B1 Upper-Intermediate Writing · Lesson 15
Write an Article About a Modern Lifestyle Trend
Learn to introduce a trend, explain why it is growing, give examples, and offer a balanced personal view.
B1 Upper-IntermediateShort article30 min130–140 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.
Learning objective
Write an engaging short article about a current lifestyle trend using a clear introduction, reasons, examples, balanced comments, and a concluding view.
Model text
Why Are More People Buying Second-Hand?
Second-hand shopping has changed dramatically in recent years. It was once associated mainly with saving money, but today many people choose used clothes, furniture, and electronics for other reasons too. One important factor is environmental awareness. For example, buying an item that already exists can reduce waste and may prevent useful products from being thrown away. Social media has also made second-hand shopping more attractive, because people can easily find unusual styles and share successful purchases online. However, used products are not always cheaper, especially when certain brands become fashionable. Buyers also need to check quality carefully. In my view, the trend is mostly positive because it encourages people to think before buying something new. Even if it does not replace normal shopping completely, it can make everyday consumption more thoughtful.
Second-hand shopping has changed dramatically in recent years. It was once associated mainly with saving money, but today many people choose used clothes, furniture, and electronics for other reasons too. One important factor is environmental awareness. For example, buying an item that already exists can reduce waste and may prevent useful products from being thrown away. Social media has also made second-hand shopping more attractive, because people can easily find unusual styles and share successful purchases online. However, used products are not always cheaper, especially when certain brands become fashionable. Buyers also need to check quality carefully. In my view, the trend is mostly positive because it encourages people to think before buying something new. Even if it does not replace normal shopping completely, it can make everyday consumption more thoughtful.
How to write
1
Open with an engaging introduction to the trend
2
Explain why the trend is growing
3
Give specific examples or effects
4
Include a balanced point or limitation
5
Finish with your overall view
Useful language
In recent years,...One important reason is...For example,...Another factor is...However,...In my view,...
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 an Article About a Modern Lifestyle Trend
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 is the title written as a question: “Why Are More People Buying Second-Hand?”
2
What contrast does “It was once associated mainly with saving money, but today…” create?
3
Why does the writer use “For example” before the waste sentence?
4
What does “because” explain in the social-media sentence?
5
Why is “However” placed before the point about price?
6
What does “Even if” achieve in the final sentence?
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Exercise 2 · Structure & development
Write an Article About a Modern Lifestyle Trend
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 first paragraph idea focus on how second-hand shopping has changed?
2
How are the two main positive causes developed?
3
Why are price and quality concerns grouped after the social-media benefit?
4
What is the role of “In my view” near the end?
5
Why does the conclusion focus on “think before buying something new”?
6
Which outline best matches the article?
Exercise complete. Your progress has been saved.
Exercise 3 · Writing
Write an Article About a Modern Lifestyle Trend
Learn to introduce a trend, explain why it is growing, give examples, and offer a balanced personal view.
Complete the writing task.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 130–140 words and develop your ideas clearly.
Your task
Write an article about a modern lifestyle trend, such as remote work, digital detox, meal delivery, fitness apps, or second-hand shopping. Explain why it is popular and discuss its effects.
- Introduce the trend clearly.
- Explain at least two reasons for its popularity.
- Give at least one specific example.
- Discuss at least one effect or benefit.
- Include a limitation or contrasting point.
- Use article-style linking language.
- Finish with a clear overall view.
In recent years,...One important reason is...For example,...Another factor is...However,...In my view,...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 130–140
Your draft is saved automatically on this device.
Quick check
•Write about 130–140 words
•Introduce the article topic clearly
•Develop several useful ideas
•Include at least one example
•Explain reasons or effects
•Use a contrast, limitation, or warning
•Finish with a clear takeaway
•Use several linking expressions
•Use at least 8 clear sentences
Exercise complete. Your writing has passed the lesson check and your progress has been saved.
AI feedback
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