Writing essays for the Cambridge English: First (FCE) or Business English Certificate (BEC) exams, also known as the B2 level, requires developing specific skills. While essay writing is a broad topic, this essay will focus on key elements examiners look for in B2-level essays including structure, content, vocabulary, grammar, and more.
The single most important part of any successful essay is structure. All B2 essays, regardless of prompt or question, must have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should be 3-5 sentences stating the topic, providing any necessary context or background, and noting the scope or focus of the essay. It must also include a clear thesis statement highlighting the key points or arguments that will be discussed.
Each body paragraph needs to be dedicated to one key point or argument supporting the thesis. Body paragraphs should have a topic sentence clearly stating the subject of the paragraph and linking it back to the thesis. Supporting details and examples must then be given to prove and expand on the topic sentence. For academic essays, it is generally recommended to have between 3-5 body paragraphs to sufficiently cover the scope of the prompt while providing adequate evidence and analysis.
The conclusion brings the essay to a close by summarizing the main arguments and restating the thesis. It should not introduce any new information but rather tie together the key takeaways from the discussion in the body paragraphs. The conclusion leaves the reader with a strong final impression of what was covered in the essay. Maintaining a clear structure from introduction to conclusion is essential for organizing ideas in a coherent manner for the examiner.
In addition to structure, vocabulary is crucial at B2 level. Essays must demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary appropriate to the level and topic. This includes using more complex and specific words compared to lower level assessments. For example, when discussing economic topics words like fiscal policy, inflation, recession would be expected rather than just saying “the economy was bad.” Synonyms and near-synonyms should also be employed to avoid repetition and engage the reader. While an academic vocabulary is emphasized, context clues and guidance from the prompt can indicate if more colloquial terminology may be fitting as well. Overall, creative and precise word choice shows examiners the depth of a candidate’s vocabulary.
Grammar and mechanics also play an important scoring factor. Sentences should vary in both structure and length, with more complex and compound-complex sentences expected at B2. Transitional phrases must be used to coherently link ideas between sentences and set up logical connections. Verb tense and aspects, pronouns, modals, conditionals and other grammar points need to be correctly and consistently applied. Punctuation, spelling, capitalization and formatting are additionally scrutinized. While an occasional minor mistake won’t drastically harm a score, pervasive errors detract from content and fluency. Writers must proofread thoroughly to catch slips that undermine otherwise strong written English skills.
Flow and cohesion are another criteria examiners look for when assessing organization. An essay’s introduction should smoothly transition from the opener to the thesis. Each body paragraph must logically develop the topic sentence while referencing back to the thesis. Furthermore, transitional phrases must seamlessly connect one body paragraph topic to the next. Repetition of certain key terms throughout reinforces consistency. The conclusion should come full circle by referring back to elements raised in the introduction. Strong signposting and a natural rhythm shows control of written expression at the level.
Substantial content further develops ideas for higher scores. Each main point covered in the body paragraphs needs sufficient evidence and elaboration to fill the expected 2-3 sentences of coverage. Examples, statistics, definitions and explanations flesh out arguments to demonstrate depth of understanding. Quotes or paraphrases from relevant sources can substantiate certain claims as well, though citations are not required. Descriptive language further aids fluency when explaining concepts, and critical thinking skills come through when analyzing statements or making qualified conclusions. Most importantly, word count guidelines must be followed to balance coverage with concision.
Other best practices include carefully reading the exam question or task the first time without rushing to write. Considering the expected structure, vocabulary level and register before beginning ensures answering the prompt effectively. Jotting a quick outline highlighting the main points while still having time to thoroughly flesh out the subsequent essay with examples is advisable as well. Editing for content, logic, cohesion and mechanics strengthens an argument before submission. Most of all, remaining fully focused and confidently articulating ideas to the best of one’s abilities leads to optimal results on test day.
Mastering essay writing structure, grammar, vocabulary, flow, content and technique equips B2 candidates with the necessary composition abilities examined. Strong essays require critically thinking about a prompt while strategically organizing, developing and expressing ideas clearly and concisely. With practice applying this criteria, test-takers can feel prepared conveying multi-paragraph, cohesive responses that effectively showcase their high-intermediate English communication skills. Approaching the format with diligence and self-assurance inspires capable performance when it counts. Overall essay writing serves as a key component demonstrating a candidate’s level of the highly valued B2 proficiency.
Andrew Stroud