How to Write an Article for the Cambridge B2 First Exam
What is an Article?
In the Cambridge B2 First Writing Paper Part 2, you may be asked to write an article for a magazine, website, or newsletter. The purpose of an article is to interest and engage the reader while answering all parts of the question.
Typical Article Tasks
You might be asked to:
- Describe an experience
- Give your opinion on a topic
- Recommend something
- Discuss advantages and disadvantages
- Explain why something is important
The target reader is usually a general audience, so your writing should be lively and interesting.
Structure of a B2 Article
1. Title
Choose a catchy title that attracts attention.
Examples:
- The Best Way to Spend a Weekend
- Why Everyone Should Learn a Foreign Language
- A Holiday I’ll Never Forget
2. Introduction
Start with a question, surprising fact, or interesting statement to grab the reader’s attention.
Example:
Have you ever wondered why some people enjoy studying while others find it difficult? The answer may be simpler than you think.
3. Main Paragraphs
Develop your ideas clearly. Each paragraph should focus on one main point.
Tips:
- Give reasons and examples.
- Use linking words such as however, moreover, for example, as a result, and therefore.
- Keep the reader interested.
4. Conclusion
Finish with a strong final comment, recommendation, or opinion.
Example:
In conclusion, learning a new language requires effort, but the benefits make it well worth the time.
Useful Language
Giving Opinions
- In my opinion,…
- I believe that…
- It seems to me that…
- As far as I am concerned,…
Adding Ideas
- Furthermore,…
- In addition,…
- Moreover,…
Giving Examples
- For example,…
- For instance,…
- Such as…
Concluding
- To sum up,…
- In conclusion,…
- Overall,…
Exam Tips
✓ Answer all parts of the question.
✓ Use an appropriate style: friendly but not too informal.
✓ Organise your article into clear paragraphs.
✓ Include interesting details and examples.
✓ Use a variety of vocabulary and grammar.
✓ Check your work for spelling and grammar mistakes.
Sample Article
The Benefits of Team Sports
Have you ever thought about joining a sports team? Many young people focus only on winning, but team sports offer much more than that.
Firstly, they help people develop important social skills. Players learn how to communicate effectively and work together to achieve a common goal. For example, football and basketball require constant cooperation between teammates.
Secondly, team sports improve physical health. Regular exercise helps people stay fit and reduces stress. As a result, participants often feel happier and more energetic.
In conclusion, team sports provide both social and physical benefits. For this reason, I would recommend that everyone try at least one team sport during their lives.
Example Article questions
1. The Perfect Hobby
Your school magazine is publishing articles about hobbies.
Write an article describing a hobby you enjoy.
Include:
- why you started it
- how it benefits you
Sample Answer:
Photography: More Than Just Taking Pictures
Have you ever wished you could capture special moments forever? That’s one of the reasons why photography has become my favourite hobby.
I started taking photos two years ago when my parents gave me a camera for my birthday. At first, I only used it during family trips, but soon I became interested in learning how to take better pictures. I watched online tutorials and practised whenever I had free time.
One of the main benefits of photography is that it helps me see the world differently. I pay more attention to details such as colours, shapes and lighting. It has also made me more creative because I am always looking for interesting subjects to photograph.
Another advantage is that photography helps me relax. Whenever I feel stressed, I go for a walk with my camera and focus on taking pictures. This allows me to forget my worries for a while and enjoy the moment.
In conclusion, photography is a hobby that is both enjoyable and rewarding. It has helped me develop new skills and given me a great way to express myself.
2. A Memorable Journey
A travel website wants articles about unforgettable trips.
Write an article about a journey you will always remember.
Include:
- where you went
- what made the trip special
3. Technology in Daily Life
An online magazine is collecting opinions about technology.
Write an article discussing the effects of technology on young people’s lives.
Include:
- the advantages
- any possible disadvantages
4. The Best Place to Relax
Your local newspaper is asking readers to recommend places to relax.
Write an article describing your favourite place to relax.
Include:
- what the place is like
- why you enjoy spending time there
5. Learning a Language
An international student magazine wants articles about language learning.
Write an article explaining why learning a foreign language is important.
Include:
- personal benefits
- future opportunities
6. Keeping Fit
A health magazine is looking for articles from teenagers.
Write an article about ways young people can stay healthy.
Include:
- exercise
- other healthy habits
7. A Film Worth Watching
A website for young people is creating a list of recommended films.
Write an article about a film you would recommend.
Include:
- what it is about
- why people should watch it
8. School Improvements
Your school website is inviting students to share ideas.
Write an article suggesting ways to improve your school.
Include:
- one change you would make
- how students would benefit
9. The Importance of Friendship
A youth magazine is preparing a special edition on relationships.
Write an article about the qualities of a good friend.
Include:
- what makes someone a good friend
- why friendships are important
10. An Exciting Event
A local magazine wants articles about events young people enjoy.
Write an article describing an event you attended.
Include:
why you enjoyed it
what happened