The Writing paper in the B1 Preliminary for Schools exam lasts 45 minutes and consists of 2 parts. In Part 2, you’ll need to choose either an article or a story. You should practice planning your answers carefully to ensure they are well-organized and contain relevant content. Choose the task that best suits your interests and abilities and be sure to consider the topic carefully.

This task tests your ability to communicate clearly and correctly in written English. This time we will focus on how to write an article. You read an announcement from a magazine or a website. This gives the topic you must write about. For example, there may be a couple of questions that you should respond to.

Let’s focus on what you need to do to do well in this part!

• Start with a personal connection: Open with something relatable or meaningful to grab the reader’s attention.
• Use engaging details: Describe specific examples or scenarios to make your article interesting and vivid.
• Make it relatable: Write about experiences or ideas that your audience can connect with easily.
• Highlight a positive takeaway: Share a lesson, benefit, or insight that adds value to the reader’s experience.
• End with a memorable conclusion: Leave readers with a strong final thought or uplifting message to make your article impactful.

Organization: Make Your Article Easy to Follow

• Use paragraphs: Divide your article into clear sections (introduction, body, and conclusion) for better readability.
• Logical order: Organize your ideas so they flow naturally, with each paragraph leading into the next.
• Link your ideas: Use linking words like “however,” “therefore,” or “for example” to connect your thoughts and make your article cohesive.

Follow a clear structure: Start with an engaging introduction, expand your ideas in the body, and finish with a strong conclusion.

Language: Use a Variety of Vocabulary and Grammar

• Vary your vocabulary: Use diverse words to avoid repetition and keep your article lively.
• Check your grammar: Write clear sentences using correct tenses. Minor grammar mistakes are acceptable as long as your meaning is clear.
• Use some advanced structures: Include complex grammar, such as conditional sentences or comparative phrases, to show your skills.
• Proofread for spelling: Ensure your spelling is accurate so your article is easy to understand.

Key Reminder: Writing an Article for B1 Preliminary

• Answer the task: Make sure your article responds to the question or topic given.
• Engage your audience: Write in a way that’s interesting and relevant to your readers.
• Organise clearly: Use a clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Show your language skills: Use a range of vocabulary and grammar, including linking words to connect ideas.
• Make it enjoyable: Add a personal touch, like opinions, anecdotes, or examples, to make your article memorable.

Article 1: WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?

Write an article telling us what you find funny and who you enjoy laughing with.
Do you think it’s good to laugh a lot? Why?

The best articles answering these questions will be published next month.
Write your article.

Example 1:

I love to watch comedies a lot because it makes me laugh. The comedy I love the most is the Chinese Running Man. I enjoy watching and laughing it with my family. In the show, famous actors and actresses must overcome some challenging quests, such as trading a coffee bean with someone else for something more expensive and racing in the mud to capture the flag. The storylines are very interesting and they always tickle my funny bone. Laughing out loud is great! Laughing can help us to release stress and make us feel better. It may also make us more attractive too!
(103 words)

Example 2:

I love meeting my friends and hearing their funny stories or jokes. We always have a great time laughing together. Sometimes, we tell each other silly jokes that make everyone burst into laughter. The stories are often about funny things that have happened to us or things we find amusing.

I think laughing a lot is really good because it helps relieve stress and keeps us in a positive mood. It also brings us together and makes our friendships stronger. Sharing jokes and laughter with friends is an easy way to enjoy life and feel happier!

Article 2: WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL HAPPY?

Write an article about what makes you feel happy and who you enjoy sharing those moments with. Do you think happiness is important? Why? The best articles answering these questions will be published next month. Write your article.

Example:

One thing that makes me happy is spending time outdoors. I love going for walks in the park, especially with my dog, Max. He’s so playful and always makes me laugh with his silly tricks. Being in nature and enjoying fresh air helps me feel relaxed and positive. I think happiness is very important because it keeps us healthy and helps us enjoy life more. When we are happy, we also make others around us feel good. It’s amazing how small things, like a sunny day or a kind word, can bring so much joy. Happiness truly matters! (103 words)

Article 3: THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD FRIENDSHIP

Write an article about what makes a good friendship and why it’s important to have friends. Who do you consider your best friend, and what makes your friendship special? How does a good friend make your life better?

The best articles answering these questions will be published next month. Write your article.