Listen to the CD, and underline any examples of signposting.  Look out for:

1. setting out an outline of your response

2. introducing an example

3. introducing a result or consequence

4. introducing a reason or cause

Candidate 1: There are two main problems for the farmers: firstly, I think heavy rain causes the soil to be washed away, I mean the soil with all the minerals in it.  In addition to this many plants rot in the ground because they never have time to dry.  Think when it rains very heavily, for example in my country, it is very difficult for the farmers.

Candidate 2: There are things we can do to help slow global warming.  For instance, we can stop using up all the coal and gas, and use cleaner energy such as power from the wind or sun.

Candidate 3: Rising temperatures will lengthen the food-growing season in some countries.  As a result, farmers will be able to produce more crops which will mean less hunger in the world.  I’m sure you’d agree this is a good thing …. er, a benefit.

Candidate 4: It’s generally agreed that the earth is getting warmer, this is due to more and more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.