Wednesday, 13 May 2026

PAU TIPS.

 
ENGLISH TEST TIPS:

La estructura del ejercicio se compone de dos actividades (comprensión y expresión escrita) y un total de cinco apartados (“questions”). La actividad de comprensión escrita (400 palabras aprox.) contiene cuatro apartados que comportan siete puntos del total. Las respuestas de cada apartado no necesariamente tienen que aparecer en orden en el texto.

Primer apartado (2 puntos). El alumno/a decide sobre la veracidad o falsedad de cuatro enunciados. Escribe claramente su opción de respuesta (TRUE o FALSE) y justifica su respuesta citando la parte correspondiente del texto.  Para citar, el alumno/a debe copiar la frase completa o la parte de la frase que justifica la respuesta. Se puede utilizar recursos de citación como, por ejemplo: “(...)” siempre y cuando la parte que justifica la respuesta esté copiada.

Segundo apartado (2 puntos). El alumno/a responde a dos de tres preguntas abiertas. Se otorgará 1 punto por cada una de las dos preguntas respondidas, distribuidos de la siguiente manera: 0,5 puntos por las ideas reflejadas y 0,5 puntos por la expresión de las mismas. La calificación de cada pregunta depende del número de ítems incluidos por el alumno/a en relación con el total de elementos que constituyen la respuesta a la pregunta, así como su capacidad para parafrasear la respuesta utilizando estructuras y
vocabulario propios del nivel requerido.
  • Si el alumno/a responde a las tres preguntas en lugar de dos, se corrigen las dos primeras que aparecen en su cuaderno de examen.
  • Las respuestas no pueden ser copia literal del texto (i.e., citas), aunque se puede emplear alguna palabra que aparezca en el texto.
  • Esta pregunta se refleja la capacidad del alumno para parafrasear y sintetizar o resumir, por lo tanto, no hay un extensión mínima ni máxima para responder a estas preguntas.
Tercer apartado (1.5 puntos). El alumno/a localiza vocabulario en el texto para una serie de palabras, definiciones o expresiones breves (se indicará el número del párrafo dónde está la palabra o expresión).

Cuarto apartado (1.5 puntos). El alumno/a responde a tres preguntas de comprensión de opción múltiple. El alumno/a debe indicar su respuesta claramente en el cuaderno de examen, escribiendo la letra A, B, C o D, o copiando la letra y la frase correspondiente. No se otorgarán puntos si la letra no es suficientemente legible.

La actividad de exprensión escrita está formada por un apartado y tiene un peso de tres puntos.

Quinto apartado (3 puntos). El alumno/a selecciona una de dos opciones de escritura y redacta un texto con una extensión aproximada de 120-150 palabras. Las opciones de texto pueden incluir: “opinion essay”, “for and against essay”; “narrative text”, o correspondence”. Respecto a los textos de “correspondence”, pueden ser correos informales o correos formales acotado a dos posibilidades: plantear una queja o realizar una solicitud (beca, trabajo, ...). En ningún caso deberán los alumnos firmar o poner su nombre en la redacción. Se valora la extensión del texto mediante el apartado “cumplimiento de la tarea” en la rúbrica de evaluación. Los textos de hasta 200 palabras no serán penalizados.

PAU INSTRUCTIONS- UNICAN

Friday, 8 May 2026

PAU 26. Writing typology

Written production. Choose ONE of the two options below and write a short composition (120-150 words). Compositions up to 200 words won’t be penalized. Remember that compositions MUST NOT be signed. 

  1. OPINION ESSAY: Write an opinion essay on the following topic: Do you think social media is more helpful or harmful for teenagers? Give reasons to justify your opinion. (JUL25)
  2. DISCOURSIVE ESSAY (FOR/AGAINST-AD/DISADVANTAGES); Write a for and against essay on the following topic: What are the advantages and disadvantages of allowing students to use mobile phones in schools? (JUN25)
  3. NARRATIVE: Write a story about something that happened to you in the past. Your story must begin with this sentence: It all started with a phone call late at night. (JUL25)
         CORRESPONDENCE LETTER (FORMAL/INFORMAL)
  1. COMPLAINT LETTER: You recently took a self-catering holiday in a luxury apartment, but the standard of the accommodation was very poor. The holiday company that you booked with have offered you some vouchers as compensation, but you have decided you would prefer a cash refund instead. Write a letter to the company outlining the problems you experienced with the accommodation and the action you want them to take.
  2. APPLICATION LETTER: A tourist company which organises coach tours of your home town has placed the following advertisement in your local newspaper: TOUR GUIDES REQUIRED: Are you an outgoing and sociable person, who has a good command of English and some knowledge of local history? Take-a-Tour is setting up a branch in your area and we are looking for tour guides to accompany up to fifty passengers a time on our coach tours. Your duties will include welcoming passengers aboard the coach, giving a commentary about the local sights, and taking small groups around the town on foot.

Monday, 4 May 2026

Essay writing. PAU Practice

 





STRUCTURE:
INTRO
It is generally believed that_________________________________________.I really feel it is ___________________________________________ although some think ________________________________________. It seems clear that _________________________.

BODY
There are several reasons why I think________________________________ is better. First of all, you ____________________________________. Most of people think ______________________________.
Secondly, ____________________________ gives you the opportunity to ________________________.
I´m absolutely convinced that __________________________________. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, ____________________ makes you learn__________________________ which is another positive/negative aspect.

CONCLUSION
It seems to me that ________________________ is far better. There are lots of reasons to
__________________. To sum up, from my point of view, _______________________________. Maybe in the future,____________________________

 ADVANTAGES-DISADVANTAGES

1-INTRO:
1.1 For the great majority of people ______________________________________________________. 
A problem that is often debated nowadays ________________________________________________. 
Who cares about ____________________________________________________________________? 
1.2 It is a well-known fact that _______________________________________________________. 
Besides, recent studies show there are ______________________________________________. 
1.3There are reasons to believe that ______________________________________________. 
Therefore, ___________________________________________________________________.

2-DEVELOPMENT:
2.1 A lot of people claim that __________________________________________________   
2.2 What is more, ____________________________________________________________
For example, ________________________________________________________________. 
2.3-While/Although______________________________ it cannot be denied that_____________
Another point worth considering has to do with ____________________________________

3-REFUTING:
3.1 In contrast to this idea, ____________________________________________________________, so it is not easy to ___________________________________________. Whereas, in comparison, ___________________________________________. 
3.2However, we should also consider___________________________________. On the other hand, __________________
2.3 Therefore, it is reasonable to think that _______________________________________.

4-CONCLUSION:
4.1 This bring us the question whether ___________________________________________________, it is highly probable __________________________________________________. 
4.2 In my opinion, _________________________________________________________ From my point of view, ______________________________________. Maybe in the future _____________________



ractice makes perfect. Try these activities and then write your own composition. Rememeber the structure, linking words, vocabulary, etc...

https://wordwall.net/es/resource/28871847/opinion-essay-connectors

https://wordwall.net/es/resource/52733708/opinion-essay-vocabulary

Structure of the Opinion Essay:

  • Introduction – introduces the topic and state your opinion clearly
  • Body - consists of three or more paragraphs each presenting a separate viewpoint supported by reasons/examples
  • Conclusion – summarizes/restates your opinion using different words

Useful Language
То express opinion: I believe, In my opinion, I think, In my view, I strongly believe, I see it, It seems to me (that), As far as I am concerned, I am (not) convinced that..., In my opinion/view …My opinion is that …, I (firmly) believe …, I (definitely) feel/think that, I am inclined to believe that ……
То list points: In the first place, first of all, to start with, Firstly, to begin with
То add more points: what is more, another major reason, also, furthermore, moreover, in addition to this/that, besides, apart from this, not to mention the fact that
То introduce contrasting viewpoints: It is argued that, People argue that, There are people who oppose, Contrary to what most people believe,
As opposed to the above ideas
To introduce examples: for example, for instance, such as, in particular, especially
To conclude: To sum up, All in all, All things considered, Taking everything into account.

Paragraph outline: Examples:


Physical Education should be taught in schools
Do you agree or disagree? Support your opinion with arguments and examples.

It´s widely known that Physical Education has been a part of the school curriculum for years. It is clear the benefits of the sports practice for teenagers is undeniable. There are many reasons that support the fact that it should remain so for a variety of reasons.

In the first place, offering Physical Education is vital for children who have neither the time, nor the opportunity to do sport elsewhere. Also, Physical Education is especially beneficial for children living in crowded cities who do not have space to play. Doing sport at school gives them the opportunity to exercise and get rid of their excess energy. In addition, team sports develop children’s social skills encouraging them to work as part of a team and to cooperate with others.

On the other hand, some parents feel that Physical Education should not be a compulsory subject as not all children enjoy or are good at sport. These parents forget, however, that all children can benefit from physical activities and doing sport will give them the chance to improve their skills and their health.

In conclusion, I believe that Physical Education is an important part of every school curriculum since physical activity helps children to keep fit and stay energetic and alert.

An essay


https://en.ppt-online.org/284818


Useful expressions and linking words/phrases
• To list points:
Firstly, First of all, In the first place, To begin/start with, Secondly, Thirdly, Finally
• To list advantages:
One/Another/A further/An additional (major) advantage of… is … The main/greatest/first advantage of… is …
• To list disadvantages:
One/Another/ A further/An additional (major) disadvantage/drawback of. The main/greatest/most serious/first disadvantage /drawback of… Another negative aspect of…
• To introduce points/arguments for or against:
One (very convincing) point/argument in favour of… / against, 
A further common criticism of… / It could be argued that…..
often claimed/suggested
It is widely argued maintained that…..
generally felt/believed/held
Some/many/most people/experts/scientist/skeptics/critics
claim/suggest/argue/feel that…
maintain/believe/point out/agree/hold that…
advocate (+ing/noun)/support the view that…
oppose the view that…
are in favour of/against…
are of the opinion that/convinced that…
are opposed to…

• To add more points to the same topic:
in addition (to this), furthermore, moreover, besides, apart from, what is more, as well as, not to mention (the fact) that, also, not only … but also/as well, both … and, There is another side to the issue/question/argument of…

• To make contrasting points:
on the other hand, however, still, yet, but, nonetheless, nevertheless, even so,
it may be said/argued/claimed that,…
others/many people oppose this viewpoint/strongly disagree…, claim/feel/believe this argument is incorrect/misguided
although, though, even though, while, whilst, whereas, despite/in spite of (the fact that), regardless of the fact that
Opponents of … argue/believe/claim that…
The fact that… contradicts the belief/idea that…
While it is true to say that…, in fact…
While/Although …, it cannot be denied that…

Useful expressions and linking words/phrases

• To introduce examples:
for example, for instance, such as, like, in particular, particularly, especially, This is (clearly) illustrated/shown by the fact that… One/A clear/striking/ typical example of (this)… The fact that…. shows/illustrates that…
• To emphasise a point:
clearly, obviously, it is obvious, naturally, of course, needless to say, indeed
• To express reality:
In fact, the fact (of the matter) is, actually, in practice, it is a fact that, in effect
• To make general statements:
as a (general) rule, generally, in general, on the whole, by and large, in most cases
• To make partially correct statements:
to a certain extent/degree, to some extent/degree, in a way/sense, this is partly true (but), to a limited extent, there is some truth in (this), in some cases, up to a point
• To explain/clarify a point:
in other words, that is to say, this/which means that
• To express cause: 
owing to, due to (the fact that), on account of, on the grounds that, given that, because, as, since
• To express effect: 
therefore, thus, as a result/consequence, consequently, so, for this reason, if… were to happen, … the effect/result would be…
• To express intention: 
to, so as to, in order to, so that, with the intention of (+ing)

One/A clear/striking/ typical example of (this)… The fact that…. shows/illustrates that…
• To emphasise a point:
clearly, obviously, it is obvious, naturally, of course, needless to say, indeed
• To express reality:
In fact, the fact (of the matter) is, actually, in practice, it is a fact that, in effect
• To make general statements:
as a (general) rule, generally, in general, on the whole, by and large, in most cases
• To make partially correct statements:
to a certain extent/degree, to some extent/degree, in a way/sense, this is partly true (but), to a limited extent, there is some truth in (this), in some cases, up to a point
• To explain/clarify a point:
in other words, that is to say, this/which means that
• To express cause: 
owing to, due to (the fact that), on account of, on the grounds that, given that, because, as, since
• To express effect: 
therefore, thus, as a result/consequence, consequently, so, for this reason, if… were to happen, … the effect/result would be…
• To express intention: 
to, so as to, in order to, so that, with the intention of (+ing)

Conclusion expressing balanced considerations/opinion indirectly

In conclusion,
On balance,
All things considered,
Taking everything into account/consideration,
To conclude,
To sum up,
All in all,
Finally/Lastly,
- it can be said/claimed that …
- it seems/appears that…
- it would seem that…
-it is likely/unlikely/possible/foreseeable that …
- it is clear/obvious that…
-. there is no/little doubt that …
- it is true to say that …
- although it must be said that …
- it may be concluded/said that 





Letter of Application: Writing Tips
  • Idea lightbulb from crumpled paperRead the task fully: Carefully check the entire question, the job/course advertisement or description, all the given notes or bullet points, and identify exactly what you need to cover (e.g., your qualifications, experience, reasons for applying).
  • Plan your letter before writing: Take 5-10 minutes to outline the full formal layout and content.  This keeps the letter professional, logical, and within the required word limit from the start.
  • Comment on all the points: Discuss every bullet point or requirement in the task in detail. Support each with specific reasons, examples from your studies/work experience, or personal qualities. If you don’t have real-life details, invent plausible and relevant ones.
  • Divide into paragraphs: Dedicate one clear paragraph to each main point (e.g., Paragraph 2: education and qualifications; Paragraph 3: relevant experience and skills; Paragraph 4: why this opportunity appeals to you). Use formal linking expressions such as “furthermore”, “in addition to this”, “however”, “therefore” or “as a result” to create smooth, coherent flow and demonstrate organisational skills.
  • Use advanced vocabulary and formal language: Employ a wide range of sophisticated vocabulary, collocations, and structures appropriate to the level – B2 (FCE) needs solid formal phrases, while C1 (CAE) and C2 (CPE) demand more precise, idiomatic, and nuanced language. Maintain a consistently formal register: no contractions, no slang, polite indirect questions, and complex sentences. T
  • Express your suitability and enthusiasm: Clearly explain why you are the ideal candidate and show genuine interest in the final body paragraph or conclusion. After presenting your key strengths, summarise briefly and finish with a confident, polite statement of what you hope will happen next (e.g., an interview).
  • Revise your letter: After finishing, spend the last few minutes checking grammar, spelling, punctuation, vocabulary accuracy, and overall coherence.
  • Follow the correct letter format and conventions: Always include the full formal layout, choose the right salutation (“Dear Sir/Madam” or “Dear Mr/Ms Smith”), and end with an appropriate closing (“Yours sincerely” if you know the name, “Yours faithfully” if you don’t). These elements are assessed separately in most exams and signal professional awareness – small mistakes here can undermine an otherwise strong letter.
  • Practice useful phrases: Learn and incorporate ready-to-use formal expressions such as “I am writing to apply for the position of…”, “I would like to express my strong interest in…”,  and “I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience”. These phrases improve organisation, raise the register instantly, and help you sound natural and confident at any level (FCE/CAE/CPE).

Letter of Application: Useful Phrases & Language

Reasons

I’m writing to apply for the post/position of…..as advertised in……..
I’m writing with reference
I’m writing
 in response to your advertisement which I saw….
I’m writing in connection with your advertisement

Qualifications /Experience

I gained some experience while …
I am currently working as …
I have been working for … for the last four years.
I worked part-time for three years as …
At the moment| am employed by …
My qualifications include …
I have a diploma in …
I graduated from Barcelona University last year with a degree in … 
Please find attached my CV
As you can see from the attached CV …

Personal Qualities

I see myself systematic, meticulous in my approach to work…..
I have a clear insight of………
I value time and not squander……
I tackle a problem…..

Closing remarks

I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience
Please contact me with any queries you may have,
I would be glad to attend an interview at any time convenient
I look forward to hearing from you in due course….





Monday, 27 April 2026

PAU: practice makes perfect!

 Modelos de examen de convocatorias anteriores


An American friend of yours, Tom, has just moved to Spain. He has asked you about using some Spanish online platforms like Wallapop since he has never used them before. He likes buying and exchanging products online but he prefers paying by check or bank transfer since he was. He has asked you to explain this information he found, especially about the precautions he should take.  Write a short text (70 -100 words) based on the information provided:

Comprar y vender online

Las plataformas de compra y venta de artículos, como Wallapop o Vibbo, han vivido un extraordinario impulso en los últimos años. Estas webs colaborativas ofrecen un espacio para intercambiar o comerciar con artículos de segunda mano pero, como en cualquier espacio online, es necesario seguir ciertas precauciones de seguridad para evitar ser víctima de estafas y fraudes.  Desde las propias plataformas son conscientes del riesgo derivado de la actuación de ciberdelincuentes y, a modo de advertencia, ponen a disposición de los usuarios una serie de medidas de seguridad. En el caso de Wallapop, además, la propia empresa colabora estrechamente con organismos policiales, concretamente la Guardia Civil, para mejorar sus niveles de seguridad.

Nuestros consejos de seguridad

Si quieres prevenir este tipo de situaciones, puedes observar algunos principios de seguridad adicionales que te ayudarán a mantenerte más seguro:

1. Evita los pagos por adelantado, salvo que los puedas realizar a través de métodos seguros como la plataforma Paypal o contra reembolso. Adelantar dinero sin garantías te deja expuesto a estafas e impagos que, además, luego serán difíciles de demostrar.

 2. Las webs recomiendan las transacciones en persona siempre que sean posibles. Probar los objetos in situ es una de las mejores garantías.

3. Cuida la seguridad de tus dispositivos y de tus contraseñas. La utilización de soluciones de seguridad profesionales con un gestor de claves y antivirus, aumenta tus defensas y reduce los riesgos de sufrir robos de identidad.

4. Todas las comunicaciones deben realizarse a través de la mensajería interna de las plataformas. De esta forma, en caso de problemas siempre habrá un rastro electrónico.

5. Participa activamente en la aplicación denunciando casos sospechosos y valorando usuarios y productos. En este sentido, es la propia comunidad la que puede ayudar a mejorar los niveles de protección.

6. Desconfía de las gangas y las ofertas de ensueño. Especialmente en las marcas de gama alta. Pide fotos tomadas por el vendedor, no imágenes de catálogo.

7. Pregunta al comprador si conserva resguardo de compra o libro de instrucciones. Es una forma de asegurar que el producto es original e indica su antigüedad, así como si todavía está en garantía.

Ser víctima de estafa

En caso de ser víctima de estafa en una de estas plataformas, es importante notificarlo rápidamente a la plataforma de venta y a la Guardia Civil y, en su caso, poner una denuncia. Guardar la mayor cantidad posible de información sobre la transacción y el estafador puede ser muy útil para la posterior investigación. Ponte en contacto también con los servicios de atención al cliente de las plataformas.  Adaptado de ©www.pandasecurity.com/spain/mediacenter/consejos/comprar-wallapop-vibbo/