How to Write an Article for B2 First (FCE)
What is an Article in the B2 First Exam?
An article is written for an English-language magazine or newsletter. The main purpose is to interest and engage the reader. Unlike a formal essay, an article should be entertaining and personal.
Key Features of a Good Article
- Catchy Title: You need a title that grabs the reader's attention immediately.
- Engaging Tone: Talk to the reader directly. Use "you" and rhetorical questions.
- Descriptive Language: Use colorful adjectives and adverbs to make your writing come alive.
- Personal Opinion: An article is about your thoughts and experiences. Don't be afraid to express your personality.
Structure of an Article
1. The Title
Make it interesting! You can use a question or a strong statement.
Examples: "Are You Ready for Adventure?", "The Best Holiday of My Life"2. Introduction
Hook the reader. Ask a question or make a relatable statement.
Example: Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel to space?3. Body Paragraphs
Develop your ideas. If the exam question asks for two specific things (e.g., describe a place and say why you like it), make sure you cover both.
Use linking words to connect your ideas, but keep the tone conversational.
4. Conclusion
Sum up your article and leave the reader with something to think about.
Useful Language for B2 Articles
Involving the Reader:
- Have you ever...?
- Can you imagine...?
- You wouldn't believe...
Expressing Opinion:
- In my honest opinion...
- I completely believe that...
- To be honest...
Descriptive Adjectives:
- Breathtaking, stunning, fascinating (instead of just "good")
- Exhausted, terrified, thrilled (to describe feelings)
Sample Article Question
Allowed time: 40 minutes. You see this announcement in an international magazine: "ARTICLES WANTED - A Great Place to Visit. Tell us about a place you have visited that you really liked. Describe the place and explain why it is special to you."
Example Article
A Hidden Gem in the Mountains
Have you ever found a place that felt like magic? For me, that place is Hallstatt, a tiny village in the Austrian Alps. It’s not just a destination; it’s a fairytale come to life.
I first visited Hallstatt two years ago. The moment I arrived, I was struck by the breathtaking scenery. The village is nestled between towering mountains and a crystal-clear lake. The wooden houses, with their flower-filled balconies, look like they belong in a storybook.
What makes it so special? It’s the peace and quiet. Unlike busy cities, Hallstatt forces you to slow down. You can spend hours just walking by the lake, breathing in the fresh mountain air. The locals are incredibly friendly, and the food—especially the apple strudel—is out of this world!
If you ever get the chance to visit Austria, don’t miss this hidden gem. It might just be the most relaxing trip of your life!
Final Tips
Don't be too formal! Imagine you are writing to a friend, but with better structure. Keep your paragraphs clear and check your word count (140-190 words for FCE).
