Master English Writing Structures and Essential Vocabulary
Master English Writing Structures
Standard Essay Template
Structure: Introduction, Body (3 paragraphs), Counter-argument, and Conclusion.
- Introduction: Nowadays, it is well known that… Most people share the view that…
- Body: 1) First, it is undeniable that, as a result… 2) Secondly, … is also an important point to consider because… 3) Last but not least, … should be mentioned since…
- Counter-argument: However, although, or instead of…
- Conclusion: To sum up, from my point of view…
Engaging Article Format
Structure: Title, Topic, Opinion (Example), and Reader Question.
Are you one of those people who…? If the answer is yes, this article is for you. How would you feel about [verb]+ing?
- Introduction: I’m sure everyone would agree that…
- Body: At first, you might think that… I personally… Just imagine…
- Conclusion: If I were you, I would…
Useful Expressions
- Actions speak louder than words.
- No pain, no gain.
- If I had known, I would have changed my mind.
- We can’t live without it, can we?
Effective Email Communication
Hi Dan, how are things? Sorry to be so slow getting back to you, but I had to hit the books.
Opening Options:
- I was afraid to hear that you were worried about the trip.
- What great news! I’m glad to hear that…
Body and Advice: In your letter, you mention… Well, if I were you, I would… As well as that, you also wondered about… I think you really should… because this way…
Closing: Anyway, I’ll be delighted to pay you a visit; count me in! Let me know when it suits you so I can plan ahead. Well, that’s all for now. I hope this was helpful. Drop me a line soon! Best wishes.
Essential Connectors and Idioms
Connectors:
- Addition: Besides, furthermore, moreover, too, as well, also.
- Contrast: In spite of, however, although.
- Result: Therefore.
- Example: For instance.
- Reason: Due to.
- Reality: Actually.
Idioms and Phrases:
- Something easy: It’s a piece of cake.
- Participation: Count me in; I’m looking forward to it.
- Regret: What a pity! I wish I could, but…
- Advice: I think it would be a great idea to…
- Inquiry: Could you let me know? I would like to know.
Advanced Vocabulary by Topic
Descriptive Adjectives
- Happy: Thrilled, delighted.
- Sad: Devastated.
- Bad: Awful.
- Good: Awesome.
- Funny: Hilarious.
- Surprised: Astonished.
- Tired: Exhausted.
- Dirty/Clean: Filthy (dirty), spotless (clean).
- Temperature: Freezing cold, boiling hot.
Common Phrasal Verbs
- Look forward to: To be excited about something.
- Keep on: To continue doing something.
- Take up: To start a new activity.
- Be away: To be absent.
- Look after: To take care of.
Thematic Vocabulary
Travel: Abroad, luggage, peak season, backpacker, sightseeing, landmark.
Shopping: Customer, discount, to sell, to order, aisle, counter, fitting room, shop assistant, shop window, trolley, out of stock, queue, wait in line, refund.
Technology: Unplug, text back, device, wireless, set up, bug.
Environment: Endangered, reserve, renewable (sources of energy: solar panels, wind turbines, tidal energy), wildlife, poachers, global warming.
Health: Illness, symptom, I have a pain in my…, fever, nutrition, relaxation, hydration, mental health, physical health, check-up. Example: I need to drink more water; I’m trying to reduce stress; I go to bed early; I exercise 3 times a week.
Weddings: Bride, groom, the best man, bridesmaid, a pageboy, engaged, guests.