Activity

Look for a First Class sample essay in your subject on the CAL Bank of Assessed Work (this will be in your list of Canvas courses).
If you are in your first year, this is Level C.
Just choose something that interests you - you may not find examples of your exact courses, but that doesn't matter for this activity

You are now the 'Reader'

The writer has managed to select a particular focus, and angle, that interested them, and has come to some conclusions about it that they can back up with evidence of some kind. This is the scary but exciting bit, and involves a lot of critical thought
The writer has created an argument based on the ideas, facts and theories that have been discussed in their lectures and seminars and their own reading. This is the key difference between writing at A-level and writing at university
The writer has incorporated and referenced the evidence that they have found in their reading to support their argument

As you read, take note of the techniques used and try to evaluate how successful they are. Not everything that a writer does will have contributed to their high grade!
Try not to feel put off if the essay seems rather better than anything you think you are capable of producing. Don't forget that this is the product of a lot of work, and you are probably not familiar with the material.
If this is the case, then why not take a look at a sample that received a lower grade to compare - you may like to pitch your essay at this level to start with if you are not feeling excessively confident. For a first essay, a safe 2:1 may be a good place to start, and then you can use your feedback from your tutors to develop your practice as you move on through the year

KEY POINT

Do take your first year as an invitation to explore and experiment and to develop your research and writing skills, and to develop good academic practices
You do not need to get a First in every essay - the key to success at first year is to learn about what constitutes good academic practice and to find your own academic voice