Writing Level 1 - Newest

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pages
Table of contents 1
Introduction 2
Chapter 1: WRITING A SENTENCE BASED ON A PICTURE 3

Lesson 1: SV, SVA Patterns 5
Lesson 2: SVO, SVOO Patterns 9
*Lesson 3: SVC, SVOC Patterns 13
Lesson 4: SVOA, There to be 17
Lesson 5: Mixed Patterns 21
Lesson 6: Expanding Mixed Patterns 25
Chapter 2: RESPONDING TO AN E-MAIL REQUEST LETTER 29

Lesson 7: The format of an e-mail letter 30
Lesson 8: The header, greeting and closing parts of an e-mail letter 35
Lesson 9: The main purpose of an e-mail letter 38
Lesson 10: Writing the main content of a reply 44
Lesson 11: Review 49
Chapter 3: WRITING AN OPINION ESSAY 54
Lesson 12: Analyzing essay questions 55

Lesson 13: The organization of an essay 59
Lesson 14: Writing the thesis statement 63
Lesson 15: Review 65
REFERENCES 67
1
INTRODUCTION TO TOEIC 4 SKILLS TEST
The Test of English for International Communication, TOEIC®, is a standard and objective
assessment for English language proficiency in the workplace. The TOEIC® is the most used test
for Business English with more than 7 million worldwide test-takers each year. The TOEIC® is
recognized as proof of a person’s English language competence by businesses, universities,
technical colleges and business schools, when considering potential candidates for admission to
their organizations. In countries such as the United Kingdom, the TOEIC® is a requirement for
Visa applications. The TOEIC® 4 Skills test offers a common standard of measurement for
listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills.
Test Format
• Non-incremental placement test (no pass-or-fail system)
• Paper and pencil (Listening & Reading)
• Online test (Speaking &Writing)
• Administered in authorized TOEIC® test centers
• Individual test sittings available by appointment
Language Level
A1-C1 in accordance with the Common European Frame of Reference
Usage
Evaluation and certification of English language skills are used at a specific point in time for
students, graduates, employees, job applicants and professionals, who may require evidence of their
language skills for their studies or jobs. The test can also be used as an aid to monitor the learning
progress of individual’s participating in language training programs.
Structure
Listening: 100 multiple choice questions in 45 min.
Reading: 100 multiple choice questions in 75 min.
Speaking: 11 tasks (6 types of questions) in 20 min.
Writing: 8 tasks (3 types of questions) in 60 min.
Test Length
200 min. test duration plus a break of 30 min. between Listening & Reading, Speaking & Writing
Results
• Score reports for Listening & Reading and Speaking & Writing
• Individual analysis of strengths and weaknesses
• Correlation table with CEFR* mapping and Can-Do-Statements
• Certificate for all four skills (optional)
• Score evaluation within 15 business days, excl. postal time
2
TOEIC Writing
The optional Speaking and Writing test was introduced in 2006. More and more people in business
connect globally through video conferencing, web conferencing, Skype and e-mail. If you're going
to be successful in a global company, you have to be able to speak fluently and write well in
English.
The type and format of the questions in the optional Speaking and Writing test are quite different
compared to the standard TOEIC test. However, similar skills are being tested as well as your
ability to communicate effectively. As with the standard test, all the questions are designed to
represent real world corporate situations from the factory level all the way up to the boardroom.
Your ability to communicate in any kind of workplace situation is being evaluated. However, you
do not have to have specialized business knowledge to be able to answer the writing
or speaking tasks.
Unlike the Listening and Reading sections of the standard TOEIC test, the optional Speaking and
Writing test is done at a computer. Your responses are sent directly to ETS's online scoring network
where highly trained graders by ETS will mark your responses. For Writing, the range of scores
varies for each of the 3 types of tasks: 0-3 for tasks 1-5, 0-4 for tasks 6-7 and 0-5 for task 8. The
sum of your scores for the 8 writing tasks is then scaled. The scaled score range is 0-200. In
addition to your scaled score, you are assigned a proficiency level. There are 9 for writing. To see
what the 9 levels are as well as description of what each means in terms of your writing skills.
What score you get for your writing responses is based on how well you demonstrate these essential
skills: sentence variety, grammar, range and appropriateness of vocabulary, and coherence and
organization. Sentence variety means you use more than one kind of sentence structure. Grammar
covers many, many skills. Make sure to read over your responses for spelling mistakes! Range and
appropriateness of vocabulary means you don't use the same words over and over again, as well as
using the right words related to the topic. What you write should make sense, someone reading it
should not be confused or have a hard time understanding what you're trying to convey. Going from
one idea to another should progress in a logical manner. This is what coherence and organization
refer to.
The Writing section has 8 tasks. You have a total time of 1 hour to complete them all. These are the
3 types of TOEIC Writing tasks in the order in which you will do them in the test:
 Write a sentence based on a picture: 5 questions
 Respond to a written request: 2 questions
 Opinion essay: 1 question
3
CHAPTER 1
WRITING SENTENCES
Lesson 1: SV, SVA Patterns
Lesson 2: SVO, SVOO Patterns
Lesson 3: SVC, SVOC Patterns
Lesson 4: SVOA, There to be
Lesson 5: Mixed Patterns
Lesson 6: Expanding Mixed Patterns
4
LESSON 1: SV, SVA PATTERNS
A-LANGUAGE FOCUS
I- Basic clause elements
S V: Subject + Verb
-He is sleeping.
-The baby is crying.
SVA: Subject + Verb + Adverbial phrase
-The man is in the kitchen.
-The actor is appearing on the stage.
-He is going to the theatre.
II-Expanding clauses
SV(A), SVA(A)
-He is sleeping in the garden (place)
-He is sleeping in the morning (time)
-He is sleeping well (manner)
-He is writing with a pen (manner)
TEST TIP: Use modifiers appropriately

One of the words may be a modifier. These are adjectives and adverbs or adverbial phrases which
give more information about the subject/or verbs. Understanding how to identify them, and position
in a sentence will help you make well-formed sentences.
B-LANGUAGE PRACTICE
I-Underline and name the clause elements
1. The lion is roaring loudly.
2. The boy is lying on the ground.
3. The tall man is standing behind the tree.
4. The man is talking on the telephone.
5. The meeting is happening in the afternoon.
II-Make a sentence with the given words:

1. man/ room/ alone - The man is alone in the room.
2. plant/ table - The plant is on the table.
3. festival/ occur/ Danang city - The festival occurs in Danang city.
4. animals/ run/ away - The animals run away.
5. passengers/ wait/ line/ shop - The passengers wait in line.
C-PRACTICE IN TOEIC
I. Building Language
Picture 1 In a dark room, I saw this man on the phone
Picture 2 In the second picture I see four chefs cooking
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a- Give some nouns and verbs which may be used to describe pictures 1 and 2. Compare
with your friends.
b- Complete the following about picture 1 and 2 sentences with the given words:
alone - sitting - the phone - next to – in front of
1. The man is in the room………………..
2. The man is talking on……………….....
3. The man is …………………. on a desk
4. The chefs are ......................... each other.
5. The desserts are ……………….the chefs.
II. Tactic Practice

Make sentences about the pictures with the suggested words
Picture 1: meeting/ go/ well Picture 2: ship/ be/ port
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
Picture 3: workers / be/ ground Picture 4: city/ run/ coast

……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
III. Test Practice
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In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each
picture, you will be given two words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can change
the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order.
TEST TIP: Think about the subject

The subject of the sentence may be people or things. Given nouns will always be singular, so you
may have to change them to the plural form. Your sentence could also be about location of certain
objects in the picture, e.g. There are two pens on the desk.
1. boat/sail
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Adverbial phrase:…………………
Preposition: ………………………
Other modifiers…………………
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
2. passengers/ train Preposition: ………………………

1. ……………………………………..
Modifier:………………………….
………………………………
……………………………….
GET ON/ GET OFF: LÊN / XUỐNG
(TÀU, BUS, MÁY BAY,…)
GET INTO/ GET OUT OF: CAR,
TAXI,…
3. cars/ bridge
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
Subject: ………………………….
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Verb:……………………………..
4. stand/line
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Other modifiers…………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………...........................
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
5. boat/ dock
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
-----------------------------------------------------
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LESSON 2: SVO, SVOO PATTERNS
A-LANGUAGE FOCUS
I-Basic clause elements
S VO: Subject + Verb + Object
-He is writing a letter
-The baby is drinking a cup of milk
SVOO: Subject + Verb + Object + Object

-The man is passing a box to the woman
-He sent a letter to his father
Notes:
SVOdOi: S + V + Odirect + preposition + Oindirect
-He sent a letter to his father
SVOiOd: S + V + Oindirect + Odirect
-He sent his father a letter
NOTES:
HE SENT A LETTER (DIRECT OBJECT) TO HIS FATHER ( INDIRECT OBJECT).
TO: GIVE; SEND; TEACH, OFFER; MAKE; WRITE, ….
FOR: BUY; BRING; HAND, ……
SVO(A), SVOO(A)
-He is writing a letter in the library (place) ( object
-He sends a letter to his father every week. (time)
-He can run very quickly (manner)
-The man is using a machine to make a key (purpose)
give more information about the subject/object or verbs. Understanding how to identify them, and
position in a sentence will help you make well-formed sentences.
B-LANGUAGE PRACTICE
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1. The cat is catching a mouse
2. The boy students send flowers to the girl friends on 8th March
3. The tall man is eating a big cake in the kitchen.
4. The man is carrying a case.
5. The lorry is passing the road.

1. porter/ suitcases/ second floor
2. waiter/ table/ carefully
3. engineers/ buildings/ the beach
4. buy/ a gift/ sweetheart
5. train/ passengers/ Hanoi station
C-PRACTICE IN TOEIC
a-Give some nouns and verbs which may be used to describe pictures 1 and 2. Compare
with your friends.
b-Complete the following about picture 1 and 2 sentences:
1. The man is holding a….…… container
2. The man is an employee brought .a red apron
3. The woman is …………………. man his ticket.
4. The woman is ......................... at the man.
5. The man and woman are at the…………..
Picture 1 Picture 2
II. Tactic Practice

Picture 1: person/ money /ATM Picture 2: man /arrange / warehouse
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
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Picture 3: engineers/ discuss/ plans Picture 4: guard/ search/ man
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
… …………………………………….. ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
III. Test Practice


1. snow / away
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
2. children/ hands
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
………………………………….
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3. tie/ post
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:……………………………
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
4. check/ data
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………...........................
5. woman/ notebook
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Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
-----------------------------------------------------
LESSON 3: SVC, SVOC PATTERNS

A-LANGUAGE FOCUS
S VC: Subject + Verb + Complement
-She is beautiful. (adjective)
-The cake tastes sweet (adjective)
-The boy is a clever student (noun)
Notes: The Complement Subject
In this clause pattern the element that comes after the verb provides more information about the
subject; it serves to complete the subject, so it is called the complement, or more fully, the subject
complement.
AFTER LINKING VERBS: TOBE, APPEAR, BECOME, KEEP, TASTE, SEEM, SOUND,
LOOK + ADJ (S.C)

*MAKE; FIND + O + O.C
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SVOC: Subject + Verb + Object + Complement
-They are keeping the hands warm (adjective)
-The son have the car cleaned (participle)
-We call him ‘Father’ (noun)
Notes: The Complement Object

In this clause pattern the element that comes after the object provides more information about the
object; it serves to complete the object, so it is called the complement, or more fully, the object
complement.
SVC(A), SVOC(A)
-He is a teacher at DTU (place)
-He is keeping the baby warm in the winter morning (time)
-He is very beautiful (degree)

give more information about the subject/or verbs. Understanding how to identify them, and position
in a sentence will help you make well-formed sentences.
B-LANGUAGE PRACTICE
1. The woman appears lonely
2. The boy keeps the dog warm
3. Most college freshmen call themselves serious teachers
4. The freshmen described themselves as "conservative"
5. The cake tastes sweet
II-Translate into English:
1. Các chàng trai đó trở thành những cầu thủ bóng đá nổi tiếng
2. Họ trông có vẻ kiệt sức
3. Chúng tôi để cửa sổ mở
4. Họ bầu John làm lớp trưởng
5. Chúng tôi đặt tên nó là Mimosa
C-PRACTICE IN TOEIC
with your friends.
1. The class………………..exciting. (picture 1)
2. The children seem……………….....
3. The teacher looks ……………………
4. The woman is holding the ......................... open. (picture 2)
5. The door has not been ……………….yet.
Picture 1: Picture 2:
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II. Tactic Practice
Picture 1: traffic/ be/ busy Picture 2: woman/be /attentive
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
Picture 3: man/ hold/ open Picture 4: people/ seem/ tired

……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
III.Test Practice

1. platform/high
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
15 Adverbial phrase:…………………
2. be/ ancient
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
………………………………….
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
3. conversation/ comfortable Adverbial phrase:…………………
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
4. make/ happy Adverbial phrase:…………………
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………...........................
Subject: ………………………….
16 Verb:……………………………..
5. family/ happy
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
----------------------------------------------------- Modifier:………………………….
LESSON 4: SVOA, THERE TO BE

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A-LANGUAGE FOCUS
S VOA: Subject + Verb + Object + Adverbial
-The man put a pen on the table.
-She is releasing a bean into the bag.
There + to be
-There are many cats.
-There is a bag on the table.
SVOA(A), There +to be +(A)
-The man is putting a pen on the table carefully. (manner)
-There are two cats in the room. (place)

B-LANGUAGE PRACTICE
1. The man is putting a flower on the computer
2. There is a car on the pavement
3. The girls are sitting against the table.
4. The boys are beating the ball.
5. The eraser is in the box.

1. hold/ basket/ hand
2. put/ knife/ table
3. there/customers/bank
4. woman/ draw/ bag
5. bread/on
C-PRACTICE IN TOEIC
I.Building Language
with your friends.
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1. There …………..some slices of lemon ……….the glass of water. (picture 1)
2. The woman is ………………..some slices of lemon ………. the glass of water.
3. The woman is inserting some flowers …………..the………. (picture 2)
4. There are some flowers ………. the…………
II.Tactic Practice
Picture 1: woman/ against/ wall Picture 2: put/ suitcases/ground
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
Picture 3: there/ fruit/ basket Picture 4: young/ jump/ grass

……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
III.Test Practice
19
1. family/sit
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
2. bicycle/tree Modifier:………………………….
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
………………………………….
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
3. glasses/ sand
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
20 Adverbial phrase:…………………
4. boy/ ball
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………...........................
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
5. run/ water Adverbial phrase:…………………
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
AdverbialModifier:………………………….
phrase:…………………
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
-----------------------------------------------------
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LESSON 5: MIXED PATTERNS
A-LANGUAGE FOCUS REVIEW
1- SV
2- SVA
3- SVC
4- SVOC
5- SVO
6- SVOO
7- SVOA
8- There + to be
Basic clause elements + (A)
(A) = Time, place, manner, purpose
-The man is putting a pen on the table carefully (manner)
-There are two cats in the room. (place)
-I bought the book to read at night (purpose)

B-LANGUAGE PRACTICE
1. The dog is running across the street.
2. The people are discussing the new plan.
3. The postman is delivering letters to the inhabitants.
4. The gloves keep the hands warm.
5. The medicine girl becomes a doctor.
6. All the children are gathering in the garden.
7. The man throws himself into the sofa.
II-Complete the following sentences with one appropriate word
1. We teach English ………….the students.
2. The mother bought a T-shirt ……………..the daughter.
3. The teachers is sending a postcard ……………..his parents.
4. The waiter is handing a cup ………………the customer.
5. The airhostess is giving the ticket……………the passenger.
6. The porter is bringing a suitcase ………………..the guest.
7. The little boy is climbing ……………the bed.
8. The cat is running …………………from the dog.
9. There is an overpass ………………..the highway.
10. He is putting a school bag ……………………the armchair.
C-PRACTICE IN TOEIC
with your friends.
1. There ………… some pictures ………….the wall (picture 1)

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2. There …………… a T.V …………..the picture.
3. A ………………………..is on the table.
4. There ………….. a fallen tree…………….the road. (picture 2)
II. Tactic Practice

Picture 1: man/ hold/ show Picture 2: salesman/ hand/key
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
Picture 3: men/ fish/ sea Picture 4: colleagues/ together/ table

……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
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III. Test Practice: Question 1-5 Write a sentence based on a picture
In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each picture,
you will be given two words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can change the
forms of the words and you can use the words in any order. You will have 8 minutes to complete
this part of the test.

1. talk/taxi
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:……………………………
Complement: ……………………
Adverbial:……………………….
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…….............................................…
2. doctor/talk
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
Subject: ………………………….
3. engineers/ wear
Verb:……………………………..
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
………
…………………………..
……..............................................
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4. ladder/ wall
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
5. bicycles/ park
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……...............................................
-----------------------------------------------------
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LESSON 6: EXPANDING MIXED SENTENCES
A-LANGUAGE FOCUS REVIEW

I- Simple sentences with more than one subject or/ and verb:
-The man and the woman are looking at the screen. ( 2 subjects)
-The people are eating and talking. (2 verbs)
II- Basic clause elements + (A):

(A) = Time, place, manner, purpose
-The people are eating and talking cheerfully in the canteen. (manner, place)
-The boy and the girl are waving a taxi (in order) to ask for a lift to school. (purpose)

B-LANGUAGE PRACTICE
1. The dog and the cat are chasing each other in the garden.
2. The workers are walking along the bank of the river in the early morning.
3. The salesman is handing a packet of cigarettes to the customer at the counter.
4. The mother put the child into the cradle in order to keep it warm.
5. The glass on the table is almost full.
6. All the actors and actresses are singing and dancing on the stage.
7. The man looks so sad because of the bad marks.
II-Complete the following sentences with one appropriate word

1. We import lots of sugar ………….Thailand.
2. The people are waiting …………….a bus.
3. The man is having a meeting …………..his employees.
4. The children have bread and milk …………… breakfast.
5. The man is sleeping ………….. the movie.
III-Expanding the clauses with the suggested ideas

1. The passengers are travelling by bus……………………………….. (frequency)
2. The book is about the modern life …………………………………. (time).
3. Water is coming from a hole ……………………………………….. (place).
4. The boss and …………………………….are discussing a new plan …………….a new
building. (person / purpose).
5. The girl is bringing an apple and ……………………..for her teacher………………(thing
/place)
C-PRACTICE IN TOEIC
I-Building Language
a- Give some words which may be used to describe pictures 1 and 2. Compare with your
friends.
1. The waiter is ………………….. a tray in his ……….hand (picture 1)
2. Two cups and an…………………….are on the tray.
3. The waiter is wearing a black ……………………..
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4. The girls are using a desktop computer ……………. (picture 2)
5. The girls are ……………..at the screen and ………………with each other.
II-Tactic Practice
Picture 1: shout/hand/for Picture 2: read/with/ mother’s help
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
Picture 3: daughter/tea/for Picture 4: carry/walk/airport

……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
……………………………………….. ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
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III-Test Practice
the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order. In the test, Question 1-5 appear
together. You have 8 minutes to complete the questions.

1. dog/walk
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:……………………………
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
…….............................................…
2. man/with
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
……………………………..
3. swimmers / swimming pool

Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
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4. doctor / hand
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……..............................................
5. chef / food
Subject: ………………………….
Verb:……………………………..
Object:…………………………..
 Sentence:
…………………………………..
…………………………………..
……...............................................
-----------------------------------------------------
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CHAPTER 2
RESPONDING TO AN E-MAIL REQUEST LETTER
Lesson 7: The format of an e-mail letter
Lesson 8: The header, greeting and closing of an e-

mail letter
Lesson 9: The main purpose of an e-mail letter
Lesson 10: Writing the main content of a reply
Lesson 11: Review
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LESSON 7: THE FORMAT OF AN E-MAIL LETTER
Introduction to TOEIC written e-mail type: Questions 6 and 7 test your ability to respond to
written requests using a variety well- organized sentences and appropriate grammar and vocabulary.
Targeted skills: In order to correctly respond to Questions 6 and 7, you should be able to:
 organize your ideas in writing.
 use appropriate connecting words.
 write a variety of sentence types.
 write grammatically correct sentences.
 use appropriate vocabulary.
 respond to the given task.
In this part of the test, there are 2 questions. You need to write a response to an e-mail that you
will read for each question. What your response needs to include is in the directions so make sure
you also read the directions carefully. Your reply will be scored on the quality and variety of your
sentences, vocabulary, and organization. You have 20 minutes in total to complete this part of the
writing section; you're given 10 minutes to read and reply to each e-mail. Note that once you go
onto question 7, you will not be able to return to question 6.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will show how well you can write a response to an e-mail.
 Your response will be scored on:
 the quality and variety of your sentences,
 vocabulary, and
 organization
[You will have 10 minutes to read and answer each e-mail]
You will be given specific task to address in each response. The tasks will be relevant to the e-mail
and maybe worded such as the following.
 Ask TWO questions.
 Make TWO requests for information.
 Make ONE suggestion.
 Give two pieces of information.
 Explain ONE problem.
A-FOCUS: The format of an e-mail letter

I. Samples
1-Request e-mail: Directions: Read the e-mail below.
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2-Responding e-mail:
Directions: Respond to the following e-mail as if you are a customer of a certain airline company.
In your e-mail, make at least TWO inconveniences that you experienced while on board their
aircraft and tell them what you want them to do about these incidents.
Sample answer:
To: Jim Hudson, Northeastern Airlines
Re: Complaint
Dear Mr. Hudson,
Hello ,
I would like to explain that I experienced uncomfortable in your airplane.
First, I asked a cabin attendant for cold water but she gave me really hot water, which almost
burnt me.
Second, another attendant spilt orange juice on me but she never apologized at all.
I understand they are too busy to concentrate on everything on board but I was really
disappointed with this.
I need a cleaning coupon for my clothes and proper apologies from the attendants.
I look forward to your reply.
Best regards,
Jane Stewart.
II. Format of an e-mail letter

You should familiarize yourself with the formats of e-mails.
1-The header information:
a. Addresses:
+To: email address of the recipient
+Cc: email address of another recipient
b. Subject: What the email is about
c. Time: When the e-mail is sent
2-The body:
+The content of the email
3-Closings:
+Salutation
+Name of the sender
Look at the sample email and answer the questions:
32
1. Who sent this e-mail?
2. Who will receive this e-mail?
3. What is the subject of this e-mail?
B. TACTIC PRACTICE
I. Complete the letter with suggested phrases:
1. Read the emails below and complete the response e-mails with words or phrases from the
box.
Directions: respond to the e-mail as if you are interesting in applying for the position. In your e-
mail, make ONE statement about your professional background and TWO requests for information
about the job.
33
 Complete the response e-mails to the above e-mail letter with words or phrases from the
box.
Mary Clark Mr. Kramer sincerely Thank you very much for your help
March 16, 20____ Ralph Kramer, r_ [email protected]
Mary Clark, [email protected] Re:Daily Jobseeker update
Response :
From: __________(1)
To:_____________(2)
Subject: ______________(3)
Sent: ______________(4)
Dear_________(5)
I understand that you want to hire someone to work in your Accounting Department. I have worked as an
accountant at the Hiram Company for five years. Could you please send me a job application? Also, I would
like to know when the job will begin.
___________________________________ (6)
______________(7)
_________________(8)
2. Complete the response e-mails to the above e-mail letter with words or phrases from the
box.
34
Directions: respond to the e-mail as if you are Janet Jones. In your e-mail, explain ONE problem
and make to TWO suggestions.
 Complete the response e-mails to the above e-mail letter with words or phrases from the
box.
I have received your e-mail about decision to change banks.
Re :Changing banks Mr. George Sincerely
February 26, 20____ Janet Jones (2) Samuel George
Response:
From: __________(1)
To:_____________(2)
Subject: ______________(3)
Sent: ______________(4)
Dear_________(5)
___________________________________(6)
I would be happy to explain this decision to you. I decided to use another bank because your bank doesn’t
have any branches close to my job. You might be able to get more customers if you opened more branches in
different neighborhoods. I also suggest that you place cash machines in more locations around the city. If you
make going to your bank more convenient, I think your customers will be happier.
_________(7)
__________________(8)
35
II. Arrange the suggested ideas:
1. Arrange the following sentences in the right order of a letter:
1. Dale City Welcome Committee
2. July 23, 4:32 P.M.
3. New Dale City Residents
4. Please contact us if you need any help at all.
5. Welcome to your new home!
6. Welcome! We would like to be the first to welcome you to Dale City. We know that there
are many things to do when you move, from finding your way around town to setting up
your utilities.
2. (A reply) Arrange the following sentences in the right order of a letter

1. Best regards,
2. Dear Sir or Madam,
3. FROM: Thomas Johnson
4. I have just moved here, Dale City. Since I have little knowledge about this city, I may have
to ask you for some information. First, ….. Second……
5. SUBJECT: Re: Welcome to your new home!
6. Thank you for your help in advance.
7. Thomas Johnson
8. TO: Dale City Welcome Committee
LESSON 8: THE HEADER, GREETING AND CLOSING PARTS OF
AN E-MAIL LETTER
A. FOCUS: The header, greeting and closing parts of an e-mail letter

I- HEADER
-For e-mails, you always look first at the header. This information at the top of the e-mail tells you
important information. A header includes these things:
 The sender, the sender’s e-mail address, and often the sender’s title or company.
 The recipient( who the e-mail is sent to)
 The date
 The subject of the e-mail
For example: Look at the headers in the sample e-mail and underline the information in each
that answer the questions below.
36
a. Who wrote the e-mail?: Elisa Hays
b. What is the writer’s position?: Front Desk Supervisor
c. Who is the recipient of the e-mail?: Front Desk agents, Hotel Mediterreaneo
d. What is the subject of the e-mail?: Reservation System
II- GREETINGS
- Greet the person the e-mail is directed to.
For example:
Dear Mrs Smith,
III- CLOSINGS
-Sign the e-mail as the role indicates.
For example:
Sincerely,
John Smith
Look at the greeting and closing parts in the example formal e-mail.
The greeting in this e-mail is Dear Ms. Hughes,

The closing in this e-mail is Sincerely,
37
This chart shows some example of common language for Greetings and Closings.
B-TACTIC PRACTICE:
I- Read the language commonly used in responses. Circle the expression that is not the same
as the other two and note why it is different.
a. Dear Sir or Madam: To whom it may concern: Dear Lisa,
b. Thanks. Thank you. Sincerely,
c. Hello Mr. John, Hi Jane, Dear Mrs. Wang
d. See you soon. Yours truly, Talk to you soon!
e. Nice hearing from you. Look forward to hearing from you. Best regards,
f. I cannot wait to see you. See you soon. Sincerely yours,
II- Following is the letter from Daniel Olivares, who working in Olivares Shipping Inc., to the
Administrative Staff. Complete the letter with the heading, greeting, closing:
From:………………………………
To:…………………………………
Subject:…………………………….
Sent:……………………………….
…………………,
…………………………….
…………………………….
…………………………….
38
III. Mr. Walter Terbog, working in Human Resources, wrote a letter on October 10 th 2013 to
Ms. Rita Chen to apply for a position. Complete the letter with the heading, greeting, closing:
From:………………………………
To:…………………………………
Subject:…………………………….
Sent:……………………………….
Dear…………..,
…………………………………
…………………………………
IV- Create the heading, greeting, closing for e-mail applications that you are going to send to
the companies in the following advertisements (do not write the body of the letter):
LESSON 9: UNDERSTANDING THE MAIN PURPOSE OF

AN E-MAIL LETTER
A- FOCUS: The main purpose of an e-mail letter

1-The most important part in analyzing the letter is to read the information in the content and
identify the purpose of the letter in order to write an appropriate reply.
For example: Re-read the letter given before and answer the following question:
What is the main purpose of the e-mail?
 To gather information about problems with the reservation system
2-The response must include what is required in the e-mail letter given
39
B-TACTIC PRACTICE: Identify what you have to write
I. TIP 1: Analyzing the main purpose of the received letter:
1. Look at the headers in the sample e-mail and underline the information in each that answer
the questions below. Then use the underlined information to answer the question that follows
each e-mail:
a. What is the main purpose of the e-mail?
 To inform employees about changes to the vacation policy
 To explain an employee’s extended absence
2. Look at the headers in the sample e-mail and underline the information in each that answer
the questions below. Then use the underlined information to answer the question that follows
each e-mail:
a. What is the main purpose of the e-mail?

 To alert the recipient about the problem with her application
 To inform the recipient that the application has been received
II. TIP 2: Analyzing the directions of the task for a response
40
In the actual test, there are always directions above or under the letter which shows what the task
requires. Therefore, it is essential for you to read this direction in order to write exactly what you
must include in your response.
Example:
From: S. Banner, Customer Service Manager
To: J. Choi, Kenton Office Supplies
Subject: Renewal of your contract
Sent: March 13, 10:40 A.M
Dear J.Choi,
I have recently learned that your company is not renewing its contract with us to clean your office
facilities. I would like to inquire why you have decided to make this change and see if there is
anything we could do to keep your business.
Sincerely,
Steve Banner
Directions: Respond to the e-mail as if you are J. Choi who is a manager at Kenton Supplies.
In your e-mail, describe ONE problem and make ONE suggestion.
. requirement 1 requirement 2
As required in the directions, in the response you must describe one and make one suggestions.
Common kinds of requirements:
 Question
 Request
 Time available
 Piece of information
 Order
The specific information in the response must meet the requirement in the directions and must be
based on the information in the e-mail letter given before.
Directions E-mail letter Suggested responses
Requirement 1 why you have decided to make this Problem: New manager
(1 problem) change
Requirement 2 see if there is anything we could do to Suggestion: e-mail confirmation from
(1 suggestion) keep your business the customer
PRACTICE
1. Read the e-mail and the directions. Then answer the questions.
41
Direction: Respond to the e-mail as if you are Martha Simon. Say ONE time you are available and
ask TWO questions.
 Analyze the direction:

a-What pieces of information must you include in your response? How many must you include?
Circle the correct tasks and the number you need for each.
 Question (s) 1 2 3
 Request (s) 1 2 3
 Time(s) available 1 2 3
 Piece(s) of information 1 2 3
 Order(s) 1 2 3
b-Complete the specific information in the table below:
Directions E-mail letter
2. Read each e-mail and the directions. Then answer the questions.
Directions: Respond to the e-mail as if you are a human resources officer at Hampton, Inc. In your
e-mail, ask ONE question and give TWO pieces of information.
42
a. Analyze the purpose of the e-mail letter:
What is the main purpose of the e-mail?
 An advertisement for a job
 An application for a job
 A request for information about jobs
b. Analyze the direction of the task:
+What pieces of information must you include in your response? How many must you include?
Circle the correct tasks and the number you need for each.
 Question (s) 1 2 3
 Request (s) 1 2 3
 Time(s) available 1 2 3
 Piece(s) of information 1 2 3
 Order(s) 1 2 3
+Complete the specific information in the table below:

Directions E-mail letter
C- TEST PRACTICE
Directions: Respond to the e-mail as if you are an employee of the Easton Office Supply Company.
In your e-mail, explain TWO problems and make ONE request.
1. What is this e-mail about?
43
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. What tasks and how many of each are you asked to address in your response? Complete the
table with the specific information:
Directions: respond to the e-mail as if you are a staff member. In your e-mail, make TWO
suggestions and offer to help with ONE task.
1. What is this e-mail about?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. What tasks and how many of each are you asked to address in your response? Complete the
table with the specific information:
44
LESSON 10: WRITING THE MAIN CONTENT OF AN E-MAIL REPLY
A. FOCUS: The main content of an e-mail reply

-This lesson will focus on the main content of an e-mail reply. You will practice how to write
opening sentences/ references and organize in your e-mail reply.
-The opening sentence or reference of you’re an e-mail reply can explain why you are writing and
set an appropriate tone.
-The chart shows some examples of common language for the opening sentences/ references.
45
-Using connectors to organize your ideas and show clearly the order of each part of your e-
mail as below:
+ First of all, …
+ Secondly, ….
+ Next,….
+ Finally,…
-Using common phrases for responding an e-mail reply.
46
B. TACTIC PRACTICE
I. Match opening sentences/ references 1-5 to the appropriate descriptions a-e. Make note of
the useful phrases in bold. The first is done for you.
1. Re: Order No.2345b e _
2. Thank you for your inquiry about our new machinery. ______
3. I am writing about/ in regards to the ad I saw in the Daily News ______
4. I am writing to enquire about…. ______
5. I received your invoice dated June 11. ______
a. You wish to get information.

b. You are referring to some information you have received.
c. You are writing to someone for the first time based upon something you have seen in the
newspaper, on the internet, ect.
d. You are writing to a potential customer and want to be very polite.
e. The mail that you are replying to includes a reference or account number.
II. Match connectors 1-10 to their uses in a –f (each use may apply to more than one
connector.)
1. First of all,…
2. I have a few questions about …..(the job, the bill/etc.)
47
3. In response to your questions/inquiries,…
4. Best wishes,
5. Finally,…
6. I’m afraid that…
7. Next,…
8. Sincerely,…
9. To begin with,…
10. Also,…
a. Used when asking/ answering questions.

b. Signals the first point you wish to make.
c. Signals a subsequent point you wish to make.
d. Signals the last point you wish to make
e. Signals that you are going to end your message and is followed by your signature/ name.
f. Used to introduce problems.
III. Complete the e-mail using appropriate words or phrases.

Dear Mr. Gracy,
(1)______________________your ad in the newspaper for clerical staff.
(2)________________________, could you tell me when the position will begin?
(3)____________________, I would like to know if it is a full-time or part-time position.
(4)_________________I can’t work on weekends or after 6:00. Will the job require much
overtime?
(5)_____________________
Peter Barnett
C. TEST PRACTICE
For each e-mail 1 and 2, read the directions and the e-mail. Then write your reply following
steps 1-5:
1. Identify the 2 tasks.
2. Brainstorm and write response sentences for two tasks.
3. Write the appropriate opening sentences/ references.
4. Add connecting words to organize your writing clearly.
5. Use a salutation and closing if appropriate.
1. Directions: Read the e-mail
From: S. Banner, Customer Service Manager
48
To: J. Choi, Kenton Office Supplies
Subject: Renewal of your contract
Dear J.Choi,
I have recently learned that your company is not renewing its contract with us to clean your office facilities. I
would like to inquire why you have decided to make this change and see if there is anything we could do to
keep your business.
Sincerely,
Steve Banner
Directions: Respond to the e-mail as if you are J. Choi, a manager at Kenton Supplies. In your e-
mail, describe ONE problem and make ONE suggestion.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________
2. Directions: Read the e-mail

From: K. Blascoe, Domcore Tools
To: S. Refo, Kipling Plant
Subject: Shipping delay
Dear S. Refo,
We ordered some equipment from you on April 8, but we have not received it yet. Please could you
investigate this matter and let me know what has happened to our order?
Sincerely,
Ken Blascoe
Shipping and Receiving Manager
49
Directions: Respond to the e-mail as if you are the warehouse supervisor at the Kipling Plant. In
your e-mail, explain ONE problem and make ONE request.
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
LESSON 11: REVIEW

50
A- FOCUS
-The format of an e-mail letter
-The header, greeting and closing of an e-mail letter
-The main purpose of an e-mail letter
-Writing the main content of a reply
B- TACTIC PRACTICE
I. Arrangement of ideas:
Write numbers 1-7 to put the responses in the correct order. Then write the number of the
question in Exercise 1 to which each response belongs.
1. Response to Question_______
2.Response to Question_______
II. Writing the main responses based on the requirements in the directions:
For each e-mail, read the directions and the e-mail. Then complete steps1-4. After each step,
compare answer with your partner.
1. Identify the kind of e-mail letter.
2. Identify the main purpose of the e-mail letter
51
3. Brainstorm the requirements of the directions given.
4. Write response sentences for the task.
1.
Directions: Read the e-mail.
From: M. Eaton, Spring Valley Travel

To: J. Moore – European Adventure Tours
Subject: Opening for overseas tour guide
Sent: August 26, 2:54 P.M
Thank you for your interest in the position of tour guide.

I am attaching an application form for the position. Please let me know if you have any questions about the
application or the job itself.
Directions: Respond to the e-mail as if you are J. Moore. In your e-mail, ask TWO questions and
make ONE request.
Dear M. Eaton,
Thank you for your e-mail and the application form for the position.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________
I am look forward to hearing from you again.
Sincerely yours,
J. Moore
2.
Directions: Read the e-mail.
52
From: M. Eaton, Spring Valley Travel
To: Dean Tower Complex
Subject: Job Vacation
Sent: August 26, 2:54 P.M
I understand that you want to hire someone to work in your Accounting Department. I have worked as an
accountant at the Hiram Company for five years. Could you please send me a job application? Also, I would like
to know when the job will begin.
Directions: Respond to the e-mail as if you are interested in joining the health club. In your e-mail,
ask TWO pieces of information.
Dear Mr. M. Eaton,

Thank you very much for your interest in the position in out Accounting Department.
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Thank you
Dean Tower Complex
III. TEST PRACTICE

In this part of the actual test, there are 2 questions: Question 6 and Question 7 in which you will
show how well you can write a response to an e-mail.
Reply the following steps:
1. Identify the 2 tasks
2. Brainstorm and write response sentences for the two tasks
3. Write the appropriate opening sentences/ references
4. Add connecting words to organize your writing clearly.
5. Use a salutation and closing if appropriate.
Your response will be scored on:
53
 the quality and variety of your sentences,
 vocabulary, and
 organization.
[You will have 10 minutes to read and answer each e-mail]
Question 6
Directions: Read the e-mail below.
From: Susan Summers

To: Upper Nordic High School alumni
Subject: Graduation Reunion
Sent: May 10, 4:38 P.M.
Hi!
This is Susan Summers. Remember we used to be classmates? Well next month is our 15 year graduation
reunion, and I'm in charge of organizing things. It has been ages since we have seen you. We hope that you
will be able to make it to this reunion. If you have any questions, just email me, I’ll be happy to answer them.
Best wishes,
Susan
Directions: Respond to the e-mail. In your e-mail, make at least TWO requests for information.
(write your response here)

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Question 7
Directions: Read the e-mail below.
54
From: Simon Valley Inc.
To: Our new Merchandising Manager
Subject: Congratulations
Sent: February 17, 10:14 A.M.
Dear Mr. Harry Porter,
Congratulations on your promotion! At Simon Valley Inc. we take great pride in seeing our employees strive
and succeed. We have no doubt that you will continue to move forward and that we will all benefit from
having you as the new manager for merchandising. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
Sincerely,
Simon Valley Inc
Directions: Respond to the e-mail. In your e-mail, make at least TWO requests for information.
(write your response here)

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
________________________
55
Chapter 3
WRITING AN OPINION ESSAY
Lesson 12: Analyzing the essay question
Lesson 13: Organization of the essay
Lesson 14: Writing the thesis statement
Lesson 15: Review
LESSON 12: ANALYZING THE ESSAY QUESTION

56
A-FOCUS
1. Familiarize yourself with the type of the question you may see.
For Question 8 in the TOEIC Writing Test, you may encounter a number of different essay
questions. By familiarizing yourself with the different types of essay questions you may see, you
will understand what type of information to include in your response and how to create a complete
and successful response. This chart gives an explanation of the most common types of essay
questions and examples of each.
Types of Essay Descriptions Example Questions
Questions
Advantage / Asks you to choose the What are the advantages or disadvantages
Disadvantage advantages or disadvantages of a of living near work? Give reasons and
topic and to support that position examples to support your opinion.
Preference Presents you with a number of Some people prefer to work for a large
options and asks you to choose company, while others prefer to work in a
which of those options you prefer small office.
Which size company do you prefer to work
in? Use specific examples to support your
choice.
General Asks for your opinion on a topic At some jobs, employees are allowed to
Opinion listen to music while they work. What is
your opinion of this? Give reasons and
examples to support your opinion.
Agreement / Asks if you agree or disagree with Do you agree or disagree with the
Disagreement a statement or an idea following statement? Learning an
additional language is a good way to
improve one’s job prospects in any field.
Use specific reasons and examples to
support your answer.
Importance Asks you to explain why References from previous employers are
something is important to some important to some employers when making
people hiring decisions. Why do you think that
references are important to employers?
Use specific reasons and examples to
explain your answer.
2. Identify the question type

You must know how to recognize the question types from the chart in 1 so that you can have the
right approach to your essay.
 Advantage/ Disadvantage
57
Key words or phrases used in the question
Compare the advantages and disadvantages.
Discuss the advantages and/or disadvantages.
What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of ……?
What are the positive side and negative side of ….?
What are the pros and cons of ….?
What are the benefits of …?
What are the drawbacks of …?
 Preference
Some do this; others do that.
Some say this; others say that.
Which opinion do you agree with?
Which viewpoint do you agree with?
In your opinion, which is better?
Which would you prefer?
Would you prefer to ...?
How is (something) different from (another thing)?
 General opinion
What is your opinion of this?
Why do you think (something happens)?
How does (something) affect (something else)?
What can you learn by (doing something)?
How is (something) different?
 Agreement / Disagreement
Do you agree or disagree...?
Do you support or oppose...?
Why or why not?
Do you agree that...?
To what extent do you agree?
How far do you agree?
58
 Importance
Why do you think it is important?
How important is it?
Explain the importance of …?
Why should we …?
B. PRACTICE
TASK 1: Complete the essay questions below with organizing words from the box, and
identify the type of each question
agree or disagreeadvantagesdisadvantages causes solutionsmeasures
benefits
1. What are the __________ of learning skills in the modern world?

2. Any attempts to preserve the natural world will always hinder economic development. The
benefits will however far outweigh the __________. Do you __________?
3. What are the __________ and __________ of taking a year off between school and university?
4. Students should be trained on how to cope with changes in modern world. How far do you
__________?
5. Volunteer work with disadvantaged groups like underprivileged children is the best way for
young people to learn about the real world. What are the __________ of such work?
6. Every day, animals are becoming extinct throughout the world. What do you think the
__________ of this are? What __________ can you suggest?
7. Overcrowding in large cities has always been a problem, but with population around the world
about to double, the social problems are certain to multiply. What __________ can you suggest to
control the problems?
Type of question:
1. __________
2. __________
3. __________
4. __________
5. __________
6. __________
7. __________
TASK 2: Read the following essay questions. Underline the key words for the subject and
circle the organizing words.
1. What are the advantages or disadvantages of living near work? Give reasons and examples to
support your opinion.
59
2. Some people prefer to work for a large company, while others prefer to work in a small office.
Which size company do you prefer to work in? Use specific examples to support your choice.
3. At some jobs, employees are allowed to listen to music while they work. What is your opinion of
this? Give reasons and examples to support your opinion.
4. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Learning an additional language is a
good way to improve one’s job prospects in any field. Use specific reasons and examples to support
your answer.
5. References from previous employers are important to some employers when making hiring
decisions. Why do you think that references are important to employers? Use specific reasons and
examples to explain your answer.
TASK 3: Choose the answer that appropriately describes the information you need to give in
your response.
a. The advantages and disadvantages of owning a home
b. The pros or cons of living near one's place of employment
a. My opinion on work environments
b. My work environment preference
3. At some jobs, employees are allowed to listen to music while they work. What is your opinion of
this? Give reasons and examples to support your opinion.
a. My music preferences
b. My thoughts on a specific company policy
good way to improve one’s job prospects in any field. Use specific reasons and examples to support
your answer.
a. My beliefs about learning new languages
b. My position on corporate language requirements
decisions. Why do you think that references are important to employers? Use specific reasons and
examples to explain your answer.
a. My explanation of why something is important to some people
b. My opinion of how managers make hiring decisions
LESSON 13: ORGANIZATION OF THE ESSAY

60
A.FOCUS
I. The three parts of an essay
An essay has three main parts: an introduction (introductory paragraph), a body (at least one, but
usually two or more paragraphs), and a conclusion (concluding paragraph).
An essay introduction consists of two parts: a few general statements to attract your reader’s
attention and a thesis statement to state the main idea of the essay. The thesis statement for an essay
names the specific topic and gives the reader a general idea of the contents of the essay.
The body consists of one or more paragraphs. Each paragraph develops a subdivision of the topic,
so the number of paragraphs in the body will vary with the number of subdivisions or subtopics.
The conclusion is a summary or review of the main points discussed in the body.
II-Model of an essay structure

Essay question: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Businesses should do
anything they can to make a profit. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
Sample response:
Introduction:
Introduction:
Nowadays, the competition among the businesses has been increasing, and every
company tries to struggle and survive in such a situation. Some people think that
businesses should do anything they can do to reach their goal - maximum profits. In my
opinion, however, businesses must not do anything harmful to the community.
Body:
First of all, as a member of our society, every business should obey the rules, doing what
they are allowed and avoiding things that can result in harmful influence on our
community. However, as we all know, the common goal of almost all the companies is
to maximize their profits. Based on this nature, a number of companies always try their
best to reach their goal by overloading work on their employees while paying them as
low as possible, squeezing the profit of the suppliers, and digging deep into the
customer’s pocket. Also, some businesses release waste into the environment without
treatment. In this way, our air, water and soil are polluted. In turn, when we breathe,
drink and eat, we take in poison from these sources. In this sense, these companies do
harm on our health. Obviously, they must not do such things.
Secondly, some companies can also cheat us and ruin our confidence in economy by
doing anything they can. A typical example is Enron, one of the biggest energy
companies in the United States, which bankrupted in 2002. Enron made fraudulent
financial reports and cheated the stockholders. Therefore, its bankruptcy destroyed the
investors' confidence in the stock market. Also, this case influenced the United States'
economy to a certain extent. In this sense, if companies do anything they want, what
they do can have bad impacts on the national and individual economy. Of course, we do
not want this to happen.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, businesses should have business ethics and think of the health of the
community. On the other hand, they should be aware of their influences on the economy.
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For all these reasons, I strongly oppose that businesses should do anything they can to
make a profit.
B. PRACTICE
TASK 1: Underline the key words in each of the essay questions, and then arrange the
sentences in each following set in the order where they can be used in the response.
a. The best thing is that it takes less time to commute.
b. Living near where you work is also very convenient.
c. There are several advantages of living near the office.
d. Another good thing is that it can save money.
e. Living close to work not only saves time and money but also is very convenient.
a. Next, working at a small office usually leads to strong, close relationships with co-
workers.
b. I’ve also found that it’s possible to earn promotions faster at smaller companies.
c. For me, these three things are really important, and that’s why I’ll always choose a
small office over a big one.
d. First of all, I think that by working in a small office, I can spend more time with
managers.
e. Personally, I prefer to work in a small office rather than at a large company.
good way to improve one’s job prospects in any field. Use specific reasons and examples to
support your answer.
a. A foreign language can provide access to more jobs.
b. an additional language can also create new opportunities,
c. In short, another language can be useful in terms of career.
d. It is my belief that learning an additional language is a great way to improve one’s
chances of getting a job.
e. A bilingual employee might become indispensable to his/her employer.
decisions. Why do you think that references are important to employers? Use specific reasons
and I examples to explain your answer.
a. A reference can explain why the person left his/her former job.
b. The most important is that references can help potential employers understand the
applicant’s personality.
c. References can also be used to test the applicant’s honesty.
d. References are important in making hiring decisions.
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e. I think that references from previous employers are important to some bosses for a
number of reasons.
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in the same place as other members of
your family? Give reasons or examples to support your opinion.
a. There are, however, disadvantages of working in the same place as your family.
b. Another advantage is that you can take care of your family easily.
c. As explain above, there are advantages and disadvantages of working in the same
place as other members of your family.
d. Another disadvantage is that the opportunities to participate in outer society will be
greatly reduced.
e. There are advantages and disadvantages of working in the same place as other
members of your family.
f. The biggest advantage is that you can use time effectively.
TASK 2: Put the paragraphs in this sample essay in the correct order (1-5), and label the
paragraphs with the following headings.
Second reason Conclusion Introduction Third reason First reason
_____ To start with, I think that listening to music at work is distracting for employees. This is bad
because distracted employees can lead to bad customer service. Many times I’ve gone to a store,
and the clerks are too busy listening to music on personal music players to even help me.
Experiences like this have made me stop shopping at certain stores. So I think that if companies
want to avoid losing customers, they should not allow behaviors like listening to music that lead to
bad customer service.
_____ Some offices allow employees to listen to music, while others do not. In my opinion,
employers should not allow workers to listen to music at the office because it is distracting, it hurts
teamwork, and it can lead to disagreements.
_____ Second of all, listening to music hurts teamwork. I’ve worked at places where employees are
allowed to listen to music while they work. People listened to music all day long and never even
spoke to each other. We never worked together or tried to solve problems together, which, again,
could hurt the quality of the work.
_____ To summarize, I think that it is a bad idea to allow employees to listen to music at work. I
think this because allowing music in the workplace distracts employees, hurts teamwork, and leads
to disagreements. In the end, it is important to remember that work is for work, and people should
listen to music at home.
_____ Finally, I think listening to music at work can lead to disagreements. The fact is, not
everybody has the same musical taste. In cases where music is played over a loudspeaker, this could
lead to arguments. That is what happened to my friend. At her job, they play country music over the
loudspeaker all day. My friend hates country music, and she is really annoyed about having to listen
to it all day. It makes her less productive and, thus, her work suffers.
TASK 3: Read the following essay question and underline the key words.
Essay question: Many people enjoy spending time playing and watching sports. Why do you think
sports are important to people? Give specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
Divide the following response into a 5-paragraph essay.
63
Sports are popular all around the world. People enjoy sports because sports bring several
advantages to people’s lives. Sports encourage people to get exercise, they provide opportunities for
interacting with others, and they give a sense of belonging to a group. An interest in sports
encourages people to get exercise. People who play sports get a lot of exercise. People who are
serious about their sport spend a lot of effort getting in good physical shape so that they can play
their sport well. Other people play sports just for fun, but they still get good exercise when they
play. Of course, some people just watch sports on TV, and that isn’t very good exercise. But
sometimes fans become motivated to imitate their favorite athletes, and they try playing the sport
themselves. An interest in sports provides opportunities for interacting with others. When you play
on a team, you have to work with your teammates to play the game as well as you can. Or you may
just interact with a single opponent when you play a sport such as tennis. Even if you just watch
sports, you have opportunities to interact with other fans of your favorite teams. An interest in
sports gives a sense of belonging to a group. If you play on a team, then the team is your group.
You are also part of the larger group of people who enjoy playing that sport. If you enjoy watching
sports, you can feel that you are part of the group of fans who support your team. You can also feel
pride in being a resident of the city that your favorite team represents. Sports bring a lot of positive
things to people’s lives. Sports encourage people to exercise, to spend time with others, and to
belong to groups. These are the reasons why sports are important to people everywhere.
Introduction:
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Body Paragraph 1:
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Body Paragraph 2:
________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Body Paragraph 3:
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Conclusion:
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
64
Lesson 14: WRITING THE THESIS STATEMENT
A. FOCUS
The thesis statement is the most important sentence in the introduction. It states the specific topic of
the essay.
In my opinion, employers should not allow workers to listen to music at the office.
Sometimes a thesis statement lists the subtopics that will be discussed in the body.
In my opinion, employers should not allow workers to listen to music at the office because it
is distracting, it hurts teamwork, and it can lead to disagreements.
B. PRACTICE
TASK 1: Match opinion expressions 1-8 to descriptions a-c.
Expressing opinions
1. I (strongly/firmly) believe _____
2. In my opinion _____
3. I'm totally opposed to _____
4. It's a difficult choice, but I think I would prefer to _____
5. I'm completely in favor of _____
6. If I had to choose, I would pick/say _____
7. I really don't agree with _____
8. I would prefer to _____
a. Positive opinion (strong)
b. Positive position (neutral or weak)
c. Negative opinion (strong)
TASK 2: Answer the following questions giving your opinion in ONE sentence. Use the
phrases in task 1 to help you. Compare ideas with your partner.
1. Would you rather work in a quiet town or a big city?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2. Which is the best way to travel to another country, by air or over land?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
3. Do you agree or disagree that health care should be free for the whole population?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
TASK 3: Read questions 1-3, then complete the opening sentences using the answers given in
parentheses. Use the opinion expressions in task 1.
65
1. Shopping on the Internet is bad for local businesses. People should make more effort to
do their shopping locally. Do you agree or disagree? (disagree - like the Internet for some
shopping)
Many people believe that shopping online is destroying local businesses. However,
_________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2. When traveling medium distances, some people prefer to fly. Others prefer to take
express trains. Which do you prefer? (trains)
Although some people prefer to fly because it is faster, _____________________
__________________________________________________________________
3. What do you like most about your current job? (long vacations)
There are several things I like about my current job, but_____________________
__________________________________________________________________
66
Lesson 15: REVIEW
A- FOCUS
Directions: Writing Test Question 8 in an actual writing test:
 In this part of the test, you will be asked to write an essay stating your opinion in response to
a given topic
 You will have 30 minutes to plan, write, and revise your essay.
However, the focus in this lesson is on only the thesis statement in the introductory paragraph
 Your main goal is to introduce the side you support, giving sub-topics as the reasons for
your opinion.
 Your reply should be one sentence within 5 minutes, forming an organized response.
Thesis statement: Topic (the side you support) + subtopics (your reasons)
B- PRACTICE
TASK 1: Read the following essay questions and underline the key words, and then answer
each question with a complete sentence using the phrases in task 1 lesson 14. Compare your
answers with a partner.
1. Recently in your town, construction of a new factory that would employ thousands of
workers has been halted because it would endanger the wild animals living in the area. Do
you agree or disagree with this decision? Give reasons or examples to support your opinion.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
2. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The most important factor you
should consider when choosing a job is the salary. Give reasons or examples to support
your opinion.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
3. Some people enjoy jobs that include travelling a lot and meeting new people. Others like to
work in a fixed location with the same group of coworkers. What is your preference?
Explain why?
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
4. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? A small town is a better place than
a big city to raise children. Support your answer with specific reasons and examples.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
5. Some people use public transportation like buses to get around the city. Others use their
private cars or motorbikes. Which do you prefer? Support your answer with specific reasons
and examples.
67
TASK 2: Choose one topic you like. You have 5 minutes to think of the topic and sub-ideas, then
write a thesis statement on this topic:
1. Would you rather work in a quiet town or a big city? Give your opinion.
2. Which is the best way to travel to another country, by air or over land? Give your opinion
3. Some people love cats and have one as a pet at home, but others don’t like it. Give your opinion.
4. Would you prefer to work longer hours on a daily basis, and as a result, have more vacation
time? Give your opinion.
5. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The most important factors you should
consider when choosing a job is the salary. Give reasons or examples to support your opinion.
--------------------------------------------------------------
68
REFERENCES
1. New TOEIC – Writing Coach, San Francisco Education Consulting, 2012

2. Grant Trew - Tactics for TOEIC – WRITING, Oxford -University Press, 2011
3. Randolph Quirk -University Grammar - 1973
4. Oshima and Hogue (1999) Academic Writing
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1: WRITING A SENTENCE BASED ON A PICTURE 3

Chapter 2: RESPONDING TO AN E-MAIL REQUEST LETTER 29

Chapter 3: WRITING AN OPINION ESSAY 54

Lesson 12: Analyzing essay questions 55

Lesson 14: Writing the thesis statement 63

Lesson 15: Review 65

Lesson 1: SV, SVA Patterns

Lesson 2: SVO, SVOO Patterns

Lesson 3: SVC, SVOC Patterns

Lesson 4: SVOA, There to be

Lesson 5: Mixed Patterns

Lesson 6: Expanding Mixed Patterns

TEST TIP: Use modifiers appropriately

II-Make a sentence with the given words:

II. Tactic Practice

Picture 3: workers / be/ ground Picture 4: city/ run/ coast

III. Test Practice

TEST TIP: Think about the subject

2. passengers/ train Preposition: ………………………

SVOO: Subject + Verb + Object + Object

II-Make a sentence with the given words:

II. Tactic Practice

III. Test Practice

TEST TIP: Think about the subject

LESSON 3: SVC, SVOC PATTERNS

LOOK + ADJ (S.C)

Notes: The Complement Object

TEST TIP: Use modifiers appropriately

Picture 3: man/ hold/ open Picture 4: people/ seem/ tired

TEST TIP: Think about the subject

LESSON 4: SVOA, THERE TO BE

TEST TIP: Use modifiers appropriately

II-Make a sentence with the given words:

Picture 3: there/ fruit/ basket Picture 4: young/ jump/ grass

TEST TIP: Think about the subject

TEST TIP: Use modifiers appropriately

1. There ………… some pictures ………….the wall (picture 1)

II. Tactic Practice

Picture 3: men/ fish/ sea Picture 4: colleagues/ together/ table

TEST TIP: Think about the subject

A-LANGUAGE FOCUS REVIEW

II- Basic clause elements + (A):

TEST TIP: Use modifiers appropriately

II-Complete the following sentences with one appropriate word

III-Expanding the clauses with the suggested ideas

Picture 3: daughter/tea/for Picture 4: carry/walk/airport

TEST TIP: Think about the subject

3. swimmers / swimming pool

Lesson 7: The format of an e-mail letter

Lesson 8: The header, greeting and closing of an e-

Lesson 9: The main purpose of an e-mail letter

Lesson 10: Writing the main content of a reply

Lesson 11: Review

A-FOCUS: The format of an e-mail letter

II. Format of an e-mail letter

b. Subject: What the email is about

c. Time: When the e-mail is sent

Look at the sample email and answer the questions: