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Writing: Essays and Formal Letters
At Bachillerato level, you are expected to produce written texts of 150-180 words that are well-organised, grammatically accurate, and appropriate in register. The main text types are opinion essays, for-and-against essays, formal letters/emails, and reports.
The Opinion Essay
Structure:
- Introduction: Present the topic and state your opinion clearly. "In my opinion... / I strongly believe that..."
- Body paragraph 1: First argument + example/evidence.
- Body paragraph 2: Second argument + example/evidence. (Optional: counterargument + refutation.)
- Conclusion: Restate your opinion using different words. "In conclusion... / To sum up... / All in all..."
The For-and-Against Essay
Structure:
- Introduction: Present the topic neutrally. Do NOT give your opinion yet.
- Body paragraph 1: Arguments FOR (advantages) + examples.
- Body paragraph 2: Arguments AGAINST (disadvantages) + examples.
- Conclusion: Weigh the arguments and give your personal opinion (optional).
Recuerda
Key differences: In an opinion essay, you state your position from the beginning and defend it. In a for-and-against essay, you present both sides objectively and only give your opinion (if asked) in the conclusion.
Formal Letters / Emails
Structure:
- Greeting: "Dear Sir/Madam," (unknown) or "Dear Mr/Ms Smith," (known)
- Opening paragraph: State the reason for writing: "I am writing to enquire about... / to complain about... / to apply for..."
- Body paragraphs: Develop your points clearly and concisely.
- Closing paragraph: "I look forward to hearing from you." / "I would be grateful if you could..."
- Sign-off: "Yours faithfully," (Dear Sir/Madam) or "Yours sincerely," (Dear Mr Smith)
Register: formal vs. informal
| Formal | Informal |
|---|
| No contractions: do not, cannot | Contractions: don't, can't |
| Passive voice: "It has been reported..." | Active voice: "People say..." |
| Formal vocabulary: purchase, enquire, inform | Informal vocabulary: buy, ask, tell |
| Complex sentences, connectors | Short sentences, colloquial expressions |
Ejemplo
Model opinion essay opening (150-180 words topic: "Social media does more harm than good"):
"In today's digital world, social media platforms have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, I firmly believe that the negative effects of social media outweigh the benefits.
Firstly, excessive use of social media has been linked to mental health problems, particularly among teenagers. Studies have shown that constant comparison with others on platforms like Instagram can lead to low self-esteem and anxiety. Furthermore, the pressure to present a perfect life online creates unrealistic expectations..."
Ejercicios
1. Write an opinion essay (150-180 words) on ONE of the following topics:
a) "Online learning is as effective as face-to-face learning."
b) "Teenagers should be banned from using social media."
2. Write a formal letter (150-180 words) to the director of a language school asking about summer English courses. Include: dates, levels, accommodation, and prices.