Writing B2: essay, review, report y letter (FCE)
Writing B2 First: essay, review, report y letter
El Writing del B2 First es una de las pruebas que más miedo da, pero también es una de las que más puedes preparar con estructura y práctica. En 1 hora y 20 minutos debes escribir dos textos de entre 140 y 190 palabras cada uno. Si conoces el formato de cada tipo de texto y tienes plantillas claras, aprobarás con nota.
🎯 En este post aprenderás: La estructura completa del essay (Parte 1 obligatoria), las características de review, report y letter/email (Parte 2 a elegir), conectores y expresiones útiles, plantillas descargables, consejos para organizar tu tiempo y 5 ejercicios prácticos con ejemplos de respuestas.
📋 Estructura de la prueba de Writing B2 First
⏱️ Distribución del tiempo
- Parte 1 (obligatoria): Essay (ensayo) sobre un tema dado. Debes presentar argumentos a favor y en contra y dar tu opinión. 140-190 palabras.
- Parte 2 (elegir una opción): Article, review, report o letter/email. 140-190 palabras.
- Tiempo total: 1 hora 20 minutos. Recomendación: 40 minutos para cada parte (5 min planificación, 30 min escritura, 5 min revisión).
💡 Criterios de corrección: Los examinadores evalúan cuatro aspectos: Contenido (responder a todas las preguntas del enunciado), Comunicación (registro formal/informal adecuado), Organización (párrafos, conectores) y Lenguaje (vocabulario variado y gramática precisa).
📝 Parte 1: Essay (el obligatorio)
🎯 Características del essay
El essay es siempre formal o neutro. El enunciado te plantea un tema y dos puntos que debes incluir. Además, debes añadir tu propia idea (un tercer argumento). No puedes limitarte a los dos puntos dados; necesitas el tercero para obtener buena puntuación en contenido.
🏗️ Estructura del essay (5 párrafos recomendados)
📌 Plantilla general
Párrafo 1 – Introducción: Presenta el tema y adelanta que hay opiniones diversas. No des tu opinión aquí todavía.
Párrafo 2 – Primer punto (a favor/en contra): Desarrolla el primer aspecto del enunciado con un ejemplo o explicación.
Párrafo 3 – Segundo punto: Desarrolla el segundo aspecto.
Párrafo 4 – Tu idea personal: Aporta tu propio argumento (puede ser a favor o en contra).
Párrafo 5 – Conclusión: Resume y da tu opinión final de forma clara. Usa «In conclusion», «To sum up».
📚 Conectores esenciales para el essay
| Función | Conectores |
|---|---|
| Añadir ideas | Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Besides |
| Contrastar | However, On the other hand, Although, Whereas, In contrast |
| Dar ejemplos | For example, For instance, Such as |
| Concluir | In conclusion, To sum up, All in all |
| Dar opinión (solo en conclusión) | I believe, In my opinion, From my point of view |
📖 Ejemplo de essay (tema: should schools teach financial literacy?)
Introduction
In recent years, there has been much debate about whether financial education should be part of the school curriculum. While some argue that this is the responsibility of parents, others believe that schools play a crucial role.
First point – benefits
On the one hand, teaching financial literacy at school would ensure that all young people, regardless of their background, acquire essential skills such as budgeting and saving. For example, students would learn how to manage pocket money responsibly, which could prevent future debt problems.
Second point – drawbacks
On the other hand, critics argue that the curriculum is already overcrowded. Adding another subject might reduce time for core subjects like maths or languages. Furthermore, not all teachers have the necessary training to teach financial concepts effectively.
My own idea
In my opinion, financial literacy could be integrated into existing subjects such as mathematics or social studies. This would not require extra hours but would still expose students to practical money management.
Conclusion
To sum up, although there are valid concerns about time and teacher training, I believe that financial education is too important to be ignored. Schools should find creative ways to include it in the curriculum.
✍️ Parte 2: Tipos de textos a elegir
En la Parte 2 puedes elegir entre article, review, report o letter/email. Cada uno tiene un propósito, un registro y una estructura diferente. Analicemos cada uno.
📰 Article (artículo para revista)
🎯 Propósito
Un article está pensado para una revista o blog. Debe ser entretenido, atractivo y captar la atención del lector. Puede ser formal o semiformal, pero siempre con un tono vivo. A menudo incluye preguntas al lector, exclamaciones o un titular llamativo.
🏗️ Estructura del article
- Título atractivo (puede ser una pregunta o juego de palabras).
- Párrafo 1 – Introducción: Engancha al lector, presenta el tema.
- Párrafo 2 – Desarrollo: Opiniones, experiencias, consejos.
- Párrafo 3 – Conclusión/Recomendación: Cierra con un llamado a la acción o reflexión.
📖 Ejemplo de article: «The best way to relax after exams»
Are you exhausted after studying? Here’s what really works!
Have you ever spent hours in front of a book only to feel more stressed than before? You are not alone. After a long exam period, finding the perfect way to unwind is essential.
In my experience, doing sport is the most effective method. Not only does it release endorphins, but it also helps you forget about grades for a while. For instance, going for a run or playing football with friends can completely change your mood.
Alternatively, some people prefer creative activities like painting or playing an instrument. Whatever you choose, the key is to disconnect from screens. So why not try something new next week? You will thank yourself later!
⭐ Review (reseña o crítica)
🎯 Propósito
Una review evalúa una película, libro, restaurante, concierto, producto o experiencia. Debe incluir una descripción, una opinión justificada y una recomendación final. El registro suele ser semiformal o neutro.
🏗️ Estructura del review
- Título (nombre de lo que reseñas).
- Introducción: Qué es, cuándo lo viste/leíste/visitaste.
- Cuerpo (2 párrafos): Detalles positivos y negativos, con ejemplos.
- Conclusión: Recomendación (a quién le gustará y por qué).
📖 Ejemplo de review: «The Last of Us – A masterpiece?»
The Last of Us: a must-watch series
I recently finished watching the highly acclaimed series «The Last of Us», based on the popular video game. As a fan of post-apocalyptic stories, I had high expectations.
The acting is exceptional, especially Pedro Pascal’s performance. The plot is gripping and emotional, with unexpected twists. However, some episodes felt slightly slow-paced, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
Overall, I would strongly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys character-driven drama and zombies. It deserves a solid 9 out of 10. Don’t miss it!
📄 Report (informe)
🎯 Propósito
Un report es un texto objetivo y formal que presenta información, análisis y recomendaciones. Se escribe para un profesor, un jefe o una institución. Debe tener subtítulos y un lenguaje neutro, sin opiniones personales excesivas (las opiniones se reservan para las recomendaciones).
🏗️ Estructura del report
- To: / Subject: (opcional pero recomendado).
- Introducción: Propósito del informe (The aim of this report is to…).
- Subtítulo 1 (Findings / Observations): Hechos objetivos.
- Subtítulo 2 (Recommendations): Sugerencias basadas en los hallazgos.
- Conclusión (opcional): Resumen breve.
📖 Ejemplo de report: «Report on student facilities»
To: Headteacher
Subject: Report on the school library
Introduction
The aim of this report is to evaluate the current state of the school library and suggest improvements based on a survey of 100 students.
Findings
Most students (85%) feel that the library lacks up-to-date books. Additionally, 70% reported that there are not enough computers with internet access. On the positive side, 90% agreed that the lighting and seating are comfortable.
Recommendations
Firstly, I recommend investing in new books, especially fiction and reference materials. Secondly, the school should install at least ten new computers. Finally, extending opening hours until 6 p.m. would benefit students who study after school.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the library is a pleasant space but requires significant investment in resources. Implementing these changes would greatly improve students’ learning experience.
✉️ Letter / Email (carta o correo)
🎯 Propósito
Puede ser formal (carta de solicitud, reclamación) o informal (carta a un amigo). El enunciado indica el contexto y a quién va dirigido. Debes usar el saludo y despedida adecuados.
🏗️ Estructura de una carta informal
- Saludo: Dear [first name],
- Párrafo 1: Referencia al contacto anterior, agradecimiento o excusa.
- Párrafos 2-3: Respuesta a las preguntas del enunciado.
- Despedida: Best wishes, Love, Take care,
- Firma: Your name.
🏗️ Estructura de una carta formal
- Saludo: Dear Sir/Madam, o Dear Mr/Ms + apellido,
- Párrafo 1: Razón por la que escribes.
- Párrafos 2-3: Información detallada, peticiones.
- Despedida: Yours faithfully (si empezaste con Dear Sir/Madam) o Yours sincerely (si usaste nombre).
📖 Ejemplo de carta informal: email a un amigo
Dear Mark,
How have you been? I’m sorry I haven’t written for a while, but I’ve been really busy with exams.
Anyway, I’m writing because I’m planning a trip to London next month and I was wondering if you would like to meet up. I’ll be there from the 10th to the 15th of August. Do you know any good places to eat near the centre?
Also, could you recommend a hostel or cheap hotel? I’m on a tight budget.
Let me know what you think. I’m really looking forward to seeing you!
Best wishes,
John
📊 Tabla comparativa: registro y conectores por tipo de texto
| Tipo de texto | Registro | Frases útiles |
|---|---|---|
| Essay | Formal/neutro | «It is widely believed that…», «On the one hand…», «Furthermore…», «In conclusion…» |
| Article | Semiformal/entretenido | «Have you ever…?», «What would you do if…?», «In my experience…», «Believe it or not…» |
| Review | Neutro o semiformal | «The film is set in…», «What I liked most was…», «I would strongly recommend…», «It is worth seeing…» |
| Report | Formal (objetivo) | «The aim of this report is to…», «According to the survey…», «It is recommended that…», «In light of the findings…» |
| Letter informal | Informal | «How are you?», «I’m writing to tell you…», «Anyway, …», «Write back soon!» |
| Letter formal | Formal | «I am writing to apply for…», «I would be grateful if…», «Please do not hesitate to contact me…» |
🧪 5 Ejercicios prácticos de Writing B2
Ejercicio 1: Identifica el tipo de texto y errores de registro
Lee estos fragmentos y di qué tipo de texto son (essay, review, report, article, letter). Luego corrige el error de registro (si lo hay).
- «Hey mate! In this essay I’m gonna talk about global warming. It’s super bad, you know?»
- «The aim of this report is to analyse customer satisfaction. 78% of respondents were happy.»
- «I saw this awesome film yesterday. You totally have to watch it, bro!»
- «Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to complain about the product I bought last week. Yours faithfully,»
- «On the one hand, social media has improved communication. However, it also has drawbacks.»
✅ Ver solución
- Essay – Registro incorrecto: «gonna», «super bad». Debe ser formal: «This essay will discuss global warming, which is a serious issue.»
- Report – Correcto (formal).
- Review – Registro demasiado informal para una review estándar («awesome», «bro»). Versión corregida: «I saw an excellent film yesterday. I highly recommend it.»
- Letter formal – Correcto.
- Essay – Correcto (formal).
Ejercicio 2: Completa el essay con conectores adecuados
Completa los huecos con conectores de la lista: However, In conclusion, Firstly, For example, On the other hand.
_____ (1), learning a second language has many benefits. _____ (2), it improves cognitive skills and memory. _____ (3), some people argue that it is time-consuming. _____ (4), most experts agree that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. _____ (5), I believe that all students should study a foreign language.
✅ Ver solución
- Firstly
- For example
- On the other hand o However
- However (o Nevertheless)
- In conclusion
Ejercicio 3: Transforma un texto informal a un report formal
Convierte este párrafo informal en un fragmento de report formal.
«I asked some students about the canteen. Lots of them said the food is not great. Also, it’s pretty expensive. I think they should change the menu and lower prices.»
✅ Ver solución
Ejemplo de respuesta:
«According to a survey conducted among students, a significant number expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of the food. Furthermore, many considered the prices to be too high. It is recommended that the menu be revised and that prices be reduced.»
Ejercicio 4: Escribe la introducción de un article
Tema: «The importance of learning a musical instrument». Escribe solo el título y el primer párrafo (30-50 palabras) con estilo de article.
✅ Ver solución de ejemplo
Título: Why everyone should play an instrument
Introducción: Have you ever dreamed of playing the guitar or piano? Learning an instrument is not only fun, but it also brings incredible benefits to your brain and your mood. In this article, I will explain why you should start today.
Ejercicio 5: Simulacro de Writing Parte 2 – elige una opción
Elige UNA de las siguientes tareas y escribe 140-190 palabras. Luego compáralo con la solución orientativa.
Opción A (Review): You see this announcement in an international magazine: «Have you watched a TV series that changed your perspective? Write a review of a series you recommend. Tell us what it is about and why readers should watch it.»
Opción B (Report): Your principal has asked you to write a report on the school’s recycling facilities. Include: current situation, problems found, and recommendations for improvement.
Opción C (Letter informal): Write an email to a friend who has invited you to stay at their house next summer. Accept the invitation, suggest activities, and ask what you should bring.
✅ Ver solución orientativa (Opción A – Review)
A series that will change the way you see the world
I have recently finished watching «The Queen’s Gambit», and I can honestly say it is one of the best series I have ever seen. Set in the 1960s, it tells the story of Beth Harmon, a young orphan who discovers she has a prodigious talent for chess.
What makes this series special is not only the outstanding acting but also the way it portrays addiction, ambition, and gender barriers. The chess scenes are surprisingly thrilling. I loved how it shows that success comes with sacrifices.
I would strongly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas, even if you know nothing about chess. You will be hooked from the first episode. Don’t miss it!
📅 Plan de entrenamiento para el Writing B2
✅ Checklist semanal
- Semana 1: Aprende la estructura del essay. Escribe 2 essays con diferentes temas y cronometra 40 minutos.
- Semana 2: Practica review y article (uno de cada).
- Semana 3: Practica report y letter (formal e informal).
- Semana 4: Simulacros completos (Parte 1 + Parte 2) con límite de tiempo.
- Siempre: Memoriza conectores y expresiones útiles. Revisa tus errores típicos.
🌐 Enlaces relacionados para seguir preparándote
📚 Serie completa para el B2 First de Cambridge
- Estructura y partes del Cambridge B2 First – Conoce el examen al completo.
- Use of English B2: tipos de ejercicios y trucos – Gramática y vocabulario.
- ✍️ Writing B2 – Estás aquí.
- Reading B2: cómo afrontar los textos largos – Estrategias de lectura.
- Speaking B2: cómo hablar con fluidez en el examen – Gana confianza oral.
🎯 Próximo paso: Ahora que sabes cómo escribir cada tipo de texto, practica con exámenes reales y pide a alguien que corrija tus writings. Si necesitas mejorar tu comprensión lectora para coger ideas, visita nuestra guía de Reading B2.
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