Writing Amazing Articles for B2 First Exam

Introduction

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• Focus: Writing articles in B2 First exam, where articles are optional.

Writing Tasks in B2 First

• Essays are mandatory; articles are optional.
• Other options: Email/letter, report, review, story.
• Article length: 140-190 words.

Context of Articles in B2 First

• Written for magazine or website.
• Audience is interested in the topic.
• Articles should be interesting and engaging.
• May have to comment or give opinions.

Key Points for Writing Articles

1. Stick to the Point

   • Ensure content is relevant to the topic.
   • Answer questions in the task.

2. Engage the Reader

   • Use specific language to make the article engaging.

3. Structure Well

   • Use paragraphs and linking expressions.
   • Effective text organization is crucial.

4. Provide Opinions

   • Comment or give opinions if required by the task.

Task Analysis

• Essential for successful article writing.
• Identify topic, specific points, and audience.

Example Task: "The Most Useful Thing I Have Ever Learned"

• Brainstorm ideas about useful learnings.
• Address specific points: what, who taught it, why useful.

Audience & Register

• Articles are for a magazine or website.
• Use neutral to informal language.
• No contractions or colloquial expressions.

Structure of an Article

1. Title and Introduction

   • Engage the reader; introduce the topic.

2. Topic Paragraphs

   • Main information, longest part.
   • Explain the topic points with examples.

3. Conclusion

   • Summarize the article.
   • Address the reader one last time.

Writing Techniques

• Title: Keep it simple, but include one.
• Rhetorical Questions: Engage readers right away.
• Examples: Support arguments with examples.
• Language: Use interesting, informal expressions.

Example Writing

• Introduction Example: Use rhetorical questions and refer to topic points.
• Topic Paragraphs Example: Answer main questions with examples.
• Conclusion Example: Summarize and inspire the reader.

Conclusion

• Structure remains consistent regardless of topic.
• Check out additional resources and cheat sheets on the website.

Remember, practice and understanding the structure will increase confidence in writing articles. Visit Teacher Phil's website for more resources and support.