Part 1: Speaking & Writing

Write Essay

Can you take a debate question, choose a clear position and argue it in a well-organised essay, all in your own words?

Counts towards
  • Writing

The task

At a glance

  • In one test1 question
  • You getAn essay question of 2–3 sentences
  • Your answer20 min
  • Limit200–300 words
Timing, from start to finish
  1. 1. Plan, write and check20 min

Scoring

How you earn points

How it is scored

Partial credit. A human expert also reviews Content, Development and Linguistic Range.

  • Content0–6Answers the question in depth, with supporting points and examples
  • Form0–2Length between 200 and 300 words
  • Development, Structure and Coherence0–6Introduction, logical paragraphs, conclusion, clear linking
  • Grammar0–2Control of complex structures
  • General Linguistic Range0–6Varied, precise expression
  • Vocabulary Range0–2Broad academic vocabulary
  • Spelling0–22 = no errors; 1 = one error; 0 = more

Scored by AI, and a human expert reviews the content before the score is final.

Zero score: Under 120 or over 380 words, or not about the topic: the whole essay is scored zero. Pearson also gives no credit for an irrelevant or unoriginal response.

Length and form

  • 200–300 words2 points
  • 120–199 or 301–380 words1 point
  • Under 120 or over 380 words, all capitals, no punctuation, or only bullet points or very short sentences0 points
Content, Development and Linguistic Range carry the most points, so plan a clear answer, give each paragraph one idea and link your sentences well.

Sign in to open the full lesson

  • 4-step method
  • 3 visual examples
  • 4 common mistakes to avoid
  • 5-question self-check
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