The English Essay – some sample titles to pratice.

When you are sitting an entrance exam, it is always useful to have some practise in place. An assignment and structure in your head to some obvious questions, a few great metaphors or similies that you can drop into your creative writing and of course with these in place you will increase your positivity when attending the interview.

In terms of writing there are some tools that you should try and work into your work. If you are writing a reasoned arguement – try to link in terms of PEEL: POINT, EXPLAIN, EVIDENCE and LINK. These will help to make your writing more concise and reasoned as you move through the assignment

Make a list of what you like about the school you are applying for.

First and foremost, it’s important to get your thoughts down on paper. Jot down a list of all the reasons you like the school, from the biggest (maybe the school has a renowned activities or subjects that interest you, a great reputation etc) to the smallest (delicious cookies in the dining hall, or great school colors). It won’t be necessary for you to include every item on your list in your essay, but you’d be surprised how simply writing down your thoughts can help you write a more authentic and comprehensive response.

Get specific about academics and extracurriculars.

This essay question is your chance to show that you’ve done some serious research on the school (on that note: if you haven’t already, you should take some time to research the school!). So, don’t just write that you admire their Global Politics program — explain why you admire the outcomes of the program, that you’re excited to study abroad with your classmates. In addition to academics, show that you’re excited by specific extracurricular or sport programs that the school may offer; remember, most schools are searching for well-rounded candidates, so they’ll be expecting future students to have interests outside the classroom. For example, many schools have excellent service programs that encourage students to volunteer in the local community, or Emergency Medical Technician training classes that allow students to work as medical responders on campus. If these types of programs interest you, great: include your thoughts, in detail, in your essay.

Show them why you’ll fit.

It’s important to remember that these questions are designed to give admission officers a better idea of who you are — so, consider why you think you’d fit well with the college’s approach to academics and student life. For example: instead of writing that you’re a hard worker, explain that you would thrive in the school’s small, discussion-based class setting. Remember though, “fitting in” doesn’t mean you can’t break the status quo. Explain how your own, unique background and interests would help diversify classroom discussions and campus life.

Be real.

No matter what, write in a way that is true to yourself. You don’t need to scour the thesaurus to show admission officers you’re smart, or write about aspects of the school that you don’t find compelling. Write a response that is true to how you feel about the college, no matter how “cliche” it may seem. If you’re honest and articulate, your essay will come across as unique.

Here are some pratice questions that have featured on school entrance exam papers in the UK.

Write an essay using ONE of the following titles. Each one is worth 25 marks. You will also be awarded up to 10 marks for your use of spelling, punctuation and grammar.

1. Winter
2. What do you think is the greatest invention in the history of mankind: the wheel, the
   Internet, the lightbulb? Write about your chosen invention, describing it and explaining why it is so important.
3. Write a story or essay using one of the following titles:
   a. Sisters
   b. The glass vase
   c. The hilltop
4. Some scientists are convinced that the universe is so massive that there must be aliens
   out there somewhere. What do you think? Write an essay giving your opinion, using one of the following titles:
   a. The aliens are out there!
   b. There are no such things as aliens!
5. Have you ever read a book with an interesting villain? Write about what made the villain so interesting
6. The secret
7. The worst birthday
8. Write an essay or story containing the words: “My shoes were ruined!”
9. Think about an argument you have had with someone. Write about the argument from the other person’s point of view. Describe their thoughts and feelings in as much detail as you can.
10. Have you ever read a book with a brilliant ending? Write about it, explaining what madethe ending so satisfying.

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