Essay Example Questions | Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) | PDF

8 Example essay questions for the Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) exam. Get an easy C1 essay structure, grammar tips and a PDF.

Hayley Morris

Found and Head Teacher

Cambridge C1

Cambridge C1 Advanced Essay Question Format: Knowing What to Expect

First off, let’s talk about what you’re actually going to face on the big day. In Cambridge C1, the essay is in Part 1 of your writing paper, you’ll be given a statement and then asked to write an essay based on two points that are usually listed within the prompt. You should address these points robustly while integrating your own ideas and experiences.

‍PRO TIP: always take a moment to underline key parts of the question to make sure you’re hitting all the requirements!

‍

CAE Essay Example Question: Technology

Your class has had a discussion about the role of technology in modern life. You have made the notes below:

Write an essay discussing two of the ways that technology has impacted modern life. You should explain which impact you think is the most significant, giving reasons to support your opinion. Write your answer in 220–260 words.

‍

REALATED: CAMBRIDGE C1 ADVANCED ESSAY WRITING VIDEO COURSE

‍

CAE Essay Example Question: Environment

Your class has participated in a debate about environmental conservation. You have made the notes below:

Write an essay discussing two of the methods for conserving the environment. You should explain which method you believe is more effective, giving reasons to support your opinion. Write your answer in 220–260 words.

‍

C1 Advanced Essay Structure:

Structure is the skeleton of your Cambridge C1 essay; it holds everything together. A well-structured essay not only impresses the examiners but also makes it easier for you to organize your thoughts. Here’s a simple structure you can follow:

Introduction: Start with a hook—a sentence that grabs attention. Follow up with background information or a restatement of the question in your own words, then finish with your thesis statement that outlines your main points.
Body Paragraphs: You’ll want two to three body paragraphs. Begin each one with a clear topic sentence that states the point of the paragraph. After that, add explanations, examples, and any necessary arguments. Be sure to vary your language and demonstrate your vocabulary.
Conclusion: summarize your points and choose which argument you agree with. Add a prediction about what would happen if your method/way is chosen at the end using future perfect for extra grammar points!

‍

WATCH: How to Write an Introduction - Cambridge C1 Essay

‍

CAE Essay Example Question: Work

Your class has discussed the future of work and employment. You have made the notes below:

Write an essay discussing two aspects of the future of work. You should explain which aspect you think is the most crucial, giving reasons to support your opinion. Write your answer in 220–260 words.

‍

CAE Essay Example Question: Advertising

Your class has had a conversation about the influence of advertising. You have made the notes below:

Write an essay discussing two of the ways advertising affects society. You should explain which effect you believe is more significant, giving reasons to support your opinion. Write your answer in 220–260 words.

‍

DOWNLOAD: Cambridge C1 Advanced Example Essay Questions PDF

‍

Top Advanced Grammar Points to Include

Flexing your grammar muscles can really set your essay apart. Here are some grammar highlights to help you shine:

Complex Sentences: Use subordinating conjunctions like although, since, unless, whereas. These not only show off your language skills but also make your arguments more nuanced.
Passive Voice: It can be useful, especially if you want to emphasize an action more than the doer or if the doer is unknown.
Inversion: Examiners are looking to tick this off their list of high-level grammar, so make sure you include atleast one inversion.
Conditionals: Ideal for hypothesizing, especially in your body paragraphs when discussing potential outcomes of the issues at hand.
Cleft sentences: Perfect for adding a bit of emphasis, you can use this to give your opinion at the end of your essay.

‍

CAE Essay Example Question: Urban Life

Your class has looked into the topic of urban living. You have made the notes below:

Write an essay discussing two of the challenges or benefits of urban living. You should explain which one you think is the most pressing or advantageous, giving reasons to support your opinion. Write your answer in 220–260 words.

‍

CAE Essay Example Question: Education

Write an essay discussing two of the reasons why arts education is important. You should explain which reason you believe is more crucial, giving reasons to support your opinion. Write your answer in 220–260 words.

‍

CAE Writing Marking Scheme: What Examiners Are Looking For

Understanding the marking criteria can significantly impact how you approach your essay. The Cambridge C1 exam assesses your writing on four main fronts:

Content: How well do you answer the question? Make sure you address all parts of the prompt thoroughly.
Communicative Achievement: How appropriately do you communicate your ideas? Are you formal where needed? Do you engage the reader?
Organisation: How well is your essay structured? Is it logical and cohesive, with effective use of paragraphs and linking words?
Language: How broad is your range of vocabulary and grammar? Are there errors, or do you demonstrate accuracy and variety?

Each of these components is equally important, so neglecting one can be detrimental to your score.

‍

Not sure what your writing score is? Try our Cambridge essay correction service!

‍

CAE Essay Example Question: Tourism

Write an essay discussing two of the impacts of tourism on local communities. You should explain which impact you think is the most significant, giving reasons to support your opinion. Write your answer in 220–260 words.

‍

Remember, writing at Cambridge C1 Advanced level is not just about showing off what you know; it’s about effectively communicating and persuading. Practice regularly, and don’t be afraid to tackle a variety of essay topics to hone your skills. Get feedback from teachers or peers to improve and refine your writing style.

So, keep calm, keep practicing, and soon you’ll be writing essays that not only meet but exceed the Cambridge C1 standards.

‍

Latest Articles

Browse Articles

April 9, 2024

Cambridge C1

Essay Example Questions | Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) | PDF

8 Example essay questions for the Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) exam. Get an easy C1 essay structure, grammar tips and a PDF.

20 Cambridge C1 Speaking Part 2 Exam Questions

20 Cambridge C1 Advanced Speaking Part 2 sample exam questions with exam tips and C1 vocabulary to help you pass your exam!

Cambridge C1 Advanced - Speaking Part 3 - Ebook

Download your free e-book and get 10 Speaking Part 3 tasks! Take the next step to passing your Cambridge C1 exam!

Start learning today!

Join our interactive online lessons and start speaking like a native.
No boring textbooks, just 100% interaction!

Sign up now!