKIERS
Structure
First paragraph: Introduction: summary of the event
Main body:
Second paragraph: background information
Third paragraph: development
Final paragraph: Conclusion: comments and further
action
109
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers in not be close to the ones
suggested in this section, read the information provided in Unit
IX, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
1.
MISSING CREW RESCUED
2.
CHILDREN SAFE AND SOUND
3.
WAR BOMBS FOUND ON ABANDONED GROUND
4.
CLOTHS SHOP BURGLED
Reasons: the articles, the auxiliaries, to be in the passive voice,
commas, full stops were omitted.
Exercise 2
1 = A; 2 = C; 3 = B.
Exercise 3
1 = b; 2 = C; 3 = A.
Headlines:
1.
DRUGS ON STUDENT CAMPUS
2.
YOUNG HERO
3.
CURSED MOTORWAY
Exercise 4
1 = volcanic eruption
2 = starvation
3 = plane crash
4 = hurricane
5 = plane crash
6 = earthquake
Exercise 5
1 = struck; 2 = casualties; 3 = damage; 4 = witness; 5 = shake;
6 = earthquake; 7 = authorities; 8 = leave; 9 = hurricane; 10 =
meteorologists
Exercise 6
PANIC AND FIRE IN THE FOREST
FIRE CHASES TOURISTS AWAY
FIRE DAMAGES SWISS FOREST
Exercise 7
1.
One of the witnesses informed us that he saw / had
seen two men with guns rushing out of the house.
2.
Colin Phillips admitted having taken the money but said
that he didnt want to hurt anybody.
3.
Constable Brown warned us that they were expecting
new volcanic eruptions in the days to come.
110
4.
The spokesman of the town Hall recommended us to
leave the area as soon as possible.
5.
Little Robin promised not to ever try to climb those rocks
alone.
6.
The reporter refused to give that type of information.
Exercise 8
Suggested solution
UFO HAUNTS VILLAGERS
Last night, at 1 a.m. a UFO was seen over the south of Wales.
Villagers reported the incident and said that it was not the first time
when a strange flying object visited their area.
Steve and Molly Perkins were sleeping in their bedroom when
they were awakened by a strong light which filled their room. It was a
dark night. However, their bedroom was filled with a greenish light.
Looking out through the window, they saw a round-shaped silver
object suspended in the air. The light was too strong and the two
villagers could not give too many details about the object. They said
that five minutes later, the object disappeared with a short rustling
noise. They stayed there for several minutes but nothing else
happened.
The same description was given by other villagers who live in
that area. They said that such sightings had happened before. Molly
Perkins said: I didnt know what to do: on the one hand I was afraid,
but, on the other, I wished I had a camera and took photos of that
strange silver object.
At present, government officials and researchers are
investigating the area looking for clues and possible answers. So far
no explanations have been given.
Exercise 9
1 = refused to give
2 = to comment upon
3 = praised
4 = to take action
5 = admitted responsibility for the arson
5. Bibliography
3. Mascull, B.,1996, Students Usage, Collins Cobuild, 142,
156
111
Reports 2 Survey reports and assessment / proposal reports
UNIT X
REPORTS 2 - SURVEY REPORTS AND ASSESSMENT / PROPOSAL
REPORTS
Unit objectives
of a survey report and of an assessment report together with their
specific linking words and phrases which confer cohesion.
You will also be able to identify the good and bad points when
writing these types of reports and to write reports of your own using
the general framework and creative original ideas.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
2.1
2.2
3.
4.
5.
6.
Objectives
Structure of survey reports
Useful tips
Structure of assessment/ proposal
reports
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
112
112
112
114
114
114
115
116
122
122
124
1.1 Structure of survey reports
Survey reports are based on research. They present facts.
Structure
Introduction: the author states the purpose and the
content of the report;
Main body: the author presents detailed information
separating each type of information by sub-headings, numbers,
letters, etc;
Conclusion: the author gives a summary of all the points
mentioned before, alongside with his / her recommendations and
suggestions.
112
Useful phrases
To introduce the main topic:
The aim of this report is
This survey is carried out
As requested
To introduce different opinions on the topic:
Many people consider/think
Some people claim
It is argued that
To generalise:
On the whole
In general
Generally speaking
Fifty per cent of those surveyed believe
This indicates that
To sum up:
All in all
In conclusion
To conclude
To sum up
All things / points considered
To provide statistic data:
One in six
Fifty per cent of the people questioned / surveyed
Most of / the majority of the people surveyed
Nearly half of those questioned
Lots of elderly people think
A large proportion / majority believe
A minority of think
Three out of ten
Word origins
Did you know that the word alibi is formed from
two Latin words: alius' (other) + ubi (where)
Therefore it means elsewhere.
113
1.2 Useful tips

Be organised and establish all the points to be detailed
before you start writing your report
Provide suggestive headings
Provide interesting sub-headings in order to separate each
piece of information
Use the present tenses
Use reported speech and the appropriate reporting verbs:
report, believe, claim, agree, disagree, complain and state
Use percentages or proportions to present facts
Link facts to generalisations: e.g. Fifty per cent of the
housewives questioned agreed that the new food-mixer is
extremely helpful, saving time and effort. This illustrates that
modern housewives prefer to spend more time for themselves than
in the kitchen.
Use the appropriate style: formal when you write survey
reports ordered by official institutions or companies, and informal
when writing to a friend
Word origins
Did you know that & is called "ampersand"?
Traditionally it was printed at the end of the alphabet, after the Z. When
children recited the alphabet, they used to say: "xyz and per se" ("per se"
means "by itself" in Latin). So "and per se" became "ampersand"!
2.1 Structure of assessment and proposal reports
These types of reports are generally written by someone in
authority as follows:
1.
to present and evaluate (assess the strengths and
weaknesses of a place or person, followed by recommendations and
judgments) = assessment reports
2.
to present suggestions, plans or decisions about future
actions = proposal reports
114
Structure
Introduction: the author states the purpose and the
content.
Main body: in two-three paragraphs, the author provides
details about each topic. Each paragraph introduces a new topic.
Conclusion: the author summarises the information given
before and makes the final assessment and recommendations.
Layout:
Begin your report by stating who the report is addressed to,
what their position is, the authors name and position, the topic of the
report and the date, e.g.:
To: Maximilian Collins, Executive Manager
From: Stephen Marshall, President
Subject: Latino Orchid Club
Date: 3rd March, 2005
2.2 Useful tips

Present each topic under appropriate sub-headings;
Use the formal style;
Use factual language, and impersonal phrases;
Use full verb forms;
Use short concise sentences;
Use present tenses for assessment reports;
Use the suitable modals and conditionals for proposal
reports;
Use specific phrases to start and end your reports.
e.g. To start a report:
The aim of the report is to
The purpose of this report is to
As requested, this report is to
To end a report:
All in all/ In conclusion/ On the whole/ To sum up/ Therefore
I would (not) recommend
I find it suitable for
I do not find it suitable for
Word origins
Did you know that the word "mirror" comes from the
Latin "mirari" (= to admire?)
115
Stop and think
Exercise 1
Look at the following figures referring to the food items
recommended in a fast slimming diet and fill in the gaps using the
words and phrases below. Then see the correct solutions in the
Answer Key section.
Vegetables: 38%
Red meat: 13%
White meat: 22 %
Fruit: 27 %
per cent, minority, majority, large proportion of
1.
A of the food items recommended by nutritionists
is represented by red meat.
2.
The is represented by vegetables.
3.
A is represented by fruit.
4.
White meat represents twenty-two
Reading
Exercise 2
Read the following sentences and identify those which present
generalisations and those which present facts. Write your answers
Key section.
1.
Children like spending a lot of time in front of their
computers playing games and organising competitions among
themselves.
2.
Twenty per cent of those who buy this type of vacuum
cleaner consider it a must in any household.
3.
A significant number of people prefer buying a caravan
and spending the weekends in the mountains.
4.
The gap between generations makes the clash between
teenagers and their parents harsher.
5.
Few people are willing to use the public transport
instead of their own car even if they are aware of the increased level
of pollution.
6.
The majority of teachers would favour a new type of
English textbooks.
7.
Three in five families with pets prefer staying at home
than leaving their pets with neighbours during the summer holiday.
116
1 =
2 =
3 =
4 =
5 =
6 =
7 =
Drills
V
Exercise 3
Read the following survey report and provide. Write your
Answer Key section.
a
b
c
the topic
the style
the sub-headings(1, 2, 3, 4)
1.
In my town, teenagers enjoy socialising and having fun. There

is a large range of entertainment because we are cheerful and open
people.
2.
At weekends, many teenagers prefer going to discos or clubs

to listen to music, drink refreshments, make conversation and dance.
The majority of young people are also keen cinema-goers and if
there is a good film on they will see it first and go to a bar or a club
afterwards.
3.
During the holidays, many young people leave the town and go
either to the seaside or in the mountains. They like spending their
holidays with their friends and they are very active.
4.
Even during the week, we enjoy having fun and spending some
time together with our friends. Most teenagers visit each other or go
to a fast-food restaurant after classes for a chat. We all like telling
jokes, talking about school, about holidays plans or about our future
career.
5.
As you could see, we use any opportunity to have fun, to meet

each other and enjoy every moment.
Topic: ...
Style:
117
Writing
Exercise 4
Write a survey about the taxi service in your town. Use the
prompts below and the structure provided. Write your answers using
the space below. Then see the correct solutions in the Answer Key
section.
Main body two paragraphs (present generalisations and
facts)
Use the formal style.
Write 120-190 words.
Collins Taxi Co: clean( 45% of the people surveyed)
comfortable (51 % of the people surveyed)
punctual (57% of the people surveyed)
Maxim Taxi Co: clean (22% of the people surveyed)
comfortable (13% of the people surveyed)
Fabius Taxi Co: clean (33% of the people surveyed)
comfortable (36% of the people surveyed)
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
..
.
...
.
118
.
..
.
..
.
.
.
..
.
.
..
.
..
.
Stop and think

Exercise 5
Read the following information and answer the questions
You are asked to write an assessment report in which to
identify the good points and the bad points of building a new
supermarket in your area.
1.
2.
3.
4.
What is the purpose of your report?

What style should you use?
Who is going to read your report?
Which of the following must you include?
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
location of the new supermarket

size of the new building
prices
quality of food
parking area
opening hours
location of your town
atmosphere
staffs uniforms
employment opportunities?
1 =
2 =
3 =
4 =
119
Drills
V
Exercise 6
Join the sentences below using appropriate linking words or
phrases from the following list. Write your answers using the space
moreover, however, although, on the one hand, in addition,
since
1.
the prices are reasonable, the staff is not friendly,
and the atmosphere is not enjoyable.
2.
Season fees are quite high , the luxurious
facilities attract a lot of people every year.
3.
The hotel offers several themed rooms, a large bar and
a conference hall. , a modern sauna and swimming pool are
also available.
4.
, the sports club is near the town centre. On the
other hand, the parking area is not appropriate at all for the great
number of cars.
5.
the staff is polite and friendly. A lot of people
choose this place for a lengthy dinner in the middle of nature.
6.
The restaurant offers a large variety of dishes: game,
vegetarian, and traditional The atmosphere is lively and the
prices affordable.
Writing
Exercise 7
Write an assessment report about a new restaurant in your
neighbourhood. Use the prompts below and the following structure.
Main body two paragraphs
Use the formal style. The report is addressed to Susan
Sullivan, Executive Director, and it is written by Corinne Collins,
Town Hall Representative.
Write 120 - 190 words.
.
..
120
.
.
...
..
.
.
.
.
.
..
...
.
.
.
.
..
...
..
..
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
121
4. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct style = 25%
Correct usage of phrases = 30%
Correct usage of the spec below = 10%
Write an assessment report about a new exhibition hall in your
town. Use the prompts below and the following structure:
Use the formal style. The report is addressed to Peter Smiths,
Executive Director and it is written by Sarah Burton, Town Hall
Representative.
Write 120-190 words.
5. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 1, 2, 3, and 4 not
information provided in Unit X, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
1 = minority; 2 = majority; 3 = large proportion of; 4 = per cent
Exercise 2
1 = generalisation; 2 = facts; 3 = facts; 4 = generalisation; 5 =
facts; 6 = generalisation; 7 = facts
Exercise 3
Topic : How do teenagers in my town entertain?
Style less formal because it is written to a friend
1 = Introduction
2 = Entertainment at weekends
3 = Entertainment during holidays
4 = Entertainment during the week
5 = Conclusion
122
Exercise 4
The aim of this report is to analyse the results of a survey in
which 700 residents were questioned about the local taxi service and
whether they were satisfied or not with it.
Forty five per cent of those questioned considered the Collins
Taxis to be clean, whereas only twenty two per cent considered the
Maxim Taxi Co provided them with clean taxis.
A large number of people (fifty one per cent) claimed that
Collins Taxis are comfortable while a minority of those surveyed
considered Maxim Taxis to be comfortable enough.
The majority of those surveyed (fifty-seven per cent) said that
Collins Taxi drivers are punctual, while only seven per cent said the
same thing about Maxim Taxi drivers.
Similar percentages of the people surveyed (thirty-three, thirtysix and thirty-seven per cent) considered Fabius Taxis to be clean,
comfortable and punctual, respectively.
All points considered, we can conclude that Collins Taxis
provide the most reliable service, that Fabius Taxis should be
improved and that Maxim Taxis should make serious efforts to
increase the quality of their service.
information provided in Unit X, subsections 2.1 and 2.2.
Exercise 5
1. the purpose is to assess the suitability of a new supermarket
in the local area
2. formal style
3. The Town Hall representatives
4. a, b, c, e, f, j
Exercise 6
1 = although; 2 = however; 3 = moreover; 4. = on the one hand;
5 = since; 6 = in addition
Exercise 7
To: Susan Sullivan, Executive Director
From: Corinne Collins - Town Hall Representative
Subject: new restaurant in Strawberry Street
Date: 4th June, 2005
The purpose of this report is to assess the new restaurant in
Strawberry Street The Knights Shield which I visited last
Monday.
There is a large salad bar, a wide choice of traditional dishes
and several types of fish dishes. The food is extremely tasty and the
ingredients fantastic.
The staff is friendly and helpful. The setting is comfortable and
the atmosphere is great.
123
On the whole, this restaurant seems to be a great success.

Nevertheless, it lacks a no-smoking policy which is a negative
aspect, in my opinion. In addition, the music is too loud, which makes
it impossible to have a nice conversation during the meal.
6. Bibliography
209 - 229
124
UNIT XI
ESSAYS 1 FOR / AGAINST ESSAYS
Unit objectives
structure and specific phrases used in for and against essays. You
will also be able to identify good and bad points in writing these types
of essays, how to avoid making mistakes and to make your essays
well-organised. Furthermore, you will be able to write essays of your
own matching the specific information to your originality and
creativity.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Structure and specific phrases
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
125
125
125
126
128
134
134
136
For and against essays are formal pieces of writing. Each
new paragraph introduces a new opposing point of view.
Structure:
Introduction : the author states the topic.
Main body :
a. one paragraph includes arguments for.
b. the other paragraph includes arguments against, along with your
justification.
Conclusion : include either your opinion on the matter or
an overall consideration on that issue.
125
N.B. In the introduction or the main body, never give your own
opinion.
You may use your own opinions only in the final paragraph.
Specific phrases
To introduce points of view:
One point of view in favour / against
One advantage / disadvantage of
One more / further advantage would be
To list points:
First / firstly / first of all / in the first place / To start with
Second / secondly
Third / thirdly
Finally
To make contrasting points:
Yet / however / nevertheless / on the other hand / despite / in
spite of / even though / even if / while / whereas
To add more points to the same issue:
Moreover / furthermore / in addition to that / what is more / not
to mention the fact that / let alone / besides / apart from that
To give examples:
For example / such as / for instance / especially/ i.e. / e.g.
To conclude:
All in all / on the whole / to sum up / all things considered
1.2 Useful tips

Do not use informal phrases, short forms, colloquial
phrases or idioms;
Do not use aggressive strong forms;
Support your points with logical justifications and
examples;
Write two or more sentences in each paragraph;
Start each paragraph using a topic sentence;
Use quotations or mottoes in order to support your point of
view;
Be organised think of all the points for / against
beforehand;
Address the reader directly;
126
Give personal opinions in the last paragraph;

Insert strange situations in order to catch the readers
attention;
End with a rhetoric question or a general consideration in
order to give the reader something to think about.
Lets have fun!
Question: Which is the most self-centered letter of the
alphabet?
Answer: I(i).
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Choose the correct word or phrase below. Write your answers
Key section.
1.
Travelling broadens your mind. Yet / Also, it makes you
manage on your own.
2.
Being a good team-worker can be fun. Furthermore / On
the contrary, one can prove his / her own skills on a particular
domain.
3.
Using micro-wave ovens can be dangerous.
Nevertheless / Moreover, they can help you defrost or cook food very
fast.
4.
Dogs make great pets. Similarly / In contrast, they are
extremely loyal as well.
5.
Living in the country is very healthy. What is more /
However, it can be boring sometimes.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
127
Drills
V
Exercise 2
Read the following sentences and label them as advantages or
disadvantages of students having a part-time job. Write your
Answer Key section.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
It may be tiring.
You have more pocket money.
You can get more experience.
It can help you in getting a better job.
You miss some lectures.
Teachers might not be very understanding.
It is challenging.
It makes you feel more responsible.
You gain material independence.
You may get lower marks or grades.
1 = ;2 = ;3 = ; 4 = ;5 =;
6 = ; 7 = ; 8 = ; 9 = ; 10 =
Education is what survives when what

has been learnt has been forgotten.
(B. F. Skinner)
Reading
Exercise 3
Read the following quotations and match them with the topics
Quotations
A To find a friend, one must close one eye; to keep him
two. (Norma Douglas)
B Technological progress has merely provided us more
efficient means for going backwards. (Aldous Huxley)
C Fashion is made to become unfashionable. (Coco
Chanel)
128
D Advertising isnt a science.

persuasion is an art. (Bill Bernbach)
Its
persuasion.
And
E Television is chewing gum for the eyes. (Frank Lloyd

Wright)
F Success listens only to applause. To all else it is deaf.
(Elias Canetti)
G Money is a sixth sense which makes it possible for us to
enjoy the other five. (Richard Ney)
1. Arguments for and against following the latest trends in
fashion.
2. Arguments for and against watching television as the main
means of entertainment and information.
3. Arguments for and against considering money the most
essential thing in life.
4. Arguments for and against using advertising as a means of
customers persuasion.
5. Arguments for and against being truthful to your friend.
6. Arguments for and against high technology as the greatest
achievement towards mankinds progress.
7. Arguments for and against striving for success.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ; 5 = ;
6 = ; 7 =
Reading
Exercise 4
Read the following for / against essay and label the paragraphs
under the following headings: arguments for, arguments against,
opinion, present topic. Then name two arguments for and two
arguments against. Which is the authors opinion? Write your
Answer Key section.
1. Have you ever thought about the impact of telling the truth
all the time? Are there any reasons to tell lies or keep quiet instead of
telling the truth?
2. To begin with, telling the truth might hurt your best friends
feelings. Imagine him / her buying a new outfit. You cant tell the truth
and exclaim: Oh, it looks terrible!, on the contrary, you either keep
silent or tell a lie. Similarly, a doctor would not tell his terminally ill
patient that he is going to live only for six more months. He would
rather break the news to the patients family first. Furthermore,
imagine your boss making blunders or mistakes. You will either
ignore the fact or flatter him for having been so diplomatic. Finally,
at the end of a party where everybody had a terrible time, you are
expected to exclaim: Oh, thank you for the invitation. I have had a
wonderful time!
129
3. However, telling the truth is, in most cases, the best

solution. Your best friend may expect you to tell only the truth
regardless of the embarrassing circumstances. In addition, as a
witness in court, you must tell the truth. It is often believed that it is
easier to remember the truth than the lies, and thus telling the truth
makes your life easier.
4. All in all, although there are certain disadvantages to telling
the truth, I believe this is the only way to behave in life and offer an
example to the other people around you.
Paragraph 1:
Paragraph 2:
Paragraph 3:
Paragraph 4:
Arguments for:
Arguments against:
.
.
Authors opinion:
.
.
Try not to become a man of success but

rather try to become a man of value.
(A. Einstein)
Drills
V
Exercise 5
Read the extracts below and decide which are the beginnings
and which are the endings. Write your answers using the space
1.
To conclude, extreme sports can be fun, but one should
not try to risk ones life in vain.
130
2.
Have you ever thought about being a globe-trotter?
Many people, especially the young ones, consider it the best way to
gain experience, make new friends and see new places. The
question is: which are the arguments for and which are the
arguments against doing it?
3.
All things considered, I believe that dogs make perfect
pets: they are not only loyal but helpful and good guardians.
4.
More and more women choose to be single mothers.
You may wonder why? Which are the advantages and the
disadvantages of growing a baby on your own?
1 =
2 =
3 =
4 =
Exercise 6
Match each argument about being a popular movie star to its
corresponding justification. Write your answers using the space
arguments
A
B
C
D
E
F
you are famous

you travel a lot
you have a glamorous career
you should control your diet
you lose your privacy
you earn lots of money
justifications
1. everybody wants to meet you and ask for an autograph
2. you are chased by paparazzi
3. you are expected to be in different locations according to
the film script
4. directors want you to look good all the time
5. great films have great box-office receipts
6. you meet interesting people, you can afford the most
extravagant things, you are in the limelight, you become a model for
the young generation
A = ; B = ; C = ; D = ; E = ..;
F =
131
Writing
Exercise 7
Read the topic sentences below and write two more supporting
ones. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
1.
a
b
Knitting certainly has lots of advantages.
2.
There are several arguments against getting a part-time
job as a student:
a
Drills
3.
a
b
There are obvious drawbacks to being a VIP.
4.
a
b
Cable television has got its advantages.
V
Exercise 8
Fill in the correct linking word or phrase. Then see the correct
Have you ever thought about the effect a new supermarket can
have on your neighbouring area? It may seem, at first, that this new
place brings only benefits, but which are the real advantages and
disadvantages of a supermarket round the corner?
There are several points in favour of building a new
supermarket in your area. (1 ..), everybody would like to have a
special place where to buy everything from groceries to cosmetics or
washing-up liquid. (2 ), at the beginning prices are supposed
to be lower. There will be a lot of free promotional products or
samples as well as helpful polite shop-assistants.
(3 ) the waste packages may increase pollution. (4
), there will be not enough parking spaces for the district
residents.
(5 ), it is obvious that building a new supermarket can
involve both good and bad points. I do believe that the advantages
could contribute to everybodys welfare.
132
Writing
Exercise 9
Write an essay giving arguments for and against living on your
own. Look at the prompts below and write your essay using the
following structure: Introduction Main body Conclusion. Use 140190 words. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
Advantages
You feel independent
You can organise your own life
You become more responsible
You can entertain whenever you want
Disadvantages
You have to pay the rent
You have to do the cooking and the cleaning
You may feel lonely
.
.
..
..
..
...
..
.
...
..
..
.
..
..
..
..
.
...
..
.
133
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct style = 30%
Correct usage of specific phrases = 25%
Correct usage of the space below = 15%
Write an essay giving arguments for and against having a pet
in a flat. Use the following structure:
4. Answer key
the information provided in Unit XI, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
1 = also; 2 = furthermore; 3 = nevertheless; 4 = similarly;
5 = however.
N.B. Should your answers not be close to the ones suggested
in this section, read the information provided in subsection 1.1.
Exercise 2
1 = disadvantage; 2 = advantage; 3 = advantage;
4 = advantage; 5 = disadvantage; 6 = disadvantage;
7 = advantage; 8 = advantage; 9 = advantage;
10 = disadvantage
Exercise 3
A = 5 ; B = 6 ; C = 1 ; D = 4 ; E = 2 ; F = 7 ; G = 3.
134
Exercise 4
Paragraph 1: present topic
Paragraph 2: arguments against
Paragraph 3: arguments for
Paragraph 4: opinion
Arguments for: You are a real friend; You observe the laws.
Arguments against: You might hurt your friends feelings; You
may irritate your boss; You may insult your hostess; You may shock
your patients.
Authors opinion: telling the truth is the best solution.
Exercise 5
1 = ending
2 = beginning
3 = ending
4 = beginning
Exercise 6
A = 1; B = 3; C = 6; D = 4; E = 2; F = 5.
Exercise 7
1.a. you have the satisfaction of using your skills and
imagination
1.b. it is relaxing
2.a. you may be too tired to attend university lectures
2.b. you may get lower grades or marks in the final exams
3. a. you lose your privacy
b. you will never know who your true friends are
4. a. you have all types of entertainment at home
b. it is cheaper than going to the theatre / cinema/ stadium /
concert halls, etc
Exercise 8
Suggested solutions
1 = First of all / On the one hand
2 = What is more / Moreover / Furthermore
3 = However / On the other hand
4 = What is more / Moreover / Furthermore
5 = To sum up / All in all / In conclusion
Exercise 9
Have you ever thought about living on your own? Young people
would be thrilled to do it and get rid of their parents control. Lets see
what the advantages and disadvantages of living on ones own could
be.
Firstly, living on your own can give you more independence
and the possibility of organising your own life. Moreover, you become
more responsible which is very good for the future. What is more,
you can invite your friends over or organise a party whenever you
want .
135
On the other hand, you have to pay for the house expenses
which may be very hard, especially if you are still a student and you
do not have enough money. Furthermore, all the housework has to
be done by you and only by you which can become a dull job. Not to
mention the fact that you may feel lonely sometimes, without having
anyone to turn to when in trouble.
To sum up, l believe that living on your own can be very good
for your personality but you should think twice if you are really not
able to cope with all the other responsibilities.
5. Bibliography
209 - 229
136
UNIT XII
ESSAYS 2 OPINION ESSAYS
Unit objectives
structure and specific phrases used in opinion essays. You will also
be able to identify good and bad points in writing these types of
essays, how to avoid making mistakes and how to write your own
coherent opinion essays using your own ideas and creativity. The
Assessment Test will identify your good and bad points in writing
essays.
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Structure and specific phrases
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
137
137
137
139
140
146
146
148
This piece of writing is a discursive essay in which you present
your own opinions on certain topics.
Structure
Introduction: you introduce the topic and state your
opinion clearly;
Main body: in at least two paragraphs you present
different viewpoints with their justification;
Conclusion: you restate your opinion using different
words / phrases.
137
Specific Phrases
For giving opinions
In my opinion
In my view
To my mind
I agree with ...
I dont agree with ...
I strongly think / believe / feel
As far as I am concerned
I am totally in favour of
I am totally against
I couldnt agree more with / that
I couldnt disagree more than that / with
It seems to me
To list points:
first / firstly / first of all / to begin with / in the first place, etc
To add further points:
moreover, furthermore, what is more, in addition to, besides,
not to mention the fact that, another reason would be, etc.
To express contrasting viewpoints:
As opposed to the above-stated ideas, it is argued that, people
argue that, opponents of this view argue that, etc.
To give examples:
for instance, such as, for example, especially, etc.
To draw conclusions:
All in all, As a conclusion, To sum up, All things considered,
etc.
Lets have fun!

Question: What begins with T, ends with T and has
T in it?
Answer: A teapot.
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1.2 Useful tips

Be organised;
Structure and list your own points beforehand;
Use the appropriate linking words;
Each paragraph should deal with a different viewpoint;
Each paragraph should contain a topic sentence followed
by justifications, reasons, examples, etc;
Use the formal style (avoid colloquialisms, short forms,
idioms, personal examples, etc);
Use the present tense;
State your opinion in the first paragraph;
State your opinion in the last paragraph using different
words or phrases;
Support your own opinion with justifications.
Stop and think

Exercise 1
Read the following information and answer the questions. You
are asked to write an essay giving your opinion and supporting
reasons on the following statement: Computers will rule the world.
Where can you find this type of essay?
Which style are you going to use?
Which of the following are you going to write about?
a the progress of high technology;
b description of different brands of computers;
c relationship between people and computers;
d mans contribution to the progress of
technology;
e mans superiority over computers;
f
supporting examples;
g opposing views and justifications.
information
1 =
2 =
3 =
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Drills
V
Exercise 2
Match the viewpoints with the reasons below. Write your
Answer Key section.
Television is a good alternative to reading newspapers.
View points
1. information is vital
Reasons
a. the combination of image
and sound arouses peoples
interest
2. television has a greater b. everybody has at least
impact on viewers
one TV set at home
3. television creates the c. everybody should be
opportunity of getting an informed
objective
image
of
the
situations
4. television has become a
d. you simply change
component of everybodys
channels and get a different
lifestyle
viewpoint on the same
situation
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 =
Lets have fun!
Murphys Laws
Having baths makes the phone ring.
Exercise 3
Fill in the table below using words and phrases from the list
while, whereas, also, for instance, first, in particular, to start
with, however, similarly, moreover, apart from this, let alone, in the
first place, lastly, secondly, on the one hand, on the other hand, apart
from this, all in all, nonetheless, therefore, such as, in conclusion, in
addition, because, all things considered
140
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
To list points
To add more points
To present contrasting
viewpoints
To provide examples
To draw conclusions
Lets have fun!

Murphys Laws
Those who can, do. Those who cant, teach.
Reading
Exercise 4
Read the following essay and label the paragraphs below with
the following headings. Then group the paragraphs under the three
main components: Introduction; Main body; Conclusion. Write your
Answer Key section.
topic and opinion, restate opinion, opposing viewpoints, first
viewpoint and examples, second viewpoint and examples
Rich People are Happier
Paragraph 1
Everybody wishes they were richer. Why? In my opinion, rich
people are the happiest people in the world.
Paragraph 2
Firstly, rich people can afford anything they dream of. For
instance, they can go on luxurious cruises. They can buy a villa, a
mansion or an expensive flat on an exotic island. Moreover, they can
enjoy life to the maximum, by simply investing their money and going
on a never-ending holiday.
Paragraph 3
In addition to this, having money means power. Rich people
can lead the world, make fundamental decisions and become
leaders.
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Paragraph 4
On the other hand, it is argued that having too much money
can become a burden. For instance, rich people are never sure if
their friends are true or not. What is more, rich people can become
obsessed with making more money, or they can become the victims
of terrorists, burglars or robbers.
Paragraph 5
All in all, though, I believe that being rich is worth all the risks
and that rich people live a glamorous life. That is the sort of life we all
would like to experience at least one day.
Paragraph 1:
...
Paragraph 2:
Paragraph 3:
Paragraph 4:
Paragraph 5:
.................................................................................................
Introduction: .......................................................
Main body: .........................................................
Conclusion: ........................................................
Writing
Exercise 5
Write the missing words or phrases in the essay below. Then
It is good to be one child in the family

Nowadays, many families choose to have one single child. I
strongly (1 ) that this is a very wise decision because in those
families, a single child is happier and better looked after.
In the (2 ) place, everybody in the family tries to give that
child all their attention and love. For (3 ), they spend more
time with the child. They give him / her more presents, or they could
buy him / her new clothes more often.
What is (4 ), parents with a single child can afford
sending the child to better schools, to sports or arts clubs or even on
expensive trips.
Nevertheless, there are those who argue that being a single
child is not good at all. They (5 ) that a single child may feel
142
lonely, may become selfish or may have a weak personality,

depending too much on somebody else.
To (6 ), I do believe that being a single child is better
than having to share all your parents love, attention and money with
somebody else.
Believe it or not!
More than one third of Britains Prime Ministers went
to the same college: Eton College.
Drills
V
Exercise 6
Match the beginnings with the endings. Identify the topic for
each of the essays they are taken from. Write your answers using the
section.
beginnings
1. Nowadays, computers seem an essential tool. In my
opinion, they can also jeopardise human relationships.
2. I strongly believe that smoking should be banned in all
public places.
3. Having a pet can develop your childs personality from an
early age.
4. I personally believe that people should cut down on eating
fast food.
endings
A To sum up, saturated oil can only harm ones health.
B Perhaps we should reconsider the benefits of high
technology and come back to our traditional routine.
C All things considered, having a pet makes your child more
responsible and caring.
D Another solution would be persuading people around us to
quit this habit.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 =
Topic 1 =
Topic 2 =
Topic 3 =
Topic 4 =
143
Exercise 7
Provide synonyms to the words / phrases below. Write your
Answer Key section.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
firstly = ..
in addition = .
to sum up = ...
I believe = .
people argue =
however =
for example = ..
Exercise 8
Provide antonyms to the words and phrases below. Write your
Answer Key section.
1. to agree = .
2. to believe = ..
3. on the one hand =
4. similarly =
5. to begin with =
6. firstly = .
7. justified =
Writing
Exercise 9
Write an opinion essay on the following topic: Television
increases violence.
Use the appropriate linking words and structure your essay in
the following way:
Introduction: 1 paragraph subject + opinion
Main body: 3 paragraphs (one paragraph first viewpoint, one
paragraph second viewpoint, one paragraph contrasting
viewpoint)
Conclusion: 1 paragraph restate opinion
Use 140 - 190 words. Write your answers using the space
144
145
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
appropriate style = 25%
appropriate layout = 25%
correct usage of specific phrases = 40%
correct usage of the space below = 10%
Write an opinion essay on the following topic: Life in large cities
is more challenging.
Use the following structure:
Introduction: one paragraph subject + opinion.
Main body: three paragraphs (one paragraph first viewpoint,
one paragraph second viewpoint, one paragraph
contrasting viewpoint).
Conclusion: one paragraph restate opinion.
4. Answer key
N.B. Should your answers in exercises 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8
not be close to the ones suggested in this section, read the
information provided in Unit XII, subsections 1.1 and 1.2.
Exercise 1
1 = in magazines or newspapers
2 = formal style;
3 = a, c, d, e, f. g.
N.B. Should your answers not be close to the ones suggested
in this section, read the information provided in subsection 1.1.
Exercise 2
1 = c; 2 = a; 3 = d; 4 = b.
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Exercise 3
1. To list points
first, to start with, in the first place, lastly, secondly, on the one
hand
2. To add more points
also, similarly, moreover, let alone, apart from this, in addition
3. To present contrasting viewpoints
while, whereas, however, on the other hand, nonetheless
4. To present examples
for instance, in particular, therefore, such as, because
5. To draw conclusions
all in all, therefore, in conclusion, all things considered
Exercise 4
Paragraph 1: topic and opinion
Paragraph 2: first viewpoint and examples
Paragraph 3: second viewpoint and examples
Paragraph 4: contrasting viewpoints
Paragraph 5: restate opinion
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraphs 2+3+4: Main body
Paragraph 5: Conclusion
Exercise 5
1 = believe / think
2 = first
3 = example / instance
4 = more
5 = argue / claim
6 = sum up
Exercise 6
1 = B; 2 = D; 3 = C; 4 = A
Topic 1 = Can computers replace human communication?
Topic 2 = Smoking endangers our health
Topic 2 = Pets help children grow up quicker
Topic 4 = Let s say NO to fast food!
Exercise 7
1.
firstly = first / in the first place
2.
in addition = what is more
3.
to sum up = in conclusion / all in all
4.
I believe = I think
5.
people argue = people claim / it is argued
6.
however = nevertheless / nonetheless
7.
for example = for instance / such as
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Exercise 8
1.
to agree = to disagree
2.
to believe = to disbelieve
3.
on the one hand = on the other hand
4.
similarly = on the contrary
5.
to begin with = in the end
6.
firstly = finally
7.
justified = unjustified
5. Bibliography
3. Mascull, B., 1996, Students Usage, Collins Cobuild, pp.
212, 215 - 216
148
Articles
UNIT XIII
ARTICLES
Unit objectives
of an article, come up with different writing techniques and to use
several useful tips in order to draw your readers attention. You will
also be able to write articles of your own, using different techniques
and styles
Unit outline
1.
1.1
1.2
2.
3.
4.
5.
Objectives
Structure of articles
Useful tips
Answer key
Bibliography
149
149
149
150
151
156
157
158
1.1 Structure of articles
Articles are pieces of writing which describe places (descriptive
articles), give information (news articles) or express opinion
(argumentative articles).
They are to be found in newspapers, magazines, and
newsletters.
Structure
Introduction consisting of one paragraph presenting the
topic.
Main body consisting of two or more paragraphs
presenting the topic in detail.
Conclusion: the final paragraph gives an appropriate
ending to the article.
149
Articles
1.2 Useful tips

Provide an original and interesting headline;
Write a short headline to outline the main point of your
article;
Make the introduction as interesting as possible so that the
reader will want to read the rest of the article;
Use an appropriate style;
Use appropriate linking words and phrases to achieve
cohesion;
Use strong expressive adjectives (e.g. puzzled instead of
surprised);
Use the appropriate writing techniques (argumentative /
descriptive / narrative).
In order to make the headline as eye-catching as possible, you
should observe a few rules, as follows:
Omit the auxiliary verb to be when using the passive voice
in order to describe a past event
e.g. SMUGGLER CAPTURED
Omit articles
e.g. TRAMP CAUGHT IN PARK
use to be + Past Participle when using the passive voice to
describe a future event
e.g. KINDERGARTEN TO BE OPENED BY MAYOR
Use only the infinitive to be when using the active voice to
describe a future event
e.g. DEAN TO OPEN YOUTH HOSTEL
Omit prepositions where possible
Use abbreviations
e.g. EU PRAISED BY OFFICIALS
150
Articles
Stop and think
Exercise 1
Look at the sentences below and think of the appropriate
headlines observing the above-stated rules. Write your answers
Key section.
1.
A left-wing senator has been charged with bribery.
2.
Expecting mothers have criticised smoking in the public
places as extremely harmful.
3.
Genetic engineering has caused an angry response
among the Greenpeace members.
4.
A truck crashed hitting three more vehicles on the ring
road.
5.
University teachers are planning to introduce a new type
of final assessment tests .
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Drills
V
Exercise 2
Look at the following headlines and think of the original
sentences they come from. Write your answers using the space
TRUCE ACCEPTED
COUPLE WRECKED ON DESERTED ISLAND
DROUGHT DAMAGES WHEAT CROP
HOLLYWOOD STAR TO DIVORCE
MPS LOST FILE FOUND
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
151
Articles
Word origins
Even if today we doubt whether dinosaurs were reptiles
the word dinosaur comes from the Greek deinos
(terrible) and sauros (lizard) = terrible lizards.
Drills
V
Exercise 3
Match the beginnings to the endings below. Give appropriate
headlines for each pair. Write your answers using the space below.
beginnings
A
A new sports club has been opened to the young people
in Valliant County. From now on, thousands of youngsters can come
here and spend their free time enjoying both the modern facilities
and the magnificent park which surrounds this sports centre.
B
Veggies Restaurant is a modern building at the
outskirts of our town. Surrounded by several old oak trees and a
lake, it is the perfect place to have a healthy meal and enjoy the view
at the same time.
C
One of the strongest storms of the century hit the
northern region of our country causing millions of euros of damage.
Hundreds of houses were destroyed and a large number of people
were left homeless.
endings
1.
Dramatically, this is the second storm in the area this
month. Government officials are planning to send food, tents and
blankets as soon as possible.
2.
Therefore, parents can relax knowing that their children
spend their free time combining indoor exercise with fresh air.
3.
To sum up, everyone is welcome to spend an enjoyable
evening in this restaurant. On one condition, though: to be a
vegetarian and to like a healthy life-style.
A = ; B = ; C =
headlines
A
....
B
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Articles
Reading
Exercise 4
Read the following extracts and match them to the three types
of articles below. Write your answers using the space below. Then
Types of articles:
1.
argumentative article
2.
news article
3.
descriptive article
A Spending the holidays on an exotic island seems to be
everybodys dream. Many people would do anything in order to
afford such a glamorous holiday, staying in luxurious hotels on the
beach, going to night clubs and drinking expensive tropical cocktails.
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to spending your
holidays in places like this: the service might not be good value for
your money, you are supposed to do the same thing every day, and,
above all, you might get annoyed by the crowd of tourists
surrounding you.
B If you like solitude, fresh air, home-grown food, sociable
people and splendid panoramas, the Magic Valley seems to be the
ideal place for your holidays. You can go both hiking or fishing in the
neighbouring lakes. The home-made bread, the traditional salads as
well as the residents hospitality will overwhelm any visitor offering
him or her a holiday to remember.
C A massive earthquake struck the Southern Coast causing
severe damage to the residents dwellings. The earthquake caused
thousands of casualties. The number of victims is still unknown.
Rescue workers arrived and picked up the survivors by helicopters.
More victims are expected to be found in the next few days.
1 = .
2 = .
3 = .
Word origins
Did you know that the word clown comes from the
Icelandic word klunni (meaning clumsy person)?
153
Articles
Drills
V
Exercise 5
Replace the adjectives in bold with their stronger synonyms
from the list below. Write your answers using the space below. Then
filthy, magnificent / wonderful, enthusiastic / thrilled, enormous,
confident , inadequate / inappropriate
1. The people were pleased to see their favourite jazz lead
singer.
2. The residents appreciated the MPs big efforts to restore
the old churches in the area.
3. The Mayor opened the nice exhibition hall in the town
centre yesterday morning.
4. The visitors were dissatisfied with the dirty bathrooms and
the bad facilities.
5. The fire-fighters were sure that they would cope with the
fire and reduce the number of casualties to a minimum.
1 = ..
2 = ..
3 = ..
4 = ..
5 = ..
Word origins
Even if senators may be both young and old nowadays did
you know that the word senator comes from the Latin
senex, meaning aged' and 'old?
Reading
Exercise 6
Read the following article and provide a topic sentence for each
paragraph. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
A On the other hand, the pleasure of reading a book, from
cover to cover, is a unique experience.
B To sum up, reading a book is not only relaxing and healthy
but also the main source of information.
154
Articles
C To say nothing about the damage they might cause to

peoples eyes.
D We cannot deny the fact that many articles, short stories,
critical essays, etc can be found surfing the net.
Computers versus books
Nowadays, parents are getting more and more anxious about
their children spending hours in front of the computer screen. The
question is: Can computers replace books?
1.
All you have to do is type the key words and then let the
computer search the references for you. The information can be
enormous and the number of books or articles is overwhelming. So,
using a computer may be more convenient than trying to find the
same books or articles in the bookshop next to your house.
2.
In this way, children can discover by themselves different ways

to find the necessary information, memorable quotations, fascinating
fragments and useful critical footnotes.
3.
Scientists do not recommend more than one hour per day

spent in front of the computer screen. Our childrens eyesight is in
real danger and we should do our best and convince them to read a
book rather than surf the net.
4.
Parents should talk to their offsprings and explain the benefits

of reading, plus the magic of discovering a fabulous world by their
own and thus prevent them from getting computer addicted.
Writing
Exercise 7
Write an argumentative article about vegetarianism. Use the
following structure:
Introduction: one paragraph
Main body: three paragraphs;
Conclusion: one paragraph.
Provide an eye-catching headline. Use 120 - 190 words. Write
your answers using the space below. Then see the correct solutions
in the Answer Key section.
.
.
..
155
Articles
.
.
.
.
..
..
.
.
.
.
..
3. SAA
unit.
requirements:
Correct usage of the space below = 10%
Write a descriptive article about a new winter sports resort. Use
the following structure:
Introduction :one paragraph (presenting the topic);
Main body: three paragraphs;
Conclusion: one paragraph.
Provide an eye-catching headline.
156
Articles
4. Answer key
information provided in Unit XIII, subsection 1.1.
Exercise 1
1. LEFT WING SENATOR TO BE CHARGED WITH
BRIBERY
2. SMOKING
IN
PUBLIC
PLACES
HARMFUL,
EXPECTING MOTHERS SAY
3. GENETIC ENGINEERING SCARES GREENPEACE
4. TRUCK HITS VEHICLES ON RING ROAD
5. UNIVERSITY TEACHERS TO DEVISE NEW TESTS
Exercise 2
1. The truce was accepted by the two countries.
2. A couple was shipwrecked on a deserted island.
3. The drought has damaged the countrys wheat crop.
4. A Hollywood start is going to divorce.
5. A Member of Parliaments lost file has been found.
Exercise 3
A = 2; B = 3; C = 1
Headlines(suggested solutions)
A
NEW SPORTS TO BE OPENED
B
VEGGIES RESTAURANT MAKES LIFE HEALTHIER
C
STORM DAMAGES NORTHERN REGION
information provided in Un it XIII, subsection 1. 2.
Exercise 4
1 = argumentative article
2 = descriptive article
3 = news article / report
Exercise 5
1 = enthusiastic / thrilled
2 = enormous
3 = magnificent / wonderful
4 = filthy / inadequate / inappropriate
5 = confident
Exercise 6
1 = D; 2 = A; 3 = C; 4 = B
157
Articles
Exercise 7
Suggested solution
Healthy diet longer life
Have you ever wondered why people choose to eat vegetarian
food more than any other type of food? Every day we read about the
benefits of a healthy diet alongside endless warnings about the
dangers of eating junk food, meat, fat, etc.
First of all, vegetables and fruit contain a lot of vitamins which
give us the necessary energy to cope with our stressful lifestyle.
Moreover, statistics warn us against the dramatic side effects
of saturated oil used in cooking as well as against an excessive diet
based on red meat or fattening food.
However, there are still a lot of people especially the younger
generation who ignore all these warnings and continue eating in
fast food restaurants. They claim that this food is delicious and full of
proteins. In addition, they argue that salads may be nutritious but
they cannot compete with a delicious juicy beef steak or spicy lamb
chops.
All in all, regardless of the peoples preferences, we should be
aware of the tragic side effects of junk food and try to make
enormous efforts in order to persuade our children to give up their
bad eating habits and eat healthier food.
5. Bibliography
2. Evans, V., 2000, Successful Writing-Upper Intermediate, Express
3. Mascull, B., 1996, Students Usage, Collins Cobuild,
127 - 128
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Summative self assessment test
UNIT XIV
SUMMATIVE SELF-ASSESSMENT TEST
Unit objectives
The purpose of this unit is to assess your comprehension of the
information included in the previous units as well as the progress in
using the specific phrases, vocabulary and structures presented.
This is also an opportunity to self-assess your own
performance and to correct yourself.
Unit outline
1.
2.
Objectives
Exercises
Answer key
159
159
171
1. Exercises
Exercise 1
Read the following extracts and identify the type of writing.
1. Dear Mum,
Here I am in Miami. The journey was fun, and now I am staying
in a cosy hotel. I cant wait to see the rest of the resort.
2. Michael was a tall slender dark man with great green eyes
and a kind smile. He seemed a generous man, willing to help anyone
in need.
3. As soon as I realised that I was on the wrong train I started
to panic. It couldnt happen to me! Not again!
4. Dear Sirs / Madams,
I am writing to apply for the job of secretary advertised in The
Weekend Plus yesterday morning.
I have already worked as a secretary for two years, and I have
two letters of recommendation.
5. The village was located at the foot of the mountain, and it
was surrounded by a thick forest. The houses were all covered with a
layer of snow and seemed like toys in the middle of a vast area.
6. It was a dark moonless night when Harry heard steps
behind him: they were coming closer and closer. He turned around
and to his astonishment he saw a monk in a black cloak staring at
him.
159
1 = .
2 = .
3 = .
4 = .....
5 = .
6 = .
(Marks -----)
6x1=6
Exercise 2
Choose the correct answer. Write your answers using the
section.
1. Introduction is usually the first of a composition.
a. line; b. paragraph; c. phrase
2. Informal style is characterised by phrases.
a. colloquial; b. ordinary; c. set
3. Writing styles are of three types: formal, informal and
a. academic; b. narrative; c. semi-formal

4. Formal letters need to have a(n) greeting.
a. respectful; b. appropriate; c. friendly
5. When describing an event, you give the name, time and
place of the event in the
a. conclusion; b. introduction; c. main body
6. You can use a lot of adjectives to describe peoples
a. feelings; b. actions; c. plans
7. Transactional letters can be written in style.
a. informal; b. formal; c. both formal and informal
8. The main body of the letters should be structured in
a. paragraphs; b. sections; c. headlines
9. Descriptions of objects should include
a. a lot of adjectives; b. the most relevant adjectives; c. two
adjectives
10. The tone in letters of complaint can be
a. weak; b. mild or strong; c. determined
11. The formal greeting is used when you know the person is
a. Dear Sir / Madam; b. Dear Michael; c. Dear Mr. Collins

12. When writing for / against essays include your own opinion
only in the
a. final paragraph; b. first paragraph; c. main body
13. In order to attract the readers interest, address the reader
a. formally; b. informally; c. directly

14. When writing for / against essays include a(n) in
order to make your writing more attractive and interesting.
a. quotation; b. idiom; c. proverb
160
15. In the main body of opinion essays you should include first
and second viewpoints supported by examples as well as
a. third viewpoints; b. contrasting viewpoints; c. quotations
16. Opinion essays are written in a(n) style.
a. formal; b. informal; c. either formal or informal
17. Reviews are short descriptions of films, plays or
a. books; b. letters; c. scenes
18. Headlines for news articles should be
a. demanding; b. eye-catching; c. intricate
19. Articles can be written using different writing
a. skills; b. layouts; c. techniques
(Marks -----)
19 x 1 = 19
Exercise 3
Match beginnings with endings. Identify the types of letters they
belong to. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
beginnings
1. I would like to thank you again for the wonderful party we
attended last night. It was a great success, and we were really
overwhelmed by the way you had prepared for it.
2. I am writing to complain about the faulty food mixer we
bought the other day.
3. Dear Harriette,
Know what? My elder sister is getting married next month and
she is inviting us all to her wedding.
4. I am writing to ask your advice on an urgent matter. Please
be discrete and answer back soon.
5. Sorry for the inconvenience, but I couldnt make it last
night.
endings
a I cant wait to see her in the wedding gown. I am going to
take hundreds of pictures.
b We would be honoured if you would pay us a visit next
Saturday.
c
In case you cannot replace it for me, I at least expect to be
given a refund.
d Thank you for your help you are the only one I can trust
at the moment.
e I will try to find some time in the future and make it up for
you.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ; 5 =
(Marks -----)
5 x 2 = 10
161
Exercise 4
Use one word from the list in order to fill in the text below. Then
identify the type of event described. Then see the correct solutions in
the Answer Key section.
horoscopes, ceremony, red, feast, common, happy, red
Before the wedding (1) a priest studies the brides and
bridegrooms (2 ) so that the marriage will be (3 ). (4
) is believed to be a lucky colour and that is why the bride
wears a (5 ) sari. The joy and excitement are (6 ) to all
cultures. After the service everybody enjoys a (7 ) of delicious
dishes and drinks.
(Marks -----)
7 x 2 = 14
Exercise 5
Read the following letter and answer the following questions.
1.
2.
what kind of letter is it?

what style of language has been used?
Dear Sylvia,
I am writing to invite you to a garden party organised by my
aunt next Saturday.
Since my aunt is an extremely extravagant lady we are going to
have the time of our life: delicious sea-food dishes, lots of
champagne, TV stars among the other guests, a band performing in
the morning and a DJ coming in the afternoon.
Try to be there on time since my aunt doesnt like people who
show up later than scheduled.
I hope you will come. Im looking forward to hearing from you
soon.
Love,
Daniel
1.
2.
(Marks -----)
2 x 5 = 10
162
Exercise 6
Match the following adjectives in column A to the reasons in
column B. Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
A
1. resourceful
2. adventurous
3. polite
4. arrogant
5. talkative
6. patient
7. generous
8. everybody likes her
9. everybody likes her
10. smart
11. humorous
12. easy-going
13. friendly
B
a. talks nicely to people
b. he always brings presents
to everybody
c. he makes everybody laugh
d. he talks, and talks, and talks
e. he comes up with brilliant
solutions
f. he makes friends easily
g. everybody likes her
h. everybody likes her
i. he never gets tired when
explaining things
j. he never gets tired when
explaining things that other
people might get worried
about
k. he hates spending money
l. he behaves as if he were
more important than anybody
else
m. he can manage under any
circumstances
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ; 5 = ;
6 = ; 7 = ; 8 = ; 9 = ; 10 = ;
11 = ; 12 = ; 13 =
(Marks -----)
13 x 1 = 13
Exercise 7
Rewrite the following description putting the paragraphs in the
correct order. Write your answers using the space below. Then see
1. When I think of her I also think of Scarlett. To me they are
identical: irresistible, smart, humorous and also feminine. She is a
great actress .
2. Vivien Leigh is a Hollywood symbol: a great actress and a
glamorous woman with an impressive career.
3. She had the heart no woman or man could have today.
She was famous for her gentleness, sensibility and keen sense of
humour.
163
4. Vivien Leigh is also the symbol of fragility. Her big almondshaped eyes, her thin lips with a cute smile and her slender figure
all of this made her fans consider her unique.
1.
...
2.
3.
...
4.
(Marks -----)
4x2=8
Lets have fun!

Student: Would you punish me for something I didnt do?
Teacher: Of course not.
Student: Good, because I havent done my homework.
164
Exercise 8
Match the formal phrases in column A to the informal phrases
in column B. Write your answers using the space below. Then see
Formal
1. I am available for the
interview
2. I look forward to receiving a
reply
3. I am considered to be a good
team-worker
4. I am interested in your offer
Informal
a. I am available for the
interview
b. There are some notes from
my ex-teachers
c. As to your order
d. Drop us a line soon
5. We hope we may hear from

you within the next days
6. I would be pleased if you
would consider my application
e. Let me know what you have

decided
f. Sorry for the trouble I have
caused to you
7. I have enclosed three letters g. I am free to talk to you

of reference
8. I like organising social events h. I think am I good at working
with other people
9. Please accept our apologies i. I am crazy about parties
for the inconvenience you have
been caused
10. With reference to your order j. It is OK with me.
1 = ; 2 = ; 3 = ; 4 = ; 5 = ;
6 = ; 7 = ; 8 = ; 9 = ; 10 =
(Marks -----)
10 x 2 = 20
Exercise 9
Underline the correct linking words used in writing essays.
1.
I believe / On the other hand there are certain
disadvantages to living on your own.
2.
Nonetheless / All in all, I dont think children should be
allowed to spend too much time in front of the computer screen.
3.
To my mind / In contrast, package holidays are the best
solution when you want to relax and enjoy yourself.
4.
Taking everything into account / Also, regular exercise
helps one to stay in good health.
5.
For one thing / What is more, most people consider fast
food tasty and cheap.
(Marks -----)
5 x 2 = 10
165
Lets have fun!

Teachers mentality:
A is for God.
B is for me and my wife.
C is for the perfect student.
D & F are for all other students.
Exercise 10
Read the advertisement below and write a letter of application.
Use the following structure:
introduction one paragraph
main body: two paragraphs
ending paragraph
Write your answers using the space below. Then see the
Do you need more pocket money?

Why dont you join our Youth Fishing Camp?
We are looking for young people who are fit, sociable, enjoy
nature and can help run our camp - from cleaning and cooking to
entertaining campers.
Contact us at phone 333566781
.
.
.
.
..
.
..
..
.
....
..
.
.
(Marks -----)
1 x 10 = 10
166
Exercise 11
Read the following extracts and identify the type of article they
are taken from. Write your answers using the space below. Then see
1. Spending your winter holidays in this small chalet seems to
be everybodys dream. The scenery is gorgeous. The staff is friendly,
and the food is simply out of this world. On the other hand, there are
some disadvantages to spending your holidays in a place like this:
firstly, at Christmas time this place is full of noisy tourists. Secondly,
the location is so isolated that it might take days for the search
parties to find and rescue you.
2. If you like extreme sports and thrilling experiences, this
sports centre seems like the perfect place. You can go paragliding,
white water rafting, scuba diving, snorkelling and skydiving. The
trainers are helpful and the facilities are the best. For ten days you
can live on the edge and have the holiday of your dreams.
3. Several villages in Northern Italy have been completely cut
off for a week due to a snowstorm. The snowstorm started last
Thursday at 1 a.m. Since then, several people have been missing,
and six tourists have been found dead. People have been warned by
the authorities to keep indoors and avoid that area. Food, medication
and blankets will be dropped by helicopter this afternoon.
1 =
2 =
3 =
(Marks -----)
3x2=6
Exercise 12
Look at the information below and write an assessment report
on a new restaurant in your district. Use the following structure:
introduction one paragraph
main body two paragraphs
conclusion one paragraph
Use 120-190 words. Use the formal style. Write your answers
Key section.
Pierrettes
food
fresh and spicy
large salad buffet
vegetarian dishes as well
atmosphere
relaxed
167
live music
dim light
service
slow
polite
price
expensive
..
.
...
..
.
..
.
...
..
.
(Marks -----)
1 x 10 = 10
168
Exercise 13
Fill in the letters below using the phrases a - i. Then answer the
following questions. Write your answers using the space below. Then
1.
2.
What type of letters are they?

Are they formal or informal?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
Id love to
tell me, whats your opinion
in case you can tell me
would be honoured if
cant make up my mind
would like to inquire
cant wait
could you possibly
catch up with
provided you
in advance
A.
Dear Phil,
Im writing (1 ) more about your town. My company is

sending me there to make a survey so (2 ) find out about the
most interesting places to visit and the best restaurants with
traditional food.
I simply (3 ) whether to travel by car or by train. Please,
(4 ) and let me know in due time. I (5 ) to see you again
and (6 ) the latest news.
Bye for now,
Steve
B.
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am a university student and I (1 ) your summer camp

will accept my letter of application as a cook for next July and
August.
First of all (2 ) about the age of the children in your camp
since I would also like to help as an entertainer.
(3 ) advise me on what kind of equipment I should take
(4 ) grant me this job?
I do thank you (5 ) for your support and I do hope that
my application will meet your demands.
Yours truthfully,
Felicia Foster
1.
2..
(Marks -----)
2 x 10 = 20
169
Exercise 14
Read the following composition and answer the questions.
1.
narrative?
2.
3.
4.
What kind of narrative it is: first-person or third-person

What kind of person might have such an experience?
Provide a final sentence.
Give a suitable title.
The street was empty. I heard strange noises. The air was
humid and full of smoke.
Suddenly I saw a colossal dragon coming nearer and nearer. I
couldnt make a move. I closed my eyes. I simply stayed there
waiting for the tragic impact.
Nothing happened. I opened my eyes and I became puzzled:
all around me there was a large pasture with harmless sheep. One of
them got nearer and nearer. I smiled. When I tried to move towards it
I heard a big roar: the sheep had turned into a fierce dragon. I started
running. My heart was beating wildly. I was panic stricken.
1.
2.
3.
4.
(Marks -----)
4x2=8
Exercise 15
Provide the first paragraph (5 lines) to an opinion essay
commenting on the statement: People can learn more from their
personal experience than from books.
..
(Marks -----)
5x1=5
170
Exercise 16
Write the final paragraph (3 lines) recommending the film to the
readers of the review. Use the following prompts.
spectacular, special effects, gripping plot, convincing acting
(Marks -----)
3x1=3
2. Answer key
N. B. In case your score is unsatisfactory you should
revise the specific information included in the preceding units
and the extended bibliography below.
Exercise 1
1 = informal letter
2 = description of a person
3 = first person narrative
4 = formal letter of application
5 = description of a place
6 = third person narrative
Exercise 2
1 = b; 2 = a; 3 = c; 4 = b; 5 = c; 6 = a; 7 = c; 8 = a; 9 = b; 10 = c;
11 = c; 12 = a; 13 = c; 14 = a; 15 = b; 16 = c; 17 = a; 18 = b;
19 = c.
Exercise 3
1 = b formal letter of expressing thanks
2 = c formal letter of complaint
3 = a informal letter of giving news
4 = d informal letter of asking for advice
5 = e informal letter of apology
Exercise 4
1 = ceremony, 2 = horoscopes; 3 = happy; 4 = red; 5 = red;
6 = common; 7 = feast
Exercise 5
1. letter of invitation
2. informal style
171
Exercise 6
1 = m; 2 = h; 3 = a; 4 = l; 5 = d; 6 = I; 7 = b; 8 = g; 9 = k; 10 = e;
11 = c; 12 = j; 13 = f.
Exercise 7
Correct order:2, 4,3,1.
Exercise 8
1 = g; 2 = e; 3 = h; 4 = j; 5 = d; 6 = a; 7 = b; 8 = i; 9 = f; 10 = c.
Exercise 9
1 = On the other hand
2 = All in all
3 = To my mind
4 = Also
5 = What is more
Exercise 10
Letter of application
Dear Sir / Madam,
With reference to your advertisement in last months edition of
our local paper, I am interested in applying for the job of jack of all
trades at the Youth Fishing Camp this summer.
I am 23 years old and I am studying law. I am fit, energetic and
I like meeting new people and socialising. I also enjoy being helpful
and doing different chores.
I consider myself to be a reliable person, willing to have new
experiences and to learn new things. I also need some extra pocket
money.
I have enclosed my reference from two of my teachers and my
CV. I am available for the interview every day in the afternoons and
at weekends. I would be grateful if you would consider my application
and I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours truthfully,
Mary Williams
Exercise 11
1 = argumentative article
2 = descriptive article
3 = news article / report
172
Exercise 12
Assessment report
The aim of this report is to assess the new Pierettes restaurant
which I visited last week.
The restaurant serves fresh food. The meals are spicy, and the
varied menu includes both a large salad buffet and a wide choice of
vegetarian dishes.
The atmosphere is enjoyable and relaxed. The live music is
pleasant. Nevertheless, the lights are dim and the dcor seems too
modern for such a luxurious restaurant.
Despite the fact that the staff is polite and well-trained, the
service is quite slow. At weekends, when a lot of people would like to
book a table, this slow service may be a real problem.
The prices are more expensive than in other restaurants in the
neighbourhood but it is good value for your money.
All in all, I highly recommend Pierettes for people who are
willing to pay for special dishes and pleasant atmosphere. However, I
do think that the manageress should make a few improvements.
Firstly, she should put candles on all tables or increase the number
of lamps. Secondly, she should improve staff training and make them
work faster.
Exercise 13
A.
1 = c; 2 = a; 3 = e; 4 = b; 5 = g; 6 = i
Letter of asking for advice
Informal style
B.
1 = d; 2 = f; 3 = h; 4 = j; 5 = k
Letter of application
Formal style
Exercise 14
1. first-person narrative
2. any kind of person
3. Then I woke up.
4. THE / A DREAM
Exercise 15
Suggested solution:
Many people argue that personal experience can have more
impact on the individuals knowledge than books, for instance. I
strongly believe that there is a grain of truth in this, but I also believe
that personal experience alone cannot make up for all the
information one may find when reading books.
Exercise 16
I thoroughly recommend the film to you. The special effects are
so spectacular, the plot is so gripping and the acting is so convincing.
You shouldnt miss it!
173
Total score: 173
174
Score
172-162
Grade
VERY WELL
161-141
WELL
140-110
SATISFACTORY
Below 139
UNSATISFACTORY
References
GENERAL BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Evans V. and Dooley, J., 1998, Enterprise Coursebook PreIntermediate, Express Publishing
2. Evans V. and Dooley J., 1998, Enterprise Intermediate, Express
Publishing
3. Evans V. and Dooley J., 2000, Mission Coursebook, F.C.E.,
Express Publishing
4. Hewings, M., 1999, Advanced Grammar in Use, C.U.P.
5. Soars Liz & J, 1998, New Headway English Course, O.U.P.
6. Vince A. M.,1997, Advanced Language Practice, Heinemann
Publ.
7. Wellman, G., 1989, Wordbuilder, Macmillan Heinemann
175

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Program postuniversitar de conversie profesional

pentru cadrele didactice din mediul rural

ENGLISH PRACTICAL COURSE

Ministerul Educaiei i Cercetrii

LIMBA I LITERATURA ENGLEZ

Ministerul Educaiei i Cercetrii

We want to express special thanks to DEAN HUFSTETLER,

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural

Describing Festivals, Celebrations and Ceremonies

Describing Buildings, People, Objects

Reports 1 News Reports

Reports 2 Survey Reports and Assessment,

Essays 1 For / Against Essays

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural

Summative Self-Assessment Test

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural

Practice activities (drills

): you will be asked to write

different types of letters, descriptions, reports, narrations, essays,

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural

Words are loaded pistols.

1.1. Types of compositions

The formal style is more polite.

Stop and think

2. What kind of essay would you write in order to present your

3. What kind of composition would you write if you wanted to

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural

1.2. The structure of a composition

Stop and think

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural

1.3. Linking words and phrases

Stop and think

Between paragraphs as well as inside each paragraph the

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural

In order to link two paragraphs or main topic sentences you

Type of linking words/phrases

1.4. Writing tips

In order to write correctly you should first of all establish

Then you should establish if the style is formal, informal

You should adjust the writing techniques to each type of

General writing tips for reports, essays, and articles:

Correct spelling is essential.

Proof-reading is essential too.

Avoid alliteration (the use of the same sound at the

Do not be redundant (unnecessary word or sentence

Do not use commas that are not necessary.

Use the apostrophes correctly.

Exaggeration is worse than understatement.

Never use one-word sentences.

Do not use rhetorical sentences.

Avoid colloquialisms (conversational language, slang).

Do not use the double negative.

Avoid clichs (expressions that have been used so often

Longer sentences and advanced vocabulary.

The purpose of this report is to assess the suitability of a

Formal linking words (for instance despite not in spite of,

Early yesterday afternoon, a teenager was taken to hospital

Short sentences, e.g.:

Short forms, e.g.:

I wont be a burden, will I?

Informal linking words: so, since, yet, cause, e.g.:

The used party will be outdoors, so you can take your

Proiectul pentru nvmntul Rural