Writing Workshop

Task (Cambridge C1 Advanced, Part 2 style)

Topic: Economy, Money & Consumption

Question: You work for a local government council. The council is considering a new policy to discourage consumerism and reduce waste by imposing a "luxury tax" on non-essential goods (such as high-end electronics and designer clothing). You have been asked to write a proposal to the council members.

In your proposal, you should: * Evaluate the potential economic impact of this tax on local businesses. * Discuss whether this policy would effectively encourage more sustainable consumption habits. * Suggest how the revenue from this tax could be used to benefit the community.

Write your proposal in 220–260 words in an appropriate style.

Tips (en español)

Para este tipo of task (Proposal), sigue estas estrategias para alcanzar el nivel C1:

• Structure: Utiliza subtítulos claros para cada sección (e.g., Introduction, Economic Impact, Sustainability, Recommendations). Esto ayuda a la organización visual y profesional.
• Register: Mantén un tono formal y objetivo. Evita contracciones (use do not instead of don't) y lenguaje coloquial. No uses "I think", usa estructuras más impersonales.
• Linking: Usa conectores sofisticados para guiar al lector (Furthermore, Nevertheless, Consequently) para que las ideas fluyan lógicamente entre párrafos.
• Hedging: En el nivel C1, no afirmes cosas de forma absoluta. Usa "hedging" (lenguaje cauteloso) como It is widely believed that... o This could potentially lead to... para mostrar matices.
• Evaluación de ideas: No te limites a listar hechos. Debes analizar pros y contras. Un C1 no solo dice "qué" pasará, sino "por qué" y "bajo qué condiciones".
• Time management: En el examen, dedica 5 minutos a planificar la estructura, 35 a escribir y 10 a revisar errores gramaticales y de ortografía.

Useful language

Model answer

🔊

Proposal for the Implementation of a Luxury Consumption Tax

Introduction The aim of this proposal is to evaluate the feasibility of introducing a luxury tax on non-essential goods. This document outlines the potential economic consequences, the impact on consumer behaviour, and recommendations for the allocation of generated funds.

Economic Impact It is widely recognised that imposing such a tax could lead to a temporary decline in retail turnover, particularly within the high-end sector. Local businesses might face initial challenges due to reduced consumer spending. However, if managed correctly, this could stimulate a shift towards more local, artisanal production, potentially diversifying the local economy.

Sustainability and Consumption Habits Regarding environmental impact, the policy could serve as a powerful deterrent against impulsive consumerism. By increasing the cost of non-essential goods, consumers may be encouraged to adopt more sustainable, long-term purchasing habits. While there is a risk that some may attempt to bypass the tax, the overall effect would likely be a reduction in unnecessary waste and resource depletion.

Allocation of Revenue It is suggested that the revenue generated from this tax be reinvested into community-led green initiatives. For instance, funds could be used to subsidise public transport or support local recycling programmes. This would create a circular economy where luxury consumption directly funds environmental preservation.

Conclusion and Recommendations In conclusion, while the tax may pose initial economic risks, the long-term benefits for sustainability are significant. It is recommended that the council proceeds with a pilot programme to monitor the impact on local businesses before full implementation.

Marking checklist

• Content: ¿Has respondido a todos los puntos del enunciado (impacto económico, sostenibilidad y uso de fondos)? El contenido debe ser relevante para el lector objetivo.
• Communicative Achievement: ¿El tono es formal y el formato es de una propuesta (con subtítulos)? Se evalúa si el lenguaje es adecuado para convencer o informar a un comité.
• Organisation: ¿Las ideas están organizadas de forma lógica con conectores? Se evalúa la cohesión entre párrafos y la estructura clara.
• Language: ¿Has usado vocabulario avanzado y estructuras gramaticales complejas (pasiva, condicionales, hedging)? Se evalúa la precisión y la variedad léxica.

Vocabulario para Writing & Speaking

🔊