Writing the Perfect Review for B2 First Cambridge Exam

Key Requirements

• Word Count: Between 140 and 190 words.
  • Less than 140: Lacks necessary info.
  • More than 190: Includes irrelevant info.
• Register: Informal to neutral.
  • Use phrasal verbs, idioms, contractions.

Structure of a Review

1. Introduction
   • Introduce the item being reviewed.
   • Grab the reader’s attention.
2. Description (Paragraph 2)
   • Describe the item.
3. Evaluation (Paragraph 3)
   • Evaluate the item’s strengths and weaknesses.
4. Conclusion
   • Provide a recommendation based on the review.

Types of Reviews

• General Review
  • Describe the item in paragraph 2.
  • Evaluate it in paragraph 3.
• Particular Review
  • Focus on specific aspects based on the question.
  • Answer specific questions (e.g., about a hero in a film).

Planning the Review

• Decide what to review and what type (positive, negative, mixed).
• Ensure logical progression throughout the review.

Writing the Introduction

• Identify the Target Reader
  • Use questions or introduce problems relatable to the target reader.
• Make it Personal
  • Share personal experiences and opinions.
  • Set the tone (positive or negative) from the start.

Grammar and Vocabulary

• Related to the Task
  • Use vocabulary pertinent to the item (e.g., films: script, director, etc.).
  • Use appropriate tenses (past for experiences).
• Sentence Structure
  • Use linking expressions and varied sentence structures (e.g., inversions).

Making Recommendations

• Dual Recommendations
  • Tailor recommendations to different target groups.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the target reader.
• Sample Conclusion Templates
  • For people who X, recommend Y; if you Z, do not suggest Y.
  • Tailor to show understanding of different reader types.

Additional Tips

• Be creative and personal in your review.
• Maintain a logical and concise structure.
• Tailor language and content to the specific review task.

With these guidelines, you can effectively structure and write a compelling review for the B2 First Cambridge exam by appealing to the target reader while adhering to exam requirements.