Writing module (1 hour) Guidance The Academic Writing test lasts for an hour, and consists of two parts. The first part is shorter than the second, and carties only one third of the marks, so you should spend about 20 minutes on this part and 40 minutes on the second part. For each part you should allow enough time to plan what you are going to say before you begin writing, and to check what you have written afterwards. Task 1 In the first part, you have to write a minimum of 150 words altogether. You are presented with a visual which you have to describe in words, providing a general ‘overview with supporting details. The visual might be a line graph, a bar chart, a pie chart, a diagram or a plan, and the subject of the visuals are varied. Subjects might include social trends, economics, natural or industrial processes, or health, but you do not need any specialist knowledge to do the task. ‘You are expected to write in a neutral or formal style. Task 2 In the second part, you have to write an essay with a minimum of 250 words. This, involves commenting on an issue or problem which is presented in the task. You are expected to discuss various points of view and arrive at a conclusion. Topics are varied, and might include health, lifestyles, environment, or education, but you do not have to have any special knowledge to be able to do the task. You are expected to write in a neutral or formal style. TEST 1, WRITING MODULE(CUETTSSEMME You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. The table below shows the results of surveys in 2000, 2005 and 2010 about one university. ‘Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words. Percentage of students giving good ratings for different aspects of a university 2000 2005 2010 Teaching quality 65 63 69 Print resources 87 89 88 Electronic resources 45 72 88 Range of modules offered 32 [30 27 Buildings/teaching facilities 77 7 TT Tip strip + Make sure you understand exactly what the vival shows In this task the Figures inthe table: + relate to just one university, * ate from three different surveys, + indicate changes in student attitudes. You get this key information from two sources: the first sentenca of the task itself and the ttle of the visual() ‘+ For Task 1, the second part of the rubric is always the same, + Start with an introductory sentence ‘which summarises what the visual shows. Don't simply copy down ‘what's in the rubric ~ this is a waste of your time + Take some time before you start ‘writing to look for any improvements, reductions, fluctuations and similarities, Report the most striking point fist. In this task, itis probably that there ‘was a great improvement in students’ ‘opinions of the university’ electronic + Give data to support the claims you make~ citing specific percentages. But you don't need to quote exact figures for every point ~ you will gain marks for showing that you can be selective, * Don't write too much: 150-200 words willbe enough. You won't be given any lextta marks For writing a longer piece, and you need to leave enough tma for Task 2 (CINETIISRESSEM You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic: ‘Some say that because many people are living much longer, the age at which people retire from work should be raised considerably. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience. White at least 250 words. Tip strip + Be clear which specific aspect of the task you need ta discuss, In this tas, you need to talk about whether the ge of retirement should be raised and if so, whether it should be by a small or large amount, + The second line of the task in Task 2 differs from paper to paper. * You could give your point of view and then provide illustrations and evidence to support this opinion, r, you could explore both sides (of the question and then go on to give your own opinion and explain the arguments you find particularly persuasive. *+ Write using paragraphs and make Sure each paragraph has a clear central topic: TEST 1, WRITING MODULE