ARTICLE

An article is written to interest and engage the reader.

You often write it for a magazine or website.

👉 You should:

 make it interesting
 use questions (e.g. Have you ever…?)
 give ideas and examples
 sometimes give your opinion

👉 Structure:

 Title
 Introduction (interesting start)
 2–3 main paragraphs
 Ending (general conclusion)

What style should you use?

👉 Semi-formal (this is VERY important)

That means:

 not too formal ❌ (Furthermore, it is widely acknowledged…)

 not too informal ❌ (Hey guys! This is super cool!)
 friendly and natural ✅

✔ Good style:

 Have you ever wondered…?

 Let’s look at why this happens.
 You might be surprised to learn…

❓ Questions you can use (very useful!)

Using questions makes your article more interesting 👍

👉 Examples:

 Have you ever thought about…?

 Why do so many people…?
 What would you do if…?
 Is it really a good idea to…?
 How often do you…?
 What makes something popular today?
👉 Tip: Use 1–3 questions, not too many! Usually 1 question is enough.

🧠 What grammar should you use?

To get a higher score, you should show variety (not only in articles but in any kind
of Writing):

✅ Adjectives & adverbs

 make your writing more interesting

✔ Examples:

 extremely popular
 incredibly useful
 surprisingly easy

✅ Conditionals (very good for B2!)

 If you try this, you will feel better. (1st conditional)

 If I had more time, I would travel more. (2nd conditional)

👉 Examiners LIKE this 👍

✅ Passive voice (use sometimes!)

 It is believed that…
 Many activities are organized…

👉 Don’t overuse it, just 1–2 times

✅ Linking words (VERY important)

They improve your score a lot:

 However, On the other hand

 For example
 As a result
 In conclusion
 Although, Even though, Despite etc.

👉 Have you ever wondered why some people enjoy studying while others find it
difficult? If we changed the way we learn, it might become much more enjoyable.

In B2 First articles, you are expected to include some opinion.

But:

 it is not as strong as in a review

  it should be natural and balanced

⚖️Article vs Review (opinion)

 Article → opinion is light / balanced

 Review → opinion is strong / clear + recommendation

✅ How to include opinion (correct way)

You can:

 give your thoughts

 suggest ideas
 explain preferences

👉 Examples:

 In my opinion, this is a great way to relax.

 I believe that students should spend more time outdoors.
 It seems that technology makes life easier.

❗ Important tip

Don’t write only facts like this ❌

 Exercise is good. People run. Gyms exist.

👉 Add opinion ✔

 In my opinion, exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress.

❓ Can you finish with a question?

👉 Yes, definitely!
Ending with a question is a great technique.

✔ It:

 engages the reader

 makes your article more interesting
 shows good style (higher score)

👉 Examples:

 So, what would you choose?

 Why not give it a try?
 Isn’t it time we changed our habits?
👉 Tip:
Use one strong question at the end, not many. (!!!)

⚠️Just be careful

❌ Don’t overdo it:

 too many questions = annoying

 too informal language = lower score

❌ Avoid:

 Hey guys!
 You MUST do this!!!

⭐ 5. How to get a HIGH mark (like review 👇)

✔ Do this:

 clear structure (intro → 2 ideas → ending)

 interesting introduction (question or idea)
 talk to the reader (you, questions)
 use varied grammar (conditionals, passive, etc.)
 use linking words
 include some opinion

SAMPLE
Is Learning a Second Language Worth It?
Have you ever thought about how different your life could be if you
spoke another language fluently? These days, learning a second
language is more popular than ever — and for good reason.
To begin with, learning another language is excellent for your brain.
Research shows that people who speak more than one language often
have better memory and problem-solving skills. Even learning a few
new words every day can improve your focus and confidence.
Another major advantage is the effect on your future career. Many
employers prefer candidates who can communicate in more than one
language, especially in international companies. What’s more,
speaking another language makes travelling easier and helps you
connect with people from different cultures.
All in all, learning a second language is one of the best investments
you can make in yourself. It opens doors, strengthens your mind, and
makes life more interesting. So why not start today?

REVIEW
A review is written to give your opinion about something.

👉 You usually review:

 a film 🎬
 a book 📚
 a restaurant 🍔
 a place 🏝️

👉 You should:

 describe it
 say what is good and bad
 give your opinion
 recommend it (or not)

👉 Structure:

 Title
 Introduction (what you are reviewing)
 Description
 Opinion (good & bad)
 Recommendation

✍️What must you include in a review?

You should ALWAYS:

1. Say what it is

 This film is about… / I recently watched a film called “Inception”.

2. Describe it (shortly)
o The story follows the story of…/ The film tells the story of a man who enters people’s
dreams
3. Give opinion (VERY IMPORTANT)
o In my opinion…
o I really enjoyed…
o The acting is excellent and the story is very original.
o However, some parts are a bit confusing.
4. Say good and bad points
o One advantage is…
o However, a drawback is…
5. Give recommendation (IMPORTANT!)
o I would recommend it to… /I wouldn’t recommend…
o It’s (not) worth watching.
o I would highly recommend it.
o It’s worth watching.
o I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone because….

💬 Style
👉 Both articles and reviews are semi-formal, BUT:
  Article → more neutral, general ideas
 Review → more personal and opinionated

❗ Key differences (simple)

👉 Article:

 general topic
 talks to reader
 may include opinion (not too strong)
 often uses questions

👉 Review:

 specific thing (film/book/etc.)

 strong opinion
 MUST include recommendation
 no rhetorical questions

❌ Only describing in a review is WRONG:

 The film is about a boy. He goes to school.

👉 You need:
✔ opinion + evaluation

✍️Mini example (review)

I recently watched a film called “Inception”. It tells the story of a man who enters people’s dreams.

In my opinion, the film is exciting and very original. The special effects are amazing. However, the
story can be a bit confusing.

Overall, I would highly recommend it, especially if you enjoy science fiction.

🧠 2. What grammar should you use?

To get a higher mark, show variety:

✅ Adjectives (VERY important)

👉 Reviews NEED adjectives

✔ Examples:

 amazing, boring, exciting, disappointing, well-written

 beautifully filmed, highly entertaining

✅ Adverbs

✔ Examples:
  really enjoyable
 extremely interesting
 slightly confusing

✅ Present tenses (main tense)

👉 Use:

 Present Simple

✅ Past tense (when needed)

✅ Modals (very useful!)

✔ Examples:

 You should watch it.

 You might find it interesting.
 You shouldn’t expect too much.

✅ Linking words (important!)

 Firstly, Also, However

 On the one hand / On the other hand
 Overall, To sum up,

👉 Giving opinion:

 In my opinion…
 I think…
 I found it…

👉 Pros & cons:

 One advantage is…

 One drawback is…

👉 Recommendation:

 I would recommend it to…

 It’s definitely worth seeing.
 I wouldn’t recommend it.

⚠️4. What NOT to do

❌ Don’t:

 write too much story

 forget recommendation
 be too informal (It’s sooo cool!!!)
 only describe (you MUST evaluate)
⭐ 5. How to get a HIGH mark
✔ Do this:

 clear structure (intro → description → evaluation → recommendation)

 strong opinion
 good adjectives
 some complex grammar (modals, linking words)
 clear paragraphs

SAMPLES
Exam Task 1
Write a review of a book in which the protagonist did something
surprising. Say what happened and whether you would recommend it.
A Decision That Changes Everything
I recently finished reading Shattered Illusions by Anne Mather, and it
left a strong impression on me. The novel follows Alex, a successful
young professional who unexpectedly abandons his stable life to
pursue complete isolation.
What makes the story so compelling is Alex’s shocking decision to
give up his career and friendships in search of what he calls “authentic
living.” At first, his choice seems irrational. However, as the story
unfolds, we begin to understand his inner conflict. The author carefully
explores themes of identity and personal freedom, which makes the
novel thought-provoking rather than simply dramatic.
Although the pace slows slightly in the middle, the emotional depth of
the story kept me engaged throughout.
I would definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoy
psychological drama and character-driven plots. It’s not just a story —
it’s a reflection on how far someone might go to find meaning.

Exam Task 2
Write a review of a café for a local magazine.
Café Luminance: A Calm Escape from the City
Last weekend, I visited Café Luminance, a small café located just
outside the busy city centre, and I was pleasantly surprised.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with soft lighting and local
artwork decorating the walls. It’s the kind of place where you
immediately feel relaxed. I tried their honey cappuccino, which was
rich and perfectly balanced — not too sweet, not too bitter. The
pastries were freshly baked and clearly made with care.
What impressed me most was the service. The staff were friendly
without being intrusive, and they were happy to recommend their
specialities.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to study, meet friends, or simply
unwind, Café Luminance is an excellent choice. I would certainly
return.

Exam Task 3
Write a film review summarising the plot, acting, and overall quality.
Midnight Escape: Tension from Start to Finish
Midnight Escape is a gripping mystery set in an abandoned city. The
story follows a group of friends who uncover a dangerous secret
during a late-night exploration.
The film’s strength lies in its atmosphere. Clever camerawork and
subtle lighting create a constant sense of unease. The performances
are convincing, particularly the lead actor, whose emotional reactions
feel authentic.
While a few plot twists are predictable, the film maintains suspense
and keeps the audience engaged. The soundtrack also adds
significantly to the tension without overwhelming the scenes.
Overall, Midnight Escape is an entertaining thriller that balances
suspense with emotional depth. I would recommend it to fans of
mystery films looking for an engaging weekend watch.

LETTERS
General Letter (informal / semi-formal letter)

⭐What is it?
A letter where you:

 ask for information

 give news
 make a request
 apologise
  invite someone

👉 It depends on the task.

🧠 Style
 Informal (to a friend) OR
 Semi-formal (to an organisation / teacher)

INFORMAL LETTER
An informal letter is written to:

 a friend
 a family member
 someone you know well

👉 Purpose:

 give news
 invite someone
 apologise
 thank someone
 give advice
 describe an experience

2. STRUCTURE

🔹 1. Greeting
✔ Use:

 Dear Tom,
 Hi Sarah,
 Hello Mike,

❌ Not:

 Dear Sir/Madam (too formal)

🔹 2. Opening (friendly start)

Start naturally:

✔ Examples:

 How are you?

 I hope you’re doing well.
 It was great to hear from you!

👉 You can also respond to their news:

  Sorry to hear about your exams!

🔹 3. Main paragraphs (2–3)

👉 This depends on the task:

 describe experience
 answer questions
 give advice
 explain something

✔ Example:

 Last weekend I went to the mountains with my friends. It was amazing because…

🔹 4. Closing paragraph
 final comment + maybe question

✔ Examples:

 Anyway, I have to go now. Write back soon!

 Let me know what you think!
 Hope to see you soon!

🔹 5. Ending
✔ Informal endings:

 Best wishes,
 Take care,
 See you soon,
 Love, (only close friends/family)

3. LANGUAGE FOR HIGH SCORE

To get a high mark, your letter must be:

👉 natural + varied + engaging

✅ 1. Informal vocabulary
✔ Examples:

 great, amazing, really fun, cool, nice, exciting

 a bit, loads of, lots of

✅ 2. Contractions (IMPORTANT)
✔ Use:
  I’m, don’t, can’t, it’s, I’ve

👉 This makes it natural

✅ 3. Phrasal verbs (VERY GOOD!)

✔ Examples:

 look forward to
 hang out
 get on with
 find out
 catch up

✅ 4. Linking words (simple ones are okay)

✔ Examples:

 also
 because
 but
 so
 then
 firstly / finally (use a little)
 although
 despite/in spite of
 however
 even though

✅ 5. Questions (VERY IMPORTANT )

👉 Makes your letter friendly

✔ Examples:

 How was your trip?

 What do you think about it?
 Have you ever tried it?

✅ 6. Adjectives & adverbs

✔ Examples:

 really fun
 absolutely amazing
 incredibly good

⚠️4. What NOT to do

❌ Don’t:

 be too formal (I am writing to inform you…)

  forget to answer all points
 use long, difficult formal words
 write like an essay (no personality)

5. HOW TO GET A HIGH MARK

 answer ALL bullet points in the question

 natural, relaxed language

 questions + adjectives + phrasal verbs + linking words

 clear paragraphs

 talk to the reader (you, questions)

✍️MINI EXAMPLE
Hi Tom,

How are you? I hope you’re doing well!

I’m writing to tell you about my weekend trip to the mountains. It was absolutely amazing! We
went hiking and the views were incredible. I really enjoyed spending time with my friends.

What about you? Have you been anywhere interesting lately?

Anyway, I have to go now. Write back soon!

Take care,
Alex

👉 Informal letter = talk like a friendly message, but structured

SEMI-FORMAL LETTER
A semi-formal letter is written to someone you don’t know personally, but you still want to be
polite.

👉 You write to:

 a teacher
 a company / organisation
 a hotel / shop / service
 someone you don’t know well

👉 Purpose:

 ask for information

 make a request
 complain politely
  give information
 apply for something (sometimes)

2. STRUCTURE (VERY IMPORTANT)

🔹 1. Greeting
✔ Use:

 Dear Sir/Madam, (if you don’t know the name)

 Dear Mr Smith, / Dear Ms Brown, (if you know the name)

❌ Not:

 Hi! (too informal)

🔹 2. Opening (formal but simple)

Say WHY you are writing:

✔ Examples:

 I am writing to ask for information about…

 I am writing regarding…
 I am writing to enquire about…
 I am writing to complain about…

🔹 3. Main paragraphs (2–3)

👉 Each paragraph = one idea

✔ Examples:

 asking questions
 explaining situation
 giving details

👉 Example:

 I would like to know what time the course starts.

 Could you please tell me how much it costs?

🔹 4. Closing paragraph
 polite ending + expectation

✔ Examples:

 I look forward to your reply.

 Thank you for your help.
 I would appreciate your response.
🔹 5. Ending (IMPORTANT)
✔ Use:

 Yours faithfully, (if no name)

 Yours sincerely, (if name is known)

3. LANGUAGE FOR HIGH SCORE

To get a high mark, your language must be:

👉 polite + clear + slightly formal + correct grammar

✅ 1. Polite phrases (VERY IMPORTANT)

✔ Examples:

 Could you please…

 I would like to…
 Would it be possible to…
 I would be grateful if…

✅ 2. Linking words
✔ Examples:

 Firstly, Secondly, In addition, However, Therefore

✅ 3. Modal verbs (VERY IMPORTANT)

✔ Examples:

 can / could (requests)

 would / would like (polite)
 may (formal questions)

👉 Example:

 Could you send me more information?

✅ 4. Formal vocabulary (not too difficult)

✔ Examples:

 information, request, available, assistance, details, reservation

⚠️5. What NOT to do

❌ Don’t:

 be too informal (Hey, can you tell me…) or too formal

  use slang or emojis
 forget politeness
 write like a friend message

6. HOW TO GET A HIGH MARK

 answer ALL parts of the question

 always sound respectful

 conditionals, modals, linking words

 paragraphs = one idea each

 requests, questions, polite phrases

✍️MINI EXAMPLE
Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to enquire about your English summer course advertised on your website.

Firstly, I would like to know when the course starts and how long it lasts. Could you also tell me
how many students are usually in each class?

In addition, I would be grateful if you could inform me about the total cost, including
accommodation.

Thank you for your help. I look forward to your reply.

Yours faithfully,
Anna Smith

👉 Semi-formal letter = polite + clear + not personal

Letter of Application
A letter where you apply for a job, course, or position

👉 Example:

 summer job
 volunteer work
 school club position
 part-time job
 school club / project
 internship
🧠 Style
👉 Always formal or semi-formal
❌ No slang
❌ No very informal language

👉 Purpose:

 show your skills + experience

 explain why you want the job
 convince them to choose you

2. STRUCTURE (VERY IMPORTANT)

🔹 1. Greeting
✔ Use:

 Dear Sir/Madam, (most common)

 Dear Mr Smith, (if name is given)

🔹 2. Opening (VERY IMPORTANT)

Say what you are applying for:

✔ Examples:

 I am writing to apply for the position of shop assistant.

 I am writing in response to your advertisement for a summer job.

🔹 3. Paragraph 1: Experience & skills

👉 Talk about what you can do

✔ Examples:

 I have experience working with customers.

 I am responsible and hard-working.
 I have worked as a volunteer before.

🔹 4. Paragraph 2: Motivation (why you want it)

✔ Examples:

 I am interested in this job because I enjoy working with people.

 This position would help me improve my English.

🔹 5. Closing paragraph
 show interest + availability
✔ Examples:

 I would be happy to attend an interview.

 I am available to start immediately.

🔹 6. Ending (IMPORTANT)
✔ Use:

 Yours faithfully, (if no name)

 Yours sincerely, (if name is known)

3. LANGUAGE FOR HIGH SCORE

To get a high mark, you must sound:

👉 formal + confident + professional

✅ 1. Formal vocabulary
✔ Examples:

 responsible, reliable, motivated, experienced, organised

✅ 2. Modal verbs (VERY IMPORTANT)

✔ Examples:

 I can work well in a team.

 I would be happy to help.
 I could start immediately.

✅ 3. Present perfect (experience)

✔ Examples:

 I have worked in a shop for two years.

 I have volunteered at a local charity.

✅ 4. Linking words
 Firstly, In addition, Moreover, However etc.

⚠️5. What NOT to do

❌ Don’t:

 be informal (Hey, I want this job)

 forget skills or experience
 sound unsure (maybe I can…)
 write like a story
6. HOW TO GET A HIGH MARK
 clearly say job + answer ALL points

 show skills + experience + motivation

 polite, professional language

 modals + present perfect + linking words

 each paragraph has one purpose

✍️MINI EXAMPLE
Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to apply for the position of shop assistant advertised on your website.

I have experience working in a small supermarket for one year. I am responsible, friendly, and
enjoy helping customers.

I am interested in this job because I would like to improve my communication skills and gain more
work experience.

I would be happy to attend an interview. I am available to start immediately.

Yours faithfully,
Anna Smith

7. DIFFERENCE: APPLICATION vs SEMI-FORMAL

LETTER

🟡 Semi-formal letter
👉 Purpose:

 ask for information

 request something
 complain
 enquire

👉 Style:

 polite, general
 no “selling yourself”

👉 Focus:

 communication + questions + requests

🟢 Letter of application
👉 Purpose:

 get a job or position

👉 Style:

 more formal + confident “sell yourself”

👉 Focus:

 skills + experience + motivation

✔ Example:

 I have experience working with customers and I am highly motivated.

👉 Semi-formal letter = I need information/help

👉 Application letter = I am offering myself (sell yourself)

👉 Application letter = prove you are the best choice

Example exam task

You see this advertisement:
Part-time Worker Wanted
Are you a reliable and friendly person who enjoys helping others?
We are looking for volunteers to help at the local community centre.
If you are interested, write a letter explaining why you would be
suitable.

Sample Answer
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing in response to your advertisement seeking volunteers for
the community centre. I would like to express my interest in this
opportunity.
I believe I would be a suitable candidate because I enjoy working with
people and have previous experience as a youth group leader. I am
reliable, responsible, and able to work in a team. In addition, I am
available at weekends and in the evenings.
Volunteering at the centre would also allow me to contribute to the
local community and, in that way, gain valuable experience.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional
information. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,
Sophie Taylor

🧠 Do you need real names in letters?

👉 No — you do NOT need real names.
You can invent names or use the ones given in the exam.