C1 / CAE Writing exam task: Report
Writing a report for the CAE C1 exam involves a structured and detailed approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tackle a report writing task:
Step 1: Understand the Prompt
Start by carefully reading and understanding the prompt. Identify the type of report you are required to write and any specific guidelines provided.
Step 2: Identify the Purpose and Audience
Determine the purpose of your report and the target audience. This will influence the tone, style, and content of your writing. Consider whether the report is informational, analytical, or persuasive.
Step 3: Plan Your Report
Outline the key components of your report, including:
- Introduction: Clearly state the purpose and scope of your report.
Key language to use: “The principal aims of this report are to provide an overview of / assess…“
“And to make recommendations for the improvement of the situation/service/facilities.“ - Methodology (if applicable): Describe the methods used to gather information.
- Findings/Results: Present the main information, data, or findings.
Key language to use: “The majority of those questioned expressed (dis)satisfaction with/ doubts regarding…“
“A significant number of (students) critisied/praised the (lack of )…“
“One area which prompted concern was….” - Analysis: Interpret the results and provide insights.
- Conclusions: Summarize the key points and draw conclusions.
- Recommendations: Suggest actions or solutions based on your findings.
Key language to use: “In light of the findings outlined above, I strongly recommend the following measures:”
Step 4: Organize Information Logically
Ensure a logical flow of information from one section to another. Use headings and subheadings to guide the reader through your report. Each section should contribute to the overall coherence and clarity of your writing.
Step 5: Use Formal Language and Style
Maintain a formal and academic tone suitable for a report. Utilize a varied and precise vocabulary. Demonstrate a high level of language proficiency through the use of complex sentence structures.
Step 6: Support with Evidence
Back up your findings and statements with relevant evidence. This may include data, statistics, examples, or quotations. Ensure that your sources are credible and appropriately cited.
Step 7: Be Concise and Clear
Avoid unnecessary repetition and verbosity. Be concise in your expression while ensuring that your ideas are clearly communicated. Eliminate any ambiguity in your language.
Step 8: Check for Grammar and Style
Proofread your report for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation. Ensure that your writing adheres to the conventions of formal English. Check for consistency in tense, voice, and style.
Step 9: Adhere to Word Limit
Pay attention to the word limit specified in the instructions. Strive to meet the word count without exceeding it. Be mindful of the balance between depth and brevity in your report.
Step 10: Revise and Finalize
Review your report one final time to ensure that it meets all the requirements outlined in the prompt. Confirm that your report is well-structured, coherent, and effectively addresses the purpose and audience.
By following these steps, you can approach the CAE C1 report writing task with confidence and produce a well-organized and articulate piece of writing. Good luck!
10 CAE Report questions
1. Sports Facilities
You recently carried out a survey among students at your college about the sports facilities available on campus.
Write a report for the college principal:
- summarising students’ opinions
- identifying the main problems
- recommending improvements.
2. Language Learning Resources
The director of a language school wants to improve students’ learning experience.
Write a report for the director:
- evaluating the school’s current learning resources
- explaining which resources students use most
- suggesting ways to improve them.
3. Local Tourism
Your town council wants to attract more tourists.
Write a report for the council:
- describing the town’s main attractions
- identifying factors that discourage visitors
- recommending measures to increase tourism.
Model answer: Report on Increasing Tourism in Salamanca
4. Environmental Awareness
Your school recently organised several environmental initiatives.
Write a report for the school management:
- assessing the success of these initiatives
- explaining student participation levels
- suggesting future environmental projects.
5. Work Experience Programme
Students at your college have completed a work experience programme.
Write a report for the programme coordinator:
- evaluating the benefits of the programme
- outlining any difficulties encountered
- making recommendations for future participants.
6. Library Services
The management of your local library is considering changes to its services.
Write a report for the library manager:
- describing how people currently use the library
- evaluating existing services
- recommending changes that would attract more users.
7. Student Accommodation
You have collected feedback from students living in university accommodation.
Write a report for the accommodation office:
- summarising students’ views
- identifying the most common complaints
- suggesting practical improvements.
8. Cultural Events
A community centre has organised a series of cultural events over the past year.
Write a report for the centre’s director:
- evaluating attendance and participation
- identifying the most successful events
- recommending future activities.
9. Technology in Education
Your school is considering investing in new educational technology.
Write a report for the headteacher:
- assessing the technology currently available
- explaining how students and teachers use it
- recommending future investments.
10. Healthy Lifestyle Campaign
A health organisation wants to encourage young people to adopt healthier habits.
Write a report for the organisation:
suggesting effective new initiatives.
identifying the main health issues affecting young people
evaluating current awareness campaigns