Overview
This lecture explains how to write a review for the B2 First (FCE) exam, covering structure, style, key content points, examples, and useful language.
Review Structure & Requirements
- Reviews are written for magazines, websites, or newspapers, often about books, films, restaurants, or experiences.
- Tasks usually require you to describe and discuss something, and always include a recommendation.
- Reviews should be in a neutral or informal register, allowing phrasal verbs, idioms, contractions, and creativity.
- The structure includes: Title, Introduction, 1st body paragraph (description), 2nd body paragraph (discussion), and Conclusion (recommendation).
Step-by-Step Writing Guide
- Analyze the task: identify what to describe, what to comment on, and who the target reader is.
- Title: clearly state the subject, e.g., "[Title] by [Author]" for a book or "[Name of Restaurant] – a review".
- Introduction: identify the subject, give details (genre, location), and engage the reader, possibly with a question.
- Body Paragraphs: describe the item and answer specific task questions, using relevant details and interesting vocabulary.
- If you haven’t read a book recently, invent details or use a plot from a film or TV series.
- Conclusion: give a clear recommendation and wrap up the review.
Example Model Answers & Topics
- Model reviews for both books and restaurants are provided, each giving opinions, reasons, and a final recommendation.
- Example topics: reviews of books, films, or local restaurants for a school magazine or tourist website.
Writing Checklist
- Check content: include all required information and only relevant points.
- Assess communicative achievement: ensure purpose and style match the task and audience.
- Organization: use paragraphs and linking words for clarity.
- Language: use varied vocabulary and grammar, avoiding repetition and ensuring accuracy.
Tips for Writing Reviews
- Plan your review and use at least four paragraphs.
- Choose an appropriate, informative title.
- Write in a friendly, relaxed style suitable for a broad audience.
- Use a new paragraph for each main point and give your opinion at the end.
Grammar & Vocabulary Guidance
- Use vocabulary related to the subject (e.g., film: script, director, cast; book: plot, character).
- Use passive forms for films/books, and narrative tenses for experiences (past simple, past continuous, past perfect).
Useful Phrases & Expressions
- Giving background: "The film is about...", "It's set in...", "This show stars..."
- Contrasting: "On the plus side...", "On the other hand..."
- Recommendations: "I would recommend...", "Overall, I'd recommend...", "It's one of the best I've ever seen."
Key Terms & Definitions
- Register — the level of formality in your writing (neutral or informal for reviews).
- Body Paragraph — a section of writing where you discuss one main point.
- Recommendation — your opinion about whether the reader should try/read/visit the subject.
- Narrative Tenses — past verb forms used to describe events that happened in the past.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice writing a review using the structure and tips provided.
- Use the writing checklist to self-correct your draft.
- Learn and use useful phrases for each review section.