The Writing paper in the B1 Preliminary for Schools exam lasts 45 minutes and has 2 parts. In Part 1, you’ll need to write an email. This task tests your ability to communicate clearly and correctly in written English. Let’s focus on what you need to do to do well in this part!
Content: Answer All the Points
- Cover all four notes: The task will ask you to respond to four specific points. Make sure you answer each one. Stick to the important details and aim for about 100 words.
- Be clear and relevant: Only include the information that’s needed. Don’t go off-topic or add too much extra detail.
Communicative Achievement: Get the Tone Right
- Follow the email format: Your response should look like an email. Start with a greeting, respond to the points, and end with a closing sentence.
- Use the right tone: The tone depends on who you’re writing to. If it’s a friend, your email can be informal. If it’s a teacher or supervisor, keep it formal and polite.
- Be clear about your purpose: Whether you’re agreeing, explaining, or sharing an opinion, make sure the purpose of your email is clear. Your reader should understand what you are trying to say.
Organisation: Make It Easy to Follow
- Use paragraphs: Break your email into clear paragraphs to make it easier to read.
- Logical order: Arrange your ideas so that they flow naturally. Each idea should connect to the next.
- Link your ideas: Use linking words like “but,” “because,” “so,” and “although” to join your thoughts together.
- Follow a clear structure: Start with a greeting, respond to the task, and finish with a polite closing.
Language: Use a Range of Vocabulary and Grammar
- Vary your vocabulary: Use different words to avoid repetition and make your email more interesting.
- Check your grammar: Use basic tenses correctly, and make sure your sentences are clear. Simple grammar mistakes are okay, as long as the meaning is still clear.
- Include some complex structures: Try to use some more advanced grammar, such as relative clauses or modal verbs, to show your language skills.
- Check your spelling: Make sure your spelling is correct, so the reader can understand everything without problems.
Remember: Part 1 of the B1 Preliminary for Schools Writing exam is all about writing a clear and well-organised email. Answer all the points, keep the right tone, and use appropriate language to make your email easy to understand. With practice, you’ll be ready to do your best!
Email 1: Request for Advice from a Friend
Subject: Help with Organising My Birthday Party
Dear Thomas,
I’m planning to have a birthday party soon, and I’m not sure what theme to choose. Could you help me decide? I’m thinking of a movie night or a sports day. Which one do you think would be more fun?
Also, I’m not sure what food I should order. I want something that everyone will enjoy. Do you have any ideas for the food?
I’d really appreciate your thoughts!
Best wishes,
Sandra
Notes:
- Great idea
- Suggest a theme for the party
- Explain
- Give ideas for food
Dear Sandra,
What a brilliant idea to have a birthday party! Both themes sound fun, but I think a movie night would be awesome. It’s relaxing, and everyone loves watching movies with friends. You could choose a few different genres to make sure there’s something for everyone. Maybe even turn it into a mini movie marathon with some popcorn and snacks!
For food, I think pizza is always a winner—easy to share and everyone loves it. You could also have some finger foods like chips, sandwiches, and fruit. For dessert, maybe you could order some cupcakes or a birthday cake to make it extra special.
I hope this helps, and I’m sure it’s going to be a fantastic party!
Best wishes,
Thomas
(174 words – too long)
Dear Sandra,
What a brilliant idea to have a birthday party! Both themes sound fun, but I think a movie night would be awesome. It’s relaxing, and everyone loves watching movies with friends. You could choose a few different genres to make sure there’s something for everyone. Maybe even turn it into a mini movie marathon with some popcorn and snacks!
For food, I think pizza is always a winner—easy to share and everyone loves it. You could also have some finger foods like chips, sandwiches, and fruit platters. For dessert, maybe you could order some cupcakes or a birthday cake to make it extra special.
I hope this helps, and I’m sure it’s going to be a fantastic party!
Best wishes,
Thomas
(106 words – great choice)
Email 2: Suggestion for a School Trip
Subject: Ideas for Our Class Trip
Dear Eva
We’re planning a school trip, and I’d love to hear your thoughts! I was thinking we could go to the museum or maybe have a day at the beach. Which one would you prefer?
Also, any ideas for activities we could do while we’re there? It’s important that we have a good time but also learn something new!
Looking forward to your suggestions!
Kind regards,
Mr. Thompson
Notes:
- Great idea
- Suggest which trip would be better.
- Explain
- Give ideas for activities