Essay Writing at B1 Level – Basic Guide

1. Introduction

 Purpose: Introduce the topic and give background information.

 Structure:

o Hook: A sentence to grab the reader's attention.

o Thesis statement: A clear idea of what the essay will discuss.

2. Body Paragraphs (Usually 2-3 paragraphs)

 Purpose: Present your main ideas with supporting details.

 Structure:

o Topic sentence: Introduce the main point of the paragraph.

o Supporting sentences: Provide reasons, examples, or explanations.

o Concluding sentence: Sum up the point and link to the next paragraph.

3. Conclusion

 Purpose: Summarize the main points and restate the thesis.

 Structure:

o Restate thesis: In a new way.

o Summary of main ideas: Quickly highlight the main points you discussed.

o Closing thought: End with a final thought, suggestion, or call to action.

Example Structure

Section Purpose Key Elements

Introduction Introduce the topic & thesis Hook, Thesis Statement

Body Present main idea 1 with

Topic sentence, Supporting sentences
Paragraph 1 examples

Body Present main idea 2 with

Topic sentence, Supporting sentences
Paragraph 2 examples

Restate thesis, Summary, Closing

Conclusion Summarize & conclude
thought

Useful language for essays.

1. Introduction Phrases

 To introduce the topic:

o In recent years, o The topic of... has become

increasingly important.
o Nowadays,
o It is often said that...
o One of the most important
issues is...
  To state your thesis or purpose:

o In this essay, I will argue that... o This essay will explore...

o The purpose of this essay is o I will discuss the importance

to... of...

2. Adding Information or Points

 To add more information:

o Furthermore, o In addition,

o Moreover, o What’s more,

o Additionally, o Not only that, but...

 To elaborate:

o For example, o Such as...

o For instance, o A good example of this is...

o To illustrate,

3. Comparing and Contrasting

 To compare:

o Similarly, o In the same way,

o Likewise, o Just as...

 To contrast:

o On the other hand, o Whereas,

o In contrast, o Although,

o However, o Unlike,

4. Giving Reasons and Causes

 To give reasons:

o Because of this, o As a result,

o Due to, o Consequently,

o This is because... o This can be explained by...

 To express cause and effect:

o Therefore, o Due to this,

o As a result of...

5. Emphasizing a Point

 To emphasize:

o Indeed, o It is important to note that...

o In fact, o Significantly,
 o Undoubtedly, o Clearly,

6. Giving Examples

 To give an example:

o For example, o A case in point is...

o For instance, o One such example is...

o To illustrate,

7. Making Conclusions

 To conclude:

o In conclusion, o Overall,

o To summarize, o In short,

o In summary, o To wrap up,

o To conclude,

 To restate the thesis:

o In light of these points, o Given the arguments above,

o Therefore, it can be concluded o It is clear that...

that...

8. Expressing Opinions

 To express your opinion:

o I believe that... o It seems to me that...

o In my opinion, o I am convinced that...

o I would argue that...

9. Showing Results or Effects

 To show results:

o As a result, o Therefore,

o Consequently, o This results in...

o This leads to...

 To indicate a consequence:

o Consequently, o As a consequence,

o This means that... o This has led to...

10. Citing Evidence or Referring to Others

 To refer to evidence or studies:

o According to... o Experts agree that...

o Research suggests that... o Studies have proven that...

o As shown by...
Useful Adjectives and Adverbs for Essays

 Describing:

o Essential, crucial, vital, significant, important, necessary

o Comprehensive, detailed, extensive

o Considerable, substantial, notable

o Negative, positive, beneficial, harmful, effective, ineffective

 Modifiers:

o Clearly, undoubtedly, o Directly, immediately, indirectly

significantly, absolutely
o Incredibly, remarkably, notably
o Relatively, generally,
approximately

Transition Words and Phrases

 To show sequence:

o Firstly, secondly, thirdly, o Finally,

o Next, then, o Last but not least

 To show contrast:

o On the other hand, o Nevertheless,

o In contrast, o Whereas

o However,

 To show addition:

o Furthermore, o As well as,

o Moreover, o Also

o In addition,

Connecting Ideas and Sentences

 Cause and effect:

o Because of, due to, as a result o Therefore, consequently,

of leading to

 Clarifying or expanding on an idea:

o In other words, o To put it another way,

o That is to say,

 Showing a conclusion or result:

o In conclusion, o In brief,

o To summarize, o Overall,

Read the following essay and divide it following the structure chart.
The Importance of Reading Books

Books have been a source of knowledge and entertainment for centuries. Despite the rise of
modern technology, such as smartphones, tablets, and social media, reading books continues
to hold significant value in our lives. In today’s world, where information is constantly
available at our fingertips, the act of reading books offers benefits that cannot be found in
digital media alone. In this essay, I will explore the various reasons why reading books is
essential, including its positive effects on our knowledge, language development, and
emotional health.

First of all, reading books is an excellent way to expand our knowledge and understanding of
the world. Through books, we can learn about different cultures, historical events, and
scientific discoveries that shape our lives. For example, by reading a book on the history of a
particular country, we can understand how past events have influenced its present-day
society. In addition, books provide a chance to explore complex topics that might not be
easily explained in shorter articles or online posts. This helps us to think critically about
important issues and become more informed citizens. By reading about topics such as
politics, science, or philosophy, we can develop a broader view of the world and improve our
decision-making skills. Furthermore, reading non-fiction books can introduce us to new ideas
and perspectives. For instance, when we read a book about different cultures or social issues,
we may begin to see the world in a new light. This can help break down stereotypes and
encourage us to appreciate diversity. In this way, reading fosters a sense of empathy and
understanding, which is important in today’s globalized world.

In addition to broadening our knowledge, reading books is a powerful tool for improving our
language skills. Books expose us to a wide range of vocabulary, sentence structures, and
writing styles. When we read, we are introduced to new words and phrases that we may not
encounter in everyday conversations. For example, reading novels can help us understand
how to use different words in context, making it easier to express ourselves more clearly. As
we read more books, we also develop a better understanding of grammar and sentence
structure, which can improve both our writing and speaking abilities. Reading regularly can
also make us more confident in our communication. For instance, when we read a book in a
foreign language, we not only learn new vocabulary but also improve our ability to
understand the language and communicate with others. Over time, this practice can lead to
greater fluency and help us become more effective communicators. This is particularly
important in professional and academic settings, where good communication skills are
essential.

Beyond cognitive and linguistic benefits, reading books also has a positive impact on our
emotional well-being. Many people turn to books as a form of relaxation and escape from the
stresses of everyday life. Reading allows us to disconnect from our problems and immerse
ourselves in a different world. Fiction, in particular, offers a great way to experience a wide
range of emotions through the characters and their stories. Whether it’s a thrilling adventure,
a touching romance, or a gripping mystery, reading helps us to experience emotions in a safe
and controlled way. Additionally, reading can help develop our empathy. As we read about
characters who face different challenges, we are able to understand their feelings and
motivations. This emotional engagement helps us to connect with others and be more
compassionate in our own lives. Books also provide an opportunity to reflect on our own
emotions and experiences. By reading about characters who struggle with similar issues, we
may find comfort and guidance, especially in difficult times.

Another benefit of reading books is that it encourages mental focus and concentration. In
today’s world, where we are constantly distracted by social media, emails, and notifications,
it can be difficult to focus on a single task for a long period of time. However, reading
requires sustained attention and concentration. When we read a book, we need to follow the
storyline, remember characters and details, and stay engaged with the text. This helps to
improve our ability to concentrate and stay focused on a single task. In fact, studies have
shown that reading can improve brain function by strengthening the connections between
different areas of the brain. The more we read, the more we challenge our brain to think
critically and process information. This mental exercise keeps our minds sharp and can even
reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age.

In conclusion, reading books is an essential activity that offers a wide range of benefits. Not
only does it expand our knowledge and improve our language skills, but it also has a positive
impact on our emotional well-being and mental focus. In a world filled with distractions and
fast-paced technology, reading offers a chance to slow down, reflect, and connect with
ourselves and others. Therefore, it is important to make time for reading in our daily lives.
Whether it is for learning, relaxation, or personal growth, the value of reading books cannot
be overstated.