Grammar practice

1. PHOTOCOPIABLE © Cambridge University Press 2015
Writing practice Unit 1
A descriptive essay
1 Choose the best answers to complete the text.
A place I could stay forever
The Shangri-La Rasa Ria resort in Malaysia is situated on the northeastern side of the island of Borneo. The hotel is surrounded by
greenery with a 1 scented / smooth white, sandy beach in front stretching to the 2 sparkling / shiny South China Sea beyond. It is the
most 3 picturesque / noisy hotel I’ve ever stayed in.
But that is not all. One side of the hotel overlooks a jungle reserve where you can find 4 exotic / picturesque animals. There are also
two swimming pools where you can relax, surrounded by beautiful vegetation. It is easy to enjoy the days in this paradise.
Of course, if you get hungry there are several restaurants, which offer a wide variety of 5 luxury / local and international dishes.
However, unfortunately, my favourite restaurant is only open for breakfast. It is a round building with glass walls so that you can enjoy
the view of the beach. The 6 mouth-watering / colourful coffee and pastries are a lovely way to start the day.
2 Choose the best answers to complete the sentences.
1 … I enjoyed my trip to Malaysia, I’m not sure I would go again.
a Although b In spite of
2 The tour price covers transport, admission to the park, a guided tour and tea. … there is no tip included.
a Despite b But
3 The jungle trek looks inviting … the warnings about dangerous insects.
a but b in spite of
4 I’m going to visit the jungle reserve, … the high chance of rain.
a despite b although
5 The hotel has several restaurants that serve food all day. … the best restaurant is the one where we ate breakfast.
a Despite b But
Write!Write!
Step 1
Here are three exam questions. Choose one to write. Before you start writing, look at Steps 2–4.
• Describe your worst holiday experience.
• ‘A little slice of paradise’– write a descriptive essay.
• Write a description of your favourite tourist destination in your country.
Step 2
Brainstorm your ideas and make notes. Decide how best to order your information.
Step 3
Remember to include plenty of adjectives. Do you have an adjective that describes each sense: taste, touch, sight, sound and
smell?
Step 4
Write your essay. Don’t forget to check your work for grammar and spelling mistakes.