Written Expression Guide
TEF Canada Expression Écrite Mastery
Master narrative news continuation (Section A) and formal argumentative essays (Section B) on the 60-minute TEF Canada written exam.
Section A Strategy: News Story Continuation
Section A presents a brief opening paragraph from a news item (fait divers) reporting an unexpected event, incident, or discovery. Candidates must complete the narrative logically.
Key Section A Writing Guidelines:
- Tense Harmony: Master the distinction between Passé Composé (completed actions driving story progression) and Imparfait (background description, ongoing states, atmosphere).
- Chronological Connectors: Use connectors such as Tout d'abord, Soudain, Heureusement, Par la suite, Finalement to ensure coherent story structure.
- Answering Key Questions: Ensure your narrative answers Qui, Quoi, Où, Quand, Comment, and Pourquoi.
Section B Strategy: Argumentative Essay
Section B provides a short statement representing a public debate (e.g., remote work policies, urban transit, technology in education) and asks you to write a structured letter or article taking a clear stance.
Recommended Essay Structure:
- Introduction (30–40 words): Reformulate the topic statement, state your position clearly, and announce your main arguments.
- Body Paragraph 1 (70–80 words): Present your first strong argument with a concrete example.
- Body Paragraph 2 (70–80 words): Present your second argument or address a potential counter-argument.
- Conclusion (25–30 words): Summarize your stance and provide a final opening thought.
