Writing
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.
- Spend roughly 40 minutes on each part.
- Always plan before you write — even 3–5 minutes of planning improves quality significantly.
- Count your words roughly — aim for 140–190 words per task.
- Leave 3–5 minutes at the end of each task to proofread.
- Use a range of vocabulary and grammar — don't repeat the same structures.
- Pay attention to register: essays and reports should be formal; articles can be semi-formal.
Jump to a part
Part 1: Essay (Compulsory)
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
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?
- Always plan your 4 paragraphs before writing.
- Your own idea should be genuinely different from the two given points.
- Use linking words to signal the structure: Firstly, Secondly, Furthermore, In conclusion.
- Give reasons and examples, not just opinions.
- Keep to the word limit — writing too much risks more errors and wastes time.
- 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)
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
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?
- Choose the task type you feel most confident with.
- Match your writing style to the task: articles should be engaging; reports should be factual.
- Always address every part of the task prompt.
- If writing a review, balance positive and negative points.
- If writing a report, use subheadings to organise sections.
- 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.