ECPE BOOK 2 - MODEL ESSAYS, ARTICLES AND PROPOSALS

Introduction to the Different Writing Topics

General Comments

The new 45-minute time limit means that more will be expected of you in the writing part of the ECPE. It
is suggested that you write about two pages, which means approximately between 350 to 550 words. This
extended length makes planning and brainstorming even more crucial than before. A well-planned essay
almost writes itself and produces a much better piece of work. In the case of proposals and articles, do
your best to imagine the situation is real, so as to come up with realistic suggestions and examples. Draw
on your general knowledge and personal experience. Be sure to leave a few minutes to check spelling
and grammar. There will be careless mistakes – the trick is to find them so the examiner does not. The
two greatest weaknesses of most writing, according to examiners, is not expanding on points made (with
explanations and examples) and not incorporating the external sources that are new to the 2021 ECPE.

Proposals

A proposal is a formal piece of writing in which you describe a situation, give your opinion and then
propose solutions or ideas. Maintaining a formal register is very important, so do not use contractions
(don’t) and use passive voice, inversions and more complex sentences when possible. This kind of
document is addressed to a person or group who has a position of authority. Although titles/headings are
not required for the ECPE, you may use them to structure and organize your proposal. However, there
must always be a strong introduction and conclusion, which make use of standard expressions. Be sure
to incorporate one or all of the provided sources, and structure the proposal around some of the ideas
expressed in them.

Articles

Articles often appear in magazines or newspapers. They should be written in more informal, lively style
and engage the reader, with humor or interesting content. Make use of contractions, rhetorical questions
and exclamations marks when appropriate. Articles express opinions and observations, often based on
other information such as the type provided by the sources. Shorter paragraphs can be used but be sure
to develop your points with explanations and examples from real life. Generally, it is best to write in the
first person, in a conversational style, and when necessary, to write persuasively and humorously.

Essays

Essays are usually advantages/disadvantages, which means you have a clear introduction which
rephrases the topic in your own words, the side you do not agree with, the side you support and a
clear conclusion. You can also start with the side you agree with and mention some of the drawbacks
afterwards, but this makes for a weaker argument. Be sure to plan first, organize your points in a
logical manner, saving the best for last. Always develop your points with explanations and examples
and incorporate as many of the provided sources as possible. The language must be formal and linking
phrases are essential.

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Practice Test 1

Task 1: Article Model Article

It is indisputable that life is becoming more and
The mayor of your city has proposed that all more expensive, especially in the field of healthcare.
prescription medicines be offered at very low prices Recently, the Mayor of our city has suggested
or free of charge to those who need them. Write lowering the prices of medicines, and even offering
an article for the local paper on whether you think some free of charge. I think this is a brilliant idea
this is a good idea. Include at least one piece of and frankly, long overdue.
information given above to support your response.
A large proportion of our population depends on
Brainstorming various medicines. A USA Medical Report states
This article is expressing an opinion. Are you for or that one third of the population take prescription
against medication being offered at low prices or for medicine daily. Many of them are not covered fully
free? Can you think of advantages or disadvantages by medical insurance, and their medications end
of this? It would be advisable to come up with some up costing them an arm and a leg. There are also
personal examples or anecdotal stories, perhaps people with serious illnesses or conditions that need
something you’ve read about on the Internet or to take drugs regularly, many of whom are in low-
your parents have told you. In this topic, it would be income groups. I have a neighbor whose son has an
advisable to be in favor of the mayor’s idea, as it autoimmune illness that requires expensive steroid
would be easier to come up with supporting reasons injections. They are partially covered by insurance
and to incorporate the information from the sources. but they struggle to pay for his medication.
However, the choice is yours.
Basically, if people cannot afford medicines, they
Plan will do without. In the long run, this will lead to far
Introduction more serious complications, and may even be fatal.
–R estate the topic, possibly starting with an There was a woman in the news who said that every
example or a generalization about modern life / month, she decides which medicine she will not
cost of living. State your opinion. take, so as to save money. There is no doubt in my
mind that at some point, she will get seriously ill.
Paragraph 1
–D escribe the different reasons people need However, the main point is that every human being
medication and who many of these people are. deserves decent medical care, including their
Illustrate with examples. therapies. Of course, pharmaceutical companies
need to make profits, but sometimes the prices they
Paragraph 2 charge are ridiculous. If laws cannot force them to
– Discuss what would happen if these reduce these prices, then I think it’s a commendable
medications were not affordable to them. idea for our city to subsidize them.
Illustrate with examples / incorporate source.
All in all, nothing is more important than health.
Paragraph 3 According to a 2015 report, life expectancy has
–D iscuss the wider issue of affordable increased by about thirty years over the last century.
healthcare, why every human being has a right But if we want this trend to be maintained, it is
to have it. essential for medicines to be inexpensive or even
free. That’s why we should all support the Mayor’s
Conclusion initiative.
– Summarize what you have said in an effective
way, emphasizing your opinion. (322 words)

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Practice Test 1
Task 2: Essay decade, a staggering amount if one thinks about it.
This has been largely brought about by advances
Modern science has made many advances, in medicine, and more specifically, by advanced
especially when it comes to medicine, vaccines, drugs such as antibiotics. However, are there
and antibiotics. Some diseases have almost ways in which, in the long run, this dependence on
completely disappeared. However, there are people medication could be detrimental to human health?
who say that we depend too much on medicine
and we should try to live more naturally. Write A large proportion of our population depends
an essay addressing this topic and explain what heavily on the use of pharmaceutical products. In
you think about it. Include at least one piece of fact, a USA medical report states that 66% take
information given above to support your response. a prescription medicine daily, and some of those
people are taking up to five different drugs a day. Of
Brainstorming course, this means that their lives are being saved
This is an opinion essay about if medicine does or their health maintained, as such drugs are not
more good than harm. What is your opinion about it? prescribed unless deemed necessary. Many of these
It would probably be best to talk about the benefits people would be even sicker or even dead if they
and necessity of modern medicines, but then to did not have access to this medication.
discuss how people might be too dependent on
them. Alternately, you could argue that although we However, the sad truth is that the situation is out
should try to maintain good health, medicines are of control. As Jane Saunders, a medical expert,
often necessary for this to happen. says, these medicines we rely on for our health may
ultimately lead to our death. There is no doubt that
Plan popping pills for every ailment is not a positive way
Introduction to achieve good health. In most cases, reliance on
– Restate the topic and incorporate the second medication increases and the conditions gradually
source. Ask whether our reliance on medicines worsen. I will never forget when my grandfather
is really beneficial in the long run. started taking pills for his high blood pressure.
Soon, he needed to take pills for high blood sugar,
Paragraph 1 and then everything just went downhill from there. I
– Describe the first source and discuss how always felt that the drugs were making him worse,
medication has become a part of our daily not better.
lives. State the benefits of this, supporting with
examples. This is why it is of the utmost importance that we
embrace a healthy lifestyle if we want to take care of
Paragraph 2 ourselves. Medications treat symptoms rather than
– Use the quote from the third source and explore causes. For example, people become overweight by
the negative aspects of depending too much consuming too much sugar and then often become
on medicine, and how this has become a norm. diabetic. Instead of losing weight and getting into
Talk about the consequences of this. Illustrate shape, they start taking pills to keep their blood
with examples. sugar levels low. Chemicals can never achieve what
a nutritious diet and regular exercise can.
Paragraph 3
–D iscuss the importance of living naturally To sum up, there is some medication that is
and trying to maintain good health without essential and lifesaving, especially drugs which
medicines. treat serious diseases or antibiotics in the case of
infection. But it is high time we started to address
Conclusion our health as something we can control rather than
–S
 ummarize and restate your opinion in an relying on medicines to save us, as in the long run,
effective way. we will only make ourselves weaker and sicker.

Model Essay (395 words)

According to a 2105 report, life expectancy has
increased by almost thirty years over the last

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Practice Test 2

Task 1: Proposal Model Proposal

I am writing this proposal to express my opinion
The local government is considering building a about the assisted living facility that is to be built for
modern assisted living facility for elderly people. the elderly, and to make two suggestions about what
Write a proposal to the Mayor expressing your else can be done to enrich the lives of this valuable
opinion about this decision and suggest what else sector of our local population.
can be done to improve the daily lives of senior
citizens. Include at least one piece of information To begin with, I would like to congratulate the local
given above to support your ideas. government on its initiative. All too often the elderly
are neglected, despite making up an ever-increasing
Brainstorming part of our population, approximately 13% according
Where do your grandparents live, on their own or to a 2017 report. Many elderly people reach the
with relatives? Do you think it would be a good idea age of eighty, and are still in good shape. They wish
for them to live in a facility especially for senior to be independent and to socialize. At present, an
citizens? If so, why would it be good for them and American study reports that 93.5% of senior citizens
what else can you think of that would help their lives either live at home or with their younger relatives. At
improve? If you are against the idea of the Mayor an assisted facility, they would be able to take care
building such a center, you could also explain why of themselves, with some help from the staff, and
and then make suggestions about what should be have an active social life with their peers.
done instead.
However, an assisted living facility would have a
Plan limited capacity and it would be impossible for it to
Introduction accommodate all of the community’s elderly. That is
–E xpress why you are writing this proposal and why it would be advisable to open up a community
what your general opinion is. center for the elderly where they could meet, have
events, dance classes and other activities that would
Paragraph 1 enable them to socialize and to stay in shape. If
–E xplain why you support the Mayor’s decision building a new center is too costly, then they could
and why such a facility is useful. Use the also add senior programs to existing centers.
second source to illustrate how important the
elderly are, and that they make up a large Finally, a program which involves the youth of the
proportion of our population. Also incorporate community would also be commendable. High
the first source, explaining why this is not an school students could participate in a volunteer
ideal situation for the elderly. program where they pay visits to the elderly so
that they could offer them some company and
Paragraph 2 contact with young people. I have also read about a
– Suggest other alternatives that could also program where orphans are brought to the elderly,
be considered. Incorporate the third source, who are encouraged to form bonds of love and
explaining how engagement in the community nurturing. This would benefit both parties, as it would
is essential. Suggest a community center also give the orphans and the senior citizens a
where the elderly could meet and do activities chance to develop lasting meaningful relationships.
together.
All in all, as Dr. Anne Kingston says, when elderly
Paragraph 3 people are engaged in the community, they are
–S uggest a second alternative, such as a far happier. The Mayor’s idea to open an assisted
program where younger people visit the elderly living facility and the ideas I have suggested will
and keep them company. facilitate their lives and do a great deal of good to
the community at large.
Conclusion
– End by incorporating the third source and (373 words)
saying you hope your suggestions will be
considered. Thank the reader for their time.

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Practice Test 2
Task 2: Essay Model Essay
In modern Western societies, it has become
Many people argue that placing the elderly in the norm to place the elderly in nursing homes,
nursing homes is cruel and disrespectful, and that especially when they are in need of special care.
senior family members should be living at home Although I understand the logic of younger people
with relatives. Write an essay stating the benefits deciding to put their parents in such places, there
and drawbacks of such a decision and explain are some drawbacks that should be considered.
your opinion about it. Include at least one piece of
information given above to support your ideas. In some cases, nursing homes are necessary, as
the assistance that the elderly relative requires may
Brainstorming be too difficult for the younger generation to handle.
Do you know what nursing homes are? Have you This is evident in cases of Alzheimer’s disease or
ever visited one? Are they suitable places for the other debilitating disorders that require the presence
elderly to spend the last years of their lives? In of a nurse or trained employee to help the older
which cases should they be sent to homes and person function. Most young people are extremely
in which should they stay at home? This is an busy trying to keep up with the demands of modern
opinion essay, in which it would be best to express life and do not have the time or patience to care for
both sides, ending with the side you support more the older members of society.
strongly.
However, putting a person in a home with strangers
Plan can be very alienating and confusing for a person
Introduction when they are over a certain age. At present,
– Rephrase the topic and express that you think according to an American study, 93.5% of the elderly
there are disadvantages to sending the elderly live at home or with relatives, an option which I feel
to nursing homes. is more humane. Consider that these people were
once young and vibrant, and in a large proportion of
Paragraph 1 cases, dedicated their lives to raising and caring for
– Explain why in some cases it is necessary for their children and even grandchildren. Is it fair for
senior citizens to be in homes. Support with them to be handed over to strangers when they are
specific reasons. in their hour of need? Dr. Anne Kinston says that the
older members of our population are happier when
Paragraph 2 they remain involved in the community, and what
– State your opinion, that if possible, this is not better community than the home of their children?
the best course of action. The elderly need
personal love and care and they deserve it. A 2017 report states that elderly people now make
Incorporate the first and third sources. up over 13% of our population. These are people
who contributed actively to society all their lives,
Conclusion and now that they need our assistance, except in
– Summarize your opinion and incorporate the extreme cases, it is our responsibility to care for
second source. them and keep them company as best as we can.

(316 words)

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Practice Test 3

Task 1: Article Model Article

Since 1940 to 2020, there has been a sharp
Some of your friends are discussing taking a increase in the percentage of high school graduates
year off their studies to travel before moving who attend college, according to a 2021 report.
on to college. Their parents disagree, arguing However, recently, some students question the
that finishing their studies should be their main wisdom of jumping right into college after spending
priority. Write an article for a local teen magazine most of their lives studying, and as a result choose
explaining the benefits and drawbacks of taking to take a gap year. Some people (usually their
a gap year and what you think about it. Include parents!) are against this decision, but personally, I
at least one piece of information given above to find it an excellent idea.
support your response.
Of course, I can see the so-called dangers of taking
Brainstorming time off. Opponents of a gap year are afraid that
Why do people take a gap year? Would you like to students will lose their study momentum, so to
do this after you finish high school? What are the speak, and that after getting a taste of real life, they
benefits and potential gains? How can you make won’t want to go back to studying. They also think
this article interesting? How can you incorporate the that it’s impractical, since traveling can be costly and
sources into your article? finding a job can be difficult.

Plan However, I think these arguments are invalid. Of

Introduction course, it depends on the individual student. Some
–R ephrase the topic in your own words and would like nothing less than to travel or to take time
state your opinion, that although there are off. But if a high school graduate does want to take
some practical reasons not to take a gap year, a year off, I feel there is nothing that would benefit
you think that in the long run it is beneficial. them more. First of all, let’s face it – studying for
Incorporate the first source to emphasize why finals and SAT tests is exhausting. Many teenagers
this is an important question. are burnt out and it is not only hard but even harmful
for them to jump right into higher education. Time off
Paragraph 1 can help them to do even better when they do go to
–D iscuss the value of education and the reasons college, as 60% of people who did so reported in a
why some people believe that a gap year could national survey.
be detrimental. Support with an example or
explanation. Even more importantly, a gap year can be a unique
opportunity for young people to learn about real
Paragraph 2 life. As Sylvia Peters, a college professor, says,
– Explain why it is beneficial for students to take “Theoretical knowledge is, of course, extremely
time off between high school and college. useful but, ultimately, you learn how to do things
Support the statement with the second source. by doing things.” By doing things, she certainly
means working, living and traveling. No classroom
Paragraph 3 can teach you the things that you would learn in
–Q uote the third source and discuss the wider these situations, and this could make a person even
meaning of education, learning and knowledge. stronger and better prepared for college.
Support with explanations / examples.
In conclusion, it’s obvious that for people who want or
Conclusion need to take a gap year after high school, there are
– Summarize your opinion in an interesting and many benefits they can gain. Even if in the end they
effective way. realize that they don’t want to go back to school, this
will be a better-informed decision based on what they,
as opposed to their parents, really want.

(390 words)

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Practice Test 3
Task 2: Essay Model Essay
For many students, there is no question of whether
Nowadays, more and more young adults choose they will pursue a college education or not; they
to pursue higher academic studies rather than start and their parents take it for granted that they will
working immediately after graduating from high do so. However, I do not find that this a decision
school. Write an essay discussing the advantages to be taken lightly, as there are many factors to be
and disadvantages of higher education and state considered.
your opinion about it. Include at least one piece of
information given above to support your response. On the one hand, there are obvious benefits to
possessing a university degree, which is why
Brainstorming many consider it to be essential in modern society.
Do you plan to continue your education after high To begin with, many careers that interest young
school? Why/why not? Why are a larger number of people, such as in fields of medicine, education or
people choosing to go to college nowadays? Is what technology, demand higher studies. One cannot
they learn valuable? This is an opinion essay so you be a doctor if one does not attend medical school.
need to decide which side you will support before In addition, for the most part, well-paid professions
writing – whether it is worth going to college or not. demand a university degree. If one wants to get
ahead and be at the top of their field, it is difficult to
Plan do so without having completed university.
Introduction
– Rephrase the topic and state your opinion, However, many young people blindly follow an
perhaps in the form of a question. educational path set out for them either by their
parents or because of societal expectations, in
Paragraph 1 which case going to university could be considered
– Discuss the reasons why many people unnecessary or even detrimental. Some students
choose to go to college. They want to go into have a calling for a more practical job, and the best
professions that demand a university degree, education would be hands-on training and getting
they may want a higher paying job, etc. Support a head start on job training. As Sylvia Peters, a
with reasons and examples. college professor says, we better learn how to
do things by doing them rather than just getting
Paragraph 2 theoretical knowledge.
– Discuss why it is not always beneficial for
students to go to college. They may be simply The effect of high college enrolment on society as
pursuing their parents’ ambitions, they may do a whole should also be considered. A 2021 report
so to avoid making decisions about their career, says that over 60% of high school graduates are
etc. Incorporate the third source. attending college. I have also read that 90% of
lawyers are unemployed. Especially in my country,
Paragraph 3 it seems to be preferable to be university-educated
–D iscuss why this trend to attend college is but unemployed rather than earning a high salary
not beneficial for society as a whole. We are as a technician or mechanic. Over-educated citizens
producing too many academics and not enough who are out of work represent a great burden to
skilled workers. Support with examples and society, as they cannot be productive members of
incorporate the first source. the workforce, not to mention the frustration these
people themselves feel after having invested in their
Conclusion education and then not being able to find work.
–S
 ummarize and say that it depends on the
individual. All in all, whether one goes to college should be a
carefully planned decision, not one which is made
to respond to an external expectation. Unfortunately,
the latter scenario is all too often the case, resulting
in the discontent of the individual and an economic
burden to society at large.

(390 words)

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Practice Test 4

Task 1: Article Model Article

Imagine this: crowds are cheering, famous athletes
Your city is preparing to host a major sporting are arriving on the field, and our city is all over the
event that will attract thousands of spectators. news because of the major soccer event we’re
Some citizens disagree with this decision. Write hosting. Sound too good to be true? Well, in my
an article for a sports website discussing the opinion it is and it isn’t.
impact that organizing such events has on local
communities and what you think about it. Include Of course there will be plenty of benefits if we host
at least one piece of information given above to the annual soccer championship, most of which
support your response. are financial. The city will earn revenues from ticket
sales, renting our stadium and the crowds that will
Brainstorming come in to watch the game. Citizens will also benefit
Do you enjoy watching any particular sport? What from the jobs that will be created for the event, such
is your opinion about the high salaries that athletes as vendors and cleaners, and local business will
make? Is watching a major sports event a positive profit from visitors from out of town. Apparently, the
or negative activity? Would you like your community World Cup generated 5.4 billion dollars in revenue,
to host such an event? Why/why not? so even if we bring in a tiny fraction of this amount,
it will boost our local economy.
Plan
Introduction There is also something magical and exciting about
– Try to start your article with something to catch big sports events. The players are like movie stars:
the reader’s interest. One idea is a series according to 2019 financial records, professional
of rhetorical questions or a description of a basketball players can make up to 7.5 million dollars
hypothetical scenario. a year so of course they are very famous! This
whole event will be thrilling for many locals, who will
Paragraph 1 get to see such celebrities live. It is also positive to
–D iscuss some of the benefits such an event be promoting good sportsmanship and the ideals of
will bring to the community – jobs will be fair competition and athleticism that go along with
created, tourism, income in general, fame. The most competitive sports.
first source can be incorporated be giving an
example of how much money could be made by However, we should also consider the downside of
advertising the event. hosting such an event in our city. First of all, the boost
to our economy will only be temporary, and will come
Paragraph 2 at a cost. Think of how much pollution the extra traffic
– Talk about another benefit – the promotion of will bring, not to mention the littering of the streets and
good sportsmanship and athletic ideals. It will noisy crowds. Any employment that is created will
also provide entertainment for visitors and locals. end when the event is finished, as will the increased
volume of customers at the stores and restaurants.
Paragraph 3
– Point out that the income generated will only be But I think what bothers me most is that all sports
temporary and that there will be a lot of crowds, have become incredibly commercial. I agree with
confusion and pollution created by such an event. sports commentator Alan Feynman that professional
sports today are nothing more than a business,
Paragraph 4 and I don’t like the idea of bringing this type of
– Express your opinion that most sports are just commercialism into our city just for one event.
money-making ventures. Incorporate the third
source, saying that they will not do any good for In the end, a major sporting event like this will have
the citizens as the event will be purely for profit, both a positive and negative impact on our city. It’s
not sportsmanship. up to us to decide whether it’s worth holding and
what the real cost of it will be.
Conclusion – Conclude by saying that although
you see the benefits, in general the city should be (393 words)
careful when planning such an event and realize
that the benefits are temporary.

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Practice Test 4
Task 2: Essay amounts, average over $600,000 per year. Some
people feel that they are grossly overpaid, but it is
Nowadays, professional sports players get paid my belief that they deserve these sums.
more than other professionals that many people
consider more valuable. Do they deserve the Of course, one could argue that there are other
exorbitant amounts of money they receive? Write professionals who contribute a great deal more to
an essay discussing the topic and stating your society and deserve to be better paid. This includes
opinion. Include at least one piece of information doctors, who dedicate themselves to saving the lives
given above to support your response. of others, and teachers, who educate the young.
Those who support that athletes are overpaid ask
Brainstorming why valuable members of society should be paid
Have you ever considered becoming a professional so much less than athletes, whose main function is
athlete? What are the difficulties involved in reaching merely to entertain us?
fame? Some of them make huge sums of money.
Do they deserve them? Don’t people who do other Frankly, there are many ways to answer the above
valuable jobs deserve to be paid more? What do question and to support why professional athletes
athletes really offer to society? Decide which side deserve the money they make. The training and
has stronger arguments to support it. dedication required is the first one, as there is no
denying that professional athletes spend most of their
Plan waking hours getting into the best shape they can.
Introduction This starts at a very young age, and when their peers
– Rephrase the topic and express that although are enjoying themselves, they are training nonstop.
the salaries of many athletes are high, they It should also be mentioned that their careers are
deserve to be paid well. Incorporate the second relatively short-lived, since most athletes are forced
source. to retire in their thirties. For this reason, when they
are at their peak, they should be paid well. Finally, the
Paragraph 1 threat of injury always looms above them, and one
– Discuss why some people argue that athletes injury could put a sudden end to their entire career.
do not deserve such large sums. All they do is Since their profession is so fraught with risk, they
entertain us, whereas doctors save lives and should be compensated financially for this.
teachers educate young minds.
It is also important to point out that athletic events
Paragraph 2 generate massive amounts of money. According to
– Talk about how difficult it is to be an athlete – an International Financial Report, 5.4 billion dollars
to be discovered, endless training, chance of was raised by the 2018 World Cup. Why shouldn’t
injury, short-lived career. athletes get a share of this, since it is them that the
fans come to see? They do not add to the event;
Paragraph 3 they are the event.
– Quote the first source, and argue that since
sports events make so much money, it is only As sports commentator Alan Feynman points out,
fair that athletes take a share of it, After all, it is professional sport nowadays is a multibillion-dollar
mostly them we want to see. business, and within this business, athletes are the
expensive product being peddled. Wrong or right,
Conclusion they generate the money that sporting events make,
– It is a business, and athletes are a product – and thus deserve a fair share of it.
incorporate third source.
(377 words)
Model Essay
It is a well-known fact that many professional
athletes receive extremely high salaries. According
to 2019 financial records, basketball players can
make an average of 7.5 million dollars annually,
and even soccer players, who receive the lowest

Model Compositions u 9
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Practice Test 5

Task 1: Article expensive, when you factor in rent, transportation,

parking, and all of the bills I pay. Even restaurants
The government is trying to revive small, cost a fortune and I feel as if all I do is work to pay off
abandoned villages by providing incentives to my expenses. Not to mention the fact that life here is
citizens who wish to move there. Write an article dangerous. We have some of the highest crime rates
for a local newspaper about the impact of such in the country and I never feel safe walking around in
an initiative and what you think about it. Include the evening. However, what bothers me the most is
at least one piece of information given above to the psychological aspect, how impersonal everything
support your response. is. I don’t know my neighbors and we seem to go out
of our way to maintain a distance. I may have some
Brainstorming close friends, but we never have the time to see each
Do you live in a city or village? What are the pros other, especially since they live in the different areas
and cons of living where you live? Would you of the city. In other words, amongst the crowds of
move if you could? Would you like to move to an people, I get very lonely.
abandoned village that has been rebuilt to attract
new citizens? In what way could it improve your life? That is basically why I’d love to move to a quieter
In what way, would it be good for the society? town, where I would live closer to nature and people
would be friendlier. As sociologist, Martha Greene,
Plan points out, more and more people are sacrificing life
Introduction in the city for a more fulfilling life in the countryside,
–S tart with the third source and express and I completely comprehend why. I just know that
your opinion, that it is a good idea for the I’d be happier there, and it’d be preferable to raise
government to encourage people to move to children under such circumstances.
such places.
It’s incredibly important that the cost of living is
Paragraph 1 much lower in the countryside, meaning that all of
– Describe the present situation in cities – my waking hours wouldn’t be spent working to live.
overpopulated, hectic, impersonal, expensive, high I dream of having free time to take strolls and grow
crime rates. Support with examples, explanations. a garden. And since I’m a graphic design artist,
most of my work is done virtually, so it is of little
Paragraph 2 consequence where I actually live. Of course, I’d
– Describe why life in a village would be better – have to go to the big city now and then to meet with
closer to nature, people are closer together, less clients, but the largest proportion of my time would
hectic, safer. Incorporate first source. be spent in this new small town.

Paragraph 3 My last point is how much good such a change would

–C ould be better economically as life is cheaper, be for society at large. Whereas in 1800, less than
jobs could be done virtually. 10% of the population lived in urban areas, it is now
almost 80%, according to a 2005 Census Bureau
Paragraph 4 report. No wonder our cities are so overcrowded!
– Better for the society as population will be more Even if five to ten percent moved back to the
evenly distributed, people could go back to working countryside, this would mean a huge improvement in
in farming. Incorporate the second source. the quality of life, both for those who moved and for
those who remained in the cities, which would be less
Conclusion polluted and less densely populated.
– Express hope that people will respond to this
effort and say that you are eager to participate. I also have a feeling that people who are like-
minded, concerned about what really matters in
Model Article life, and open to change would follow up on this
According to a 2017 report, there are over 3,800 government incentive. This means I’d be sure to
abandoned towns in America. In an effort to revive make friends more easily, and have people to spend
them and solve the problem of the overpopulation time with. More importantly, in my new life, I’d have
of cities, the government has started a program to more time to spend with them. Although I realize
repopulate these ghost towns. Personally, I think this not everyone can make such a move, especially
is a good idea and would strongly consider moving depending on what kind of work they do, I’m one of
to one myself. the lucky ones who could and would just pack it all
in and move. In fact, the more I think about it, the
I live in Chicago, a huge bustling city. Of course, more excited I get! Won’t you join me?
there’s lots to do, but life here comes with a hefty
price tag. First of all, the cost of living is incredibly (595 words)

10 t MICHIGAN ECPE PRACTICE TESTS 2

 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10

Practice Test 5
Task 2: Essay Greene, sociologist, points out, but many people are
realizing that it is worth giving up for a more fulfilling
Lately there has been a trend for families to move life in the countryside. There is no denying that
back to the countryside. What are the benefits and urban life is rife with dangers and inconveniences,
drawbacks of this? Write an essay addressing this not to mention a much higher cost of living. Crime
topic and stating your opinion. Include at least one rates are constantly on the rise, with citizens afraid
to walk the streets at night and break-ins becoming
piece of information given above to support your
a common occurrence. It is also incredibly time-
response.
consuming to execute the simplest of tasks, from
shopping to paying bills, due to the large crowds
Brainstorming and difficulties parking. It is also true that the cost of
What do you like and dislike about living in the city/ living is so high, most people are simply working to
countryside? Why would some families in particular make ends meet, leaving no quality time to spend
want to move back to the countryside? How would it with their family and loved ones in general.
be good for them and how would it be good for the
society as a whole? Of course, there are some difficulties one may
encounter moving to the countryside. In comparison
Plan to the city, there are fewer activities to engage in and
Introduction usually, no theaters or large sports events. However,
– Rephrase the topic and express your view. one could always take weekend trips to the city and
Incorporate second source. enjoy museums and other big city activities, which
might even be more enjoyable this way. Personally, I
Paragraph 1 rarely visit the sights in my own city unless an out-of-
– Describe the trend of people moving back to the town visitor needs to be shown around.
countryside and explain why this is happening
(disadvantages of the city). Incorporate the first This is why I’m heavily in favor of people, and
source. especially families, moving to the countryside. The
quality of life is much higher as one is closer to nature
Paragraph 2 and the pace of life is slower. It is much easier to be
in the moment and spend time in a worthwhile way
– Discuss some possible drawbacks of moving to
with the people you love. Children may not have as
the countryside. Support with examples.
many friends in close proximity as they do in the city,
but they will have more time and opportunities to go
Paragraph 3 outside to engage in healthier activities.
– Discuss advantages for families moving to the
countryside. Support with examples. It is important to note that such a trend is also
beneficial for society at large. A 2017 report informs
Paragraph 4 us that more than 3,800 towns in America are
–E xplain how such a trend would be beneficial abandoned, while large cities are experiencing
for society. Incorporate 3rd source. problems due to overcrowding. Since a large
proportion of the workforce can be or is already
Conclusion employed virtually, it would be entirely feasible for
– It is up to each individual family to decide which them to move to less populated areas. This would
option is best, both for us and for society as a also lead to healthier conditions for those who could
whole. Incorporate first source. not leave urban areas, as there would be less over-
crowding and less pollution.
Model Essay
According to a 2005 Census Bureau report, over the The bottom line is that each family must decide
last two centuries, there has been a strong trend for which option is better, life in the big city or in the
people to move to urban areas, rising from under countryside. As sociologist Martha Greene says, it is
10% in 1800 and reaching almost 80% in 2000. a hopeful trend that people are giving up urban life
However, recently this trend has been reversing, for a fulfilling life in the countryside, a trend which
will improve the quality of life both for those who
as more and more families are moving back to the
move, and those who continue to live in the cities.
countryside. Despite some hardships they may
encounter, in the majority of cases this is positive (542 words)
both for these families and for society at large.
Life in big cities may be full of excitement, as Martha

From this point on, only model proposals/articles and essays are provided. Students are encouraged to
brainstorm and plan on their own, and should only refer to the models after having written their own samples.
Teachers can assign brainstorming and planning notes as homework or do these activities in class.

Model Compositions u 11
 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10
Practice Test 6

Task 1: Article organized enough to record all of their homework.

If it is all digitalized, they can find all the information
Your country’s Board of Education is planning they need in a split second. I also feel that it will
to make teachers assign and grade all of their make the lives of teachers easier. They won’t have to
homework online. Write an article for the chase us for our homework – it will either be posted
school newspaper stating the advantages and or we won’t get the mark. Frankly, teachers have
disadvantages of such a decision and what enough work to do, so anything that will make their
you think about it. Include at least one piece of jobs easier is a definite bonus.
information given above to support your response.
So you can see that if you really think about it,
Model Article digitalizing our homework and posting it online will
There’s been a lot of talk about the announcement be more efficient and convenient both for students
that all of our homework is going to be both and teachers. I can’t wait for the new measure to be
assigned and marked online, and I wanted to put in implemented because personally, I’m not the most
my two cents about this decision. I’d like to say from organized student, so this will be of great assistance
the start that I agree with educational expert, Gail to me.
Sesay, when she states that “technology can be an
invaluable tool for teachers and students alike” and I (436 words)
am all for this idea.

Some people are against everything going online

because they say we will lose human contact. I find
this to be a mistaken way of thinking since we will
still have our teachers in the classroom, and we can
always consult with them if there is anything we don’t
understand that needs clarification. Other students
who are always asking for extensions and never
getting things in on time are worried that they won’t
be able to get away with such behavior if everything
is online. My answer is that it’s high time they got
their act together and became more conscientious.
Having everything documented will be the best
incentive for them to become more responsible.
Finally, there are those who may not have access
to a digital device for financial reasons. As a result,
according to a US survey, 35% of Americans lack
basic computer literacy skills. This is the only valid
argument to my mind and, in this case, there should
be grants and free laptops for families who cannot
afford to buy them on their own.

The reason I’m in favor of homework and marking

going online is firstly, as mentioned above, students
(and teachers!) will become more responsible about
their homework, since everything is documented.
But more importantly, our academic lives will be
more organized. As it is now, there is still room
for misunderstanding and some students are not

12 t MICHIGAN ECPE PRACTICE TESTS 2

 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10

Practice Test 6
Task 2: Essay role in shaping a young person’s character, values
and work ethics. However, since a large proportion
Nowadays, people can learn about anything from of jobs are now done online, perhaps digital learning
anywhere in the world with the help of online will prepare the student in a more realistic way for
courses. Write an essay discussing the benefits the professional world which lies ahead. Finally,
and drawbacks of online courses and explain there are some that claim that online learning is
your opinion about this topic. Include at least one void of emotion and humanity, because everything
piece of information given above to support your is done through a screen rather than face to face.
response. They imagine a world in which actual interaction no
longer exists. Although I understand these fears, this
Model Essay is the path that technology is taking us down, so it is
Up until a few decades ago, people could only vital to embrace the benefits that it offers.
acquire an education by attending an institution in
person. Although face-to-face learning has some All in all, digital learning makes a top-class
distinct advantages, I am completely in favor of the education available to almost anyone, and for this
recent trend for all colleges to offer courses online. reason I am entirely in favor of it. As Gail Sesay,
educational expert, states, technology can be an
First and foremost, online education is less invaluable tool for teachers and students alike and
expensive than live lessons, making it more this is especially true of online classes. In an ideal
accessible to the public at large. This is true world, we would all be able to attend the college of
regardless of geographical location or budget. My our choice, but this being impossible, online classes
older cousin obtained his degree from the UK, an offer an excellent alternative.
education which cost his family a small fortune. Most
people, including myself, do not have the financial (485 words)
means to study abroad, especially considering that
the cost of living is very high in countries such as
the United States and the UK. With online courses,
I can get a degree from a respected college abroad
without it costing an arm and a leg.

In addition to this, learning online gives each

student the ability to pursue an education in exactly
they field they choose, regardless of where the
university is. In other words, if there is a college that
specializes in a student’s area of study but is on the
other side of the planet, the student could still take
courses from this college and be taught by the best
professors of the subject. When a professor gives a
lecture, it is does not make such a difference if the
student is in the same lecture hall or watching them
from a screen. As long as there is the opportunity to
ask questions and interact digitally, the educational
experience is virtually the same.

Of course, there is one main drawback of online

learning, namely the lack of contact with one’s
peers. An integral part of education is socialization,
because regardless of the level of school, it is a
microcosm of the world and plays a considerable

Model Compositions u 13
 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10
Practice Test 7

Task 1: Article fact, according to a 2017 report, 70% of youths who

get out of jail will most probably be arrested again.
A local activist group has proposed that people We have very little idea what circumstances led to
who commit low level crimes should be sentenced someone committing an illegal act, especially if it
to do community work instead of going to prison. was a minor one.
Many people are excited about this idea. Write an
article for the local newspaper about the possible For all of these reasons, I totally support this
effects of this idea and what you think about it. proposal to replace prison time with community
Include at least one piece of information given service, as long as the offender is not a menace
above to support your response. to society. After all, I feel that everyone deserves a
second chance, don’t you?
Model Article
It’s a sad truth that despite society’s efforts, crime (370 words)
is on the rise, especially in North America. Many
advocate that a great deal of the blame rests on
the shoulders of our justice system, especially
concerning prisons. This is why it is being proposed
that minor offenders not do time, but instead, be
made to do community work. I’m all for this idea, for
many reasons.

Let’s face it: our prison system is little more than a

university of crime. Petty criminals often enter for
committing minor offences, make connections there
and leave more entrenched in crime than ever.
Making them mingle with other criminals simply
serves to increase their identity as a person on the
wrong side of the law. This argument is backed up by
police officer Matt Andrews, who states that prisons
teach criminals to be even more aggressive and
dangerous than before going to jail.

It’s also shocking to consider how much money

is spent to fund prisons, money which would be
much better used in other areas of society, such as
career training to combat unemployment. If low level
criminals do community service instead of going to
prison, they would actually make money for the state
instead of being a financial burden. If this money was
channeled into rehabilitation programs for prisoners
leaving prisons, the benefits would be incredible.
This is especially true since according to Bureau
of Justice statistics, about three quarters of crimes
committed are non-violent in nature.

But to my mind, the best part of this program is that

these offenders will be given a second chance. Once
you go to prison, it’s as if you’re branded for life, and
you can easily commit more and more crimes. In

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 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10

Practice Test 7
Task 2: Essay Until we accept that criminals are humans who are
largely driven to a life of crime due to circumstance,
Prisons exist to reduce crime in society but are we will not understand that prisons merely serve as
they an effective way of dealing with criminals? a punishment to someone who does not know how
Write an essay addressing this topic and to survive otherwise. Perhaps the time has come
expressing your opinion about it. Include at least to examine why people turn to crime and alleviate
one piece of information given above to support mitigating conditions, instead of just throwing these
your response. people into prison.

Model Essay (337 words)

For many centuries, prisons have existed to protect
society from dangerous individuals, and to act as
a deterrent for would-be criminals. The problem is,
they are failing miserably to fulfil either of these two
purposes.

Modern prisons are veritable fortresses, with high-

tech security and highly-trained guards. They cost
a fortune to run, and in a vast majority of cases,
are private businesses. This means that the interest
is not in reducing the number of inmates, who in
actuality provide a higher revenue for the prison
business.

It should also be considered that many first-

time offenders leave prisons with a much better
knowledge of how to commit crimes and who to
commit them with. This point is articulated well by
police officer Matt Andrews, who says that prisons
often teach criminals to be even more aggressive
and dangerous than before. This is further
exacerbated by the fact that few people will employ
someone with a record, so a discharged prisoner is
virtually forced to go back to a life of crime in order
to survive.

But perhaps the most important argument is the

fact is that a prison sentence is akin to a label, one
which you cannot easily shake. Once someone
has served a sentence, they identify with criminal
life, a fact proven by a 2017 report which states
that 70% of youths released from prison are likely
to get rearrested. This proves beyond a doubt that
there is no rehabilitation or attempt to ensure that
prisoners improve or turn over a new leaf. Instead,
they usually return to a life of crime, and may even
commit more serious crimes that they had before.

Model Compositions u 15
 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10
Practice Test 8

Task 1: Proposal when students are more mature. At a young age,

it is crucial for students to develop a sense of self,
The Board of Education has decided to remove art communication and to test and stretch their limits.
from the school curriculum. Write a proposal to
the Head of the Board stating what your opinion is I hope my proposal has been useful and that my
and suggest ways in which the school curriculum suggestions will be taken into consideration. I thank
could be improved. Include at least one piece of you for taking the time to read it and look forward to
information given above to support your ideas. seeing positive changes in our educational system.

Model Proposal (375 words)

I am writing this proposal in response to the Board
of Education’s decision to eliminate the subject of art
from the school curriculum. I would like to express
why this would be a grave mistake and to make
suggestions about how the school curriculum could
undergo general improvements.

To begin with, a 2019 survey clearly states that art is

the favorite subject of over half of all primary school
students. In an era when many students associate
education with just learning facts and figures, and
therefore abhor it, it would not be a wise decision to
remove one of the few subjects they actually enjoy.
However, it is not merely about enjoyment. According
to Lydia Burke, a child psychologist, children can
learn to express and manage their feelings through
art. This is extremely important nowadays, as so
many members of the younger population suffer
from stress and depression. Finally, there is the
creative element of art. It is one of the few subjects
that teaches young minds to grow and develop in
an imaginative way. Thinking outside of the box and
being creative are skills that will serve students well
in these uncertain times.

Besides keeping art as a school subject, there are

other ways the school curriculum could be enriched.
I am strongly in favor of other artistic subjects such
as music and theater being offered, instead of being
after-school activities. At present, an American study
reports that 30% of public primary schools do not
offer art classes. All students need creative outlets
and to be encouraged to educate their spirits as well
as their minds. In order to accommodate more hours
of such classes, others would have to be reduced.
Subjects like history and certain sciences, though
necessary, could be taught for fewer hours. These
are subjects that can be pursued in later years

16 t MICHIGAN ECPE PRACTICE TESTS 2

 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10

Practice Test 8
Task 2: Essay In conclusion, although I appreciate the value of
artistic learning, I feel it is better left to parents to
Subjects like art are being replaced by more decide if and how their children should take such
practical ones, like computer science. What are the courses. In the meantime, public schools have an
benefits and drawbacks of this? Write an essay obligation to offer the knowledge and skills required
discussing the topic and explaining what you think to survive in this uncertain world. Without a deep
about it. Include at least one piece of information understanding of technology and practical matters,
given above to support your ideas. students will face great difficulty upon completing
high school and the educational system would have
Model Essay failed in its duty to equip them for real life.
In the effort to keep up with advancing technology
and other changes in society, subjects such as (357 words)
computer science are taking the place of more
artistic ones. There are both positive and negative
aspects to such a trend, one which I am generally in
favor of.

There is no denying that art, music and theater play

an important role in a child’s education. As Dr. Lydia
Burke states, art allows children to manage and
express their feelings. Communication is a crucial
skill, as is the psychological state of our children. It
is also true that over half of our schoolchildren say
that art is their favorite subject, according to a 2019
survey. It is always a good idea to keep children
happy so they are more open to learning and to
education in general.

However, the priority of school is neither to offer

psychological counseling nor to entertain children.
The world is growing at an ever-increasing pace
and the prime responsibility of school is to ensure
that to the best of its ability, students are prepared
for these changes. Technology is advancing
exponentially, and if children do not keep abreast of
these advances, they will not survive and flourish
when they have completed their education. Art,
music and theater should be offered after school,
or parents should take their kids to such classes at
the weekend. To my mind, they are extracurricular
activities which children should pursue in their own
free time. Besides courses in computer sciences,
skills such as cooking, cleaning and making repairs
should also be offered. These are valuable life
skills that every person needs but few people really
possess.

Model Compositions u 17
 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10
Practice Test 9

Task 1: Proposal However, I also feel it is key to address their

psychological and social needs. For this reason,
The municipal government is opening up a new events that bring in other members of the community
Immigrant Welcome Center to help immigrants should be organized so they get acquainted with one
in the area. Write a proposal to the Mayor another. Befriending locals will enable immigrants
suggesting why this is useful and what services to feel more at home and will encourage locals to
the center could offer. Include at least one piece of see them as fellow citizens that can enhance their
information given above to support your ideas. community rather than invaders who are a menace.

Model Proposal Ending, I applaud the municipal government’s

I am writing this proposal concerning the new endeavor to establish a much-needed Welcome
Immigrant Welcome Center that is to be established. Center with a view to facilitating the transition for
I would like to comment on its value and make some new immigrants. Each and every one of us has
suggestions as to services that could be offered at much to contribute to society, and by guiding and
the center. supporting immigrants, the entire community will be
enriched.
According to 2020 Immigration Bureau statistics,
there are 44.9 million immigrants in the United (401 words)
States at present. This is a large number, and it
is crucial that they be integrated into society while
maintaining their unique heritage. As Joe Forester,
a sociologist, points out, if immigrants settle into
society, the likelihood of their getting involved in
criminal activity decreases. Clearly, if people are
not able to make livelihoods and feel a certain level
of wellbeing, it becomes more likely they will turn
to crime or experience psychological difficulties.
This is why a center that will help new immigrants
learn skills and feel welcome in their community is
essential.

Regarding what services could be offered, I suggest

the focus be on teaching immigrants vocational
and language skills, as these are key elements to
helping them adjust to their new lives. At present,
a 2018 survey states that they occupy a significant
percentage of positions in industries such as
farming and fishing, cleaning, manufacturing and
accommodation industries. These are adequate jobs
but do not hold much potential for advancement.
This could lead to dissatisfaction as a large
proportion of immigrants are highly educated and
possess university degrees. Their inability to speak
the language is what often holds them back, so
language lessons should be available at all levels,
with a stress on professional English. Extra lessons
could also be offered for children to ensure that they
can follow their classes at school.

18 t MICHIGAN ECPE PRACTICE TESTS 2

 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10

Practice Test 9
Task 2: Essay Maintenance, Manufacturing and Tourism. It should
be noted that many of the jobs that immigrants
Immigration is increasing in many developed do, as vital as they are for the functioning of these
countries. What positive and negative effects might industries, are ones that Americans reject or look
this have? Write an essay discussing the topic and down upon.
explaining your opinion about it. Include at least
one piece of information given above to support It is also worth mentioning the incredible wealth of
your ideas. cultural experience and dimension that immigrants
can offer to the country they are settling in.
Model Essay From amazing culinary experiences to a general
Although migration from less wealthy to more broadening of the nation’s horizons, there are
developed countries has been ongoing for over countless benefits that immigration can bring to a
a century, it has witnessed an increase in recent society that is open-minded enough to embrace
decades, mostly due to growing poverty and political newcomers and new mentalities.
instability in under-developed areas. This has led to
both advantages and drawbacks, but ultimately, is a In an ideal world, nationality or origin would not
positive phenomenon as long as immigrants adjust play a role in the quality of a person’s life, and he
and contribute to their new community. or she would be valued for personality, knowledge
and efforts. In this way, society would advance and
There are those who fear that their country is people would live in harmony. Only if immigration is
being overrun by immigrants and will soon lose its appreciated and exploited for the benefits that it can
own national identity. At a glance, their fears may offer will this become a reality.
seem to hold water. According to 2020 Immigration
Bureau statistics, there are 44.9 million immigrants (433 words)
living in the United States, an astounding number.
They also fear that immigrants may not be able to
integrate into their new country, be left unemployed,
and hence resort to crime to survive. Some people
erroneously believe that rising crime rates are linked
to growing immigration.

However, to my mind, most developed countries

are made up of immigrants and in fact, that is how
they first came into existence. All of the so-called
“New World” countries, namely Australia, Canada
and America, were occupied by indigenous peoples
before Europeans of many backgrounds migrated
there. Some came to escape religious persecution,
others to escape poverty and others came in lieu of
a prison sentence. But all were immigrants and the
wide variety of their backgrounds has enriched these
nations, making them of the wealthiest in the world.

This brings me to my main point. Immigrants can

make significant contributions to the wealthy nations,
both economically and culturally. A 2018 survey
shows that they occupy a significant proportion
of positions in industries that are crucial to the
economy, including Agriculture, Cleaning and

Model Compositions u 19
 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10
Practice Test 10

Task 1: Article To sum up, I think transforming Norton’s Department

Store into an online store is a bad idea all round.
A local department store has decided to close Not only will it rob customers of the shopping
its doors and convert to online sales only. Some experience, I highly doubt it will be able to compete
customers are happy about this idea but others with giants such as Amazon, and thus the whole
are not. Write an article for the local newspaper endeavor will be in vain.
explaining the impact this measure can have on
customers and your opinion about it. Include at (362 words)
least one piece of information given above to
support your ideas.

Model Article
It seems that e-commerce sales are poised to
reach an all-time high. They have been growing
dramatically, according to a 2019 report, reaching
over 650,000 sales in 2021. That’s why it should
come as no surprise that many stores are closing
down and reopening online, but I never thought
it’d happen to Norton’s Department Store in
our own town. I’m devasted about this planned
transformation.

Let’s talk about the impact this will have on

customers. Of course, some of them will be pleased.
They’re the ones who are too lazy to leave the
comfort of their homes and want to do everything at
the press of a button. It will also cut down expenses
for the store, so this could translate into lower prices
of goods, since rent and utility will no longer be paid.
In addition, fewer employees will be needed, so that
will also help cut costs. Everyone wants lower prices
so customers will be benefited in this way.

However, I’m one of the customers who believes

that this will not be a positive change. Bill Jones,
social psychologist, says it best: “The fact that we’re
doing everything online is taking the humanity out
of the human race”. Going shopping for many is a
social experience. We plan an outing ahead of time,
it usually involves the company of a good friend or
family member that you don’t get to see enough of,
and it definitely warrants a pleasant meal or at least
a cup of coffee and chit chat. Norton’s is the perfect
place for such a shopping event; it carries a wide
array of products, there’s a café and a restaurant on
the top floor, and best of all, the staff is genuinely
friendly and helpful. I shudder to think about how
many of them will lose their jobs with the transition
to an online store.

20 t MICHIGAN ECPE PRACTICE TESTS 2

 Model Compositions for Tests 1-10

Practice Test 10
Task 2: Essay It is also much more convenient for employees
themselves to work from home. They can enjoy
Working from home is becoming increasingly more flexibility and can save hours upon hours
popular. What positive and negative impact might required for them to commute when they work at
this have? Write an essay addressing the topic a physical office. They also have more freedom
and explain your opinion about it. Include at least concerning their schedules. In many cases, they
one piece of information given above to support work when they want, be it early in the morning or
your ideas. late at night.

Model Essay Having said the above, I also feel that there should
More and more people are opting to work from be live staff meetings on a weekly or monthly
home, and indeed some companies even insist on basis, so as to maintain human contact and social
it. This is especially true during the global pandemic relationships. As long as this happens, I strongly
which forced many of us to stay home in enforced feel that distance working has more positive than
lockdowns all over the globe. A government survey negative effects, especially concerning employee
states that 4.3 million people are working from home wellbeing and the environment.
at least half the time, and the number is growing
every day. This phenomenon has both positive and (397 words)
negative consequences, both for society and the
employees, but to my mind, it is the most efficient
way for companies to operate.

On the one hand, I fully appreciate that working from

home can be very alienating. As Bill Jones, social
psychologist, points out, doing everything online is
making humanity less human. We see fewer and
fewer people face to face and tend to spend hours
glued to a screen. This can contribute to depression
and loneliness for a large proportion of the
population, especially for people who live on their
own. Many employees also complain that working
from home makes it more challenging to separate
their professional and private lives, and they end up
working more hours than they would were they in
their offices.

But there are many benefits which, for me, outweigh

these drawbacks. First and foremost, much less
damage is done to the environment as commuting
and travelling in general are reduced. Video
conferences are becoming so sophisticated that they
can essentially replace real meetings and perhaps
be even more efficient, which means that thousands
of people are no longer required to fly all over the
world to attend them. This can significantly reduce
air pollution, not to mention help conserve our
dwindling resources of oil.

Model Compositions u 21