Written Essay and Oral Examination
Essay structure
The CACD prova discursiva rewards a clear thesis, structured argument, and formal register. Use a four-part architecture: introduction with thesis, two or three argumentative paragraphs, and a conclusion that synthesizes rather than repeats. Each paragraph should have a topic sentence, evidence, and a link to the thesis.
Traps
Common failures: describing instead of arguing, overusing first person, exceeding the line limit, and ignoring the comando (e.g., "discuta" versus "compare"). Always reread the command verb and address every element.
Cohesion
Use varied connectors (portanto, contudo, além disso, em suma) and avoid repetition. Cite concepts from other domains (history, law, economics) to show interdisciplinary breadth.
Oral examination
The prova oral tests fluency, coherence, and poise. Prepare a two-minute self-presentation, anticipate questions on current international affairs, and practice structuring answers as thesis–evidence–conclusion. Traps: speaking too fast, avoiding the question, and failing to justify opinions.
Worked example
If asked "Discuss Brazil's role in multilateralism," open with a thesis (Brazil uses multilateralism as an autonomy strategy), support with Rio Branco, PEI, and BRICS, then conclude with the tension between sovereignty and global governance.