how to write an igcse literature essay

IGCSE English Literature: Essay Writing Guide

Nuha ghouse.

Created on May 7, 2019
Blog , IGCSE , Learning Tips

Essay Writing Guide: How to Write Essay Writing for IGCSE

Guidelines for igcse essay writing.

While most of you have already had experience of essay writing, it is important to realise that essay writing at University level may be different from the practices you have so far encountered.

The aim of this tutorial is to discuss what is required of an English Literature essay at University level, including:

1. information on the criteria in relation to which your essay will be judged

2. how to plan and organise an essay

Planning an Essay: Essay Structure
Independence and Critical Reading
Use of Secondary Material

3. advice on writing style

4. a final checklist

Must Read: Cambridge IGCSE: Benefits, Subjects, Grading Scheme, and Tips

WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA?

In assessing essays , you are asked to bear in mind:

Relevance to the essay-subject as it has been set;
A well-defined line of argument, with each stage clearly marked;
Appropriate, economical, and accurate illustration;
Mastery of the relevant background material (contextual, critical, theoretical), and evidence of independent and wide-ranging reading;
Evidence of independent thinking about the subject, and, where ideas are taken from critics, ability to apply them to materials of the student’s own choice;
Crisp expression. Failure to stay within the maximum number of words set for written work will be penalised;
Spelling, punctuation, grammar;
Accurate and comprehensive referencing of sources and list of Works Cited.

Must Read: Notice Writing Format, Importance, Examples and How to Prepare

HOW TO PLAN AND ORGANISE AN ESSAY

Planning for IGCSE essay writing needs careful planning which is the key to producing a good essay.

Do NOT begin to write your essay the night before it is due to be submitted.

You should allow yourselves time to consider, plan, write, rewrite and revise, and proof read your essay before its submission.

The diagram and questions reproduced below will assist you in planning your essay .

Must Read: Directed Writing: Format, Benefits, Topics, Common Mistakes and Examples

ESSAY STRUCTURE

Your essay should present a discussion and a reasoned argument:

it should not be a set of random reflections on the texts or topic you have chosen.

This will require some planning and organisation of your material before you begin to write, to ensure that your argument is coherent and engages directly with the question asked.

A good introduction is often the key to a good essay.

The first thing you should do is define any complex or potentially ambiguous terms in the question.

This can also be one good way of effecting an introduction. Another is to consider why the question might be asked, what makes it interesting, or why it is relevant to the texts you are considering.

You might also use your introduction to outline briefly your intentions in writing the essay: but remember that for a 1,000 or 2,000 word essay the introduction will necessarily be brief.

The body of the essay of the essay should relate to the issues you outline in your introduction. It also needs a coherent structure :

if you have used your introduction to identify the key issues of your discussion, structuring the essay becomes easier, as you can address these issues in separate paragraphs.

Make the links and transitions between paragraphs clear. Remember that every paragraph and sentence should contribute directly to your argument.

Your essay needs to strike a balance between argument and supporting evidence.

Avoid unsupported generalisations. Stating that ‘society is a patriarchy’ or that ‘evil is more interesting than good’ without offering evidence to support the assertion is little different from claiming that ‘the earth is flat’ or ‘tall people are more intelligent than short ones’.

Even your more particular points about texts or issues always need supporting evidence, often in the form of quotations from the texts. Remember that you may need to explain how your evidence supports your point.

Your essay needs a conclusion to avoid it petering out and losing its force. You might use the conclusion to draw together the threads of your argument, to re-visit the original question, or even to point towards new questions that your discussion has opened up. Whatever your conclusion, you should use it to step back slightly from the detail of the preceding argument to re-consider the wider picture.

INDEPENDENCE AND CRITICAL READING

The purpose of an essay is to develop and present your own thinking about the texts and issues raised by the question.

All essays are likely to draw on ideas taken from others, whether from critical books, lectures or discussions.

But clearly an essay is not intended to be simply an anthology of others’ ideas: those ideas should only be introduced in order to form and advance your own argument, which is both the substance and the purpose of the essay.

USE OF SECONDARY (CRITICAL) MATERIAL

Critical books and articles are often useful in stimulating your ideas about the literature you are writing on.

It is also important to develop some awareness of the ongoing critical debate about works and literary issues; sometimes you may even be asked to write about the critical or theoretical works themselves.

But ideas and words from other writers should never simply replace your own, either directly, or in the form of paraphrase.

Quoted or paraphrased thoughts and words from another critic should be included in the text of your essay only if you wish to say something about them. You may want to take issue with them, or to develop them, or to illustrate a particular view which you then discuss.

It is not helpful to quote from or paraphrase critics simply because you think their words sound more authoritative than your own.

While you will often draw on other critics’ ideas, you need to distinguish their words and opinions clearly from your own.

Students should exercise caution and care in the use of paraphrase in particular.

It is imperative that the reader should always be able 7 to distinguish your voice and argument from that of the critics you cite.

So avoid simply ventriloquising critical arguments and conduct instead a critical engagement with them. For example, do not accept interpretations in critical works as matters of fact; demonstrate to the reader of your essay the ways in which you have produced a thoughtful response to the critics that you have employed.

If you do not ensure that there is no confusion in an essay about the origin of its arguments, you will find that your readers are unable to judge your arguments. You will also lay yourself open to a charge of plagiarism, which is a serious academic offence.

Access the Learning Platform

University level essays should be written in a formal style and demonstrate your understanding of the codes of academic discourse as they relate to the study of English Literature.

While there are variations between different disciplines, there are three main characteristics that are common to all academic essays. These are:

An overriding concern to interpret and make meaning through the presentation of arguments;
Careful attention to the marshalling of relevant and valid facts, examples and other kinds of evidence to substantiate or refute arguments and interpretations;
A structure or organisational framework which has not been chosen arbitrarily, but is instead designed to present arguments and evidence in a coherent and logically appropriate form

Clarity and expressiveness of language is obviously particularly important in essays on literature, and the development of an accurate and engaging writing style is one of the aims of a degree in this discipline.

Are you interested in learning IGCSE English Literature ? In a matter of seconds, create an account with Tutopiya.com for a 60 minute free trial to see whether our Online Whiteboard classroom is the right decision for your child

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Nuha Gouse is the Co-founder of Tutopiya and is equipped with a first class honours Math degree from Imperial College, London. Her mission is to provide personalized individual lessons online where students from around the world can learn at their own pace and convenience.

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How to Write an Outstanding IGCSE English Essay?

Author: Litera Centre
Updated: November 27, 2023
Language: English

Writing an outstanding IGCSE English essay is a skill that can elevate your academic performance and equip you with invaluable communication abilities. Whether you’re a student aiming to excel in your IGCSE examinations or an aspiring writer looking to hone your craft, mastering the art of essay composition is essential.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the intricacies of crafting exceptional IGCSE English essays. From understanding the essay prompt and organizing your thoughts to perfecting your writing style and enhancing your argumentation, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this academic endeavor with confidence and finesse.

Let’s dig deeper to unlock the secrets of impressive essay writing.

The Significance of IGCSE English Essay!

Before giving you the tips to ace the IGCSE English essay writing, let’s know the significance of this section first:

Global Recognition & Standardization:

The IGCSE English Essay holds immense significance due to its global recognition and standardization. It is administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education, which is respected worldwide for its rigorous curriculum and assessments. This means that when a student completes the IGCSE English Essay, their achievement is recognized and respected by educational institutions and employers around the world.

Enhanced Language Proficiency:

The IGCSE English Essay plays a pivotal role in enhancing a student’s language proficiency. It encourages students to engage with diverse texts, fostering their reading, writing, and comprehension skills. As a result, students become more adept at expressing their ideas and thoughts clearly and effectively, a crucial skill in both academic and professional settings.

Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills:

Another significant aspect of the IGCSE English Essay is its emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills. Through analyzing literary texts, students develop the ability to dissect complex ideas, interpret themes, and make persuasive arguments. These skills are not only essential for success in the English subject but are transferable to various fields, including law, journalism, and research.

Cultural Awareness & Empathy:

The IGCSE English Essay often includes a variety of literary works from different cultures and periods. This exposure fosters cultural awareness and empathy in students as they explore the perspectives and experiences of characters from diverse backgrounds. Such awareness is vital in today’s interconnected world, promoting tolerance and understanding.

Preparation for Advanced Study and Careers:

Beyond its academic benefits, the IGCSE English Essay serves as a crucial stepping stone for students planning to pursue further education or careers that require strong communication and writing skills. It provides a solid foundation for more advanced English courses, including A-levels and university-level studies. Additionally, in a professional context, effective writing and communication skills are highly valued and can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

In conclusion, the IGCSE English Essay holds great significance in a student’s educational journey. It offers a standardized platform for language development, fosters critical thinking, promotes cultural awareness, and equips students with skills that are valuable both in academia and the professional world. Its benefits extend far beyond the classroom, making it a valuable and worthwhile component of a student’s education.

Step-to-Step Process to Write an Excellent IGCSE English Essay:

Here are seven steps you must follow to write an outstanding IGCSE English essay:

Step 1: Understand the Essay Prompt:

This step involves dissecting the essay question meticulously. In simpler words, you need to identify essential keywords as well as directives, such as “analyze,” “discuss,” or “compare.”

By carefully deconstructing the prompt, you gain a clear understanding of what the essay requires. This initial comprehension is vital, as it forms the basis for your essay’s direction and structure. It ensures that you don’t deviate from the essay’s core purpose and helps you focus on addressing the specific elements the prompt intends to evaluate, setting the stage for a well-structured and on-point essay.

Step 2: Brainstorm and Plan:

Here, you take time to gather your thoughts and devise a strategic approach. Start by brainstorming ideas related to the essay prompt, considering potential arguments, themes, and examples. This brainstorming helps clarify your thoughts and allows you to identify the most compelling points to include in your essay.

Subsequently, create an outline or a mind map that organizes these ideas into a coherent structure. This plan serves as a roadmap for your essay, ensuring that your arguments flow logically and are well-organized.

By investing time in this step, you set yourself up for a more organized and effective essay.

Step 3: Introduction with a Strong Thesis Statement:

Needless to say, the introduction serves as the gateway to your essay, and it should be engaging to capture the reader’s attention. It begins with a hook, which can be a quote, a question, or a compelling statement relevant to the topic.

Following the hook, you must present a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the central argument or purpose of your essay.

The thesis statement is the essay’s backbone, providing a roadmap for what the reader can expect. It sets the tone and direction for the entire essay and is essential for a well-structured and coherent piece of writing.

Step 4: Body Paragraphs with Evidence and Analysis:

Each body paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence, summarizing the main point of that specific paragraph. Following this, you should provide supporting evidence, which may include quotes from the text, examples, or references to literary elements.

Once the evidence is presented, you need to engage in in-depth analysis. This means interpreting and explaining the significance of the evidence in your thesis statement.

The combination of evidence and analysis reinforces your arguments and ensures that your essay is not just a summary, but a critical exploration of the topic, fostering a deeper understanding of the text and its themes.

Step 6: Transition Smoothly Between Paragraphs:

To maintain the coherence and flow of your essay, you should use transitional words and phrases effectively. These transitions connect your ideas, guide the reader through your argument, and establish logical relationships between paragraphs.

Common transitional words and phrases include “furthermore,” “however,” “in contrast,” and “conversely.”

By implementing these transitions, you create a seamless narrative that allows the reader to follow your essay’s progression effortlessly. This step is essential for making your IGCSE English Essay more comprehensible and ensuring that your arguments are presented in a clear and interconnected manner.

Step 7: Conclusion and Final Thoughts:

In this stage, you need to summarize the key points you’ve made in the body of your essay, restate your thesis statement using different wording, and provide a sense of closure to your argument.

Your conclusion should offer a concise reflection on the main themes and arguments, reinforcing their significance and relevance. It should leave a lasting impression on the reader, helping them understand the broader implications of your analysis.

A strong conclusion ties up your essay neatly, leaving a lasting impact and ensuring that your message resonates with the reader.

Step 8: Proofread and Edit:

This step involves a comprehensive review of your work to eliminate grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation issues. In addition to basic mechanics, you should also assess the clarity and coherence of your writing.

Ensure that your arguments and ideas are logically presented and that your essay is well-structured. Reading your essay aloud can help identify awkward phrasing or convoluted sentences.

Editing is a critical step that polishes your work, ensuring it is clear, concise, and free from distractions. It guarantees that your message is communicated effectively and leaves a lasting positive impression on the reader.

How Can Litera Centre Help You?

So, are you preparing for the IGCSE English examination, with a specific focus on essay writing? Look no further, as Litera Centre is here to provide you with the expert guidance, valuable resources, and personalized coaching you need to excel in your IGCSE journey.

At Litera Centre, we understand the importance of excelling in the IGCSE English Essay examination, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your academic goals. Our team of experienced educators and English language experts are here to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to tackle the essay writing component of the exam with confidence and precision.

With our tailored coaching, you’ll receive personalized attention and support, ensuring that you fully grasp the intricacies of essay writing, including structure, argument development, and grammar.

Don’t leave your IGCSE English success to chance. Let Litera Centre be your partner in achieving excellence in your examinations. Join us today and take a step closer to taking your IGCSE English examination.

References:

https://www.oxford-royale.com/articles/how-to-write-brilliant-essays/

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How to Write an IGCSE English Literature Essay: A Comprehensive Guide

by Sean Brown
October 26, 2023

Are you an IGCSE student looking to excel in your English literature exams ? Look no further! In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write an impressive IGCSE English literature essay. Whether you’re wondering how to get full marks or how to structure your answer effectively, we’ve got you covered.

Writing an IGCSE English literature essay can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, you can develop the skills needed to succeed. Understanding the key elements of a strong essay, such as analysis, organization, and effective use of evidence, is crucial. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to acing your IGCSE English literature exam.

So, if you’re ready to take your English literature essay writing skills to the next level and boost your exam performance, let’s dive in and explore the ins and outs of writing an exceptional IGCSE English literature essay. It’s time to unlock your full potential in the realm of literary analysis!

How to Craft an IGCSE English Literature Essay Like a Pro

Writing an IGCSE English literature essay can seem as daunting as entering the Gryffindor common room without the password. But fear not, dear friend, for we shall unlock the secrets of this literary maze together. Prepare to unleash your inner Shakespeare as we delve into the art of crafting a masterpiece essay that will leave your examiner in awe.

Unleash Your Inner Wordsmith

To embark on this epic quest, you must first unleash your inner wordsmith. Pick up your quill and embrace the power of language. Dive deep into the text, dissecting it with the precision of a seasoned surgeon. Analyze the themes, characterization, and literary devices with a keen eye, like Sherlock Holmes solving a perplexing case.

Choose Your Literary Arsenal Wisely

Now that you’ve become one with the text, it’s time to choose your literary arsenal wisely. Select the most potent quotes to support your arguments, like a chef handpicking the freshest ingredients for a delectable feast. These quotes will be the foundation upon which you build your literary fortress, so choose wisely, my friend.

The Art of Structuring Your Essay

Ah, structure—the backbone of any great essay. Begin with an introduction that will hook your reader like a fish caught in the Great Barrier Reef. Provide a brief overview of the text and your thesis statement, leaving your examiner eager to dive deeper into your analysis.

Next, traverse the treacherous terrain of body paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the text, like a spotlight illuminating the hidden depths. Start with a topic sentence that encapsulates the main point of the paragraph, and then seamlessly integrate your supporting evidence and analysis. Remember, clarity is key—don’t leave your reader lost in a literary labyrinth.

Finally, conclude your essay with a conclusion that is more satisfying than devouring a pint of Ben & Jerry’s on a scorching summer day. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis, and leave your reader with a lingering sense of awe.

The Battle Against Time: Tips for Time Management

In the heat of battle, time is your fiercest adversary. To emerge victorious, you must master the art of time management. Begin by planning your essay before charging headfirst into battle. Break down the allotted time for each section of your essay, ensuring you leave no stone unturned. Remember, in the battlefield of literature, time is a precious commodity.

The Epilogue: Proofread and Polish

Once you’ve conquered the literary battlefield, the battle is not yet won. The final step on your hero’s journey is to proofread and polish your essay. Read it aloud, ensuring each sentence dances off your tongue like a ballet in the Royal Opera House. Check for grammar and punctuation errors, eliminating them with the precision of a ninja wielding a katana. Fine-tune your language, making every word count like a wizard casting a spell.

And there you have it, dear adventurer—the secrets to crafting an IGCSE English literature essay that will make your examiner’s heart skip a beat. So go forth, armed with your quill and your newfound knowledge , and conquer the literary world like the hero you are. May your words be mighty and your essays epic. Good luck!

Note: This article is meant for entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for real studying. Remember to always follow your teacher’s guidelines and consult with them for any clarifications. Happy writing!

FAQ: How to Ace Your IGCSE English Literature Essay

Q: how can i score top marks in icse english literature.

A: Achieving full marks in ICSE English literature requires a blend of skill, knowledge, and finesse. Fear not, fellow literature enthusiasts! Here are some tips to set you on the right path:

Master the Texts:

To excel in your ICSE English literature exam, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the prescribed texts. Dive into the literary ocean and explore the subtle nuances, themes, and characters within each piece. A comprehensive understanding will allow you to craft insightful and sophisticated essays.

Craft Engaging Introductions:

First impressions matter, even in the realm of essay writing. Captivate your reader’s attention with a compelling introduction that sets the stage for your analysis. Be strategic in your approach and consider incorporating relevant quotes or thought-provoking anecdotes to leave a lasting impact.

Analyze Like Sherlock:

Unleash your inner detective by becoming a master of literary analysis. Don’t settle for surface-level interpretations; delve deeper into the text, uncover hidden meanings, and unravel the author’s intent. Use evidence from the text to support your claims, just like Sherlock Holmes employs evidence to crack his cases.

Structure is Key:

An organized essay can make all the difference in ensuring your thoughts are coherent and logical. Craft a clear and concise thesis statement that encapsulates your main argument, and use paragraph breaks to present different aspects of your analysis. This will guide the reader through your essay effortlessly, just like a GPS guides you to your destination.

Show Off Your Language Skills:

Venture beyond the mundane and showcase your linguistic prowess . Incorporate a wide array of vocabulary, employing the enchanting power of synonyms and metaphors to make your writing sparkle like a firework on New Year’s Eve. Remember, expanding your linguistic toolkit will impress both your examiner and your future self.

Q: How do you write an IGCSE English literature essay

A: Writing a stellar IGCSE English literature essay is an art form in itself. Fear not, eager learner, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the realm of literary analysis:

Step 1: Unearth the Question’s Secrets:

The first step is to understand the question. Read it carefully and identify the key elements and themes it presents. Highlight any specific literary techniques or context provided. This will serve as your map, guiding you through the treacherous terrain of the essay.

Step 2: Plan Your Literary Journey:

Never embark on an essay adventure without a well-crafted plan. Jot down your key arguments, supporting evidence, and the overall structure of your essay. This roadmap will prevent you from wandering aimlessly through the text and help you stay on track, like a compass guiding a lost traveler.

Step 3: A Deep Dive Into the Text:

With a clear plan in hand, embark on a deep exploration of the text. Analyze the characters, themes, symbols, and literary devices used by the author. Pay attention to the author’s style and the historical context in which the text was written. The more you unravel, the more compelling your analysis will be.

Step 4: Craft Your Masterpiece:

Now it’s time to transform your thoughts into an eloquent essay. Begin with a captivating introduction that entices your reader. Each body paragraph should present a unique argument, supported by relevant evidence from the text. Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing your key points and leaving the reader with a lasting impression.

Step 5: Polishing Your Gem:

Before you submit your essay, give it a thorough polish. Check for grammar and spelling errors, ensure your arguments flow smoothly, and verify that your essay adheres to the required structure and word count. Don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion from your trusted literary confidants.

Q: How do you write an English literature answer

A: Ah, the art of crafting an English literature answer—an endeavor that combines creativity, analysis, and precision. Here’s a guide to help you conquer this challenge:

1. Decode the Question:

Take a moment to decipher the question, much like deciphering hieroglyphics from ancient times. Identify the key themes, literary techniques, and textual references required to construct a well-rounded answer. This initial decoding will lay the foundation for your literary masterpiece.

2. Structure with Finesse:

A well-structured response lays the groundwork for success. Begin with a captivating introduction that grabs the reader’s attention, then utilize body paragraphs to delve into the intricacies of the question. Finally, wrap it up neatly with a conclusion that ties your thoughts together like the final brushstroke on a portrait.

3. Analyze, Analyze, Analyze:

Analysis is the bread and butter of any English literature answer. Dissect the text with the precision of a surgeon, exploring themes, characters, and literary techniques intricately. Support your analysis with textual evidence, inviting your reader to journey through the text alongside you.

4. The Key to Language Brilliance:

Incorporate a cornucopia of linguistic devices into your answer to showcase your mastery of the English language. Sprinkle your writing with expressive vocabulary, tantalizing metaphors, and elegant sentence structures. This linguistic prowess will elevate your answer to new heights, impressing both your examiner and your inner Shakespeare.

5. Revise Like a Pro:

Once you’ve completed your answer, take a moment to revise your work with a discerning eye. Check for any grammatical errors, inconsistencies, or missed opportunities to strengthen your argument. Refining your answer through revision ensures that your masterpiece shines brightly, untarnished by careless mistakes.

Q: How do I pass IGCSE English literature

A: Ah, the quest to taste success in IGCSE English literature. Fear not, noble scholar! Here are some tips to guide you on your path to victory:

Dive into the Texts:

To pass IGCSE English literature, familiarity with the prescribed texts is non-negotiable. Delve into the intricacies of each piece, analyzing themes, characters, and literary techniques. The better you know the texts, the more confidently you can tackle essay questions.

Expand Your Vocabulary:

Explore the vast realm of the English language, venturing beyond the confines of everyday vocabulary. Expand your lexicon with diverse words that evoke emotion and paint vivid pictures in the minds of your readers. Impress the examiner with your linguistic prowess, leaving them yearning for more.

Practice Makes Perfect:

Harness the power of practice to hone your skills. Write timed essays, engage in literary discussions, and seek feedback from your peers or teachers. Each practice session brings you closer to perfection and boosts your confidence for the final showdown.

Embrace the Mark Scheme:

The mark scheme is your holy grail to IGCSE success. Study it meticulously, understanding the criteria by which your work will be assessed. Tailor your essays to meet the examiner’s expectations, utilizing the mark scheme as your guiding star.

Stay Calm and Read On:

The key to triumph is to remain calm during the exam. Read each question carefully, plan your answers strategically, and manage your time wisely. Take deep breaths, channel your inner literature enthusiast, and conquer the exam like a knight on a quest for knowledge.

Remember, dear reader, success in IGCSE English literature requires not only knowledge but also a passion for the written word. Embrace the subject, let your creativity flow, and savor the joy of immersing yourself in the captivating world of literature.

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How to Write Essays – CAIE IGCSE Literature

Here’s everything you need to know about essay writing for IGCSE Literature!

When I was at school, they never taught us to write an essay. I actually just ignored essays most of the time and spent my energy enjoying the books and texts that were given. Big mistake. When it came to exams, I hadn’t a clue how to structure my answer and I just sort of threw everything I knew at the question in the hope that some of it were somehow useful. I didn’t plan because I didn’t know how, so I started writing and I would write almost infinite ideas, pages, and pages of thoughts organised into random, small paragraphs. This is exactly how not to write an essay.

Essay writing, like reading poetry, is an art, a skill, and a craft. You aren’t just magically born with the ability to write an amazing essay, you have to work hard at it and learn it, just like anything else. If you’re really not sure about essays, I would recommend far more than just reading this short section on them.

Thanks for reading! A really good place to start with basics on Essay Writing and Academic Writing are Scrbbly courses, you can find them on the links below:

Basic Essay Writing

Academic Writing

All our English Language and Literature courses

Writing an excellent essay

I can’t stress enough how important it is to learn to write essays. The older you get, the more important it becomes. Every English Literature question you do requires you to write an essay. Many English Language questions are also essay-based, or analysis based – and a paragraph of analysis is the same as a middle paragraph in a full essay. If you take or are planning to take humanities subjects – history, law, politics, classics, classical civilisation, sociology, film, art, music, drama, dance, architecture, geography, archaeology, religious studies, and more – these all require you to write essays as a main form of assessment. Therefore, you need them more and more the older you get, and the more you specialise. A Levels are mostly essay based on these subjects, and universities will be almost completely essay-based. Plus the type of essay you need to write gets harder and more complex as you go along, so there really is no better time to start learning essays than right now.

Why do I need to bother?

Even if you’re maths and science-minded, the higher levels of study (A-Level, University, Postgraduate) increasingly require you to write essays. Being a scientist that can write essays and communicate well is a very rare skill set to have, so it will make you more employable and advance your career much further than if you just ignore that part of it and focus on learning formulas and processes. I have a student at the moment who’s on track for a First Class degree in Engineering at university, except he’s got to do an 8000-word essay dissertation and he hasn’t got a clue where to start! So hopefully, you can see that no matter what kind of person you are if you’re aiming for good grades now and higher education in the future, then you absolutely have to learn to write essays.

Right, now that I’ve convinced you, we can actually get down to what essays are and how to do them. Every essay has a beginning, middle, and end. These are typically referred to as the following:

INTRODUCTION

MIDDLE PARAGRAPHS

CONCLUSION

Over the next few paragraphs, I’ll break down below what each one should do for you.

INTRODUCTION

Introduce your ideas on the question
Don’t introduce the book or spend ages introducing the context
Perhaps set up a debate by looking at different angles
Present a THESIS (very important!). Your thesis is a one-sentence answer to the question that summarises all your main thoughts and ideas. It is the main argument of your essay. The whole point of an essay is to develop a thesis, and then to explore and prove your thesis correct as you go through your middle paragraphs
To start with, master the PEE structure and get used to that
For students aiming for higher grades (B and above), you need to work on expanding that PEE structure – try a more advanced structure such as PETAL paragraphs . I personally do mine like this:

Technique / Device

Development – alternative interpretation, extra evidence, and analysis or context analysis

Link – link back to, but expand upon your original point, you could link to the thesis

Don’t skip this because it is important!
The purpose of a conclusion is to summarise all of your main points and ideas again, so go back over your essay, find what you’re most proud of, and put it here.
You should also repeat, and ideally develop or slightly modify your thesis here.

These are the basics of essay writing. The best thing to do is to practise a lot and receive feedback. If you keep going, then you’ll end up at that point where you’re writing great essays!

The Theme of Morality in To Kill A Mockingbird

Unseen Poetry Exam Practice – Spring

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Writing – PEE Breakdown

Emily Dickinson A Level Exam Questions

Unseen Poetry Exam Practice: The Man He Killed

Poem Analysis: Sonnet 116 by William Shakespeare

An Inspector Calls – Official AQA Exam Questions

The Dolls House by Katherine Mansfield: Summary + Analysis

An Occurrence At Owl Creek Bridge: Stories of Ourselves:

How to Get Started with Narrative Writing

Prose - IGCSE Literature in English 0475

Topic outline.

Resource Plus Prose

Important notice

Resource Plus is a supplementary support for the Cambridge IGCSE / IGCSE (9-1) Literature in English course and is not intended as an exhaustive guide to the teaching and assessment of the subject. We encourage teachers to try out different approaches to suit different learning styles and encourage candidates’ to explore their own writing styles and personal responses to the texts that they study.

Videos: Assessment objectives

Teaching packs.

Set Text animation
Language, structure and form
Unseen Prose - Using quotations
Unseen Prose - Tone and voice
Unseen Prose - Writer's techniques
Great Expectations
Picnic at Hanging Rock
Purple Hibiscus
The Namesake
The War of the Worlds
To Kill a Mockingbird
Fire on the Mountain
Things Fall Apart
Show detailed knowledge of the content of literary texts in the three main forms (drama, poetry and prose), supported by reference to the text.

When you use selected quotations, and develop explanations of meaning, significance and context in your paragraphs then you are addressing AO1 and AO2
When you use these same quotations to analyse the range of effects created by the writer’s use of language and structure devices, then you are meeting AO3
AO4 relates to the entirety of a candidate’s response, but it can be explicitly addressed and reinforced in a well-developed conclusion.
In poetry you have a wide range of structural devices to draw upon which are absent in Prose
In drama you can consider and discuss the use of stagecraft in your responses
In Prose, the narrative style is an important element that can be different from techniques used in Drama and Poetry texts
Understand the meanings of literary texts and their contexts, and explore texts beyond surface meanings to show deeper awareness of ideas and attitudes.

Recognise and appreciate ways in which writers use language, structure and form to create and shape meanings and effects.

Communicate a sensitive and informed personal response to literary texts.

We have selected a few of the Set Texts as an example of a type of activity teachers may use to engage their learners when introducing a Set Text. The content of these videos will need to be expanded on to cover what candidates are expected to know and be able to comment on in an examination.

Teaching Pack: Set text animation - Rebecca

Chapters 1-6
Chapters 7-11
Chapters 12-15
Chapters 16-18
Chapters 19-27

Teaching Pack: Set text animation - Picnic at Hanging Rock

Teaching Pack: Set text - Purple Hibiscus

Teaching Pack: Set text - The War of the WorldTo Kill a Mockingbird

Introduction

Teaching Pack: Set text - Fire on the Mountain

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GCSE Literature Plan & Write Essay Guide

Subject: English

Age range: 14-16

Resource type: Assessment and revision

Last updated

19 May 2018

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A pupil friendly, step by step, English Literature essay planning and writing guide.

These resources provide a framework to enable learners to write comprehensive and well structured essays.

There are two resources:

Document Explains how to plan and write a literature essay from scratch.

There are also images of how students should think about their planning.

There is a small explanation of what is expected at each particular part. This is supplemented with a model at each stage,

The model is broken down into: Point Evidence Technique Analysis Link (PETAL).

There is a revision activity at the end.

Power Point A supplementary powerpoint that can be used as a lesson or as planning templates to print.

There is also a colour coded model paragraph included.

Guidance on how to write an overarching statement (introduction).

There is also a slide with a nominalisation activity to enhance academic writing.

Hope this is useful!

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Exercise 6: Writing an essay for examination from 2024 (Ultimate Guide)

Exercise 6 of the Reading and Writing paper of the IGCSE English as a Second Language (ESL) exam (0510/0511/0991/0993) is always a formal or semi-formal writing. It can be an article, an essay, a report, or a review.

In this article, you will discover how to write an almost-perfect essay that impresses the examiner and gets you the highest band. So, are you ready? Let’s dive in!

So, what is an essay?

An essay is a short piece of writing on a particular subject. The purpose of an essay is to present an argument or point of view about a particular topic and give examples or reasons to support it. The topic will be a question or an issue which people generally have different opinions about.

The essay could present both sides of the argument, or just one, depending on the instructions given in the task. So, if the instructions ask you to give your opinion, you can address just this one point of view, or you can discuss the arguments for and against. But if the task instructions state that arguments for and against should be included, then you should address both points of view.

The Tone and Register of an Essay

In the exam, the essay is usually for your teacher, so the tone and register should be formal or semi-formal . Therefore, it should avoid language that is too idiomatic and colloquial.

Now, before diving into the details of how to write a successful essay, let’s first explore a few differences between articles and essays.

Differences between an article and an essay

An essay is very similar to an article with only a few key differences.

An article is usually published in a newspaper or a magazine, so as far as the exam is concerned, the audience is often students at your school (school magazine article), or sometimes your teacher or the local newspaper.

The audience of an essay is often your teacher (who requested the essay in the first place).

An article is generally written to inform and persuade the reader that a certain viewpoint is correct.

An essay is generally written as a response to a question or a proposition (often by your teacher). It presents an argument or point of view about a particular topic and gives examples or reasons to support it.

Tone and style:

Articles generally have a more objective tone and style, focusing on presenting information in a neutral or balanced manner.

Essays are generally subjective, reflecting the writer’s opinion and perspective.

An article may have a heading to grab the reader’s attention (though not compulsory in the exam).

An essay does not require a heading.

The format of a one-sided argument essay

A one-sided argument essay can have two formats, depending on whether you include a counterargument from the opposing viewpoint or not.

Paragraph 1: Introduction (including your opinion)

Paragraph 2: First point supporting your opinion with an explanation

Paragraph 3: Second point supporting your opinion with an explanation

Paragraph 4: State a counterargument (an idea from the opposing viewpoint) and counter the counterargument (i.e., explain why this counterargument is invalid). In other words, state a point made by people who have a different opinion from yours and explain why they are wrong.

Paragraph 5: Conclusion (including your opinion again but in different words)

Paragraph 2: One or two points supporting your opinion with an explanation

Paragraph 3: One or two points (different from those of the previous paragraph) supporting your opinion with an explanation

Paragraph 4: Conclusion (including your opinion again but in different words)

The format of a two-sided argument essay

Paragraph 1: Introduction (without your opinion)

Paragraph 2: One side of the argument

Paragraph 3: The other side of the argument

Paragraph 4: Conclusion (including your opinion)

Introduction

The purpose of the introduction is to inform the reader about the main point (topic) of the essay and engage the reader to make them interested in the topic. The main components of an effective introduction are:

Topic sentence

Start your essay with a brief topic sentence that outlines the argument that the essay will discuss. Give forceful statements rather than “I think that”, “maybe” or “perhaps”. For example, “Teenagers love fast food.”, “Nowadays, music plays an indispensable role in our lives.”, etc.

To write an effective topic sentence, you might use adverbial time phrases and generalizations . Here are some examples of each.

Adverbial time phrases

Nowadays/these days/currently
Every day/week/year
Recently/for many years/decades
In the past
10 years ago
In the last (few/five) (days/weeks/months/years/decades)

Generalization

A large number of / The vast majority (of)
Several/some
Not many/hardly any/ few
In almost all cases
In the majority of cases
In a large number of cases
In most cases
In some cases
On the whole/ Overall
Rhetorical question(s)

Use rhetorical questions (questions that don’t require an answer but make your reader think) to get the reader interested in the topic and encourage them to read on. For example:

How much longer do animals have to suffer?
Could you live with yourself if you missed out on this opportunity?
How could we possibly stand the …?
What would happen if …?
Could your conscience cope with …?
Is it really worth …?
Do you want to be part of …?
Should students do sport at school?
Should teenagers completely avoid fast food?
We all love convenience food. But is it the best thing for our waistlines, our wallets and our world?
Your opinion (if it is a one-sided argument essay)

If you are writing a two-sided argument essay, DO NOT give your opinion in the introduction.

If you are writing a one-sided argument essay, you MUST give your opinion (whether you support or oppose the viewpoint expressed in the statement).

Here are some opinion phrases to help you express your opinion.

In my opinion/view
From my perspective
From my point of view
I concur/agree
I believe/think (that)
It seems to me that
I am in favour of
I am against the idea of
I am strongly opposed to
I disagree/cannot accept

You may also kill two birds with one stone and begin your essay with a rhetorical question that introduces the topic to the reader, thus acting as a topic sentence. Here are some examples.

“Have you ever thought how school life would be if the school day started later? In my perspective, this will have countless benefits.”

“Should students do sport at school? This is a question which people have different opinions about.”

One-sided essay structure:

Body paragraph 1: First idea supporting your opinion with an explanation

Body paragraph 2: Second idea supporting your opinion with an explanation ( should be different from the first idea )

Body paragraph 3: State a counterargument (an idea from the opposing viewpoint) AND counter the counterargument (i.e., explain why this counterargument is invalid). In other words, state a point made by people who have a different opinion from yours and explain why they are wrong.

Body Paragraph 1: one or two points supporting your opinion with an explanation

Body Paragraph 2: one or two points (different from those of the previous paragraph) supporting your opinion with an explanation

When introducing the counterargument in the 3 rd body paragraph, use any of the following phrases.

Opponents of this idea claim/assert/argue that …
Those who disagree/are against these ideas may say/insist that …
Some people allege/argue/contend that …
Some people may suggest/point out that …
A common counterargument is that …
It can be argued that …

When countering the counterargument in the 3 rd body paragraph, use any of the following phrases depending on the context.

Although true to a certain extent, …
While this may be true to some extent, …
While it is true that …, it is important to consider…
While some may believe that … recent studies have shown that …
What this invalid argument misses is …
What these people fail to notice/take note of is …
The evidence, however, disproves this argument because …
However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that …
However, a closer analysis reveals that …
However, this flawed argument overlooks the fact that …

Two-sided essay structure:

Body paragraph 1: One side of the argument either in favour or against ( mention 2 different ideas )

Body paragraph 2: The other side of the argument either in favour or against ( mention 2 different ideas )

General guidelines for both kinds of essays:

Read the question carefully and draft a plan for your essay in the blank space below the question using a pencil. Here are some steps to follow.
Separate the blank space into two parts, one for and one against.
Jot down any points that come to your mind in the correct part, along with any interesting vocabulary or expressions suitable for the task. Remember to write briefly and in bullet points.
Decide whether you will write a one-sided essay or a two-sided essay. If the instructions in the question state that you must include arguments for and against, then choose the best 2 points supporting each side and write a two-sided essay. If it’s not mentioned that you must include arguments for and against, then the choice is yours.
Consider how you will begin your essay and how you will engage the reader at the start. For example, write some variations of the topic sentence and rhetorical questions that you could use.
Choose the most effective ones and begin writing. Remember to spend no more than 5 minutes on the plan.
Start your body paragraphs with a topic sentence rather than just jumping into the advantages or disadvantages (especially if you’re writing a two-sided essay). This helps to organize your writing and makes the purpose of the paragraph clear to the reader. For example, in an essay discussing the advantages and disadvantages of fast food, it is better to start your first body paragraph with a topic sentence like “There are some obvious advantages of fast food. Firstly, …” rather than just getting into the first point and writing, “To begin with, it’s quite tasty.”.
You can use the few prompts given in the question, but it is better to use your own ideas if you want to get higher marks. If, however, you are out of ideas, use the ideas in the question and make sure to paraphrase them (write them in different words) and develop them well.
Support your ideas with reasons, evidence, or examples . Keep in mind that the examiner knows the evidence or examples will be made up and doesn’t expect these to be correct. Yes, you can make up your own statistics! Just make sure it’s not overly unrealistic.
Keep to the topic (don’t wander away from the main subject of the essay). Remind yourself constantly by looking again at the question.
Use a variety of linking words and cohesive devices (mainly formal) to create a smooth and logical flow in your writing. Here are some examples.

When presenting the first point (used in the 1 st body paragraph of both one-sided essays and two-sided essays)

There are some obvious advantages of
Those in support of … believe that …
People who think … say that …
The main argument in favour of/against is
The main point/reason is
The most important point/reason is
The first point/reason is
First of all
First and foremost

When adding more points to the same side of the argument

In addition,
Furthermore,
Additionally,
Not only … but also…
As well as.
Another noteworthy point is …
Apart from that
What is more

When contrasting ideas (typically used to introduce the opposite viewpoint in the 2 nd body paragraph of a two-sided essay

Some people argue that …
Nevertheless
Even though
In spite of
On the other hand
On the contrary
By contrast

When giving examples

For example
For instance
One clear example is
To illustrate
In other words

When reasoning:

Results and consequences: as a result, consequently, therefore, thus, hence, for this reason, as a result (of), which means that, etc.
Reasons and causes: owing to, because (of), on account of, due to, since, as, etc.

When highlighting and stressing

Particularly
In particular
Specifically

The purpose of the conclusion is to sum up what you have said and express (or re-express) your opinion.

In the conclusion:

Briefly summarize your main points using concluding phrases. Here are some examples.
In conclusion
To conclude
To reiterate
On the whole
All things considered
After weighing the benefits and drawbacks
I believe that …
Thus, I am of the opinion that …
Given these points

Remember to use different words from those used to express the points in the body.

Give your final opinion (regardless of whether it’s a one-sided or a two-sided essay) and any solution or suggestion if applicable.

The solution or suggestion might be part of your opinion if you’re writing a two-sided essay and want to take a balanced view on the issue rather than siding with one side. For example, “Overall, I believe eating fast food occasionally isn’t a problem, but fresh home-cooked food is best.” Use the opinion phrases stated earlier in the Introduction section to express your opinion, and if it’s a one-sided essay, make sure to use different words from those used in the introduction.

End with a strong, impactful statement that leaves the reader with something to think about. This could be a rhetorical question or a statement that encourages the reader to decide what they think about the same viewpoint. For example:
“To conclude, I wholeheartedly believe that everyone should pursue higher education. Why not embrace this invaluable opportunity to fast-track your career, build your confidence, and broaden your social circle?”
“Overall, I believe eating fast food occasionally isn’t a problem, but fresh home-cooked food is best. Do you not think so?”
“After weighing the benefits and the drawbacks, it is apparent that convenience food, while palatable, may negatively impact other areas of your life. Think about this before you reach for your next snack!”

It’s worth mentioning that this step is PREFERABLE . So don’t stress too much about ending your essay with an impactful statement or a rhetorical question. Just make sure that the conclusion reflects the argument presented in the main body of the essay and that your final opinion is clear to the reader.

Points to keep in mind

Read the task carefully to make sure that the ideas and supporting information you include are relevant to the topic. Students often lose focus and write about wider, more general issues associated with the topic, which significantly affects their marks.
Organize your essay into 4-5 paragraphs . Leave a line between paragraphs or indent the first line of each new paragraph. Don’t do both!
Take care of spelling, punctuation, and grammar . This is important as the examiner will look at the accuracy of your language.
Use a combination of simple, compound, and complex sentences . A series of long sentences will make your writing difficult to read, and a series of short simple sentences will make your writing boring to read. Balance is the key.
Use a wide range of formal vocabulary, including some advanced and less commonly used ones .
Include a range of topic-related vocabulary to show that you have a good understanding of the topic.
Use a wide variety of formal linking words to link ideas in sentences and paragraphs. Examples have been mentioned earlier.
Use advanced punctuation sparingly (1-3 in the whole essay), for example, colon (:) and semicolon (;).
Include language appropriate for expressing opinions, agreeing, and disagreeing. In addition to mentioning your opinion in the introduction and/or conclusion, your viewpoint can also be included in the body paragraphs (whether it’s a one-sided or a two-sided essay) by:
Mentioning personal examples or experiences (which implies that you agree with this point of view)
Explicitly agreeing while presenting a point in the body paragraph. Here is an example: “People who think sports lessons are a good idea say that students need exercise, and I agree that doing sports helps to make you healthy and avoid getting overweight.”
Aim to complete towards the maximum word limit (approximately 160 words). Exceeding the word limit slightly (15-20 words) is fine as long as you write accurately and complete the task within the correct time. If you exceed the word limit by any number of words, be it even 100, no marks will be cut directly, but you increase your chances of making more mistakes and spending more time than required for this exercise, which may affect your mark indirectly. If you write towards the lower limit or below, you are highly unlikely to achieve the highest band for Content as your content is not well developed.
Spend about 30 minutes on this exercise : the initial 5 minutes for planning and the last 2-3 minutes for checking your work for simple spelling, punctuation, and grammatical mistakes.
Write legibly

Don’ts

Do not write a heading.
Avoid colloquial or ‘chatty’ language (which includes informal vocabulary, abbreviations, or slang such as how r u, OMG, BTW, etc.).
Avoid listing (firstly, secondly, thirdly, etc.). There is no problem in writing “firstly”, but avoid writing “secondly” and “thirdly”.
Avoid repetition of vocabulary and beginning your sentences with the same words . Sometimes, students write 3 or more sentences in a row starting with “The”!
Avoid including too many different ideas in your essay. It is better to include fewer ideas and develop one or two in greater depth rather than writing many ideas which are not well-developed.
Avoid writing an overlong introduction and conclusion. It would be more effective to utilize the limited word count to develop your ideas within the body of the essay. Also, avoid pre-learned language for these parts of the essay, as this may not be totally relevant or might sound unnatural.
It’s preferable to avoid contractions , but they can be used as the essay can have a semi-formal tone and register. In both cases, remember to be consistent throughout. So, if you used contractions, use them throughout your whole essay, and if not, avoid them altogether.

Practice a lot of past papers and get feedback on your writing. We know that essay writing is newly added to the syllabus, but you can still practice writing essays in response to past years’ article writing questions as they are very similar.

Finally, don’t forget to check out our samples page and if you find this helpful, please share it with your friends.

Good luck! Go get that A*!

17 responses to “Exercise 6: Writing an essay for examination from 2024 (Ultimate Guide)”

Appreciate this post! Very helpful to me as a teacher.

Thank you! We really appreciate your positive feedback!

Thank you so much for giving us the ideas how to write an essay. Specially, phrases how to begin sentences from each paragraph

You’re welcome 🙂 We’re glad it helped!

Wonderful materials for my students who are going to take the exam next May. Thank you so much

Thank you so much for your kind feedback! We’re glad our notes are benefiting your students! Good luck to them!

Thank you so much for your help! Could you also post some sample essays, it would be very helpful for us!!

Hi Sara, thank you for your comment! We will definitely consider adding them after completing the review writing notes which we are currently working on.

What do you mean by do not write a heading? Do you mean we shouldn’t have a title for the essay?

Yes, an essay doesn’t require a title. Trying to come up with one will use up your exam time unnecessarily.

Is there going to be direct deduction of marks if written?

yes no title in essay

Hello, I’m having my exam in 4 months and I can’t believe I didn’t know about this website before, seriously I wholeheartedly appreciate what you do, I heard there’s a service where you can correct or give feedback on pieces of writings and grade them, is it available?

Thank you so much for your nice comment! We really appreciate it! Our marking service was available, but unfortunately, it is now suspended as it requires a lot of time and effort, which we can’t provide at the moment. We apologize for this! And we wish you good luck with your exam!

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR EFFORT AND TIME CREATING THESE SUPER AMAZING NOTES AND TIPS FOR WRITING EXERCISES

Thank you for your kind words! We’re really glad you found them helpful!