IGCSE English Compositions (May-Jun 2011)

Are you glad to be living at the present time or would you prefer to have been alive in a previous historical period? Explain the reasons for your choice.

'The world is changed by the small actions of ordinary people, not by the big actions of important people'. Discuss this claim.

Most people prefer to live in their own country, but some want to emigrate to another country. Say where you would like to live and explain your reasons.

'It is best to be an adult. Adults have everything their own way.' Argue for or against this statement.

'Young people today do not have real friends. Long lists of names on social networking sites on the internet have taken their place.' Discuss this statement.

Some people say that both girls and boys do better in single sex schools. What are your views?

You arrive on an island. Write a description of your first impressions of the place and its people.

Describe what you see and hear from a hiding place.

Describe the scene and atmosphere when you visit a theme park or fairground.

Describe your surroundings before and after a sudden change in the weather.

Describe a restful place.

Describe an alien's first impression of a town centre known to you.

You witness an incident which you are forced to get involved in. Use this idea as the basis for a narrative.

Write a story based on an animal that escapes.

Write a story that begins with these words: 'Finally, the great day dawned.'

You wake up, look out of your window, and discover that something has happened during the night which has totally changed the area around your house. Write about what happens.

'While I was looking idly through my family`s old box of documents, I suddenly came across an official letter.' Imagine yourself as the narrator and continue this story.

Take an old tale or myth and retell it as though it is happening in your country at this time.