B2 First Course Unit 1
Summary of the Cambridge B2 First Exam
The Cambridge B2 First Exam, also known as the First Certificate in English (FCE), is an intermediate-level English language proficiency test designed to demonstrate that a candidate can communicate effectively in an English-speaking environment. Here’s a detailed summary of the exam:
Lesson 1: Exam Structure
The B2 First exam consists of four papers:
- Reading and Use of English
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
Reading and Use of English
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Parts: 7
Total Questions: 52
Marks: 40% of total score
Overview: This paper assesses reading skills and the use of English through a variety of text types and tasks.
Sections:
- Part 1: Multiple-Choice Cloze (8 questions)
- Tests vocabulary and grammar.
- Candidates choose the correct word to complete gaps in a text.
- Part 2: Open Cloze (8 questions)
- Tests grammar and vocabulary.
- Candidates fill in the gaps in a text with one word.
- Part 3: Word Formation (8 questions)
- Tests knowledge of word families.
- Candidates use a given root word to form the correct word to fit the context.
- Part 4: Key Word Transformations (6 questions)
- Tests grammar and vocabulary.
- Candidates rewrite sentences using a given key word without changing the meaning.
- Part 5: Multiple Choice (6 questions)
- Tests detailed understanding of a longer text.
- Candidates choose the correct answer from four options.
- Part 6: Gapped Text (6 questions)
- Tests understanding of text structure.
- Candidates insert sentences into the correct places in a text.
- Part 7: Multiple Matching (10 questions)
- Tests ability to find specific information in a series of short texts.
- Candidates match prompts to the appropriate texts.
Speaking
Duration: 14 minutes per pair of candidates
Parts: 4
Marks: 20% of total score
Overview: This paper assesses the ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. The Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with two examiners and usually one other candidate.
Sections:
- Part 1: Interview (2 minutes)
- Candidates answer questions about themselves, their interests, and their experiences.
- Focus on fluency and coherence.
- Part 2: Long Turn (4 minutes)
- Candidates speak about a pair of photographs for 1 minute and answer a related question from the examiner.
- The other candidate then answers a question about the photographs.
- Focus on descriptive and comparative language.
- Part 3: Collaborative Task (4 minutes)
- Candidates discuss a task together, using prompts provided by the examiner.
- Focus on interactive communication and negotiation of ideas.
- Part 4: Discussion (4 minutes)
- Candidates discuss further questions related to the topic from Part 3.
- Focus on expressing and justifying opinions, agreeing and disagreeing.
Writing
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Parts: 2
Marks: 20% of total score
Overview: This paper assesses the ability to write different types of texts, including essays, letters, emails, reports, and reviews.
Sections:
- Part 1: Compulsory Task (140-190 words)
- Candidates write an essay based on a given topic.
- The essay must present a clear argument and include relevant points.
- Part 2: Choice of Task (140-190 words)
- Candidates choose one task from three options, which may include an article, email/letter, report, or review.
- Each task has a specific purpose and audience.
Listening
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
Parts: 4
Total Questions: 30
Marks: 20% of total score
Overview: This paper assesses the ability to understand a variety of spoken materials, such as interviews, radio broadcasts, presentations, and conversations.
Sections:
- Part 1: Multiple Choice (8 questions)
- Candidates listen to a series of short extracts and answer one multiple-choice question per extract.
- Focus on gist, detail, function, and attitude.
- Part 2: Sentence Completion (10 questions)
- Candidates listen to a monologue or a dialogue and complete sentences with information they hear.
- Focus on detail and specific information.
- Part 3: Multiple Matching (5 questions)
- Candidates listen to a series of five short extracts and match each extract to one of the five given options.
- Focus on gist, attitude, and main idea.
- Part 4: Multiple Choice (7 questions)
- Candidates listen to a longer extract (e.g., an interview or discussion) and answer multiple-choice questions.
- Focus on attitude, opinion, and detailed understanding.
Scoring and Results
- Grading Scale: Scores are reported on the Cambridge English Scale. The overall score determines the grade and level achieved.
- Grade A: 180–190 (CEFR Level C1)
- Grade B: 173–179 (CEFR Level B2)
- Grade C: 160–172 (CEFR Level B2)
- Level B1: 140–159 (if the score is below B2 but within this range)
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and timing of each paper.
- Practice Regularly: Use practice tests to build familiarity and confidence.
- Improve Language Skills: Focus on expanding vocabulary, mastering grammar, and practicing all four language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
- Seek Feedback: Get feedback from teachers or peers to identify areas for improvement.
- Time Management: Practice completing tasks within the allotted time to manage exam pressure effectively.
The Cambridge B2 First Exam is a challenging yet accessible test that opens doors to academic and professional opportunities. By thoroughly preparing for each section, candidates can achieve the proficiency required to excel in this exam.
Lesson 2: Skill Testing
Part 1: Multiple Choice Cloze
Read the text and choose the correct word for each gap (1-5).
Text:
Technology has become an (1) ________ part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, these devices (2) ________ us to stay connected and productive. However, with the rapid pace of innovation, it can be (3) ________ to keep up with the latest trends. It is important to (4) ________ informed about new developments, but also to take time to (5) ________ from screens and enjoy offline activities.
B2 First Part 1 Skill Testing
Reading Comprehension Text
The Benefits of Urban Green Spaces
Urban green spaces, such as parks and gardens, play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life in cities. These areas provide a range of environmental, social, and health benefits that contribute to the well-being of urban residents.
Firstly, green spaces are vital for the environment. They act as the lungs of the city, producing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants. Trees and plants also play a crucial role in managing urban temperatures by providing shade and cooling the air through the process of transpiration. This can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, where cities become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings.
Moreover, urban green spaces promote social interaction and community cohesion. Parks and gardens offer venues for people to meet, engage in recreational activities, and participate in community events. This can lead to stronger social networks and a sense of belonging among residents. Additionally, green spaces often serve as cultural and historical landmarks, preserving the heritage and identity of the city.
From a health perspective, access to green spaces has been linked to numerous physical and mental health benefits. Regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or playing sports in parks, can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Furthermore, spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The calming effect of natural surroundings can improve mood and overall mental well-being.
Despite their importance, urban green spaces are often under threat from urbanization and development. As cities expand, the demand for land increases, leading to the conversion of green areas into residential or commercial spaces. It is crucial for urban planners and policymakers to prioritize the preservation and creation of green spaces to ensure sustainable urban development.
In conclusion, urban green spaces are indispensable to the environmental, social, and health fabric of cities. Protecting and enhancing these areas should be a key component of urban planning strategies to promote a healthier and more livable urban environment.
B2 First Reading Skill Test
B2 First Essay Writing Topic
Write an essay discussing the advantages and disadvantages of working from home.
In your essay, you should:
- Discuss two advantages of working from home.
- Discuss two disadvantages of working from home.
- Explain which you think is more significant: the advantages or the disadvantages.
Write your essay.
Requirements:
- Word count: 140-190 words
- Use appropriate linking words and phrases to ensure coherence and cohesion.
- Demonstrate a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures suitable for a B2 level.
- Provide a balanced analysis, presenting both the advantages and disadvantages.
If you submit your essay, I will grade it according to the Cambridge C1 Advanced scale and email you the results. This will give you a clear understanding of your current level and what areas need improvement to reach the C1 standard. It’s a great way to get detailed feedback and work towards your language goals!