B1 Upper-Intermediate Writing · Lesson 18

Write a Review Comparing Two Options

Learn to compare two choices using the same criteria and make a justified recommendation.

B1 Upper-IntermediateComparative review30 min140–150 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.

Write a comparative review that evaluates two options according to common criteria, highlights meaningful differences, and gives a clear recommendation.

Model text

I recently tried two language-learning apps, WordPath and DailyLingo, for one month. Both are designed for short daily practice, but they suit different learners. WordPath has clearer vocabulary exercises and a useful review system that repeats difficult words automatically. Its lessons are well organised, although the free version contains frequent advertisements. DailyLingo feels more varied because it includes short listening clips, mini-dialogues, and pronunciation tasks. However, its vocabulary review is less systematic, so I sometimes forgot words from earlier lessons. The prices of the paid versions are similar. For beginners who want a clear routine and strong vocabulary practice, I would choose WordPath. Learners who become bored easily may prefer DailyLingo because the activities change more often. Overall, WordPath was more effective for me, while DailyLingo was more entertaining. The better choice therefore depends on whether structure or variety is more important to you.

How to write

1
Introduce both options and what they have in common
2
Compare the first important criterion
3
Compare another criterion
4
Mention advantages and disadvantages of both
5
Recommend one option for a specific need

Useful language

Both options...Compared with...While X..., Y...On the other hand,...For learners who...Overall,...
B1 Upper-Intermediate focus: Develop each main idea with a reason, example, consequence, or reflection. Use a wider range of linkers, but keep the text natural and easy to follow.
Exercises:
Exercise 1 · Language in the model text

Write a Review Comparing Two Options

Read the model text closely. Choose the answer that best explains its grammar, vocabulary, linking, or register.

Analyse how the model uses language to achieve the writing purpose.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does the review use “Both … but …” in the second sentence?
2
What does the comparative “clearer” tell the reader about WordPath?
3
Why is “although” used in the sentence about WordPath’s free version?
4
What cause-and-effect relation does “so” express for DailyLingo?
5
Why does the writer use “may prefer” rather than “must choose” for DailyLingo?
6
What does “while” do in “WordPath was more effective for me, while DailyLingo was more entertaining”?
Exercise 2 · Structure & development

Write a Review Comparing Two Options

Use the model text to analyse how its ideas are ordered, connected, developed, and supported.

Analyse the organisation of this specific model text and the function of its details.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does the review introduce both apps together in the first sentence?
2
How is WordPath evaluated before moving to DailyLingo?
3
Why does the writer mention similar paid prices separately?
4
Why are recommendations split by learner type?
5
What is the role of the personal sentence “WordPath was more effective for me…”?
6
Why does the final sentence use “depends on whether structure or variety is more important”?
Exercise 3 · Writing

Write a Review Comparing Two Options

Learn to compare two choices using the same criteria and make a justified recommendation.

Complete the writing task.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 140–150 words and develop your ideas clearly.
Your task

Compare two similar options, such as apps, cafés, courses, hotels, transport services, or products. Evaluate both using the same criteria and recommend one for a particular user.

  • Introduce both options clearly.
  • Compare them using at least two shared criteria.
  • Mention strengths of both options.
  • Mention at least one limitation or weakness.
  • Use comparative or contrast language.
  • Explain which option suits which user.
  • Give a clear overall recommendation.
Both options...Compared with...While X..., Y...On the other hand,...For learners who...Overall,...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 140–150

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
Write about 140–150 words
Identify what you are reviewing
Give several clear opinions
Support opinions with specific features
Include a weakness or contrast
Give a recommendation or best choice
Use several linking expressions
Use at least 8 clear sentences
AI feedback

After the lesson check, get detailed feedback appropriate for this B1 Upper-Intermediate task.