Essay (Part 1)
What to Expect
- You will have 30 minutes to write an essay.
- You will be given two topics to choose from.
- Write on only one of the two topics.
- If you do not understand the topics, ask the examiner to explain them.
Tips
- Most MELAB essays are one or two pages long (about 200–300 words). If your paper is very short (150 words or less), it will get a lower mark.
- Use the first few minutes to make an outline. Use the last few minutes to read and correct your essay.
- You will not be marked on your handwriting, but be sure your handwriting is readable.
Sample Questions
- What do you think is your country’s greatest problem? Explain in detail and say what you think can be done about it.
- What are the characteristics of a good teacher? Explain and give examples.
- An optimist is someone who sees the good side of things. A pessimist sees the bad side. Are you an optimist or a pessimist? Relate a personal experience that shows this.
- In your opinion, are the benefits of space exploration really worth the enormous costs? Discuss.
- If you won the lottery, what are the most important things you would do with your money? Defend your choices with examples.
- Some people believe that bicycling is a healthy alternative to driving a car. Yet, drivers sometimes complain that bicycles are a distraction on the road. What do you think? Defend your position with specific examples.
- Today there are many movies about super heroes. If you could be a super hero, what special powers would you have and why?
- In some traditions, parents prearrange their children’s marriages. In other traditions, young people choose their own spouses. What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of each tradition? Which tradition would you choose and why?
