B2 Key & B2 Key for schools
Cambridge B2 First (FCE) and B2 First for Schools are both English language exams offered by Cambridge Assessment English. B2 First is an upper-intermediate level qualification that demonstrates a person’s ability to use English for work or study purposes. It covers the four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
While the language level is the same, B2 First for Schools may include topics related to school, hobbies, and everyday activities that are more relatable to younger learners.
B2 First for Schools is often chosen by schools as it aligns well with the language abilities of school-age learners.
Both exams are a significant step towards demonstrating a high level of English proficiency. They provide a solid foundation for further language learning and development and are recognized by many educational institutions and employers around the world.
Cambridge B2 First exams are designed for learners at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
What coursebooks are used for the B2 FCE Exam course?
One World Learning follow two main coursebooks which are supplemented as required with pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary Booster classes.
Cambridge Complete: Complete series maximizes students’ performance with the Complete approach to language development and exam training. Cambridge Complete creates a stimulating learning environment with eye-catching images, easy-to-navigate units, and fun topics.
Complete is trusted by millions of candidates worldwide. This course allows you to maximise performance with the Complete approach to language development and exam training. Build confidence through our unique understanding of the exam and insights from previous candidate performance, and the Complete exam journey for successful and stress-free outcomes. Online Practice offers additional practice in grammar and vocabulary. Downloadable Class Audio containing the necessary listening material is provided.
Open World: Embark on a journey beyond the traditional boundaries between exam preparation and real-world language with Open World Series. A unique exam journey in the Student’s Book maximises students’ performance. Exam Training tasks build confidence allowing them to progress to full task practice in the Exam focus. Real World sections open up language knowledge with listening tasks, videos and texts introducing common yet surprising expression, while mobile animations spark learning before or after class with Grammar on the move. Optional Push yourself sections throughout the book extend students’ capability and confidence to the next level. Online Practice offers additional practice in grammar and vocabulary.
What’s included in a B2 FCE Exam course?
A B2 First (FCE) exam course is designed to prepare students for the Cambridge English B2 First exam. These courses typically cover a range of language skills and include activities that help students become familiar with the format of the exam.
- Listening Skills
- Reading Skills
- Writing Skills
- Speaking Skills
- Grammar and Vocabulary
- Mock Exams and Practice Tests
- Exam Strategies
- Feedback and Correction
- Study Materials
- Independent Study
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Practice in understanding spoken English in various contexts, including conversations, interviews, and radio broadcasts. Emphasis on note-taking and understanding main ideas.
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Activities to improve reading comprehension, including understanding main ideas, details, and inference. Practice with different types of texts such as articles, essays, and reports.
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Guidance on how to write different types of texts, such as essays, reports, and articles. Emphasis on organization, coherence, and the use of complex language structures.
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Oral communication practice, including participating in discussions, expressing opinions, and responding to questions. Specific preparation for the speaking part of the B2 First exam, which includes discussion, collaboration, and individual tasks.
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Review and reinforcement of grammar rules and vocabulary relevant to the B2 level. Activities to expand vocabulary and use language accurately in more complex contexts.
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Regular practice with mock exams and practice tests to familiarize students with the exam format, time constraints, and types of questions they will encounter.
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Guidance on effective exam strategies, time management, and tips for approaching different sections of the B2 First exam. This may include strategies for multiple-choice questions, open-ended responses, and speaking tasks.
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Regular feedback on students’ performance, including correction of errors and suggestions for improvement. This may include feedback on written assignments and oral presentations.
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Provision of course materials, textbooks, and supplementary resources that cover the specific content and skills assessed in the B2 First exam.
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Encouragement and guidance for independent study, allowing students to reinforce what they’ve learned in class and further develop their language skills.
Some frequently asked questions in the exam?
What’s in the exam?
The test has four sections and lasts about 3.5 hours. CEFR Scale Score: 160-179 (CEFR is the Common European Framework Reference). Find out more about the CEFR here.
B2 Paper | Content | Marks (% of total) |
Reading and Use of English (about 1 hour and 15 minutes) | 7 parts/ 52 questions | 25% |
Writing (45 minutes) | 2 parts/ part 2 a choice of writing, such as letters, reports, reviews and essays. | 25% |
Listening (30 minutes) | 4 parts/30 questions | 25% |
Speaking (10-12 minutes) | 4 parts | 25% |
Details showing the format, content and timings for each section of the Cambridge exams.
Where can I take the test?
There are over 2,800 centres in 130 countries around the world. All of them are inspected by Cambridge English and meet our high standards. Contact One World Learning to arrange a test date and to check prices and booking fees.
When can I take the test?
One World Learning can arrange with your nearest test centre. There are frequent dates with over 20 tests a year. Contact One World Learning for this year’s dates.
Is the exam paper or computer based?
The availability of computer-based exams may vary depending on the specific exam and the location where it is being administered. Most Cambridge English exams have transitioned to computer-based formats, allowing candidates to take the test on a computer. Candidates are, of course, still able to take the traditional paper based version of the exam.
What is the CEFR?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language ability. It describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. This makes it easy for anyone involved in language teaching and testing, such as teachers or learners, to see the level of different qualifications. It also means that employers and educational institutions can easily compare our qualifications to other exams in their country.
What materials do I need?
One World Learning provide you with an online folder with your course material available for download. However, there are several essential requirements to ensure a smooth and effective learning experience.
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A personal computer or laptop with up-to-date hardware and software is necessary.
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Classes contain video and audio playback so a stable and high-speed internet connection is recommended for attending online classes.
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A webcam and microphone are essential for participating in virtual classes and discussions. Most computers come equipped with built in webcams and mics.
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Headphones or earphones can help reduce background noise and provide a better audio experience during online classes.
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Set up a dedicated and quiet study space where you can focus on your online classes without distractions.
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Have digital or physical note-taking tools ready. This could be a notebook, digital note-taking app, or any other method you find effective.