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Right before my son Noah was born I briefly dabbled in making my own plates and bowls at a pottery studio close to where we lived in Los Angeles. It was a wonderful antidote to all the nervous energy attached to becoming a new parent. The process of forming clay into vessels for the kitchen is grounding and evokes a sense of flow, where you are completely immersed in the action at hand with little space for outside distraction. Needless to say it didn’t last long, with the arrival of a baby, focus was automatically drawn elsewhere and quickly my visits to the studio became less frequent. This brief foray into ceramics was not, however, without success. Back in Dublin now, most of our meals are still served in the thick clay bowls I made from that time and are a fond reminder of the connection between one chapter of life and another. They make the bowls of winter stews, soups and pastas all the more comforting.

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Essay 1

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Useful Expressions for an Informal Email for FCE Writing

So if you want to learn how to write an informal email for FCE, you need to have a set of expressions ready to use. Some of these useful expressions are the following:

Common question: What happens if I write more than 190 or less than 140 words?

As I explained here, Cambridge English examiners don't waste time counting the words of you informal email to penalise you based on that fact. But think about this: if you've written many more than necessary, you are probably including irrelevant information, right? Now that's a reason for losing points. In the same way, if you write under 140 words you are probably missing essential information.Therefore, I always recommend writing up to 10 or 20 words over the limit. In this way, you won't lose any points for including irrelevant information.

FCE Writing Guide with examples (pdf)

Although there are more posts coming up about how to write other types of FCE Writing, if you don't want to wait any more, simply download the official KSE Academy FCE Writing Guide. In this guide you will learn:

How to write an essay and 3 examples.

How to write an article and 3 examples.

How to write a review and 3 examples.

How to write a report and 3 examples.

How to write an email or letter and 3 examples.

Over 300 useful expressions for every FCE Writing.

Would you like to see a sample of this guide? Here it is!
>> DOWNLOAD FCE WRITING GUIDE <<
In order to download this complete FCE Writing guide, simply share this article using one of the buttons above. When you've done so, the box will disappear and you will see the link to download this FCE Writing guide in pdf format.

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How to Write an Informal Email for FCE Writing Part 2

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So if you want to learn how to write an informal email for FCE, you need to have a set of expressions ready to use. Some of these useful expressions are the following: As I explained here, Cambridge English examiners don't waste time counting the words of you informal email to penalise you based on that fact.

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B2 First is a test of all areas of language ability.

The updated exam (for exam sessions from January 2015) is made up of four papers developed to test your English language skills. You can see exactly what's in each paper below.

The Speaking test is taken face to face, with two candidates and two examiners. This creates a more realistic and reliable measure of your ability to use English to communicate.

The formats below are the same for both the paper-based and computer-based exams.

Reading and Use of English (1 hour 15 minutes)
See sample paper

Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction, newspapers and magazines. Tests your use of English with tasks that show how well you can control your grammar and vocabulary.

2 parts

Requires you to be able to produce two different pieces of writing, such as letters, reports, reviews and essays.

Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as news programmes, presentations and everyday conversations.

Speaking
(14 minutes per pair of candidates; 20 minutes per group of three)
See sample paper

4 parts

Shows how good your spoken English is as you take part in conversation by asking/answering questions and discussing topics. Your Speaking test will be face to face with one or two other candidates and two examiners. One of the examiners (who could be online, examining remotely) talks to you and the other examiner listens. This makes your test more realistic and more reliable. Examiners may use their mobile phones for entering marks using an app.

openbook What's in the Reading and Use of English paper?

The B2 First Reading and Use of English paper is in seven parts and has a mix of text types and questions.

For Parts 1 to 4, you read a range of texts and do grammar and vocabulary tasks.

For Parts 5 to 7, you read a series of texts and answer questions that test your reading ability and show that you can deal with a variety of different types of texts.
Summary

Length of texts:

About 2,200 words to read in total.

Texts may be from:

Newspapers and magazines, journals, books (fiction and non-fiction), promotional and informational material.

Part 1 (Multiple-choice cloze) Part 2 (Open cloze) Part 3 (Word formation) Part 4 (Key word transformations) Part 5 (Multiple choice) Part 6 (Gapped text) Part 7 (Multiple matching)
compose What's in the Writing paper?

In the two parts of the B2 First Writing paper, you have to show that you can write different types of text in English.
Summary

Time allowed:

1 hour 20 minutes

Number of questions:

Part 1: one compulsory question, Part 2: one question from a choice of three

Types of task:

Articles, email, essay, letter, report, review.

Part 1 (Compulsory question) Part 2 (Situationally based writing task)
playlist What's in the Listening paper?

The B2 First Listening paper has four parts. For each part you have to listen to a recorded text or texts and answer some questions. You hear each recording twice.
Summary

Time allowed:

About 40 minutes

Recordings may be from:

Monologues: answer phone messages, radio broadcasts and features, news, public announcements, stories and anecdotes, lectures and talks; or interacting speakers: conversations, interviews, discussions, radio plays.

Part 1 (Multiple choice) Part 2 (Sentence completion) Part 3 (Multiple matching) Part 4 (Multiple choice)
megaphone What's in the Speaking paper?

The B2 First Speaking test has four parts and you take it together with another candidate.

There are two examiners. One of the examiners asks you questions and gives you the booklet with things to talk about. The other examiner listens to what you say.
Summary Part 1 (Interview)

What's in Part 1?

Conversation with the examiner. The examiner asks questions and you may have to give information about your interests, studies, career, etc.

What do I have to practise?

Giving information about yourself and expressing your opinion about various topics.

How long do I have to speak?

2 minutes

Part 2 (Long turn)

What's in Part 2?

The examiner gives you two photographs and asks you to talk about them. You have to speak for 1 minute without interruption and the interlocutor then asks the other candidate to comment on your photographs for about 30 seconds.
The other candidate receives a different set of photographs and you have to listen and comment when they have finished speaking. The question you have to answer about your photographs is written at the top of the page to remind you what you should talk about.

What do I have to practise?

Talking on your own about something: comparing, describing, expressing opinions, speculating.

How long do I have to speak?

1 minute per candidate

Part 3 (Collaborative task)

What's in Part 3?

Conversation with the other candidate. The examiner gives you some material and a task to do. You have to talk with the other candidate and make a decision.

What do I have to practise?

Exchanging ideas, expressing and justifying opinions, agreeing and/or disagreeing, suggesting, speculating, evaluating, reaching a decision through negotiation, etc.

How long do we have to speak?

3 minutes (a 2-minute discussion followed by a 1-minute decision-making task)

Part 4 (Discussion)

What's in Part 4?

Further discussion with the other candidate, guided by questions from the examiner, about the topics or issues raised in the task in Part 3.

What do I have to practise?

Expressing and justifying opinions, agreeing and/or disagreeing.

How long do we have to speak?

4 minutes

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What is in the B2 First (FCE) exam? Information about the Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking papers for computer and paper-based tests.

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Article

Сity ​​at hand

Can you imagine a place where everything is at hand? Right Now I will tell you about one of my favourite cities called Narva.
To start with, this is a small town located on the border of Estonia and Russia, so if you want to go to travel, all you need is a passport and 20 minutes to cross the border. Secondly, if in summer you want to swim, then a river flows in the city where there is a well-equipped beach, but if you want to go for a swim to the sea, then 20 minutes and you will already be sunbathing on Narva-Yesuu beach. Finally, in winter, the city organizes a wonderful ski track, where anyone can go skiing.
Many of you may think that since the city is small, there is really nothing to do there? But I disagree with you because Narva is also the historical centre of Estonia, thanks to this the city is full of museums and historical places. There is also a youth centre that regularly organizes various events and festivals so there is no time to be bored.
In my opinion, Narva is a very cosy and interesting city and I recommend everyone to visit it during your breaks.

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FCE Speaking Parts 3 & 4 + useful phrases

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B2 first speaking test (FCE) Part 2 + a three step plan

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FCE speaking exam (B2 First). Let's get ready!

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Have you ever been to such a small,but historically rich town Narva? I have been visited many cities and towns,but Narva is special for me.

Can you imagine that Narva is located on the border of Estonia and Russia and there are the lake Narova between them. Also, very beautiful view opens on the castle of Order of Germanic knights and the Russian fortress of Ivangorod.In Narva you also find many interesting attractions such as Narva Bastions and Narva castle,one kilometer long Narva river promenade,Alexander s Cathedral and Cathedral of Ressurection of Christ.
When I have a braeck I do not go to a different country or town,because Narva is an excellent. People in Narva are also different from people from other towns and if you meet a person from Narva in most cases you will like him.When I come back from some trip I always go for a walk on a promenade and go to Narva-Jõesuu.Narva-Jõesuu is a small and cozy spa town in only 14 kilometers from Narva.So don t miss the chance to visit it.
I strongly reccomend you to choose Narva as a place for a city break.

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How important is electricity for each of these activities? Which examples would you talk about with a group of young children?

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Clothes.
Compare and contrast the pics, and say why you think the people are wearing these clothes? You have a minute.
Candidate 1, are you interested in clothes?

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Getting away from it all.
Compare and contrast the pics, and say why you think the people have chosen to travel in this way? You have a minute.
Candidate 2, do you like to get away from it all sometimes?

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Write an article about your favourite city.

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Write an article about your favourite city.

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The frontier location of Narva is the most distinctive feature of the past and the present of the town. By the Middle Ages the historic border has been already running there, along the banks of rapid river swiftly flowing its waters out the Lake Peipus into the Baltic Sea and dividing the two civilizations - the Catholic European North and Orthodox Slavonic East.

However, the border is not a mere line that separates, but also a place where two cultural worlds meet, mutually influence and interpenetrate each other.

Photo: Ilya Voskresenski

The history had materialized in Narva in its architectural ensemble, uncommon beauty and dramatic effect. The integration of the opposites is unique in the whole Europe. Two giants of stone, towering in close vicinity to each other on two opposite banks (at distance of an arrow flight or that of a musket shot) - the castle of Order of Germanic knights and the Russian fortress of Ivangorod. Despite the opposition in the architectural approach, these two fortresses make up an integral ensemble.

Narva bastions have always been the main attraction of Narva town as well as Narva castle. For a long time the Bastions kept their mysterious secrets and rich history behind the thick walls of the casemates. These mighty fortifications could be watched only outside, meanwhile the casemates stayed unavailable for visitors. Now Victoria bastion is ready to share its secrets and let all interested into its previously closed tunnels. The exposition inside the tunnels is introducing the history of the bastions, starting from the date of the establishment, several centuries ago, till nowadays.

One kilometer long Narva river promenade is stretching along the Narva River from the river port till the castle.

It's one of the main places of attraction for both Narva visitors and citizens. In any weather people walk there, go fishing and do sports, as the promenade perfectly suits for leisure time with family, rollerblading and cycling. There are also interesting objects on the promenade. For example, Swedish terrace with lion figures, stage of Dahlberg for performances on the open air, the Sun Square, where you can find a Sun Watch, summer cafe, and a fountain.

Alexander´s Cathedral was built in the late 19th century and named in honour of the Russian Emperor Alexander II. After the WWII, the Church bell tower was totally destroyed and reconstructed only in 2008.

Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ is an Orthodox church built in Byzantine style in the late 19th century upon the project of the architect Pavel Alish. During the battles of 1944, when most of Narva was destroyed, the church survived and still in use today. The cathedral also has two miracle-working icons: Saint Nicolai and Mother of God icons.

In only 14 kilometers from Narva, on the coast of the Gulf of Finland, is located Narva-Jõesuu, small and cozy spa town. Since the beginning of the XIX century it grew into a favorite place for the Saint-Petersburg aristocracy. In our time there are health recovery center, hotels, holiday homes, which are offering a restful and relaxing holiday to thousands of visitors.

Added 18.11.2015, 16:13
Changed 18.06.2020, 08:58

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The frontier location of Narva is the most distinctive feature of the past and the present of the town. By the Middle Ages the historic border has been already running there, along the banks of rapid river swiftly flowing its waters out the Lake Peipus into the Baltic Sea and dividing the two civilizations - the Catholic European North and Orthodox Slavonic East.

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How to write an article for the New FCE exam? Here's a sample topic that has been divided into paragraphs and each of the sections explained.

Part 2

You must answer this question.

You see this competition in an international magazine.
Imagine you were on a desert island. What would you miss most? Write an article briefly describing an important object, person or place in your life and give reasons for your choice. The best article will be published and the writer will receive £500.
Write your article in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.
Sample answer: Life away from home
How would you feel about living on a desert island? I can't imagine anything worse. I would miss a lot of things, but most of all I would miss my home.

You start with Paragraph 1- Introduction
In the introduction you :

- think of a title that will catch the reader's attention

- include the topic- you might not know the reader personally, but still, you can address him/her directly (e.g. ask them a question)
Phrases you can use in the introduction:

I must tell you about ...

REMEMBER : It's a semi-formal/ informal piece of writing make it interesting by including a range of language, e.g. adjectives and adverbs, phrasal verbs, collocations, relative clauses, linkers, one or two idioms.

DON'T copy out the task- use synonyms

My home is a small house on the outskirts of a city. It was built about fifty years ago and has a small garden. In the summer our country gets very hot but our house is always cool.

Note that the question/topic says the description should be 'brief'.
Phrases you can use to in the 2nd and 3rd paragraph:

It's absolutely stunning / terrible (strong adjective).

It took my breath away.

I will never forget it.

There's nothing in the world like it.

Adding and developing ideas

For a start .. Secondly. / Thirdly./ Finally....

And then there's the fact that ..

As if this wasn't enough, ...

Giving examples .... such as ../.. particularly .../ ....like...

You would probably think our house is nothing special, but I have lived there all my life and all my friends live nearby. It is a happy place, where I feel completely safe. Whenever I go away, I look forward to coming back, lying on my bed, reading a book and listening to my brother and sister arguing downstairs!

In the 3rd Paragraph you :

- give specific examples to bring your article to life

- use informal language to involve the reader

- don't forget to express your opinion

I love travelling and meeting new people, but if I were on a desert island I would be away from the place I love most - my home - and I would hate that.

In the last paragraph you :

- finish with a sentence which summarises what you have said

- end with an interesting last sentence

- give your opinion or express your feeling

Phrases you can use to end the letter

Giving a personal response

Personally, I think / find / believe ...

It seems to me ... In my view.... One thing I love / remember ...

Over to you:

You have seen this advertisement in an international magazine.

INSPIRING PEOPLE

Tell us about a person you admire and why they inspire you.

Write your article . Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.

Once again, over to you:

You have seen this advertisement on an international travel website.

CITY BREAKS

Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.

report this ad

* write a catchy title that gives the main idea

* try to involve the reader by using lively, chatty, semi-formal style, don't sound too formal

* you can address the reader directly (I'm sure you'll agree that ...) or ask one or two questions (Have you heard ...?)

* make your article more interesting by including a range of language, e.g. adjectives and adverbs, phrasal verbs, collocations, relative clauses, linkers, one or two idioms.

* give personal opinions, include description, examples, stories to support your views. Think of a suitable start and finish for your article

* use colourful language, such as phrasal verbs, collocations and idioms

*make sure you answer all the points in the question

*use the correct number of words

*check your work for accuracy

report this ad

How to write an article for the New FCE exam? Here's a sample topic that has been divided into paragraphs and each of the sections explained.

Part 2

You must answer this question.

You see this competition in an international magazine.
Imagine you were on a desert island. What would you miss most? Write an article briefly describing an important object, person or place in your life and give reasons for your choice. The best article will be published and the writer will receive £500.
Write your article in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.
Sample answer: Life away from home
How would you feel about living on a desert island? I can't imagine anything worse. I would miss a lot of things, but most of all I would miss my home.

My home is a small house on the outskirts of a city. It was built about fifty years ago and has a small garden. In the summer our country gets very hot but our house is always cool.

You would probably think our house is nothing special, but I have lived there all my life and all my friends live nearby. It is a happy place, where I feel completely safe. Whenever I go away, I look forward to coming back, lying on my bed, reading a book and listening to my brother and sister arguing downstairs!

I love travelling and meeting new people, but if I were on a desert island I would be away from the place I love most - my home - and I would hate that.

Over to you:

You have seen this advertisement in an international magazine.

INSPIRING PEOPLE

Tell us about a person you admire and why they inspire you.

Write your article . Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.

Once again, over to you:

You have seen this advertisement on an international travel website.

CITY BREAKS

Write your answer in 140- 190 words in an appropriate style on the separate answer sheet.

report this ad

* write a catchy title that gives the main idea

* try to involve the reader by using lively, chatty, semi-formal style, don't sound too formal

* you can address the reader directly (I'm sure you'll agree that ...) or ask one or two questions (Have you heard ...?)

* make your article more interesting by including a range of language, e.g. adjectives and adverbs, phrasal verbs, collocations, relative clauses, linkers, one or two idioms.

* give personal opinions, include description, examples, stories to support your views. Think of a suitable start and finish for your article

* use colourful language, such as phrasal verbs, collocations and idioms

*make sure you answer all the points in the question

*use the correct number of words

*check your work for accuracy

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how to write an article for new fce exam

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How to write an article for New FCE exam

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How to write an article for the New FCE exam? Here's a sample topic that has been divided into paragraphs and each of the sections explained. Part 2 You must answer this question. You see this competition in an international magazine. Imagine you were on a desert island.

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Formal letters and essays plans are here! Revise!

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Formal letters and essays plans are here! Revise!

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Girls, look what an informal letter to a friend looks like.

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2. Multiple choice The Telephone - 15min
3. Open Cloze Pollution - 15min
4. Reading Book Reviews-  20 min

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Some teens today feel isolated and socially awkward. What should they do to remedy this situation and prevent major mental health issues? 200 words

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In addition/Additionally, I can say that..,
I completely agree with you but I can add that ...

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1. Why are social skills important?
2.How to learn social skills if you feel socially awkward?
- camping
-joining the theatre
-volunteering
-trying out sports programmes
-arts

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Are you concerned that your teen isn't learning the social skills he or she needs? To help remedy the situation, here are 10 great youth activities to help teach your teen social skills.
Every generation thinks they had it toughest when they were teenagers. What most of us remember is feeling socially awkward and unsure of where we fit in.

Then there were those kids who always seemed to be at ease with themselves. They were confident and seemed to glide effortlessly through their teenage years.

Often these kids were the jocks or they somehow stood out from everyone else.

The reason those kids made it look so easy was that they had great social skills. Some people innately know how to socialize with others. For the rest of us, we need to learn those skills.

One way to learn those skills is through youth activities. Here are 10 fun activities that can help turn your teenager into a confident young person.

1. There Are Tons Of Youth Activities At Camp

Some camps are focused on a specific theme like band camp or for soccer. Other camps offer a wide variety of activities from swimming and boating to horseback riding and archery.

But there's one thing that every camp has in common, it's a great place to learn how to socialize with different kids.

Usually, kids at camp are from different towns and even states. They'll learn how to get along with kids from different backgrounds while having fun.

Camp counselors make sure that everyone feels included in all the activities.

2. Have Them Join The Theater

Many people find the mere thought of getting out on stage in front of an audience to be completely terrifying. Yet, learning how to walk on stage and speak to an audience with confidence is a huge social skill that will help them throughout every stage of their lives.

One of the best social skills activities you can choose for your teenager is the theater. They'll learn how to get in touch with their emotions to use them safely within a role.

Theater teaches kids how to use their words to speak clearly and effectively so their voice captures an audience. Kids learn how to use their body to communicate.

There are plenty of social groups for teenagers to get involved in and drama club is no exception. The friendships formed here can last a lifetime.

3. Get Them To Volunteer

There are tons of opportunities to volunteer. If your child is interested in a specific career, one way for them to learn more about it is to volunteer there.

They will learn all about their potential career, learn the skills necessary to perform that job and create a network of people who can help them find a job when the time comes.

Volunteering teaches you how to work together as a team to achieve a certain result. You learn problem solving, adaptability, and leadership skills.

Teenagers learn social skills, how to plan, and how to prioritize. Even if they volunteer somewhere that doesn't lead to a career, learning to how to put others above themselves is always a great skill to possess.

4. Try Out Sports Programs

Social games for kids are great ways for them to learn how to work well with others and communicate. Sports are great social games and they're even good for kids who don't possess great hand-to-eye coordination skills.

While there are plenty of sports programs like soccer, baseball, football, and lacrosse, there are other sports to think about.

communicate with others in a team effort.

Not everyone enjoys a high impact type of sport. Activities like swimming, golf, and skiing are also fun, competitive, and social but not as team oriented.

Then there's the chess club and the mathletes for those who prefer to get a good workout with their minds.

Sports teach kids that while you don't always win, what's most important is how you played the game. And they're getting physically fit while doing it.

5. The Arts Are Perfect For Learning Social Skills

Not all social groups for teenagers need to be activity based.

Drawing, painting, playing an instrument and singing all are excellent ways to get involved with social skills activities.

Kids will learn how to express themselves creatively in a safe environment. They will also interact with fellow students as well as their teacher.

There are painting classes, sketching, pottery, sculpting, and even costume design which can help teenagers express themselves in a social setting.

6. Game Nights

Try playing social games for teens at least once a week with a group of people. Game nights are a lot of fun and they'll get your teenager away from electronics and social media at least for a little while.

Try playing games that force teenagers to interact with one another in order to win the game.

Games like charades are good for the imagination and to help them learn how to express themselves clearly to others.

Try heading to an escape room near you so the entire family learns how to communicate and work together effectively.

Even board games are great as learning tools. Kids learn how to take turns, play fairly, and play together in harmony.

Best of all, it's a great way to bond together while having a lot of fun.

7. Educational Trips

You don't have to wait until your kid's school takes them on a field trip. Instead, plan one yourself.

Help teach your kid to get out of their shell and experience life outside of the town you live in.

Visit museums in neighboring towns.

Take them to the bookstore or library to find books on nearby historical subjects. Take them to lectures and seminars on the subject so they can learn more.

Not only will an educational trip help your teen explore their interests further, they will receive tons of opportunities to interact with new people. Encourage your teen to ask questions during a lecture or tour.

8. Attend Live Events

When it comes to social skills activities for teenagers, live events are often the most fun. You can attend an event as a family or allow your teenager to go with friends.

There are tons of live events to choose from. Whether it's a sporting event, a dance performance, music recital, or an art opening, they are all opportunities for your child to learn social skills.

Being in a crowd can get tough for some kids. There is a lot of energy in one space and some people feel overwhelmed by it. They can't hear themselves any longer and it's tougher for them to function.

Learning to be a part of a crowd without feeling lost, overwhelmed or scared can help teenagers learn to become more independent. They'll also have to interact with others to find their seats or buy a souvenir.

Live events are also wonderful opportunities to show your teenager proper social behavior in a crowded setting.

9. Hire A Coach

Before you toss your kid into social groups for teenagers, see if they're ready for it. Some kids aren't and it can be traumatic for them if they're thrust into a social situation before they are ready.

The one-on-one help can assist your teenager in learning the proper skills they need to begin thinking about joining in more social skills activities.

10. Model UN

Model UN is a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn great leadership skills. It's also an opportunity for them to mingle and socialize with kids from other schools and neighborhoods.

Kids vote on real-world-type issues, learn how to solve problems together, and speak in front of an audience.

Even if your child doesn't love politics, Model UN helps kids learn about today's problems.

Working together, they realize they have the power to change our world into a better place.

Never Give Up

With some kids, you'll get lucky and find plenty of youth activities that they love. With other kids, the search might take a little longer until they find their niche.

That's okay. Some of us get lucky and find our place in life. Others find they need to search a little longer to find where they belong.

And that's okay, too. Just don't give up. There are tons of activities out there to try.

And we're here to help.

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Top 10 Youth Activities to Teach Your Teen Social Skills - Serendipity Mommy

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Are you concerned that your teen isn't learning the social skills he or she needs? To help remedy the situation, here are 10 great youth activities to help teach your teen social skills. Every generation thinks they had it toughest when they were teenagers. What most of us remember is feeling socially awkward and unsure ...

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1. What are your peers' hobbies?
2. Why do teens need to have hobbies? (1st para)
3. Do you consider volunteering to be a hobby? Why? What does it mean?
4.What are the benefits of partaking in hobbies?

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Read articles and essays, not novels and booksFor the FCE exam you need to improve your knowledge of English vocabulary for a variety of topics (e.g. the environment, work, music etc...), it is slower to do that by reading novels or books (which are generally on one topic). It is better to read articles (and also reviews and essays) to widen/broaden your vocabulary on different topics. Articles are shorter, so you can read more of them than you can books/novels.

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Read articles and essays, not novels and booksFor the FCE exam you need to improve your knowledge of English vocabulary for a variety of topics (e.g. the environment, work, music etc...), it is slower to do that by reading novels or books (which are generally on one topic). It is better to read articles (and also reviews and essays) to widen/broaden your vocabulary on different topics. Articles are shorter, so you can read more of them than you can books/novels.

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Below are some websites and resources for reading material you can use:

VOA: This website has a lot of articles on things in the news. Many of them are a little boring, but they contain good vocabulary. Read the articles for level 2.

Teen Ink: This is a website with lots of articles, stories and essays written by young English speaking teenagers. The level of language used is right for the FCE exam.

Breaking News English: Lots of different articles on news stories. The articles are a little too short and sometimes not very interesting. Read the articles for level 2.

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What is your favourite free time activity?
Why? Give three reasons.
Would you recommend others to take up this hobby? Why?

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From VOA Learning English, this is the Health & Lifestyle report.

The world is experiencing a major health crisis.

As the new coronavirus spreads, many countries are limiting their citizens' activities. Travel has been restricted. Many schools are closed. In major cities around the world, restaurants and other businesses are shut down.

Public emergencies bring out a certain type of person - the panic shopper. Some people fear not being able to find basic needs for survival. So, they buy everything off supermarket shelves in preparation for the days to come.

Bread is often among the first products to disappear in emergency situations.

So, if you have never made bread, now may be good time to learn. Bread making is a survival skill. With very few simple things -- such as flour, salt and yeast -- you can bake a fresh loaf of bread for your family, neighbors or coworkers.

Baking is not just a useful survival skill. It can make you feel better at stressful times. In fact, baking and cooking have been used to treat people with mental health issues.

Julie Ohana is a social worker. She offers what she calls culinary therapy to her patients in New York City.

"I say 'therapy' because to me cooking is so therapeutic. And 'therapeutic' really means something that makes you feel good, something that is helpful and beneficial to the person doing it ..."

Julie Ohana uses culinary therapy to help people overcome many kinds of issues. She explains that culinary therapy works on many levels.

Baking requires mindfulness.

"So when you're in the kitchen - whether you're cooking or you're baking - it really requires a certain level of mindfulness, of being present in the moment. Specifically, when you're baking. And baking really requires step-by-step, following a recipe, being more precise. K neading the dough or rolling something out, you really get the full benefit of being present in the moment and being able to relax and put aside all the other thoughts and just focus on the here-and-now. And there really are very strong benefits of being able to do that, to be able to relax, to decompress, destress, and really increase one's level of life satisfaction."
Baking is a labor of love.
Ohana also says baking is a process filled with love. It not only makes you feel good, it produces something tangible -- something you can touch and eat! Ohana calls baking a labor of love.

"And when you bake, you go through this whole process and it really is a labor of love ... and you end up with this finished product that - not only is it tangible - but it's edible and it's delicious."

Often our food experiences are tied to family memories and stories. We remember meals our grandmothers made. We teach our children important recipes for family favorites.

Ohana says something that all bakers know -- giving delicious, baked goods makes the giver feel as good as the receiver. So, she calls baking a win-win.

"To be able to pass that on to someone else certainly can make the day for the person receiving it. But It's also just as powerful for the person who's giving the baked goods. It's a win-win. It's not just something purely that you do for the other person. The baker, the cook really gets to benefit from the act as well."

And that's the Health & Lifestyle report. I'm Anna Matteo.
Are you a baker? Let us know how baking makes you feel in the Comments Section. Anna Matteo wrote this story for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

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Words in This Story

shelf - n. a flat board which is attached to a wall, frame, etc., and on which objects can be placed

stressful - adj. full of or causing stress : making you feel worried or anxious

culinary therapy - n. using food production to heal mental issues

beneficial - adj. producing good or helpful results or effects

recipe - n. a set of instructions for making something from various ingredients

precise - adj. very accurate and exact

knead - v. to work and press into a mass with the hands

relax - v. to stop feeling nervous or worried : to spend time resting or doing something enjoyable especially after you have been doing work

delicious - adj. appealing to one of the bodily senses especially of taste or smell

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From VOA Learning English, this is the Health & Lifestyle report. The world is experiencing a major health crisis. As the new coronavirus spreads, many countries are limiting their citizens' activities. Travel has been restricted. Many schools are closed. In major cities around the world, restaurants and other businesses are shut down.

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This section provides exercises on different aspects of English vocabulary at an intermediate level. There are a wide variety of tests focusing on topics that frequently come up in the exam and which FCE students may have to write about or speak, for example: education, entertainment and media, daily life, places and buildings, health, medicine, shopping, travel and holidays, and so on.

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Vocabulary for First Certificate (FCE) EnglishRevealed

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Free gamified quizzes on every subject that students play in class and at home. Pick an existing quiz or create your own for review, formative assessment, and more.

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FCE Listening Test 4 Part 4

Part 4

You will hear an interview with Monica Darcey, who has written a bestselling book about gardening. For questions 24-30, choose the best answer ( A, B or C).

24 Monica says that most people who buy her book

A have made mistakes in gardening.

B are knowledgeable about gardening

C do not trust professional gardeners

25 How did Monica's parents feel about her early interest in gardening?

A They were concerned about the effects on her health.

B They were worried that she lacked other interests.

C They feared her enthusiasm would affect her studies.

26 Monica applied to work as a gardening journalist because

A it would give her an extra source of income.

B she'd found the experience of writing rewarding.

C there might be opportunities to do some research.

27 Why did Monica give up her job on a magazine?

A She got an offer of work somewhere else.

B She didn't get on with other members of staff.

C She was not interested in the type of work she was doing.

28 According to Monica, what makes her gardening books special?

A They are written in an entertaining style.

B They are aimed at amateur enthusiasts.

C They are the result of detailed research.

29 What does Monica dislike about the photographs in many gardening books?

A They reduce the importance of the writer.

B They help to sell poor quality writing.

C They show an unrealistic view of their subject.

30 What makes Monica unsure whether to accept a job on television?

A Her publisher may disapprove of it.

B It may make her suddenly famous.

C She would have less time for writing.

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You will hear an interview with Monica Darcey, who has written a bestselling book about gardening. For questions 24-30, choose the best answer (A, B or C).
Interviewer: Monica, welcome to the programme. Your book Make your garden unique has been a great success. But why would people want to buy a book about gardening instead of just buying some plants and putting them in the ground?
Monica Darcey:: Hello! Well, yes, I think that's what most people do when they move into a place, there's often little time to think. Lots of readers have written to me saying that's what they'd done, gone to a garden centre, spent a lot of money on seeds and plants, with not very good results. In fact I think people with that sort of experience make up the majority of my readers!
Interviewer: So, how did your interest in gardening start? Were your parents keen gardeners?
Monica Darcey: Well, people imagine I must come from a family of gardeners. In fact, my parents would have much rather seen me developing an interest in sport, as they were both water sports teachers. But I was forever catching colds and that put me off. Seeing me spending hours in the garden, showing little interest in the world outside plants was a cause for concern rather than pride for them though
Interviewer: And how did you go from gardener to writer?
Monica Darcey: Well, I did win a short-story prize at school, and enjoyed writing essays at college, but I had no real passion for writing then. I was making a good living looking after gardens. Then one day I was working in a nature reserve and I had to write about my day at work for an environmental project. It gave me such a feeling of achievement that when I saw an advert for a gardening journalist on a magazine, I applied, thinking I could do it in my spare time when I wasn't gardening.
Interviewer: And you got the job?
Monica Darcey: I did, but after a while they made me an editor, which was a kind of promotion, but editors tend to find themselves doing everything but writing, and I'm happiest when being creative, so I decided it was time for a change. My bosses weren't very happy about it, I must say. So I went back to working all hours planting trees and flowers.
Interviewer: And that's when you starting writing your book, is that right?
Monica Darcey: Yes, and I've never looked back, really. I'm now writing my second book, about gardens around the world.
Interviewer: So, what makes your gardening books so special for readers?
Monica Darcey: It takes years of experience to learn to write attractively. It must flow perfectly when you read it, as if it had required no effort at all. But to answer your question, I suppose it's the fact that I'm not merely providing information, because that would make a jolly dull piece of writing - I don't assume everyone's fascinated by gardening, and I include some interviews, the kind of personal experience that may amuse the reader. Of course the information is all correct, and well researched, but that has to be the case with any serious writer.
Interviewer: Do you choose the photographs for your books?
Monica Darcey: I do. The quality of photography is excellent now of course. It's been a fantastic development in that it's brought many more people into gardening. Magazines and books devote a lot of space to photography, and quite rightly. But the pictures often show how things might be, rather than how they are, that's my only criticism. The writing's still the important part though, readers don't just buy beautiful pictures.
Interviewer: Finally, we've heard you've been asked to take part in a TV programme
Monica Darcey: I have, and I'm still thinking about it. The idea is that I'd interview people who've designed some of the most amazing gardens in Europe - it would get me away from my writing routine which does get a bit too much at times, and it would give me plenty of ideas. It's also true that such a programme can make you into a kind of celebrity, and I'm not sure I'm ready for that, you know, you start being recognised in the street. Although my publisher says that that's something I should be really happy about!

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FCE Listening Test 4 Part 4 Part 4 You will hear an interview with Monica Darcey, who has written a bestselling book about gardening. For questions 24-30, choose the best answer ( A, B or C). 24 Monica says that most people who buy her book A have made mistakes in gardening.

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Write a solution essay. How should people protect themselves from coronavirus?  

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Write a solution essay. How should people protect themselves from coronavirus?  

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Use the ideas from the article.

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For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO website.

The respiratory illness coronavirus has spread across the world, including the US, and the WHO has officially declared the disease a pandemic. As the threat becomes more widespread, new precautions must be taken: The federal government has implemented various protective measures, as have individual state, county and city governments. You, too, should take steps to protect yourself from and limit the spread of the novel coronavirus to others. In this article, learn how.

How likely are you to get the coronavirus?

Anyone can contract COVID-19, although certain groups of people have a higher risk of developing serious complications from the virus and requiring hospitalization. Many people who get coronavirus will experience cold- or flu-like symptoms, and some people who get the virus will be completely asymptomatic. But no matter which group you fall into, everyone has a responsibility to limit the spread to other people, especially to those who may develop deadly complications, Dr. Tom Moorcroft, an osteopathic doctor who specializes in infectious disease, tells CNET.

Should Americans be worried about the coronavirus?

Even if you are not worried for your own health, you should remain aware that the novel coronavirus can be fatal and is widespread in the US. Even if it does not affect you, it may affect your friends, family, colleagues or other people with whom you have relationships -- especially those who have any of the high-risk factors determined by the CDC.

People at high risk of developing serious complications from COVID-19 include older adults, pregnant women, people with asthma and HIV, and people with underlying diseases, including heart disease, lung disease and diabetes.

"Over 80% of people will have only mild symptoms from COVID-19. Adults who are healthy and active generally do the best," Dr. Moorcroft says, but part of the problem is that young, healthy people can spread the virus to people who will not tolerate it as well as healthy populations.

"Physical distancing is a key component to decrease asymptomatic spread," Dr. Moorcroft explains. "This works by minimizing your risk of being exposed to the virus and, if you are an asymptomatic carrier, you minimize the potential that you infect someone else."

While this may sound very simple, Dr. Moorcroft emphasizes that it is effective and "imperative at the current time."

Read more: 6 devices to keep tabs on your aging family members without invading their privacy

How to protect yourself from the coronavirus

Nothing has changed about the way COVID-19 spreads, Dr. Moorcroft says, so the basics still apply. The coronavirus is spread through respiratory vapor, such as when someone sneezes or coughs into the air around you. It can also spread if someone who is infected sneezes or coughs into their hand, then touches a door handle, light switch and other "high-touch" surfaces.

Influenza viruses and common cold viruses are also spread this way. However, now that the virus is more widespread in the US, other preventative guidelines do apply, such as the now-well-known concept of social distancing.

Wash your hands

Yes, this is still the no. 1 way to prevent coronavirus, Dr. Moorcroft says. "The things you should do to protect yourself from the coronavirus are things you should do every day," he points out. "The no. 1 thing you can do to prevent any respiratory illness is to practice good personal hygiene."

Washing your hands correctly -- using and water and washing for at least 20 seconds -- or using hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available, still stands as the best way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, according to the CDC.

Stay home

The CDC, the WHO, governments and healthcare workers are all urging people to stay home if they can. Obviously, some people don't have the luxury of working from home, and people still need to venture out to grocery stores and gas stations. But when you can stay home, do so to flatten the curve.

If you do need to leave the house, follow some basic preventative measures.

Follow local public health guidelines

By mid-March 2020, many states, counties and implemented their own protective measures to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Many public and private schools are closed, and youth sports programs have been suspended just as college and professional sports have. Restaurants and bars are closed or have limited hours and capabilities, as do other nonessential businesses, such as clothing stores.

If your state or local government has imposed guidelines, you should follow them to the best of your ability.

Boost your immune system

On top of basic illness prevention, Moorcroft says the best (and only real) defense against disease is a strong immune system. Your body is better able to fight off illnesses when your immune system is really humming, he explains, and everyone should put in an effort to get theirs into tip-top shape.

"This is a time to focus on all the health habits you may have been putting off," Moorcroft says. "Start daily activities and food choices that support your health and turn them into habits that will lead to lifelong improvements in health. During this time, get adequate sleep and some fresh air and sunlight daily."

Also, stay hydrated, minimize overly processed foods and make sure to eat enough micronutrients when you can (try your best with what you can find at grocery stores right now).

Try to stay calm

In addition to your physical health, you should take care of your mental health. High stress levels can take a toll on your immune system, which is the opposite of what you want in this situation. If you're feeling overly anxious about COVID-19, follow these tips from a psychotherapist to keep your nerves calm.

Read more: 12 meditation apps for better sleep and less stress

Other tips

Moorcroft also reiterates the CDC's advice for avoiding coronavirus (and other respiratory diseases):

Sneeze and cough into tissues or the crook of your elbow. If you get mucus or spit on your skin, clean it off right away. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick, especially people exhibiting respiratory symptoms and fever.

Stay home when you're sick.

Regularly and thoroughly clean surfaces, such as counter tops and doorknobs, with a disinfectant.

As for face masks, the CDC still maintains that only those who are sick should wear them to prevent the spread of the virus. If you are not sick, you don't need to wear a unless you're caring for someone who is sick.

Read more: The best thermometers for cold and flu

How can I protect myself while traveling?

You really shouldn't be traveling anywhere at this point, according to the WHO, the CDC, the federal government and state governments. Avoiding travel -- even travel within your own city -- is the best way to stop the spread of coronavirus, Moorcroft reiterates. For travel guidelines, check with your local or state officials, and stay up-to-date with federal travel restrictions, CDC recommendations and WHO recommendations.

Stay informed

As COVID-19 spreads across the US, Moorcroft encourages everyone to stay armed with the facts. Specifically, he recommends monitoring the CDC website and the WHO website, where both agencies post daily updates on the number of cases in the US and in the world, as well as continually updated guidelines on how to protect yourself and others.

It's easy to get swept up in the ever-increasing amount of information available online, as well as the fear factor and misinformation from social media, and your best bet is to get your information from the actual health organizations that are investigating the issue firsthand.

"I hope that people will feel empowered by knowing the facts," Moorcroft says, "and say, 'I have access to the information, I know how to take care of my body and I can keep myself safe.'"

Editors' note, March 19, 2020: This article was originally published on Jan. 29, 2020 and has been updated with new information from the CDC and the WHO about the current state of the virus and updated travel advice, as well as new insight from Dr. Moorcroft, who initially provided his thoughts when the risk for Americans was very low.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

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How to protect yourself and others from the coronavirus

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For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO website. The respiratory illness coronavirus has spread across the world, including the US, and the WHO has officially declared the disease a pandemic.

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B2 First: use of English part 3 (word formation with height and length)

The word formation part of the B2 First use of English exam sometimes includes the noun or verb form of adjectives such as short, wide and dark. Here is a list of some of the more common adjectives and their forms.

Look at the information in the table for a few minutes and try to remember the words. Then click below to hide the information and try to answer the questions at the bottom.

Note: other, less common, forms of these words do exist (for example weighty - adjective, meaning heavier than expected or serious, or shortness - noun, usually in the expression 'shortness of breath'). However, I have tried to give the more common or useful forms of the words where possible.

Click here to show/hide this information

Practice 1: word formation (use of English part 3)

Write the correct form of the word in brackets to complete these sentences.

Practice 2: more word formation

Write the correct form of the word in brackets to complete these sentences.

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Word formation (height, length, width ...)

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The word formation part of the B2 First use of English exam sometimes includes the noun or verb form of adjectives such as short, wide and dark. Here is a list of some of the more common adjectives and their forms. Look at the information in the table for a few minutes and try to remember the words.

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ECL Writing Guide_Application B2 ECL Writing Guide_Email B2 ECL Writing Guide_Formal Comment B2 ECL Writing Guide_Essay B2 ECL Writing Guide_Article B2 ECL Writing Guide_Formal Letter B2

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FCE reading, writing, grammar structures 