Welcome to the writing section workshop. The iTEP Academic-Plus writing test is only 25 minutes long, but it effectively assesses your ability to communicate in two different academic contexts. In this lesson, we'll deconstruct both writing tasks, analyze model answers, and practice the crucial skills of brainstorming and outlining under pressure. Mastering these foundational skills is the key to writing a high-scoring response.
Task 1 Focus: The Short Note (5 minutes)
This first task tests your ability to write a short, practical piece of communication, usually an email or a note. You'll be given a scenario and asked to respond. The key challenges are task fulfillment, maintaining an appropriate tone, and being concise.
Analyzing the Prompt
First, let's look at a typical prompt. Your task is to read the instructions carefully and identify your audience, your purpose for writing, and any specific points you must include.
Sample Prompt:
You missed your sociology class yesterday and need to find out what you missed. Write a short email (50-75 words) to your classmate, Sarah, asking for her notes. You should also ask about the upcoming assignment that was discussed.
Analyzing a Model Answer
Now, let's examine a strong response. Notice how it directly addresses all parts of the prompt while staying within the word count.
Model Answer:
Hi Sarah,
I hope you're doing well. I'm sorry I had to miss yesterday's sociology lecture due to a doctor's appointment. Would you mind sharing your notes when you have a moment? I also heard Professor Davies discussed the upcoming essay assignment. Could you please clarify the main topic and the due date? I would really appreciate your guidance.
Thanks,
Alex (69 words)
Key Features:
- Tone: The tone is informal and friendly ("Hi Sarah," "Thanks") but still respectful, which is appropriate for a classmate. It avoids being overly casual or demanding.
- Task Fulfillment: The writer clearly states why they missed class, asks for notes, and specifically inquires about the assignment's topic and deadline. Every part of the prompt is covered.
- Conciseness: The message is direct and to the point. Every word serves a purpose; there is no redundant language. Vocabulary like "clarify" and "guidance" is efficient and academically appropriate.
Task 2 Focus: The Opinion Essay (20 minutes)
For this task, you'll write a longer, more formal essay (175-225 words) expressing your opinion on a given topic. You will need to present a clear argument and support it with reasons and examples.
How to Write a Opinion Essay
This video provides a helpful overview of the structure required for a strong opinion essay.
Deconstructing an Essay Prompt
The first step is to fully understand the question. Identify the core issue and decide which side you will argue for. You don't need to believe it personally, but you must choose a position you can logically defend.
Sample Prompt:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? "The widespread use of social media has made people less social in their daily lives." Support your opinion with specific reasons and examples.
Brainstorming Supporting Ideas
Before you start writing, take 2-3 minutes to brainstorm. A simple T-chart is an effective way to quickly gather ideas for both sides of an argument. This helps you choose the stronger position to defend.
Example Brainstorming (T-Chart):
| Agree (Less Social) | Disagree (More Social) |
|---|---|
| People prefer virtual interaction | Connects people across distances |
| Less face-to-face contact | Organizes real-life social events |
| Public spaces are quieter (e.g., cafes) | Builds communities with shared interests |
| Can lead to feelings of isolation | Offers support networks |
Creating a Simple 3-Part Outline
Once you've chosen your stance, create a quick outline. This structure will guide your writing and ensure your essay is coherent and well-organized. Proponents of outlining find it saves them time in the long run.
A basic outline should include:
- Introduction:
- Hook: A general statement to catch the reader's interest.
- Thesis Statement: Your main argument, clearly stating your position. (e.g., "While social media offers new ways to connect, its overuse has ultimately diminished the quality of face-to-face interactions, making people less social.")
- Body Paragraph(s):
- Topic Sentence: State the main idea of the paragraph. (e.g., "One major reason for this decline in sociability is the preference for digital communication over personal contact.")
- Supporting Details: Provide reasons, facts, or examples to substantiate your claim.
- Conclusion:
- Restate Thesis: Rephrase your main argument in a new way.
- Final Thought: A concluding remark or prediction.
Strategy Focus: Time Allocation
Managing your 25 minutes is critical. If you don't allocate your time wisely, you may not be able to complete both tasks. Here is a recommended strategy:
Task 1: The Short Note (Total: 5 minutes)
- 1 minute: Read the prompt and plan your response.
- 3 minutes: Write your note.
- 1 minute: Proofread for errors in grammar and spelling.
Task 2: The Opinion Essay (Total: 20 minutes)
- 3 minutes: Brainstorm and create your outline.
- 15 minutes: Write the essay.
- 2 minutes: Proofread your work for clarity, grammar, and spelling mistakes.
Adhering to this schedule will help you stay on track and give you a chance to review your work, which is an indispensable part of the writing process.