FCE B2 READING AND USE OF ENGLISH

how to do it

1. Read the instructions: Begin by reading the instructions carefully to understand the format and requirements of the Reading section. Note the number of texts, the types of questions, and the time limit.

2. Skim the text: Before diving into the questions, quickly skim through the text to get a general idea of its content, structure, and organization. Pay attention to headings, subheadings, and any bold or italicized text that may indicate important information.

3. Analyze the questions: Read each question carefully and underline the keywords or phrases that are crucial for understanding the question's focus. Identify the type of question, such as multiple-choice, matching, or True/False/Not Given, as this will guide your approach to finding the answer.

4. Scan the text: Once you have a clear understanding of the questions, go back to the text and scan for specific information related to each question. Focus on the relevant paragraphs, sentences, or keywords that are likely to contain the answer. Avoid reading the entire text in detail unless necessary.

5. Read for detail: For questions that require a deeper understanding or interpretation of the text, read the relevant section more carefully. Pay attention to the nuances of meaning, the author's tone or attitude, and any supporting details or examples provided.

6. Eliminate incorrect options: In multiple-choice questions, eliminate any answer options that are clearly incorrect. Use the information from the text to narrow down the choices and increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.

7. Answer in sequence: It's generally recommended to answer the questions in the given sequence. This helps maintain focus and coherence as you progress through the text. If you're unsure about an answer, make an educated guess and move on, but remember to mark it clearly on the answer sheet.

8. Manage your time: Be mindful of the time allocated for the Reading section and distribute it wisely among the questions. Avoid spending too much time on a single question if you're unable to find the answer quickly. It's better to move on and return to it later if you have time left.

9. Check your answers: If time allows, review your answers and ensure that they are clear, accurate, and properly transferred to the answer sheet. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors and make corrections if necessary.

10. Practice with sample tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions by practicing with sample reading tests from official Cambridge B2 preparation materials. This will help you become familiar with the question styles and improve your reading strategies.

what to expect

1. Text types: The texts can be taken from various sources, such as newspapers, magazines, books, or online articles. They cover a range of topics, including social issues, science, culture, history, and more.

2. Text length: The texts vary in length, but they are generally between 500-900 words. Some texts may be shorter, while others may be longer.

3. Question types: The questions assess different reading skills, including understanding main ideas, specific details, opinions, attitudes, or text organization. Common question types include multiple-choice, matching, True/False/Not Given, sentence completion, and short-answer questions.

4. Timing: The Reading section is timed, and you should manage your time wisely to complete all the questions within the given timeframe. It's important to strike a balance between reading the texts carefully and answering the questions efficiently.

5. Vocabulary and context: Pay attention to the vocabulary used in the texts and how words are used in context. Use context clues to help you understand the meaning of unfamiliar words.

6. Skimming and scanning: Skim through the texts initially to get a sense of the overall content and structure. Then, scan the text for specific information to answer the questions efficiently.

7. Text structure: Notice how the text is organized, including headings, subheadings, paragraphs, and signal words. This can help you locate information quickly and understand the logical flow of the text.

8. Answer transfer: Make sure to transfer your answers accurately to the answer sheet, paying attention to spelling and grammar.

example

Title: "The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise"

Excerpt: Many people are familiar with the concept of exercise, but not everyone realizes the additional benefits that can come from taking workouts outdoors. Outdoor exercise provides numerous advantages for both physical and mental well-being. Firstly, the natural environment offers a more varied and stimulating workout experience. Instead of being confined to a gym setting, individuals can enjoy the fresh air, changing landscapes, and the opportunity to connect with nature. Whether it's hiking, cycling, or simply going for a run in the park, outdoor exercise adds an element of excitement and exploration to one's fitness routine.

Sample Question:

Question: According to the passage, what is one advantage of outdoor exercise? A) Access to gym equipment B) Better air quality C) Climate control D) Limited workout options

Answer: B) Better air quality

In this example, the passage discusses the benefits of outdoor exercise, specifically highlighting the advantage of better air quality. The question asks you to identify one advantage mentioned in the passage, and the correct answer is B) Better air quality, as stated in the excerpt.