B2 First (FCE) Writing Guide: Structure and Model Answers
Everything you need for B2 First Writing. Essay, article, email, report, and review tasks explained with model answers, structure guides, and examiner tips.
B2 First (FCE) Writing Guide
Everything you need for B2 First Writing. Essay, article, email, report, and review tasks explained with model answers, structure guides, and examiner tips.
What You Will Learn
- How the B2 First Writing paper works (format, timing, marking)
- Structure guides and model answers for all five task types
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- 5 practice questions with examiner tips
B2 First Writing Overview
The B2 First Writing paper lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. You complete two tasks. Part 1 is compulsory and always an essay. Part 2 gives you a choice between an article, email, report, or review. Each task should be 140-190 words.
Examiners mark your work on four criteria, each worth equal marks: Content (did you answer the question fully?), Communicative Achievement (is the tone and register appropriate?), Organisation (are your ideas logically ordered and linked?), and Language (do you show good range of vocabulary and grammar?).
Part 1: The Essay
The essay is always first and compulsory. You will read a short statement about a topic and two bullet points. You must discuss both points and add your own idea. Use a formal register with clear paragraphs.
Essay Structure:
- Introduction (30-40 words): Paraphrase the question and state your overall position.
- First paragraph (40-50 words): Discuss the first bullet point with a reason and example.
- Second paragraph (40-50 words): Discuss the second bullet point with a reason and example.
- Third paragraph (30-40 words): Add your own idea related to the topic.
- Conclusion (20-30 words): Summarise your position in one sentence.
Model Essay
"In your English class you have been discussing sport. Your teacher has asked you to write an essay discussing ways to encourage young people to do more sport. Include your own idea."
There is growing concern that young people today do less sport than previous generations. This essay will discuss two ways to address this problem: increasing school sports hours and using social media campaigns.
Firstly, schools could dedicate more time to physical education. Many schools have reduced sports lessons to focus on academic subjects. By increasing PE hours and offering a wider variety of sports, students would have more opportunities to find an activity they enjoy. For example, offering options such as basketball, swimming, and dance could appeal to different interests.
Secondly, social media could play an important role in promoting sport. Young people spend a significant amount of time online, so using influencers and video content to show the benefits of exercise could be effective. Short videos demonstrating simple workouts might encourage teenagers to try new activities.
In my view, local community sports clubs should also offer free trial sessions. This would allow young people to try sports without committing financially. Many teenagers avoid sports because they are unsure if they will enjoy them.
In conclusion, a combination of more school sports, social media promotion, and free community trials could significantly increase participation among young people.
Part 2: Article
Articles are written for a magazine or website. Use an engaging tone with a catchy title and personal opinions. Address the reader directly using "you" and "your".
Model Article
"An English-language magazine is running a series called 'My Favourite Place'. Write an article describing your favourite place and explaining why you love it."
The Best Place in the World
Have you ever visited a place that felt like home the moment you arrived? For me, that place is the small coastal town of Portofino in Italy.
What makes Portofino so special is its relaxed atmosphere. The colourful houses climb up the hillside, and the harbour is filled with small fishing boats. There are no traffic jams or crowded streets. You can sit at a cafe by the water, eat fresh seafood, and watch the world go by.
I first visited Portofino on a family holiday three years ago. I remember thinking that I had never felt so calm. Every morning, we would swim in the clear water and then walk through the narrow streets. Even now, when I feel stressed, I close my eyes and imagine I am there.
If you ever get the chance to visit, take it. You will not regret it.
Part 2: Email
Email tasks require you to write an informal or semi-formal email. Use appropriate greetings and closings. Address the task directly and organise your ideas into clear paragraphs.
Model Email
"You have received an email from your English-speaking friend, Sam. Sam is planning to visit your country and asks for your advice on where to stay. Write an email to Sam with your suggestions."
Hi Sam,
Thanks for your email. I was so happy to hear you are planning to visit! I have a few ideas for where you could stay.
If you want to be in the centre of everything, a hotel in the city would be best. The Grand City Hotel is affordable and close to all the main attractions. The rooms are clean and the staff are friendly.
However, if you prefer something more relaxed, I would recommend a guesthouse near the beach. The Sea View Guesthouse has lovely rooms and is only five minutes from the beach. Breakfast is included, which saves money on meals.
Let me know which option sounds better. I can help you book if you like!
Take care,
[Your Name]
Part 2: Report
A report presents information and makes recommendations. Use a formal tone, headings, and factual language. Include an introduction and conclusion with recommendations.
Model Report
"Your college has asked you to write a report about the student library, with suggestions for improvement."
Report on College Library Facilities
Introduction
The purpose of this report is to evaluate the current state of the college library and suggest improvements. The information is based on a survey of 50 students.
Positive Aspects
Students reported that the library has a good selection of academic books and journals. The opening hours are also convenient, with the library open until 9pm on weekdays.
Areas for Improvement
However, several issues were raised. The number of computers is insufficient, and the existing computers are slow. Students also complained about noise levels and a lack of group study rooms.
Recommendations
Based on the survey, I recommend the following: increase the number of computers, create a quiet study zone on the first floor, and convert one room into a group study space.
Part 2: Review
A review gives your opinion on a film, book, restaurant, or similar. Use an engaging style and give reasons for your opinions. Include a recommendation at the end.
Model Review
"Your school magazine has asked you to write a review of a film you have seen recently."
A Heartwarming Story: The Secret Garden
The Secret Garden, directed by Marc Munden, is a beautiful adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel. I watched it recently and was pleasantly surprised.
The film tells the story of Mary Lennox, a lonely girl who discovers a hidden garden on her uncle's estate. The cinematography is stunning, with the garden coming to life in vibrant colours. The acting, especially by Dixie Egerickx as Mary, is convincing and emotional.
What I loved most about this film was its message. It shows how nature and friendship can heal even the deepest sadness. The music by Dario Marianelli adds to the emotional atmosphere.
I would recommend The Secret Garden to anyone who enjoys heartwarming stories with beautiful visuals. It is perfect for a quiet evening at home.
Common Mistakes
- Not answering the question fully: Address every bullet point in the task. Missing one costs marks in Content.
- Wrong register: Formal tasks (essay, report) should not use contractions or informal language. Informal tasks (article, email) can use personal tone.
- Poor organisation: Use clear paragraphs with topic sentences. Each paragraph should develop one idea.
- Limited vocabulary: Avoid repeating the same words. Learn synonyms for common adjectives and verbs.
- Not proofreading: Small grammar and spelling errors reduce your Language mark. Leave 5 minutes to check your work.
Practice Questions
- Essay: "Should schools teach financial management to teenagers? Discuss."
- Article: "Write for a travel magazine about the best way to learn about a new culture."
- Email: "Your friend has asked for advice on learning English. Respond with suggestions."
- Report: "Report on the fitness facilities at your college or workplace."
- Review: "Review a restaurant you visited recently for a local magazine."
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