Pruebas Trinity College

ISE 0-IV PORTOLIO TASKS 2010 1

Portfolio tasks for ISE 0, I, II, III & IV January–December 2010

1. These are the only acceptable tasks for candidates taking the

ISE examination January–December 2010. Your portfolio

tasks must come from this list.

2. Your portfolio must contain a total of three tasks. You must

present one task from each section: • One from Section 1 - Correspondence

• One from Section 2 - Factual writing

• One from Section 3 – Creative and descriptive writing

(ISE 0-III) or Critical and analytical writing (ISE IV)

3. Please select your tasks from the appropriate ISE level you

are taking. You must not mix levels.

4. Please write the task question number on each piece of work.

5. At the end of each task, write the number of words you have used to complete the task. You must not exceed the stated

maximum word length range.

6. Please present your completed portfolio in the colour-coded

file (as provided by Trinity) along with the Portfolio cover

sheet and Student portfolio feedback forms.

Introduction to ISE 0 & I

1

INTRODUCTION TO

ISE 0 & I EXAMS

Introduction to ISE 0 & I Exams

Contents 1. What is ISE? ........................................................................ 1

2. ISE Levels ........................................................................... 1

3. Language of the Level- ISE 0 & I ................................................ 2

4. ISE Components ................................................................... 3

5. Differences between the Portfolio and Controlled Written ................ 3

6. The Portfolio ....................................................................... 4

7. The Controlled Written exam ................................................... 4

8. The Interview ...................................................................... 5

9. Summary of the structure of the ISE 0 & I .................................... 6

10. The Syllabus ....................................................................... 6

1. What is ISE?

Integrated Skills in English examinations (ISE) assess all four language skills – speaking, writing, listening and reading – interacting with each other as they do in the real world.

2. ISE Levels

How many ISE levels are available?

ISE is available at five key levels which are linked to the Common European Framework of Reference. This workshop focuses on ISE 0 and I:

ISE CEFR

ISE IV C2

ISE III C1

ISE II B2

ISE I B1

ISE 0 A2

ISE

WRITING

READING

SPEAKING

LISTENING


2

INTRODUCTION TO

ISE 0 & I EXAMS

3. Language of the Level- ISE 0 & I

What language items are the candidates expected to understand and produce at ISE 0 & I?

What differences do you notice between the language in Box A and Box B?

What grammatical items are being used in each box?

If I go to London, it might rain. I have to take my passport and mobile with me when I go on holiday. The day after tomorrow, I’m flying to Rome. I first went to London when I was studying English at university. When I grow up, I might be a fashion designer. I like classical music, but I prefer pop. I’ve been to a few concerts, but never a music festival. I’ll probably go to the Benicassim festival next year. I went home after school. I’m going to meet my mum after the exam I never play football in the winter. She is the best teacher in the world. He is the worst singer in the competition. I took the exam and I passed it. I don’t like rock music but I like pop.

What level of language are your students producing? Do you have a mixture?

A

B


3

INTRODUCTION TO

ISE 0 & I EXAMS

4. ISE Components

What does ISE exam consist of?

To be awarded a pass, candidates must achieve a pass grade in both: a) The Portfolio + Controlled Written exam b) The Interview

5. Differences between the Portfolio and Controlled Written

ISE

Written Portfolio

(20%)

Controlled Written

(30%)

Interview

(50%)

Portfolio

(20%)

Controlled Written

(30%)

Prepared writing (6-12 wks)

Untimed

Choice of tasks

3 sections

Marked by a visiting examiner

Students use resources:

dictionaries

grammar books

coursebooks

internet

word processors

teachers!

Spontaneous writing

Timed

No choice of tasks

2 sections

Sent to London for marking

Students cannot use any additional resources


4

INTRODUCTION TO

ISE 0 & I EXAMS

6. The Portfolio

It is divided into 3 sections, Correspondence, Factual Writing and Creative and Descriptive Writing.

There is a choice of 5 possible questions in each section.

The candidates can do as many as they like, but they must present the best example of their work from each section to the examiner.

It is not a timed exam, but represents the best work that a candidate can produce, given time, access to dictionaries, computers and teachers.

7. The Controlled Written exam

It is divided into 2 sections, Reading into Writing and Writing.

It is a timed exam and there is no choice of questions.

The ISE 0 and ISE I candidates must do both questions in both sections:

ISE Controlled Written

(30%)

Reading into Writing Writing

ISE Portfolio

(20%)

Correspondence FactualCreative and Descriptive


5

INTRODUCTION TO

ISE 0 & I EXAMS

8. The Interview

The ISE Interview is a 1-to-1 oral exam with a visiting Trinity examiner.

The ISE 0 & I Interviews consist of 2 Phases:

In the Topic Discussion: In the Conversation/Portfolio:

ISE Interview

(50%)

Topic Discussion

(4 minutes)

Conversation &

Portfolio Discussion

(4 minutes)

The candidate chooses a Topic to discuss.

ISE 0 students prepare 4 points to discuss.

ISE I students prepare 6 points to discuss.

The candidate uses the discussion points to demonstrate the Language of the Grade.

The candidate also asks the examiner questions using the Language of the Grade.

The examiner will choose 1 of the 6 possible ‘Subject Areas for Conversation’ to discuss.

The examiner will ask the candidate about his/her Portfolio.

The candidate should use the Language of the Level throughout the discussion.


6

INTRODUCTION TO

ISE 0 & I EXAMS

9. Summary of the structure of the ISE 0 & I

10. The Syllabus

There is only one Syllabus for Trinity ISE Exams, and all relevant information is

contained in the one book.

All teachers should familiarise themselves with the ISE Syllabus (from Feb. 2010):

‘About…’ sections, pages 6-19

Regulations, pages 65-73

Appendices, pages 74-81

Depending on the level, teachers should also refer to:

ISE 0, pages 20-26

ISE I, pages 27-33

ISE

Controlled Written

Reading into Writing

Writing

ISE

Portfolio

Correspondence FactualCreative and Descriptive

ISE

Interview

Topic Discussion

Conversation & Portfolio Discussion

PORTFOLIO (Prepared over 6-12 weeks in class/at home)

INTERVIEW (8 minutes)

CONTROLLED WRITTEN EXAM

(Timed exam)

ISE 0 & I Portfolio and Controlled Written exams

1

ISE 0 & I PORTFOLIO AND

CONTROLLED WRITTEN


Contents 1. The Portfolio - summary ......................................................... 1

2. Preparing the Portfolio ........................................................... 2

3. The difference between ISE 0 and ISE I Portfolio Tasks ..................... 4

4. The Controlled Written exam - summary ...................................... 6

5. Tips for preparing candidates for Trinity ISE written exams ............... 7

6. Assessing the Portfolio: Performance Descriptors............................ 8

7. Practice Assessments - ISE I Portfolio Tasks .................................. 9

1. The Portfolio - summary

What is the Portfolio?

The Portfolio is a collection of the candidate‟s best 3 pieces of work.

Candidates at ISE 0 & I must present their best example of each of the following tasks:

Section 1 = 1 x Correspondence writing Section 2 = 1 x Factual writing Section 3 = 1 x Creative and Descriptive Writing

The candidate‟s work is marked by the examiner when he/she visits your school, before the Interview Phase of the exam.

After marking the Portfolio, the examiner will discuss the content of the Portfolio in the Interview Phase of the exam.

What does the ISE Portfolio consist of?

ISE

Portfolio

Correspondence Factual WritingCreative and

Descriptive Writing


2


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

Characteristics of the Portfolio

It allows candidates to prepare the best work they can.

Prepared writing (6-12 wks), in class and at home

Not a timed exam

Choice of tasks

Students can use a wide range of resources:

dictionaries

grammar books

coursebooks

internet

word processors

teachers!

2. Preparing the Portfolio

Candidates for ISE 0 and ISE I visit the Trinity website: www.trinitycollege.co.uk

They see the list of Portfolio Tasks for this year.

They see a selection of possible tasks:

Section 1 = 5 x Correspondence writing Section 2 = 5 x Factual writing Section 3 = 5 x Creative and Descriptive Writing

They select between 1-5 tasks from each section to prepare.

Candidates should choose tasks which are personally interesting for them and which help them to demonstrate the Language of the Grade.

See the handout „Portfolio Tasks 2010‟ for this year‟s tasks.

Writing the Portfolio Tasks

The tasks practise real-life writing situations.

They usually take between 6-12 weeks.

Candidates can prepare the tasks in class or at home.

Candidates can use as many resources as they need.

Writing the tasks encourages learner independence.

Candidates are encouraged to use the computer.

http://www.trinitycollege.co.uk/


3


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

Example candidate answer:

Write a postcard to a friend telling him or her where you are, what the weather is like and what you are doing. (40-60 words)

The Portfolio Feedback Form - What is the role of the teacher?

The teacher can give the candidates feedback on their essays, but the teachers do not write on the candidate‟s written work.

All feedback is noted on the Portfolio Feedback Form. (p.71, ISE Syllabus)

Candidates can have one completed Portfolio Feedback Form for every task that they write. Here is an example Portfolio Feedback Form:

Hi

I am in Moscow! Here is the whether good. Is not cold how usually is in Russia!

I stay in hotel in center of city. Is no big but comfortable! Moscow is very big. The architecture is very old and beautiful. And is many tourists!

Write me and tell me your news!

Bye!


4


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

3. The difference between ISE 0 and ISE I Portfolio Tasks

What is the difference in the types of text?

As the ISE 0 is an A2 exam and the ISE I is a B1 exam, there is naturally a difference in the length of texts the candidates must produce.

IMPORTANT! The word limit is strict! The number of words written must be within the range specified. If the candidate writes too few or too many words, they will be seen as not having satisfactorily completed the task. The candidates may still pass the exam, but they are unlikely to achieve an „A‟ or „B‟ grade.

Please note that as the candidate has weeks to prepare the texts, has access to a teacher, a computer, a dictionary and other resources, there is no excuse for not observing the word limits.

There is also a difference in types of texts the candidates must produce.

ISE 0 Portfolio:

ISE I Portfolio:

ISE 0

Portfolio

CORRESPONDENCE FACTUAL WRITING

80-100 words

- Instructions

- Directions

CREATIVE AND DESCRIPTIVE WRITING

80-100 words

- Story

- Diary

- Description

- Postcard - Memo - Note - Informal letter - Email

40-60 words - Instructions - Directions

80-100 words - Story - Diary - Description

80-100 words

ISE I

Portfolio

CORRESPONDENCE FACTUAL WRITING

80-100 words

- Instructions

- Directions

CREATIVE AND DESCRIPTIVE WRITING

80-100 words

- Story

- Diary

- Description

- Informal letter - Formal letter - Email

- Report - Article - Review

- Story - Diary - Description

110-130 words 110-130 words 70-80 words


5


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

Summary of the text types for the Portfolio:

Correspondence ISE 0 ISE I

A. Postcards

B. Memos

C. Notes

D. Informal letters

E. Formal letters

F. Emails

Factual Writing ISE 0 ISE I

G. Instructions

H. Directions

I. Report

J. Article

K. Review

Creative and descriptive writing

H. Story

I. Diary

J. Description

Please see the handout „Text types: Definitions‟ for full details.


6


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

4. The Controlled Written exam - summary

Characteristics of the Controlled Written exam

Spontaneous writing

A „traditional‟ timed exam in silence

2 sections

No choice of tasks

Usually every 3rd Wednesday of the month

Sent to London for marking

Students cannot use any additional resources

What do the ISE 0 & I Controlled Written exams consist of?

ISE 0 Controlled Written:

There is an example of the ISE 0 Controlled Written exam in the ISE Syllabus, p.21

ISE I Controlled Written:

There is an example of the ISE I Controlled Written exam in the ISE Syllabus, p.28.

ISE 0

Controlled Written

45 minutes


approx. 75 words

(+/- 10%)

Writing

approx. 75 words

(+/-10%)

ISE 1

Controlled Written

1hour 30 minutes


approx. 150 words

(+/- 10%)

Writing

approx. 150 words

(+/-10%)


7


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

5. Tips for preparing candidates for Trinity ISE written exams

Candidates should look at the questions and consider the following:

Example question from an ISE I/B1 Portfolio Tasks: ISE I – Task Section 1 - Correspondence (Word limit: 70–80 words) “You have just finished some important exams. A friend has e-mailed you to ask how the exams went and what will happen if you pass. Reply to your friend.” Audience: Purpose: Format & words: Component ideas: _______________________________________ _______________________________________ ________________________ _______________________________________ ________________________ _______________________________________ ________________________ _______________________________________ ________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________

Purpose Audience Format & words Component ideas Language Paragraphs

Trinity

writing tasks


8


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

6. Assessing the Portfolio: Performance Descriptors


9


CONTROLLED WRITTEN

7. Practice Assessments - ISE I Portfolio Tasks

1/. ISE I – Sample Portfolio tasks – Correspondence (70-80 words)

You receive an email from a friend saying that she always feels tired and unwell. Write your friend an email telling her what she needs to eat and what physical activities she has to do to feel better.

Hello Susie!!

How are you today?? I have just read your email…and for me you only need of a holiday for resting!! But now there is the school and you can‟t do a holiday, so my idea is that you can begin to drink every evening before going to sleep an herbal tea and you will say that you‟ll be more relaxed!! Another thing for feeling better is a swim to the swimming pool.. You listen to me.. Bye..

Love Violetta

2/. ISE I – Sample Portfolio tasks – Correspondence (70-80 words) Write a letter or e-mail to a friend and tell her/him about a place you have visited in the last year, giving your impressions of the surroundings and the people you met. Ask your friend to write back and tell you about any travelling that he/she has done.

25th February 2005

Dear Valery,

How are you? I‟m very well, above all since I have got home after my holiday in Portugal. It‟s a beautiful country. I met some very kind people and when I went to Cabo da Roca it was amazing! It is the western point of the European continent, a sheer cliff above the Atlantic sea…it‟s fantastic! You have to see it!

Write to me soon and tell me about your last holiday.

Love, C

ISE 0 & I Text types: Definitions

1

ISE 0 & I

TEXT TYPES: Definitions

ISE 0 & I TEXT TYPES: Definitions

Contents A. Postcards (ISE 0 only) ............................................................ 1

B. Memos (ISE 0 only) ................................................................ 2

C. Notes (ISE 0 only) ................................................................. 2

D. Informal letters (ISE 0 & ISE I) .................................................. 3

E. Formal letters (ISE I only) ....................................................... 3

F. Emails (ISE 0 & ISE I).............................................................. 4

G. Instructions (ISE 0 only) .......................................................... 4

H. Directions (ISE 0 only) ............................................................ 5

I. Reports (ISE I only) ............................................................... 5

J. Articles (ISE I only)................................................................ 6

K. Reviews (ISE I only) ............................................................... 7

L. Summary (ISE I only) .............................................................. 7

M. Creative writing (ISE 0 & I) ...................................................... 8

N. Descriptive writing (ISE 0 & I) ................................................... 8

What types of tasks do the students do in the Portfolio and Controlled Written exams in ISE 0 and I?

Correspondence

A. Postcards (ISE 0 only)

Organisation and presentation

Present in a postcard format May include the recipient’s address and date (not included in word count) Have a greeting (followed by an optional comma) The message should be brief and clear. Have a suitable closing.

Language

Use relevant language items of ISE 0 as required e.g. Past simple tense. Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected.

Style and register

Postcards are informal in nature. Keep the sentences short and simple.


2

ISE 0 & I


B. Memos (ISE 0 only)

A memo is a short note normally used within the workplace.


Present in a memo format Include the names of the writer and receiver of the memo May include the date (not included in word count) There is no need for an address. May include a short and clear subject title (not included in word count) Writers can use bullet points or numbered lists. Have a suitable closing

Language

Use relevant language items of ISE 0 as required e.g. Past simple tense. Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation are expected.

Style and register

Memos are normally more formal as they are used in the workplace. The style should be factual. Keep the sentences short and simple.

C. Notes (ISE 0 only)

A note is an informal, short piece of writing.


Present in a note format. Include a greeting and closing. There is no need for the date or an address. The message should be brief and clear.

Language

Use relevant language items of ISE 0 as required e.g. Past simple tense. In real use there may be tolerance of spelling, grammar and punctuation

deviations. In the context of examination submissions however, accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected.

Style and register

A note is informal in nature. Keep the sentences short and simple.


3

ISE 0 & I


D. Informal letters (ISE 0 & ISE I)


May (or may not) include sender's address (not included in word count) The recipient's address is not necessary and considered inappropriate for this

type of letter Date optional (not included in word count) positioned above greeting. Include an appropriate greeting/closing e.g. ‘Dear John’/‘Best Wishes’ The letter should be well-organised with appropriate use of paragraphs. Sign off with first name only

Language

Include the relevant language items of the level as required. Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected. Punctuation conventions should be observed and consistent, including address,

greeting etc. e.g. Dear Mary(,) i.e. comma optional but not ‘Dear Mary!’ Capitalisation must be observed, as appropriate.

Style and register

Informal in nature e.g. contractions, abbreviations, exclamation marks Style and register should be consistent

E. Formal letters (ISE I only)


Include sender and recipient's address, positioned at top of letter (not included in word count)

Include date, below addresses (not included in word count) Subject of letter (optional), positioned before greeting on left or centred Include an appropriate greeting e.g. ‘Dear Mr Young’, ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ and

closing e.g.‘Yours faithfully’, ‘Yours sincerely’ The letter should be well-organised into appropriate paragraphs e.g. an

opening paragraph which gives the reason for writing, the body of the letter and the final concluding paragraph.

Sign off with signature and full name printed underneath

Language

Include the relevant language items of the level as required. Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation are expected. Punctuation conventions to be observed and consistent, including address,

greeting and signing-off e.g. Dear Mary, (comma optional) but not Dear Mary! Capitalisation must be observed, as appropriate.

Style and register

Formal and more impersonal in nature e.g. relative clauses, passives, signposting words

Style and register should be consistent


4

ISE 0 & I


F. Emails (ISE 0 & ISE I)


Present in an email format. Ideally, the email should be produced on an email package (with a hardcopy printed for marking by the examiner).

Customised prompts, such as the recipient’s email address and subject line may be included and completed (not included in word count).

Include a suitable greeting and closing. The message should be brief and clear. Layout is flexible, but the text should be well-organised with appropriate use

of paragraphs and cohesive devices.

Language

Include the relevant language items of the level as required. In real use there is great tolerance of spelling, grammar and punctuation

deviations. In the context of examination submissions however, accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected.

Emoticons e.g. 'smilies' and conventional abbreviations e.g. ASAP are acceptable (not included in word count).

Text-messaging conventions are not acceptable, e.g. 'R', 'U’.

Style and register

Choose a style and register appropriate for the audience. Style and register should be consistent.

Factual Writing

G. Instructions (ISE 0 only)

Instructions give advice and information about how to do or use something.


Provide a title to help the reader determine what the instructions will help them do e.g. ‘Instructions on how to ..’ (titles are not included in word count).

Think about the best order for the instructions. Bulleted and numbered lists can be used - A numbered list should be used

when the order is important, a bulleted list when the order is not important. The writer may include simple diagrams to support their instructions (however,

only written work is assessed)

Language

Use relevant language items of ISE 0 as required e.g. present simple tense. Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected Start each instruction with an imperative verb form that instructs the reader

to do something e.g. ‘Open the door’, ‘Add the butter’

Style and register

Choose a style appropriate for the audience Keep the sentences short and simple Use a level of detail that is appropriate to the audience


5

ISE 0 & I


H. Directions (ISE 0 only)

Directions tell the reader how to get from one place to another or how to find a particular place.


Provide a title or a brief introduction to help the reader determine which place he/she will find e.g. ‘Directions from the train station to my house’ (titles are not included in the word count).

Think about the best order for the directions. A numbered list can be used. The writer may include simple maps to support their directions (however, only

written work is assessed).

Language

Use the relevant language items of ISE 0 as required e.g. Present simple tense, ‘going to’ future.

Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected Start each direction with an imperative verb form e.g. ‘Turn left at the

supermarket’, ‘Continue on this road for five kilometres’

Style and register

Choose a style appropriate for the audience Keep the sentences short and simple Use a level of detail that is appropriate to the audience

I. Reports (ISE I only)

A report is a factual description of an event or situation. It may be written for a superior (e.g. teacher, manager), a peer group (e.g. colleagues) or a general audience (e.g. a committee). A report will certainly contain some factual descriptions and explanations and possibly some suggestions, justifications or recommendations. Due to the factual nature of reports, they would not normally include the writer’s opinion.


A clear sequence is expected Where appropriate include a heading (not included in word count) Begin with an introduction stating the purpose of the report The report should be clearly organised into paragraphs with section headings May use bullet points, tables, diagrams (only written work assessed) etc. There should be clear sign-posting, with unambiguous forward and backward

referencing Reports are usually the result of research and may contain examples of

percentages and statistics Where appropriate end with a conclusion, which would normally be a summary

of the points listed in the report


6

ISE 0 & I


Language

Use the relevant language of the level as required Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected Use wording and terminology appropriate to the intended audience There is a greater tolerance of technical language as the audience for a report

is likely to be restricted and to some extent informed Cohesive devices, discourse connectors, linking expressions can be used

Style and register

Content by nature is formal and therefore attracts a more formal register Reports are more objective than articles (they should not be personal) The style should be factual The style and register should be consistent

J. Articles (ISE I only)

An article is a piece of writing on a particular subject in a newspaper, magazine or journal. Articles are written to arouse interest and win over an audience who are not necessarily knowledgeable about the subject matter. It will usually include the writer’s opinion, commentary or interpretation.


Include an interesting and informative title (not included in word count), which introduces the subject and makes the reader want to read the article.

Clearly introduce the subject that will be discussed in the article The main text should be clearly divided into paragraphs with one topic

discussed in each paragraph Conclude the article with a brief summary

Language

Use the relevant language of the level as required Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected Cohesive devices, discourse connectors, linking expressions can be used Descriptive language, language of opinion and rhetorical questions can be used

Style and register

The style and register will depend on the medium where the article is being reported and the intended audience

The writer must choose the most appropriate style e.g. informal, witty, serious, etc.



7

ISE 0 & I


K. Reviews (ISE I only)

A review calls on the candidate to react to an event, performance, work of art or literature, film, drama, product and so on.

Organisation and presentation Include a title (not included in word count) to introduce the subject which has

been reviewed Clearly introduce the subject that will be discussed in the review The main text should be clearly divided into paragraphs. It may contain a

descriptive summary of the object under review, an evaluation of it (e.g. the weak and strong points), a comparison with other examples in the genre etc.

A final recommendation to the reader may be included

Language

Use the relevant language of the level as required Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected Cohesive devices, discourse connectors, linking expressions can be used Descriptive language and language of opinion can be used

Style and register

The writer must choose the most appropriate style e.g. witty, serious, etc. Style and register should be consistent

L. Summary (ISE I only)

A summary is a short, clear description that gives the main facts or ideas about something or someone.


A summary should not contain repetition or irrelevant details from the original document in the exam paper.

It should cover every important aspect of the original document The text should be well-organised with appropriate use of paragraphs and

cohesive devices

Language

Use the relevant language of the level as required Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected

Style and register

The writer must choose the most appropriate style for the intended audience Style and register should be consistent


8

ISE 0 & I


Creative and descriptive writing

M. Creative writing (ISE 0 & I)

By definition, creative writing requires originality of approach. Organisation and presentation Layout is flexible and will vary according to the genre concerned Include a title where appropriate (not included in word count) The text should be well-organised with appropriate use of paragraphs and

cohesive devices.

Language

Use the relevant language of the level as required Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected A variety of verb tense may be used Descriptive language should be used to add interest e.g. adjectives and

adverbs

Style and register

Style and register will vary according to type of creative writing and the intended reader


N. Descriptive writing (ISE 0 & I)

Descriptive writing requires the writer to describe something, especially in a detailed and interesting way.


Include a title where appropriate (not included in word count) The text should be well-organised with appropriate use of paragraphs and

cohesive devices

Language

Use the relevant language of the level as required Accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation is expected Descriptive language should be used to add interest e.g. a range of adjectives

and adverbs

Style and register

Style and register will vary according to type of descriptive writing and the intended reader


Past papers and teacher support materials for the Controlled Written exam can be downloaded from the Trinity website at www.trinitycollege.co.uk

http://www.trinitycollege.co.uk/


ISE 0 — PORTFOLIO TASKS 2010

SECTION 1

ISE 0 — Correspondence (word length range: 40–60 words) 1. Last week you and your family moved to a new home. Write an email to your

English friend telling her about some of the differences between your old

home and your new home. Invite your friend to visit you soon.

2. You are spending the weekend camping in the countryside. Write a postcard

to a friend saying what the weather is like, what you did yesterday and what you are going to do tomorrow.

3. Tom, your American penfriend, wants to know about your best friend. Write a

letter to Tom telling him about your best friend’s appearance and personality.

Say what you and your best friend usually like to do together.

4. You are going on holiday next month. Write an email to a friend telling him

where you are going and what you are going to do there. Invite your friend to

come with you.

5. Last summer you worked in a beach café. Your Irish penfriend wants to know

about the job. Write a letter to your penfriend telling her what you did, how

many hours you worked and what you enjoyed the most.

Remember — you must choose your ISE 0 correspondence task from the above list!

SECTION 2

ISE 0 — Factual writing (word length range: 80–100 words)

1. Your English friend, Peter, is visiting you and he wants to change some

money. Write some directions for Peter telling him how to find the bank from

your home. Say what days and times it is usually open.

2. Next weekend you are going to take some Irish visitors on an excursion to the

capital city of your country. Write some instructions for them saying when

and where to meet, what to wear and what to bring.

3. Your friend wants to make a cake for his sister’s birthday. Write him some

instructions for your friend saying what ingredients to buy, how to make the

cake and how to decorate it.

4. You are going to the cinema with your American friend this Saturday. Write some directions for your friend telling her how to find the cinema from the

train station. Say what time to meet you and what film you are going to see.

5. Your dog is going to have puppies and your friend is going to take one. Write

some ‘puppy care’ instructions for your friend about how to look after the puppy. Tell her about food, exercise and training.

Remember — you must choose your ISE 0 factual writing task from the above list!


SECTION 3

ISE 0 — Creative and descriptive writing (word length range: 80–100 words)

1. Write a description of your favourite shop for a shopping guide. Say what you can buy at the shop, how often you go there and when it is open.

2. Write a story for a writing competition about a teenage girl who liked playing football and wanted to be in the national team.

3. Imagine today was your last day at school. Write your diary saying what you

liked and disliked about school and how your life is going to change in the

future.

4. Write a description for a family magazine of the different seasons in your

country. Say how many seasons there are, what the weather is like and which

season you like best.

5. Write a story for a writing competition about a holiday when you had a big surprise. Say where you went, what you did and what the surprise was.

Remember — you must choose your ISE 0 creative/descriptive writing task from the above list!


ISE I — PORTFOLIO TASKS 2010

SECTION 1

ISE I — Correspondence (word length range: 70–80 words) 1. You have just won a prize in a talent show for your singing. Write an email to

a friend saying what you have won, what you had to do to get the prize and

when you are planning to perform in the future.

2. You recently got a new mountain bike for your birthday. Write a letter to your

English penfriend saying how long you have had it, what you have to do to keep it in good condition and why you enjoy riding it.

3. You want to attend a two-week English course at a school in London. Write a

letter to the principal explaining why you have decided to attend the course

and asking how much it will cost. Tell him about your previous experience of

learning English.

4. You have been invited to the wedding of a family friend, but you have not

seen him for many years. Write a letter to your friend to accept the invitation.

Ask about his plans for the wedding and tell him about your most important

recent news.

5. You have recently become very fit. Write an email to a friend saying what you

have done to reach your new level of fitness and explaining what you were doing wrong before you became fit. Invite your friend to exercise with you.

Remember — you must choose your ISE I correspondence task from the above list!

SECTION 2

ISE I — Factual writing (word length range: 110–130 words) 1. Write an article for a family magazine about rules teenagers have to follow in

your country. Describe two of these rules and give your opinion on them. Say

what happens if someone breaks the rules.

2. There has been an increase in car accidents in your area. Write a report for a transport organisation describing the increase in accidents and giving

possible reasons. Say what drivers need to do to stay safe on the roads.

3. You recently saw your favourite band in concert. Write a review of the

concert for a music magazine. Describe the music, the atmosphere and say

what this band is planning for the future.

4. A fast food restaurant has just opened in your area. Write a report for a

healthy-eating organisation explaining what food the restaurant serves and

why it is unhealthy. Say what health problems people might have if they eat a

lot of fast food.


5. Write an article for a travel magazine with the title, ‘The importance of foreign travel’. Say why it is important to visit foreign countries, where you have been personally and what you learnt from the experience.

Remember — you must choose your ISE I factual writing task from the above list!

SECTION 3

ISE I — Creative and descriptive writing (word length range: 110–130 words) 1. Write a story for a writing competition beginning with the words, ‘There is one

school rule I’ll never break again...’ Describe the rule, say how you broke it and

explain why this had serious consequences.

2. Write a description for a website called www.terribletrips.com about the worst

journey you have ever had. Describe the journey, say how long it took and

explain why it was so bad.

3. Write a story for a writing competition about a poor family who won a lot of

money on the lottery. Explain how much money they won, what they did with

it and how it changed their lives.

4. Write a diary entry for a young fashion model who has just taken part in a fashion show for the first time. Say where it was, what she had to do and what

her impressions were.

5. Imagine you have a collection of famous people’s autographs. Write a

description for an entertainment magazine saying how you got them and why

they are special to you. Say which autographs you intend to get in the future. Remember — you must choose your ISE I creative/descriptive writing task from the above list!


ISE II — PORTFOLIO TASKS 2010

SECTION 1

ISE II — Correspondence (word length range: 120–150 words)

1. A television company wants to make a documentary about local products.

Write an email to the producer of the programme telling her about a famous

product from your area. Explain how it is made and say how it would benefit your area if it was featured on the programme.

2. Write a letter to the editor of an international environmental publication explaining how your country’s environment is being damaged by business

activities. Express your feelings about the situation and emphasise the need

for government action.

3. When you were shopping at the supermarket recently, the assistant at the checkout was very rude to you. Write a letter to the supermarket manager,

reporting what the assistant said, explaining how you felt and saying what

action you think the manager should take.

4. Your friend recently moved from a flat in the city to a farm in the countryside.

She is finding the change difficult and feels lonely. Write an email to your

friend, encouraging her to see the positive sides of country life and

suggesting ways in which she could meet new people.

5. A teacher, who had a very positive influence on you, has just retired. Write a

letter to this teacher explaining in what ways they influenced your personal values and speculating how your life would have been different if they had not

been your teacher.

Remember — you must choose your ISE II correspondence task from the above list!

SECTION 2

ISE II — Factual writing (word length range: 170–200 words) 1. ‘It is better to have brothers and sisters than to be an only child’. Write an

article for a sociology magazine, explaining to what extent you agree or disagree with this statement. Support your point of view with relevant

examples from your own childhood.

2. A beautiful building of historic importance is going to be demolished so that a

new motorway can be built. Write a report for the department of transport persuading them to reconsider the decision. Explain why you disagree with

the plan and recommend an alternative route for the motorway.

3. Write a review of your favourite children’s book for a magazine feature on,

‘The world’s most popular books for children’. Include details of the story and

main characters. Explain why you would recommend it to young readers.


4. Write an article for a magazine called ‘Star Sign’ about a horoscope which

came true for one of your friends. Say what was predicted and what actually happened. Conclude with your opinion on the reliability of this kind of

prediction.

5. Write a report for an international student organisation about the value of

gap years. Highlight the advantages and disadvantages of taking a year out

from full-time education, and make some suggestions about possible activities

students could do.

Remember — you must choose your ISE II factual writing task from the above list!

SECTION 3

ISE II — Creative and descriptive writing (word length range: 170–200 words) 1. Write a short story for a writing competition that begins or ends with the

words ‘If I had told him the truth in the beginning, we would still be friends now.’

2. Imagine you had spent a day at school one hundred years ago. Write a

description for the website www.schooldays.com describing your day. Say what people used to do at school and whether learning was easier or harder

than it is today.

3. You have been working as a doctor in a busy hospital for one week. Write your

diary at the end of your first week, describing the highlights and challenges of your new job and saying how you have been feeling.

4. Write a short story for a writing competition about a young woman who did not use to believe in miracles until something incredible happened which

changed her mind.

5. Imagine you had a machine that could transport you through time and space.

Write a description for a science-fiction magazine explaining where you would

you go and what time you would you choose. Say what you could do there.

Remember — you must choose your ISE II creative/descriptive writing task from the above list!


ISE III — PORTFOLIO TASKS 2010

SECTION 1

ISE III — Correspondence (word length range: 180–210 words) 1. You are concerned that the behaviour displayed by some celebrities sets a

bad example for young people. Write a letter to the chairman of a youth

organisation outlining your concerns, with relevant examples. Express your hopes for a change in their behaviour in the future.

2. A close friend has been extremely stressed recently due to family problems

and a demanding boss. Write an email to your friend empathising with her

situation, offering your support and proposing ways to stay calm and release

tension.

3. You are concerned about the dubious merits of reality television shows and

the way in which they exploit participants. Write a letter to the editor of a

media publication summarising your position and quoting examples to

support your views.

4. A young relative of yours has been caught trying to steal small items from a

local shop with a group of his friends. Write an email to the teenager, trying

to empathise with his situation but gently pointing out that his actions

constitute unacceptable behaviour.

5. A multi-national company is planning to build a new supermarket in your area

on land which is currently used as a sports ground. Write a letter to the local

council outlining your strong objections to the proposal and emphasising the

importance of providing sports facilities for the community. Remember — you must choose your ISE III correspondence task from the above list!

SECTION 2

ISE III — Factual writing (word length range 220–250 words)

1. Audiences for theatre performances have become smaller in recent years.

Write a report for a cultural organisation summarising the reasons for this decline and outlining measures to encourage more people to support the arts.

2. Write an article for a consumer magazine with the title, ‘Internet censorship - the case for freedom of information’. Evaluate the different standpoints in

this argument and conclude with your own views on whether the internet should be more tightly controlled.

3. Recent studies have found that women are still underpaid and rarely

promoted to senior positions in comparison to men. Write a report for an

equal opportunities committee citing recent examples of inequality of

opportunity and challenging employers to justify their actions.


4. There are increasing concerns about the effects of climate change. Write an

article for an environmental publication, discussing the implications of changing weather patterns and saying what needs to be done to prevent the

problem from escalating.

5. Write a review for literary magazine of the most inspiring novel you have ever

read in English. Discuss the merits of the novel, justify your opinions and

explain how it had a positive impact on your life.

Remember — you must choose your ISE III factual writing task from the above list!

SECTION 3

ISE III — Creative and descriptive writing (word length range: 220–250 words)

1. Write a story for a teenage magazine about a young person who became

addicted to using the internet to the point where she could only communicate

with people encountered in cyberspace.

2. Write a series of diary entries, extending over several years, of someone who

was extremely ambitious and achieved wealth and power using dishonest

means.

3. Imagine you work in advertising and have been asked to create a marketing

strategy for a new box of chocolates. Write a description of the product and packaging, and outline some suitable marketing strategies.

4. Write a description of the stereotypical strengths and weaknesses of your

fellow countrymen, outlining the historical and other forces that you believe

helped to shape your nation.

5. Write a story for a writing competition that begins or ends with the words ‘He

knew he shouldn’t have done it, but it was the most important race of his life and he was desperate to win. He just hoped no one would ever find out.’

Remember — you must choose your ISE III creative/descriptive writing task from the above list!


ISE IV — PORTFOLIO TASKS 2010

SECTION 1

ISE IV — Correspondence (word length range: 300–350 words) 1. A sports team with which you are associated is being investigated by the

police after charges of using banned drugs were made by an opposing team.

Write a formal letter to the police officer in charge of the case, contradicting

detailed information in the other team’s statement and vehemently denying all the charges.

AND

Write an informal email to the members of your team, empathising with their

unfortunate situation and affirming your complete faith in their innocence.

2. A female colleague has recently returned from maternity leave to find that she has been demoted to a less senior post on a lower pay scale.

Write a sympathetic email to your colleague, affirming your support and stating your willingness to take a stand on her behalf.

AND

Write a formal letter to the head of the human resources, asserting your

colleague’s rights as an employee and asking for her to be reinstated to her

previous post.

3. You recently attended a presentation of research findings delivered by a

well-known expert who made false assertions about a subject of which you have considerable knowledge.

Write a formal letter to the expert, pointing out the errors in his presentation

and referring to appropriate sources for the true facts.

AND

Write an informal email to a friend, who also has an interest in the subject,

explaining why you felt it imperative to contradict the expert’s incorrect assumptions.

4. In these days of war-torn countries and shifting populations, an issue of burning importance is the extent to which free migration across borders should be allowed or encouraged.

Develop a blog in which two or more contributors with strongly opposing

views and language styles debate this moral question.


5. With improved standards of living, people in many parts of the world are living longer. This causes economic problems both for them and the younger generation.

Develop a blog in which two or more contributors with contrasting views and

language styles discuss alternative ways of dealing with an ageing population.

Remember — you must choose your ISE IV correspondence task from the above list! Please note the word length range given above for ISE IV correspondence tasks is for the whole task e.g. letter and email. Dividing the word length between the individual pieces of correspondence is the responsibility of each candidate. However, you must not exceed the stated maximum word length range.

SECTION 2

ISE IV - Factual writing (Word length range: 300- 350 words)

1. It is said that variations in body language can radically affect the impression we make on another person, e.g. in an interview situation.

Write an article for a psychology publication, providing evidence to support

your affirmation or denial of this perception. Justify your opinion with

examples from real-life situations.

2. Is it possible to devise an education system which allows equal opportunities to every child, regardless of background, family or place of birth?

Write a report for a government think tank which is considering educational reforms, asserting your views on the current system in your country and

presenting your proposals for greater equality of access to education.

3. Your company recently decided to reduce prices on a range of goods in

order to maintain sales at a time of fierce competition. It is now time to evaluate the results of this strategy.

Write a report for your senior manager, evaluating the effects of the strategy on sales, expressing caution about widening the policy to other products and

justifying your conclusions, with an analysis of the evidence presented.

4. Drug-dealing and taking present a major problem to governments, who have sought to tackle it with methods ranging from declaring ‘war on drugs’ to passing legislation to decriminalise drug-dealing and using.

Write an article for an international news publication, evaluating the options

for dealing with this matter, affirming your own beliefs on the subject and

including evidence to support your argument.


5. Adaptation, the process by which one art form develops into another, is a commonplace artistic activity1.

Write a critical review of a film or play which has been adapted from a novel

discussing the extent to which the adaptation was creative or destructive.

Conclude with your views on the challenges involved in adaptation. Remember — you must choose your ISE IV factual writing task from the above list!

SECTION 3

ISE IV - Critical and analytical writing (Word length range: 300 - 350 words)

1. ‘It takes a great deal of courage to stand up to your enemies, but even more to stand up to your friends.’ (J. K. Rowling, author)

Write an essay commenting on the merits of J.K Rowling’s opinions,

illustrating your views with relevant examples. Contrast your opinions with alternative viewpoints.

2. ‘The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings. The inherent blessing of socialism is the equal sharing of misery.’ (Winston Churchill)

Write an essay in which you comment on the truth or otherwise of this

statement and say what it implies for our social well-being, with illustrations from your own experience.

3. ‘Laws alone cannot secure freedom of expression; in order that every man present his views without penalty there must be spirit of tolerance in the entire population.’ (Albert Einstein)

Write an essay commenting on the relevance of Einstein’s statement in

today’s society, giving pertinent examples to illustrate your viewpoint.

4. ‘A mind once expanded can never return to its original dimensions.’ (Anne

Hathaway)

Write an essay commenting on the truth or otherwise of this quotation and

evaluating some experiences you have undergone which have opened your mind to new perspectives on the world.

5. ‘A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts.’ (Richard Branson)

Write an essay commenting on the validity of Branson’s viewpoint. Assert

your own views on how to establish and maintain a successful business,

illustrating your contentions with relevant examples. Remember — you must choose your ISE IV critical/analytical writing task from the above list!

1 Salman Rushdie

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