Flo-Joe for Cambridge English Exams

Cambridge English: Proficiency

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Writing Task (go to Checklist)


Writing Paper Part 1. Task Type: Essay

Read the two texts below.
Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words throughout as far as possible and include your own ideas in your answers.

Modals of Flexible Working
Over recent years many companies have moved away from the notion of fixed working hours, following the standard nine-to-five, Monday-to-Friday pattern. There is far more provision today for staff to take advantage of flexible working opportunities of various kinds. With high-speed Internet connections available to many, home-working has become a practical option for companies and members of staff. This modal of flexible working has been particularly beneficial for staff working on projects that entail spending little time in the office. The introduction of formal job-sharing also benefits employees who wish to have a greater work-life balance, particularly those with young children. Finally, employees often have access to flexi-time, the chance to 'bank' hours by working overtime and 'withdrawing' hours when time off is needed.
Employer Concerns
A recent survey of UK small-businesses discovered an underlying sense of disquiet about the issue of flexible working. Many companies feel under pressure to agree to requests out of fear they will be taken to court by their employee should they refuse. However, business advisers point out that employees have the right to request flexible working not the right to have it agreed. It might not be feasible for a company to agree to requests if the business depends on particular modals of operation, or if such a request would require significant change for a small business. As well as reassuring small businesses of their legal position, companies are also being encouraged to see flexible working as an opportunity rather than a threat. Experience shows it will often benefit both the company and its employees by having a positive impact on motivation and efficiency.

Write the essay. (around 240 - 280 words)

What you need to do to pass
Read our checklist first to understand what the examiner is looking for in a good answer.

Ideas for writing
Ask yourself the following questions to help you get started:

  • What are the key points in each extract?
  • How do the points in each text relate to each other?
    - Do both texts have different points of view?
    - Do the texts complement each other in any way?
  • Now make some notes about your reaction to the key points in each text:
    E.g. Is flexible working something employers should feel positive about?
    Do small businesses face too many regulations as it is?
  • Whilst making notes think about how you might paraphrase the key points to avoid copying sections from the texts?
  • Do you have any anecdotal evidence to support your own views?
    E.g. "The company I work for is a good example of how ..."
  • How many paragraphs should your essay have? What will the focus of each paragraph be?

Drafting and proofreading your work

You should look at your first draft of the task and decide:

  • Have you answered the question?
  • Is the layout and organisation appropriate for an essay?
  • Is the language accurate with a good range of structures?
  • Is the style appropriate and consistent for your essay?
  • Is your essay informative as well as being interesting to read?

If the answer is 'no' to any of these questions then you will need to do some more drafting!

 

 

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