Writing hero

Writing

1 hour 20 minutes for both parts.2 parts

What this paper tests

This paper tests your ability to produce two different pieces of writing at B2 level. You must demonstrate control of grammar, vocabulary, organisation, and register appropriate to the task.

Overall structure

The paper has 2 parts. Part 1 is compulsory (an essay). Part 2 gives you a choice of three tasks.

  • Part 1: 20 marks. Part 2: 20 marks. Total: 40 marks.
  • Each answer is marked on 4 criteria — Content, Communicative Achievement, Organisation, Language — with 0–5 marks for each criterion, giving 20 marks per question.

What makes this paper difficult

Candidates must manage their time between two substantial pieces of writing. Common issues include running out of time on Part 2, using informal language in formal tasks, and failing to organise ideas into clear paragraphs.

  1. Spend roughly 40 minutes on each part.
  2. Always plan before you write — even 3–5 minutes of planning improves quality significantly.
  3. Count your words roughly — aim for 140–190 words per task.
  4. Leave 3–5 minutes at the end of each task to proofread.
  5. Use a range of vocabulary and grammar — don't repeat the same structures.
  6. Pay attention to register: essays and reports should be formal; articles can be semi-formal.
Jump to a part

Part 1: Essay (Compulsory)

40 minutes·20 marks (marked on 4 criteria (0–5 each))
Writing Organisation
Grammar
Vocabulary
Opinion & Justification
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What you need to do

Write an essay based on a title and two bullet points. You must discuss both points and add your own idea as a third point. Give your opinion.

Type

Discursive essay

Register

Formal to semi-formal. Avoid contractions, slang, and overly casual language.

Word Count

140–190 words

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Examiner question

In your English class you have been talking about the environment. Now your teacher has asked you to write an essay.

"Some people say that the most important thing individuals can do to help the environment is to reduce the amount of waste they produce." Do you agree? Notes: Write about: 1. recycling 2. public transport 3. ……………………… (your own idea)

Essay (compulsory) · 140–190 words

Learner's draft

Can you spot the minor mistakes?

Nowadays the environment is one of the biggest problem of our time, and many people are wondering what can they do to help. Firstly, recycling is a easy way for reduce waste. By separating paper, glass and plastic, we make sure less rubbish goes to the landfill. In most cities the council provide special bins, so it is not difficult to do. Secondly, using public transport instead of the car can reduce a lot the pollution. However, in the countryside there isn't always buses or trains, so this is not always possible for everyone. In addition, I think we should also try to use less energy at home. Turning off the lights when we leave a room and lowering the heating are simple things that make a real difference. To sum up, all this actions are important, but for me reducing waste is the thing what everyone can do every day, no matter where they live.

  1. Always plan your 4 paragraphs before writing.
  2. Your own idea should be genuinely different from the two given points.
  3. Use linking words to signal the structure: Firstly, Secondly, Furthermore, In conclusion.
  4. Give reasons and examples, not just opinions.
  5. Keep to the word limit — writing too much risks more errors and wastes time.

Quick Tips
  • Learn 5–6 good linking phrases and use them consistently.
  • Your opinion doesn't need to be "correct" — it just needs to be clearly stated and supported.
  • Practise writing essays under timed conditions.

Part 2: Choice Task (Article / Email / Letter / Review / Report)

40 minutes·20 marks (marked on 4 criteria (0–5 each))
Writing Organisation
Grammar
Vocabulary
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What you need to do

Choose ONE task from three options. Tasks may include writing an article, an email or letter, a review, or a report. Each task specifies the audience and purpose.

Type

Varies: article, email/letter (formal or informal), review, or report

Register

Depends on the task. Articles: semi-formal, engaging. Formal letters: polite and professional. Reviews: informative with personal opinion. Reports: formal with recommendations.

Word Count

140–190 words

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Examiner question

You see this announcement in an English-language magazine: Articles wanted! The best place I have ever visited Tell us about a place you have visited that made a real impression on you. What made it special? Would you recommend it to others? Write your article.

Write an article for the magazine about the best place you have visited.

Article · 140–190 words

Learner's draft

Can you spot the minor mistakes?

A Hidden Corner of the Cotswolds When I arrived in the village of Bibury for the first time, I felt as if I have travelled back in time. The honey-coloured stone cottages, the river crystal clear running through the centre, and the complete absence of traffic noise created a perfect atmosphere of tranquility. What was special about Bibury was the sense of discovery. Different to better-known tourist destinations, there was no crowds and no souvenir shops. I spent the afternoon walking along the river and watching ducks pass by Arlington Row, a line of 14th-century weavers' cottages that look exactly like a painting. The best moment was when I stopped in a tiny tearoom where the owner told me lot of stories about the history of the village over a Earl Grey. It is the kind of experience you cannot simply plan. Would I recommend Bibury? Without doubt. If you like peaceful countryside, English history and a proper cup of tea, this is the place for you.

  1. Choose the task type you feel most confident with.
  2. Match your writing style to the task: articles should be engaging; reports should be factual.
  3. Always address every part of the task prompt.
  4. If writing a review, balance positive and negative points.
  5. If writing a report, use subheadings to organise sections.

Quick Tips
  • Practise all five text types so you're comfortable with any option on exam day.
  • Learn the conventions: articles have titles; letters have greetings and closings; reports have headings.
  • Read example articles, reviews, and reports in English to absorb the style.

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