B2 First Exam Guide
Writing Paper Paper: Part Two
Contents
Overview
What is it? You choose one writing task from three options.
Word count: 140-190 words
Time: About 40 minutes recommended
Marks: 20 marks (50% of the Writing paper)
Types of Writing Tasks
- Article: Written for a magazine or website, includes opinions and aims to interest readers
- Email/Letter: Written to a specific person, needs appropriate greeting and ending
- Review: Describes and gives opinions about a book, film, product etc.
- Report: Presents information clearly, often using headings
How to Approach
- Read all three tasks carefully before choosing
- Pick the task type you feel most confident with
- Check who you're writing for - this affects your style
- Make sure you understand what information to include
- Plan your writing before starting
What Examiners Look For
Your writing needs to show you can:
- Choose the right style (formal/informal) for your reader
- Organise your ideas clearly
- Use language appropriate for the task type
- Include all the required content
- Show range and accuracy in vocabulary and grammar
Tips
- Choose the task that best matches your interests and experience
- Make sure you know the features of each writing type
- Keep your reader in mind throughout your writing
- Check you've included everything the question asks for
How It Looks
Student Suggestion
"I always look for the review or article options as I find these easiest. It's better to choose a task type you're comfortable with than try something unfamiliar in the exam." - Maria Chen
Practice Exercises
Practice Writing Part 2 here: B2 First: Writing Part 2 Exercises
