DET 5 High-Scoring Sample Answers: 'Writing Sample' (2024.09.28)

Welcome to the DET High-Scoring Sample Answers series. Until now, we have delved into two types of questions that concentrate on photo descriptions. They are as follows: Write About the Photo, Speak About the Photo. Today’s blog post will be divided into two sections: the first will provide tips for approaching the Writing Sample, and the second will feature five high-scoring sample answers.

This type of question requires the examinee to provide a written description of the given topic within five minutes.

High-Scoring Tips for 'Writing Sample'

l Ensure relevance to the topic:

The topic you choose will be shared with the recipients of your results, making it vital to stay focused and relevant. Tailor your response to directly address the subject, ensuring your insights and arguments contribute meaningfully to the discussion. A well-aligned response not only shows your understanding of the topic but also effectively engages the recipients.

l Practice good writing habits:

Developing effective writing habits is crucial for enhancing your communication skills. This means varying your sentence structure to keep readers engaged and using diverse vocabulary to enrich your narrative. Additionally, aim to express a range of thoughts, ensuring they flow logically with smooth transitions. By doing so, you create a dynamic and compelling piece that captures the recipients interest while clearly conveying your message.

l Check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation:

Taking the time to review your work is essential for producing polished writing. After you finish drafting, step back and carefully examine your text for spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, and punctuation issues. This practice not only enhances the readability of your writing but also demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.

l Think of this as a short essay:

When crafting your writing sample, treat it as a short essay. The recipients will likely use this sample to assess your writing skills and overall communication abilities. Structure your piece thoughtfully, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This format helps convey your ideas coherently and allows you to showcase your ability to organize thoughts logically, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

High-Scoring Sample Answer

Sample Question 1:

Where in the world would you like to go to study? What is it about this city or country that you think makes it a good place to study? What would you hope to accomplish while you are there?

Sample Answer:

I have always dreamt of studying in Melbourne, Australia. The city's vibrant and diverse cultural scene, coupled with its world-class universities, makes it an ideal place for higher education. Melbourne is known for its excellent academic institutions, offering a wide range of courses that align with my interests and career goals. Moreover, the city's multicultural environment promotes international friendships and fosters a global perspective. During my time in Melbourne, I hope to excel academically while immersing myself in the local culture and exploring the breathtaking natural landscapes that Australia has to offer. Ultimately, I aim to broaden my horizons, gain valuable experiences, and establish connections that will shape my future endeavors.

Sample Question 2:

When was the last time you ate a meal at a restaurant? Who did you eat with, and was it an enjoyable experience? Would you recommend this restaurant to others?

Sample Answer:

Last weekend, I dined at a charming Italian bistro with a few close friends from college. The cozy ambience, punctuated by soft jazz melodies and dim lighting, set the stage for what would be an unforgettable culinary experience. We indulged in a variety of dishes, from creamy risottos to succulent tiramisu, each bite a testament to the chef's artistry. Conversation flowed effortlessly, punctuated by laughter and shared memories, making the evening even more delightful. The attentive service and exquisite cuisine exceeded our expectations, leaving us with nothing but praise for this hidden gem. Without hesitation, I would recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking both excellent food and a convivial atmosphere—a true haven for gourmands.

Sample Question 3:

Discuss the qualities that a good leader should have. Use examples from your personal experiences and observations in a school, work, or other situations when you or someone else showed good leadership.

Sample Answer:

I believe that some of the most important qualities of a good leader are vision, integrity, empathy, and the ability to inspire others. A strong leader needs to have a clear vision of what they want to achieve and be able to articulate that vision in a way that resonates with people. I think of the debate team captain at my high school who was passionate about the topics we discussed and always kept us focused on our goals, even when preparing for tournaments got challenging. Integrity is also vital - a good leader needs to be honest, ethical, and lead by example. They should be someone others can trust and respect. In one of my previous teaching roles, the principal was known for her unwavering commitment to doing the right thing, even when it was difficult. Her integrity inspired the staff. Empathy allows a leader to understand the needs and perspectives of those they are leading. Early in my teaching career, I had a department chair who always made time to listen to concerns and worked hard to support each teacher as an individual. Her empathy made us feel valued. Finally, great leaders have a way of motivating and inspiring others to do their best and believe in the mission. I've been fortunate to work with administrators and colleagues over the years who are enthusiastic, and positive, and make others excited to come to work each day and give their all for students. That ability to inspire is so powerful.

Sample Question 4:

Some people believe that dealing with difficult situations helps people to learn life skills. Do you agree or disagree? Use examples from personal experience or observations to support your opinion.

Sample Answer:

From my perspective, dealing with difficult situations indeed helps people to learn life skills. I stand by this belief because adversity often serves as a catalyst for personal growth, encouraging resilience, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence. For example, I recall a team project at my previous job where we faced significant hurdles due to a lack of resources and time constraints. Each team member was pushed to their limits. However, in retrospect, it was this challenging scenario that honed our ability to work under pressure, improved our decision-making skills, and fostered a spirit of collaboration. This instance vividly illustrates how confronting and navigating through challenges can contribute significantly to personal and professional growth. Therefore, I am firmly of the opinion that difficult circumstances often become fertile grounds for the blossoming of essential life skills.

Sample Question 5:

What qualities or behaviors should everyone try to have when working on a group project together? Why are these important for group projects?

Sample Answer:

In a collaborative environment, several qualities and behaviors are pivotal for the success of group projects. Foremost among these is effective communication. It paves the way for idea exchange, fosters mutual understanding, and keeps everyone on the same page. Next is adaptability, allowing group members to adjust to change swiftly and work harmoniously amidst diverse perspectives. Additionally, everyone should exhibit a high degree of responsibility, understanding that individual efforts contribute significantly to the overall project outcome. Lastly, respect is key. It promotes a positive culture, validates individual contributions, and prevents potential conflicts. These qualities are crucial as they ensure efficient workflow, encourage innovation, minimize misunderstandings, and promote an inclusive atmosphere that acknowledges the value every member brings to the group.
In summary, the Writing Sample should be approached with greater diligence, as it is not only a part of the exam score but, more importantly, the results will be sent to the institutions and schools you have chosen.

You might be interested in the following article:

DET 10 High-Scoring Sample Answers: 'Write About the Photo' (2024.09.19)

Duolingo English Test Question Type Intro 2：Writing Sample