WRITE the PERFECT B2 (FCE) REPORT - B2 First (FCE) Writing exam

Summary

In this entertaining and educational video, Toby from SMASH English guides viewers through the process of writing a report for the B2 First Cambridge exam. Using a humorous interaction with Monica, Toby explains the key elements of a formal report: structure, formality, use of data, and recommendations based on research. The video also highlights the importance of proper planning, using passive voice, and avoiding personal opinions. Throughout, Toby emphasizes the importance of clarity and formal tone, making the process approachable even for those who may find report writing boring.

Takeaways

• 😀 A report in the B2 First exam should have a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• 😀 The introduction should state the report's purpose and the method of data collection (e.g., surveys or interviews).
• 😀 Reports should be formal, avoiding first-person language and focusing on impersonal structures like the passive voice.
• 😀 The body of the report should include separate sections for positive and negative feedback, supported by data from research.
• 😀 The conclusion should offer practical recommendations based on the findings from the research or surveys.
• 😀 Each paragraph in the report must have a clear, factual title (e.g., 'Introduction', 'SMASH English: The Positive').
• 😀 Keep the report between 140 and 190 words, ensuring you don't include irrelevant information.
• 😀 Avoid using contractions, informal phrases, and idioms. The tone should remain professional and formal.
• 😀 Use data, such as interview results, to support your claims and avoid personal opinions.
• 😀 Recommendations should be based on evidence, not personal thoughts, and must be directly connected to the findings.
• 😀 In order to succeed in the B2 First writing task, plan your report well, stay within the word limit, and maintain clarity throughout.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the report Monica is asked to write?

The report Monica is asked to write is to describe both the positive and negative aspects of SMASH English and provide recommendations on how it could improve.

Why are reports considered boring but also easy in the B2 First exam?

Reports are considered boring because they are formal and mechanical in structure. However, they are easy because the format is clear, and the tasks are straightforward.

What are the three tasks that must be completed in a B2 First report?

The three tasks are: 1) Describe the positive aspects of the subject, 2) Describe the negative aspects, and 3) Provide recommendations or suggestions for improvement.

What is the significance of the passive voice in report writing?

The passive voice is important because it helps maintain an impersonal tone, which is required for formal reports. It shifts focus away from the writer, making the report more objective.

Why is it important to use factual titles for each paragraph in a report?

Factual titles help the reader easily understand the content of each paragraph. They provide clarity and structure, ensuring that the report is easy to follow.

What should the introduction of a report include?

The introduction should state the aim of the report and describe how the information was gathered (e.g., through interviews or surveys).

How does Monica conduct her research for the report?

Monica conducts interviews with SMASH English staff to gather opinions about the positive and negative aspects of the company.

How should negative aspects be presented in the report?

Negative aspects should be presented by summarizing the criticisms gathered from research and explaining what can be learned from them, using formal language and reporting verbs.

Why should personal opinions be avoided in the report?

Personal opinions should be avoided because a report is meant to be impersonal and based on evidence, not subjective viewpoints. The findings should be reported objectively.

What are the recommended improvements for SMASH English based on the report's findings?

The report recommends that Monica be featured more in videos due to her popularity, and Bruce’s involvement should be terminated due to his negative impact on the company.