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Compare two documents, then argue

TCF Canada writing task 3

Two short documents disagree on a social question. Part 1 sums up both views in your own words (40–60 words). Part 2 gives your position with arguments (80–120 words). This is the task most candidates lose points on.

Practise Task 3 now
Word limit
120–180
Part 1: summary (40–60) · Part 2: your opinion (80–120)
Suggested time
25min
Format
Compare two opposing documents on a social question, then give your own position.

What examiners check

Method

  1. 1Part 1: one sentence for the topic, one for each view, linked by « alors que », « au contraire » or « en revanche ». Never copy sentences from the documents.
  2. 2Part 2: state your position in the first sentence.
  3. 3Give two arguments with an example each, then a concession (« Il est vrai que… cependant… »).
  4. 4End with a one-sentence conclusion that answers the question.

Mistakes that cost a band

  • Copying phrases from the documents in part 1: the examiner wants reformulation.
  • Giving your opinion in part 1, or summarising again in part 2.
  • Respecting the total but not each part's own limit.

Outline

Part 1: Les deux documents traitent de… Selon le premier,… Le second, au contraire, estime que…
Part 2: À mon avis,… D'abord,… Ensuite,… Il est vrai que… cependant… En conclusion,…

A corrected example

Should phones be banned at school?

All Task 3 topics