Writing Level 3
Writing Level 3
Writing Level 3
PREFACE
This course book aims to equip students with knowledge to train their Writing skill
and help them to do tests of TOEIC. Its content includes adjective clauses, Noun clauses and
Passive voice, language for giving instructions and directions, making inquiries and
responding to inquiries in writing an e-mail response, and complete introductory paragraph,
key idea development by giving reasons and examples in writing an opinion essay.
Chapter 1 includes 06 lessons, chapter 2 consists of 5 lessons, chapter 3 includes 4
lessons. This book gives students an opportunity to develop skills in writing. Many
exercises help students quickly improve writing skills through language material selected
from real tests. Each lesson has goals, which are clearly written, helping students obtain
what they need after a lesson. At the completion of this course, students will be able to
identify adjective clauses, noun clauses and passive voice language for giving instructions and
directions, making inquiries and responding to inquiries in writing an e-mail response;
introductory paragraph, reasons and examples in developing the body paragraphs in an
opinion essay, write sentences with adjective clauses, noun clauses and passive voice to
describe pictures based on words given; response e-mails using language for giving
instructions and directions, making inquiries and responding to inquiries; complete
introductory paragraph, key ideas development in the body by giving reasons and examples
in writing an opinion essay, and acquired knowledge and skills in doing TOEIC writing test
with the average score of 80-100 over 200 points.
Although a great effort has been made during the time researching and compiling this
course book, limitations, of course, are unavoidable.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
3
CHAPTER 1
WRITING SENTENCES
Lesson 6: Review
4
LESSON 1: ADJECTIVE CLAUSES 1
(WHO, THAT, WHICH- AS THE SUBJECT)
I. LANGUAGE FOCUS
4. Joggers who will run in the marathon should get to the stadium early to warm up.
……………………………………………………………………..
5. A person who does at least 30 minutes of exercise a day will feel better.
……………………………………………………………………..
6
2.3. Identify Adjective clause in the following sentences
1. Environmental science, which is compulsory for all students, is one of the most popular
courses in the college.
……………………………………………………………………..
2. The woman who lives next door is a doctor.
……………………………………………………………………..
3. The envelop which lies on the table has no stamp on it.
……………………………………………………………………..
4. The student don’t know how to do exercise which were given by the teacher yesterday.
……………………………………………………………………..
5. Words in English which begin with the consonants th are often difficult for foreigners
to pronounce.
……………………………………………………………………..
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III. PRACTICE IN TOEIC
3.1. Language building
a-Give some words which may be used to describe pictures 1-3. Compare with your
friends
b-Complete the following about pictures 1-3 with the suitable words
Picture 1
1. The people who are talking are
………………………….
Picture 2
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3.2. Tactic Practice
Picture 1
………………………………………….
……………………………………………
…………………………………………
…………………………………………..
4. The/ the left/ a cup of coffee/ man/ on/
is/ holding.
……………………………………………
……………………………………...........
Picture 3
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3.2.2. Make sentences about the pictures with the suggested words
1. who/ present/manager 3. modern/ locate/ river
4.
…………………………………………….. …………………………………………
…………………………………………….. …………………………………………
…………………………………………… …………………………………………
2. want/ wait/ line
……………………………………………….
………………………………………………
………………………………………………
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IV. TEST PRACTICE
In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each
picture, you will be given two words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can
change the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order.
5…………………………………… 6…………………………………….
……………………………………. ………………………………............
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LESSON 2: ADJECTIVE CLAUSES 2
(WHO, WHAT, WHICH- AS THE OBJECT)
I. LANGUAGE FOCUS
A relative pronoun can be an object in its own clause.
The following examples show you how to combine two sentences to make a new sentence
containing an object pattern adjective clause
For People
Restrictive The professor is chair of the English Department. You should see
whom, that, the professor.
0 The professor whom you should see is chair of the English
Department.
The professor that you should see is chair of the English
Department. (informal)
The professor you should see is chair of the English Department.
Nonrestrictiv Dr. White is an ecologist. You met Dr.White in my office.
e Dr. White, whom you met in my office, is an ecologist.
whom
For Animals and Things
Restrictive The book was written in German. The professor translated the
that, 0 book. The book that the professor translated was written in
German. The book the professor translated was written in
German.
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II. LANGUAGE PRACTICE
2.1. Combine the two sentences. Add commas if necessary
1. The movie was interesting. We went to it.
→ …………………………………………………………………
2. I met the people. You told me about them.
→ ………………………………………………………………
3. I couldn’t understand the woman. I talked to her on the phone.
→ …………………………………………………………………
4. I want to tell you about the party. I went to it last night.
→ …………………………………………………………………
5. The music was gentle. We listened to it last night.
→ …………………………………………………………………
6. Alice likes the foreign family. She is living with them.
→ …………………………………………………………………
7. The market has refresh vegetables. I usually go to it.
→ …………………………………………………………………
8. The man is over there. I told you about him.
→ …………………………………………………………………
9. The film is fantastic. They are talking about it.
→ …………………………………………………………………
10. She’s the nurse. We gave the flowers to her.
→ …………………………………………………………………
11. Lung cancer is very dangerous. Millions of people died of it.
→ …………………………………………………………………
2.2. Identify Adjective Clause in the following sentences
1. She is the most beautiful woman that I have ever met.
…………………………………………………………………
2. I like standing at the window from which I can see the park.
………………………………………………………………
3. The man whom we are speaking to was our new history teacher.
…………………………………………………………………
4. The teacher who we studied with last year is Mr. Pike.
…………………………………………………………………
5. The problem which we are very interested in has been discussed in class.
…………………………………………………………………
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III. PRACTICE IN TOEIC
3.1. Building language
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
5. The museum that they are visiting is
…………….
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3.2. Tactic Practice
Picture 1
1. dishes/ she/ The/ unwashed/ which/ left/
sink/ in/ the/ are
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
Picture 2
3. The man/ is/ bicycle/ fixing/ often/ the/
that /he/ uses.
…………………………………………
…………………………………………
………………………………………….
……………………………………………
Picture 3
5. The car/ is waiting/ that/ driving/ the
traffic/ the woman/ is/ for.
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
………………………………………........
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2. Make sentences about the pictures with the suggested words
…………………………………………… …………………………………………….
……………………………………………… …………………………………………….
……………………………………………… …………………………………………….
……………………………………………….
……………………………………………….
…………………………………………….…
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IV. TEST PRACTICE
In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each
picture, you will be given two words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can
change the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order.
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
3. tree/ decorate 4. wear/ expensive
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… …………………………………………..
5.volunteer/ food 6. modern/ building
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
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LESSON 3: ADJECTIVE CLAUSES 3
(WHOSE + QUANTITY & QUALITY)
I. LANGUAGE FOCUS
1.1. Possessive pronoun “whose”
In possessive adjective clauses, the relative pronoun whose replaces a possessive word
such as Mary’s, his, our, their, the company’s, or its. Possessive adjective clauses can
follow the subject or the object pattern.
In the subject pattern, the whose + noun phrase is the subject of the adjective clause. In
the object pattern, the whose + noun phrase is the object in the adjective^ clause.
Notes
1. Some writers feel that whose should be used to refer only to people. For animals and
things, they recommend using of which. Compare:
I returned the book whose cover was torn.
I returned the book, the cover of which was torn.
Other writers use whose in all but the most formal writing (such as legal documents).
2. When whose + noun is the subject of an adjective clause, the verb agrees with that
noun.
She takes care of two children whose mother works at night.
(The verb works is singular to agree with mother.)
She takes care of two children whose parents work at night.
(The verb work is plural to agree with parents.)
1.2. Phrases of quantity and quality
A relative pronoun can occur in phrases of quantity and quality.
Quantity Relative Pronouns
some of whom He gave two answers, both of which were
all of whom correct.
each of which The top students, all of whom graduated with
both of which,etc. honors, received scholarships.
Quality Relative Pronouns
the best of whom She has three daughters, the oldest of whom is
the oldest of whom studying abroad.
the most important The comedian’s jokes, the funniest of which 1
of which, etc. had heard before, were about politics.
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II. LANGUAGE PRACTICE
Rewrite the sentences
1. Nam is the boy with black curly hair.
--> The boy ....
2. The man seems very lonely because his wife and children are away
--> The man ...
3. I went to 2 telephone boxes but they were both out of order
--> I went ....................... worked
4. The city has sixteen schools. Two of them are junior colleges.
-> The city has sixteen schools, two of …………………………….
5. Last night the orchestra played three symphonies. One of them was Beethoven’s Seventh.
---> …………………………………. ......................
6. I tried on six pairs of shoes. I liked none of them.
---> …………………………………. ......................
7. I apologized to the woman. I spilled her coffee.
---> …………………………………. ......................
7. The village has around 200 people. The majority of them are farmers.
---> …………………………………. ......................
8. That company currently has five employees. All of them are computer experts.
---> …………………………………. ......................
9. After the riot, over one hundred people were taken to the hospital. Many of them had
been innocent bystanders.
---> …………………………………. ......................
10. The man called the police. His wallet was stolen.
---> …………………………………. ......................
2.2. Identify Adjective clause in the following sentences
1. I met the woman whose husband is the president of the corporation.
---> …………………………………. ......................
2. The village has around 200 people, the majority of whom are farmers.
---> …………………………………. ......................
3. The professor whose course I am taking is excellent.
---> …………………………………. ......................
4. Mr. North teaches a class for students whose native language is not English.
---> …………………………………. ................
5. The people whose house we visited were nice.
---> …………………………………. ......................
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III. PRACTICEIN TOEIC
Picture 1
Picture 2 Picture 3
4. The man is waiting by the car whose 6. The teacher is explaining to the boy
color is … whose book is ……………
20
3.2. Tactic Practice
3.2.1. Reorder the words to make a meaningful sentence.
Picture 1
Picture 2
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3.2.2. Make sentences about the pictures with the suggested words
…………………………………………………….
………………………………………
…………………………………………………….
………………………………………
…………………………………………………….
………………………………………
2. books/ both/ fascinating
…………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………..
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IV. TEST PRACTICE
In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each
picture, you will be given two words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can
change the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order.
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
2. move/ surface 5. ties/ all
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
……………………………………………
………………………………………….. ……………………………………………
…………………………………………… ……………………………………………
……………………………………………
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LESSON 4: NOUN CLAUSES
I. LANGUAGE FOCUS
A noun clause is a dependent clause that functions as a noun. A noun clause is often part of
an independent clause, where it can be a subject or an object.
What the newspaper reported was incorrect.
Subject
Who first challenged the belief that the world was flat?
Noun
There are three kinds of noun clauses:
1. that clauses, which begin with the word that
2. if/whether clauses, which begin with the words whether or if
3. question clauses, which begin with a question word, such as who, what, where, when,
or how
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1.2. If/ whether clauses
Note:
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II. LANGUAGE PRACTICE
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III. PRACTICE IN TOEIC
3.1. Building Language
Complete the following about pictures 1-3 with the suitable words
Picture 1 Picture 2
Picture 1
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Picture 2
3.They/ the/ tree/ know/ decorate/ how/ to.
………………………………………………
………………………………………………
4. It/ is/ spring/ apparent/ coming/ that/ the/
is.
………………………………………………
………………………………………………
Picture 3
5. The/ fix/ workers/ are/ they/ doing/ what/
road/ can/ to/ the
………………………………………………
………………………………………………
3.2.2 Make sentences about the pictures with the suggested words
1. heavy/ lift/ athletic 2. look/ what/ man
……………………………………… ………………………………………
………………………………………… …………………………………………
………………………………………… …………………………………………
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IV. TEST PRACTICE
In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each
picture, you will be given two words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can
change the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order.
1. whether/ job offer 2. look/ say
…………………………………………….. ………………………………………………
……………………………………………. …………………………………………........
3. show/ to 4. smell/ woman
……………………………………………… ………………………………………………
……………………………………………… ………………………………………………
……………………………………………… ………………………………………………
……………………………………………… ………………………………………………
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LESSON 5: PASSIVE VOICE
I. LANGUAGE FOCUS
Note:
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→ ……………………………………………………
7. He is awarding her the scholarship.
→ ……………………………………………………
8. The waiter handed Ann a menu at the restaurant.
→ ……………………………………………………
9. The teacher is explaining the problem to the students.
→ ……………………………………………………
10. They have him fix the bicycle.
→ ……………………………………………………
11. The assistant manager is interviewing me.
→ ……………………………………………………
12. The lesson interests him.
→ ……………………………………………………
13. The result disappoints him.
→ ……………………………………………………
14. The class bores students.
→ ……………………………………………………
15. She has her daughter clean the house.
→ ……………………………………………………
Picture 1 Picture 2
Picture 3
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3.2. Tactic practice
Picture 1
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
Picture 3
5. The/ Christmas/ribbons and
tinsels/being/ with/ decorated/ tree/ is
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
……………………………………………
6. Ribbons and tinsels/ decoration/
Christmas tree/ are/ hung/ on/ the/ for.
………………………………………..….
……………………………………............
....................................................................
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3.2.2. Make sentences about the pictures with the suggested words
……………………………………………… …………………………………………
……………………………………………… ………………………………………
………………………………………………
………………………………………………
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IV. TEST PRACTICE
In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each
picture, you will be given two words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can
change the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order.
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
…………………………………………
……………………………………………
…………………………………………
……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
………………………………………… ……………………………………………
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LESSON 6: REVIEW
Mini-test 1
Question 1 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
Question 2 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
bird/ chirp
Question 4 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
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Question 5 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
study/ desk
Mini-test 2
Question 1 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
sit/ portrait
Question 2 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
award/ on
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Question 3 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
mechanic/ teach
Question 4 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
Question 5 of 5
Directions: Write ONE sentence based on the picture using the TWO words or phrases
under it. You may change the forms of the words and you may use them in any order.
sing/ star
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CHAPTER 2
RESPONDING TO AN E-MAIL REQUEST LETTER
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LESSON 7: GIVING “HOW TO” INSTRUCTIONS (1)
In this part of the test, you will be requested to respond to an email enquiring some
information. You will be given specific instructions on what to include in your response.
For example, after an email asking for directions, you may be asked to cover four steps.
Some of the emails in this section of the test will ask you to explain how to do something.
For example, you might be asked how to send a fax or bake a cake. In this unit, you will
learn a few linguistic “signposts” to use to make your instructions more precise. Using these
signposts will boost your score for organization.
I. FOCUS
Basically, when you give instructions, you are guiding someone through a series of steps in
sequence. These are approprite words to indicate sequence:
Using these words will help the reader have a clear idea of the order of instructions.
Often, when you give instruction, you also need to help the person avoid common mistakes.
Here are some phrases that clearly indicate that’s what you’re doing.
40
Notice that the first phrase specifically tells someone what not to do, whereas the next two
remind the person of what they need to do.
II. PRACTICE
2.1. Exercise 1
How to make an English Breakfast
Put each of the following verbs in the correct space in the constructions below.
1. ............... the table (with the table-cloth, knives, forks, spoons, plates, glasses,
napkins etc.)
2. To make tea, first ............... the water in a kettle.
3. Put a tea-bag in a cup and .................. the boiling water on it. (This is quicker than
using a teapot.)
4. .............. milk (from a jug) and sugar (from a bowl), and ............. with a spoon.
5. Make some toast, using the toaster, and ............... butter on it.
6. ............. eggs and bacon in a frying-pan.
7. Put it on a plate with the toast, and eat it with a little salt and pepper.
8. When you”ve finished your breafast, ................ all the breafast things.
2.2. Exercise 2
Sentence matching
List A and List B explain how to use a payphone in London. But List A is not in the correct
order. Match List A and List B. Then write the sentences as one paragraph.
List A List B
a. First of all ... 1. pick up the receiver
b. Now, finally you ... 2. dial the number and wait for the person
c. When the person answers, ... to answer
d.When you hear the dialing tone, .... 3. put in the money
4. speak
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2.3. Exercise 3
Arranging sentences
These pictures show how to make a papier-mâché pot. The sentences explain the
pictures. Put the sentences in the correct order and write them as one paragraph.
a) When the paper on the jar is dry, rub it with glass-paper. This makes it smooth.
b) After this, paste on about eight layers of small pieces of paper.
c) Now finally paint the pot with bright colours.
d) Because it is smoother, use tissue paper for the last two layers.
e) You can make a lovely pot with a simple jar.
f) First of all, tear some old paper into small pieces.
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2.4. Exercise 4
Guided writing
This is a recipe for Spiced Oranges. Recipes usually have incomplete sentences. Use the
information in the recipe: (i) to write sentences like those in Exercise 2; (ii) to write a
paragraph with those sentences. Use these words if necessary: First of all; After this; Then;
Now; the; some; for; a; them. Add articles before the nouns when necessary.
Ingredients:
4 large oranges
4-5dl ( ¾ pint) water
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg sugar
• Peel oranges and remove all white parts.
• Cut into slices.
• Put water, cinnamon and nutmeg into saucepan.
• When water is boiling, add orange slices.
• Add sugar.
• Simmer gently 3-4 minutes.
• Put in refrigerator several hours.
• Eat cold.
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LESSON 8: GIVING “HOW TO” INSTRUCTIONS (2)
In this lesson, you will be requested to respond to an email enquiring some information. You
will be given specific instructions on what to include in your response. For example, after an
email asking for directions, you may be asked to cover four steps.
I. FOCUS
For each of the following situations, write a sentence telling someone how to avoid a common
mistake.
Making rice
Setting the TV to show DVD
Sewing a shirt
Training a dog
Turing an office alarm system off
For example,
Now as you answer the next three e-mails, be sure to use the signpost words in all how-to
instructions. Also include instructions for how to avoid common mistakes in at least one
response.
Making rice
............................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................
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Sewing a shirt
............................................................................................................................................
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Training a dog
............................................................................................................................................
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II. PRACTICE
2.1. Practice 1
Hi, Carr,
Thanks so much for making sure Ruth gets a birthday cake tomorrow. I understand
she wants a chocolate icing. I basically know how to make a cake, but wondered if
you could tell me exactly how to make the cake Ruth likes.
Thanks in advance!
Directions: Respond to the email as if you are Ruth’s boyfriend, Carr. In your email, tell
Alyssa how to make Ruth’s favourite birthday cake. You intructions should include at least
THREE steps.
To : Alyssa Lee
Subject: Re:Ruth’s birthday
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
2.2. Practice 2
I’m really excited to babysit for you and April tomorrow. I’m a tiny bit worried about
getting Bony to sleep, though. You had said there was a magic way to get him to go to
sleep. Could you tell me again what it is? Otherwise, I can’t wait to spend time with
baby Bony!
Thanks!
Directions: Respond to the email as if you are Bony’s father, David. In your email, tell Rachel
how to get the baby to go to sleep . You intructions should include at least THREE steps.
To : Rachel Jones
Subject: Re:Babysitting
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
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2.3. Practice 3
From: My Nguyen
To: Kate Peace
Subject: Sending a fax
Sent: April 30, 8:24 a.m.
Hi, Kate.
I’m sorry to bother you, but I need to send a fax for the first time since I’ve been
working here, and I realized I don’t know how to do it! I’m using the fax machine in
the administration office. It’s a long-distance fax. Could you tell me how to do it?
Directions: Respond to the email as if you are Kate Peace. In your email, tell My how to send
a fax. You intructions should include at least THREE steps.
To : My Nguyen
Subject: Re:Sending a fax
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Self-Evaluation
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LESSON 9:GIVING DIRECTIONS
In this lesson, you will learn how to give directions to a certain place. Using the right
vocabulary for giving directions will improve the vocabulary portion of your score.
I. FOCUS
Go out the door and make a left. Go down one block to 22nd Street. Make a left. Follow 22nd
Street about 5 blocks until you reach South Van ness. Make a right. The grocery store is
halfway down the block on the right. If you reach 21st Street, you’ve gone too fast.
Now, practice giving directions with a classmate. Give instructions from your school to your
house and from your classmate’s house to your own.
As you answer the following emails, use the phrases / sentences above to help you.
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II. PRACTICE
2.1. Practice 1
Hi, Michael.
I wanted to let you know that my flight arrives on Friday at 2:30. I have a rental car
all lined up. So all I need is how to get to your house . I’ll be coming in on Route 1
headed North, so I just need to know how to get to your place from here. Thanks a
bunch, and I can’t wait to see you.
To : Dan Jack
Subject: Re:Plans
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
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2.2. Practice 2
Hi, Michael.
I am ready to send the mailing out. I have everything in envelopes and ready to go.
The only thing is, the post office told me they won’t pick up a mass mailing, so I’ll
need to take them to the post office myself. Could you tell me where the nearest post
office is? I would really appreciate it.
Thank you!
Directions: Respond to the email as if you areThomas Hardy. In your email, tell Chesson how
to get to the post office. You intructions should include at least THREE steps.
To : Chesson Shaw
Subject: Re:Post office
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
50
LESSON 10: INQUIRIES
In this lesson, you will learn how to give directions to a certain place. Using the right
vocabulary for giving directions will improve the vocabulary portion of your score.
I. FOCUS
I would like to ask you a few questions about your product / offer and services.
I would like to inquire about your product / offer.
I wonder if I can get another discount on it.
I’m not sure if I can get another discount on it.
I have two questions I’d like to ask you.
I would like to ask you a few questions about the heath and safety seminar.
Actually, I do have some questions about the product.
Could you tell me where ...
Firstly, ...............................................................................
Secondly, ...........................................................................
To stat with, .......................................................................
In addition, .........................................................................
First of all, ..........................................................................
Also, ...................................................................................
Finally, / And finally, .........................................................
For one thing, .......................................................................
For another, ..........................................................................
Lastly, ...................................................................................
Sample
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Dear Mr. Hann,
I’m very interested in the marketing supervisor’s role. However, before accepting the
offer, I need to first ask a couple of questions about the position.
Firstly, I was wondering which branch the vacancy is in. I would much prefer to stay
in New York. Secondly, can you please tell me what hours I would have work? I
would rather not work weekends.
Sincerely,
Henry Thomson
BRAINSTORMING .
Before writing the reply email, work in pairs to brainstorm your possible questions.
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II. PRACTICE
2.1. Practice 1
Hi, everyone!
If you have any questions with this policy, please contact me directly.
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Directions: Respond to the email as if you are an employee of the organization. In your email,
ask Sarah TWO questions (about flexible working hours, cases of out-of-office meeting,
.......................,................................).
Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
2.1. Practice 1
We’re offering all our loyal customers a fantastic opportunity to travel this summer.
For a limited time only, we’re offering discounts on trips to selected destinations.
Email us or visit your local Link Travel branch for more details.
Directions: Respond to the email as if you are R. Robinson . In your email, ask TWO
questions (about the expiry of the offer, what the selected destinations are, ....................,
...............................).
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To : Jane Moore
Subject: Re: Link Travel special offer
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
Practice 3m.
I am attaching an application form for the position. Please let me know if you have
any questions about the application or the job itself.
Matthew Eaton
Directions: Respond to the email as if you are J. Moore. In your email, ask TWO questions
(about the working place and hours, .............................., .........................................,
..................................).
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To : Matthew Eaton
Subject: Re: Opening for overseas tour guide
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
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55
LESSON 11:RESPONDING TO INQUIRIES
In this lesson, you will learn how to reply to inquiries. Writing effective replies to business
emails is one of the most important skills you should acquire as a good business owner, sales
person or marketing personnel.Using the right vocabulary for responding to inquiries will
improve the vocabulary portion of your score.
I. FOCUS
Making suggestions / justifying recommendations / pointing out pros and cons / hedging
- The best choice would be … since …
- I highly recommend … as / due to the fact that …
- I recommend this item since …
- In view of the fact that …, I would strongly recommend … as …
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Sample 1
Thank you for your enquiry regarding our newly released range of fire extinguishers.
You will see from the enclosed catalogue that the range has been extended to include
some highly efficient portable extinguishers for use on construction sites.
Yours sincerely,
Silvia Choi
Merchandising Manager
II. PRACTICE
2.1. Practice 1
I have investigated the situation and found that your specifications are exactly the
same as the design of a proprietary camera battery manufactured by a large Japanese
electronics company.
We ................ that it would not be in our interests to supply this type of battery.
However, I ................... ............to thank you for considering our company as your
supplier.
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2.2. Practice 2
Directions: Respond to the email as if you are a sales representative for Telfo Wire Company.
In your email, give ONE time you are free and make TWO requests for new equipment.
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Self-Evaluation
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2.3. Practice 3
Sincerely,
Lou Herr
To : Lou Herr
Subject: Re: Employment
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria Yes No
Does your reply meet the requirements outlined in the
directions?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence variety?
Does your reply demonstrate good sentence structures?
Does your reply demonstrate good overall organization?
Does your reply use correct and appropriate vocabulary?
59
Chapter 3
WRITING AN OPINION ESSAY
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LESSON 12: WRITING GENERAL INTRODUCTORY SENTENCES
I. FOCUS
The first paragraph in an essay is called the introductory paragraph. There are two purposes of
the introductory paragraph: to get the readers’ attention and to introduce them to the subject of
your essay. In other words, you need to lead readers to the subject of the essay in an interesting
way and convince them that reading your essay will be worth their time.
• It must be relevant to the topic; that is, it should not introduce material not covered in
the essay.
• It should not give detailed information about the main ideas of the essay. Detailed
information belongs to the body paragraphs.
• There should be at least two sentences before the thesis statement.
• The thesis statement should come at the end of the introductory paragraph.
1.2. Model of an introductory paragraph
Essay question: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Businesses
should do anything they can to make a profit. Use specific reasons and examples to
support your position.
Sample introduction:
Nowadays, the competition among the businesses has been increasing, and every
company tries to struggle and survive in such a situation. Some people think that
businesses should do anything they can do to reach their goal - maximum profits. In my
opinion, however, businesses must not do anything harmful to the community.
II. PRACTICE
2.1. Task 1
Put the sentences in each of the following sets in the correct order to form a good
introductory paragraph for the intended essay.
2.a. However, in others, the nuclear family with only the parents and young children is the
norm.
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b. If this new system becomes widespread, it could have enormous effects on the society.
c. In most cultures, people live in extended families, in which several generations share
the same house.
d. People in different cultures have different systems for family life.
e. In recent years, some couples are experimenting with still another system of family life:
living together without marriage.
3.a. I believe that it is cheaper, more convenient, and better for the environment than private
cars are.
b. In order to get around city, you can use public transportation or private cars.
c. My preference is definitely for public transportation.
d. Your choice of transportation basically depends on where you want to go.
2.2. Task 2
Read the four introductory paragraphs that follow the essay question. Check (√) the
features of a good introduction that they have (Remember: they must have all four to be
a good introduction).
Essay question: Which, in your opinion, is more important in making someone’s life happy: a
good environment or good genes?
1. Some people have a happy life and some people don’t. My friend Tony has a miserable life.
He just got divorced, and now his wife won’t let him see his children. To live a happy life, a
good environment is more important than good genes.
2. First, a good environment can make you healthier, which can make you happy. Second, if
you live in a good environment, you probably have many friends who can help you when you
need it. Friends are important for emotional health as well. People with friends are happier
than people without friends. Also, a good environment is probably safer, so you don’t have to
be afraid to walk down the street. Being safe makes everyone happy. To live a happy life, a
good environment is more important than good genes.
3. It is said that your mother and father make you what you are. You get your genes from
them, and they may have great genes. However, if they don't raise you in a safe, loving
environment, you may never be happy. To live a happy life, a good environment is more
important than good genes.
4. Before the nineteenth century, most people lived in dirty, smelly, unhealthy environments.
To live a happy life, a good environment is more important than good genes.
5. Environment is much more important that genes when you are growing up. A good example
of this is the millions of people in the world who were born with physical challenges. If people
are raised in a good environment, they can be successful and live a happy life.
2.3. Task 3
Read each essay question. Then choose the more general introductory sentence of the
two that follow. This sentence would appear just before the thesis statement, which states
your opinion. Compare your answer with that of a partner. Say why the other sentence is
not appropriate.
1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Consulting with a group of
people is the best way to make an important decision.
a. Making an important decision is not an easy thing to do, and there are different ways to
do it.
b. If you want to make an important decision, you should definitely always do it by
yourself.
Thesis statement: Many people believe that getting the opinion of other is the best way to
make an important decision; however, I disagree with this approach.
2. When travelling medium distances, some people prefer to fly. Others prefer to take
express trains. Which do you prefer?
a. Trains and airplanes have both advantages and disadvantages.
b. I don’t really like flying because it is very expensive and I often get airsick.
Thesis statement: Although some people prefer to fly, I’d rather take the train.
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2.4. Task 4
Write ONE general introductory sentence that would appear just before the thesis
statement.
1. _________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
I’m totally opposed to living in the city.
2. ________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
In my opinion, the internet is the best place to buy things.
3. _________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
There are several things about my current job, but I believe that the best aspect of my job is
the long vacations.
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LESSON 13: WRITING A COMPLETE INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH
I. FOCUS
As explained in the previous lesson, a good introductory paragraph should be relevant and
consist of at least two general sentences that are followed by the thesis statement. Now, let’s
practise writing complete introductory paragraphs for your intended essays.
II. PRACTICE
2.1. Task 1
Write two or more general sentences for each of the following thesis statement to make
the complete introductory paragraph for your intended essay.
1. _________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
I’m totally opposed to living in the city.
2. _________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
In my opinion, the internet is the best place to buy things.
3. _________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
There are several things about my current job, but I believe that the best aspect of my job is the
long vacations.
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2.2. Task 2
1. It is important for travelers and business people to understand the cultures they come into
contact with. What are the main advantages of doing so?
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
2. Employers should pay young people the same salary as older colleagues doing the same
job. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
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3. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Universities should make more
links with businesses.
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
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Lesson 14: GIVING REASONS AND EXAMPLES
I. GIVING REASONS
1.1. Focus
When you write about your opinion, it is important to give reasons why you think about things
in this way or that way.
A common way to give support for your ideas is to show how a situation would be different in
other circumstances. Conditional sentences can be used for this purpose. An opinion essay may
include a present condition, so you can use will or other modal verbs to give ideas about
possible present or future results.
If people migrate to cities, they may become trapped in poor, overcrowded accommodation.
1.2. Practice
1.2.1. Task 1
Complete conditional sentences 1-6 with the words and phrases a-f.
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1. 2.2. Task 2
Complete sentences 1-3 with your own ideas. Compare your answers with your partner’s
and see if you agree with his or her idea.
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
3. Unless the local governments restrict the number of cars coming into cities,
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
2.1. Focus
The easiest, and usually the best, way to keep your writing specific and concrete is to use
specific examples whenever possible. A specific example is a particular instance. So to give a
specific example of technology would be to write about particular people using a particular
machine. To give a specific example of any human activity would require that you write about
individual people. To give a specific example of teaching history would be to describe what a
particular teacher or students do. Give examples of every point you make, and make your
examples clear and forceful by making them specific. Write about people and what people
actually do, not just about ideas or concepts.
2.2. Practice
2.2.1 Task 1
Match beginning 1-5 to the ending a-e. Note the common phrases for introducing
examples in bold.
1. There are several disadvantages to working in a big city. Some examples include …
_____
2. Spending money on research can have a great impact. One clear example of this is …
_____
3. I think the most important factor is practical experience. By this I mean …
_____
4. We could save money by reducing costs. For example, … _____
5. One example of the problems we faced was high material costs. Another example was …
_____
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a. Zentex’s development of the first biochip in 2004.
b. a lack of understanding of the market.
c. we could stop giving free samples to all visitors.
d. expensive housing, heavy traffic, and a stressful lifestyle.
e. actual time spent working in the field.
2.2.2. Task 2
Look at each of the sentences in task 1 and match the phrases s in bold to the definition of
how it is used below.
2.2.3. Task 3
Use common phrases in task 1 to write examples for the statements in 1-3.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
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Lesson 15
I. FOCUS
In this lesson, you will be practicing how to use reasons and examples to develop the key ideas
in your answers to opinion essay questions.
II. PRACTICE
2.1. Task 1
Choose one of the prompts below to express your own opinions, and then use ONE
reason or example to support each of your opinions.
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
□ excellent.
□ getting better.
□ in need of major improvements.
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
□ reduced and people should use their own money to take care of themselves.
□ spent to help those on need.
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
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2.2. Task 2
1. In general, people are living longer now. How will this change affect society? Use
specific details and examples to develop your essay.
2. If you could change one important thing about your hometown, what would you
change? Use reasons and specific examples to support your answer.
3. Think of the most important class you have ever taken. Why did you enjoy this class so
much? Use specific reasons and details to explain your answer.
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REFERENCES
1. Oshima, A. & Hogue, A. (2006). Writing academic English (phiên bản 4). New Jersey,U.S.A.:
Pearson Longman.
2. Boswell J. & Hyejeong, L. & Hyeonju, K. & McCormick, D. S. (2009) . Tomato TOEIC writing
flow. Hồ Chí Minh,Việt Nam: Nhà xuất bản Tổng hợp Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh.
3. Koo, J. (2012). New TOEIC – writing coach. Hồ Chí Minh,Việt Nam: Nhà xuất bản Tổng hợp
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh.
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