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B2 First Writing Exam Guide

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121 views3 pages

B2 First Writing Exam Guide

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© All Rights Reserved
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B2 First (FCE) Writing Guide

This guide will help you understand how to write each type of task for the Cambridge B2
First (FCE) Writing exam. Each section includes rules, structure, useful linking words, and
tips.

1. ESSAY (Compulsory Task)


Rules:

- Write 4–5 paragraphs.


- 180–220 words.
- Formal tone (no contractions).
- Discuss two points from the task and add one of your own.
- Give a clear opinion in the conclusion.

Structure:

1. Introduction – paraphrase the question, introduce the topic.


2. Paragraph 1 – first point (advantages, reasons).
3. Paragraph 2 – second point (disadvantages, counter-arguments).
4. Paragraph 3 – your own idea (develop it properly).
5. Conclusion – summarise and state your opinion clearly.

Useful Linking Words:

Introduction: Nowadays, It is often said that, It is commonly believed that


Addition: Moreover, In addition, What is more
Contrast: However, On the other hand, Nevertheless
Examples: For example, For instance, Such as
Conclusion: In conclusion, To sum up, All things considered, I believe that

2. EMAIL / LETTER
Rules:

- Decide if it is formal or informal.


- Use correct opening and closing formulas.
- Organise into clear paragraphs.
- Use appropriate register (formal = polite, indirect / informal = friendly, direct).

Structure:

1. Greeting: Dear Sir/Madam (formal), Hi John (informal).


2. Introduction: Explain why you are writing.
3. Main body: Develop 2–3 points clearly.
4. Closing: Yours faithfully/sincerely (formal), Best/Take care (informal).
Useful Linking Words:

Formal: Firstly, Furthermore, In addition, Regarding, I would appreciate if…


Informal: Anyway, By the way, Actually, Hope to hear from you soon

3. ARTICLE
Rules:

- Semi-formal or informal tone.


- Title must be interesting.
- Engage the reader: use questions, exclamations, direct address.
- Clear paragraphs with an introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Useful Linking Words:

Firstly, To begin with, One reason is, What I liked best, To sum up, In my opinion

4. REVIEW
Rules:

- Describe a book, film, product, place, etc.


- Include both positive and negative aspects.
- Organise into 4–5 paragraphs.
- Make a clear recommendation at the end.

Structure:

1. Introduction – say what you are reviewing.


2. Description – give details (plot, characters, features).
3. Evaluation – positives and negatives.
4. Conclusion – recommendation.

Useful Linking Words:

The main character, One advantage is, On the negative side, I would definitely recommend…

5. REPORT
Rules:

- Formal, impersonal style.


- Use headings and subheadings.
- Base on findings, give suggestions, make recommendations.

Structure:

1. Title: Report on…


2. Introduction – state purpose.
3. Findings – present facts.
4. Suggestions/Recommendations – what should be done.
5. Conclusion – summary.

Useful Linking Words:

Firstly, Secondly, On the whole, As a result, Therefore, In conclusion


Impersonal structures: It was found that…, It seems that…, It is recommended that…

6. GENERAL TIPS FOR WRITING


- Always write 180–220 words.
- Organise into paragraphs.
- Use a variety of linking words.
- Avoid repetition.
- Use some advanced grammar (conditionals, passives, inversions).
- Check spelling and word count.

Common questions

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In formal emails or letters, linking words such as 'Firstly,' 'Furthermore,' and 'In addition' are appropriate for a polite and structured tone, whereas informal communications allow for phrases like 'Anyway,' 'By the way,' and 'Actually' that reflect a friendly and direct nature .

Including both positive and negative aspects necessitates a balanced approach in structure, compelling the writer to fairly weigh attributes before culminating in a justified recommendation. It enhances the depth and reliability of the evaluation, reinforcing the review's objectivity and thoroughness .

The formal tone mandates the use of precise vocabulary and advanced grammar structures, like conditionals and passives, avoiding contractions and informal expressions. This adherence to formality ensures clarity and authority of the argument, aligning with exam expectations for a certain level of academic professionalism .

Report writing protocols, with their emphasis on formal, impersonal style, structured headings, and evidence-based recommendations, mimic real-world professional communication demands. This trains candidates in clarity, precision, and organization, key skills for any professional report-writing task .

Essays for the B2 First exam should have 4–5 paragraphs, starting with an introduction, followed by points addressing either side of a topic, the writer's own idea, and a concluding paragraph stating an opinion . Reports, on the other hand, require a formal and impersonal style with headings and subheadings, beginning with a title, introduction stating the purpose, findings, suggestions/recommendations, and a conclusion .

In a review, the writer is encouraged to present both positive and negative aspects of the subject and provide a clear personal recommendation at the end, indicating a stronger personal stance . Articles, while engaging and potentially using questions and direct address, maintain a semi-formal or informal tone without as direct a call to action or recommendation as a review might .

Strategies include careful planning to allocate words across sections, ensuring succinct expression of ideas, using linking words to join and transition between points fluidly, and integrating advanced grammar features to add depth without excessive length. Regular practice and revision help optimize word use for clarity and impact .

Advanced grammar structures, such as conditionals or inversions, showcase linguistic competence by adding variety and sophistication. They help articulate nuanced arguments, enhance readability, and demonstrate the writer's ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, which is valued in exam assessments .

Using varied linking words enhances readability and clarity by guiding the reader through the argument or narrative seamlessly. It helps in maintaining coherence, emphasizing contrasts, and expanding on ideas, which is critical for maintaining reader engagement and fulfilling the exam criteria such as formal or informal tone, as appropriate .

Effective paragraph organization ensures logical progression and clear development of ideas, which aids in delivering a coherent argument or narrative. It also helps in maintaining the reader's focus and meeting the structured requirements of the exam, which emphasizes beginning with an introduction and concluding with a clear position .

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